inspired
DESCRIPTION
Inspire is a new magazine available to all users of the Interactive Investor website that brings together a collection of the best thinking and analysis from the Interactive Investor team.TRANSCRIPT
inspiredISSUE 1 I MARCH 2014
INTERACTIVE INVESTORrsquoS QUARTERLY INVESTMENT AND LIFESTYLE COMPANION
SMART ISA STRATEGIESTOP FUNDS AND TRUSTS EXCLUSIVE ISLAND RETREATS
SMART ISA STRATEGIESTOP FUNDS AND TRUSTS EXCLUSIVE ISLAND RETREATS
SMART ISA STRATEGIESTOP FUNDS AND TRUSTS EXCLUSIVE ISLAND RETREATS
SMART ISA STRATEGIESTOP FUNDS AND TRUSTS EXCLUSIVE ISLAND RETREATS
SMART ISA STRATEGIESTOP FUNDS AND TRUSTS EXCLUSIVE ISLAND RETREATS
SMART ISA STRATEGIESTOP FUNDS AND TRUSTS EXCLUSIVE ISLAND RETREATS
SMART ISA STRATEGIESTOP FUNDS AND TRUSTS EXCLUSIVE ISLAND RETREATS
SMART ISA STRATEGIESTOP FUNDS AND TRUSTS EXCLUSIVE ISLAND RETREATS
We steer carefully
Issued by Aberdeen Asset Managers Limited 10 Queenrsquos Terrace Aberdeen AB10 1YG which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority in the UK Telephone calls may be recorded aberdeen-assetcouk Please quote NAIT IM 01
The North American Income Trust ISA and Share PlanWhen yoursquore in search of equity income you need someone with the knowledge to take you in the right direction
The North American Income Trust draws on Aberdeenrsquos rigorous research process to find opportunities first-hand We meet companies ourselves we interrogate management about future profits and cash flow Then we only invest in their shares when we like what we see
The result - a portfolio that steers you towards the most promising income and growth opportunities we can find
Please remember the value of shares and the income from them can go down as well as up and you may get back less than the amount invested No recommendation is made positive or otherwise regarding the ISA and Share Plan
The value of tax benefits depends on individual circumstances and the favourable tax treatment for ISAs may not be maintained We recommend you seek financial advice prior to making an investment decision
Request a brochure 0500 00 40 00 northamericanincomecouk
Welcome to InspiredI
T JUST MAY BE THAT WE CAN START to look at prospects for investment markets with greater optimism The UK economy appears to be entering a more buoyant phase with business investment and confidence returning Meanwhile the interests of private investors are being advanced as companies such as Interactive Investor deliver trading and investing
propositions that reduce charges which have eaten into investorsrsquo returns Of course economic challenges remain not least the outcome of
unorthodox measures to bolster the global economy Here in the UK however stock market valuations indicate better times ahead Itrsquos in this environment that we are launching Inspired to help you take advantage of opportunities to profit from stock market buoyancy
Inspired is a new digital magazine that brings together the best thinking and analysis from the Interactive Investor team It complements this ndash in its Connoisseur section ndash with suggestions about how you might enjoy the fruits of your investment success We look at beautiful and inspirational travel destinations and review top-of-the-range luxury goods
Inspired is available to everyone who is part of the Interactive Investor community of investors and traders
In this first edition wersquove focused on maximising investment opportunities before the end of the tax year We consider the funds and investment trusts that might be profitably included in an Isa and examine how Aim stocks might now become part of your Isa portfolio We also explore the behaviour of Interactive Investorrsquos customers by revealing the funds and investment trusts they have been buying Richard Beddard our companies specialist outlines his approach to identifying investment opportunities and explains how you can follow his activities on the Share Sleuth blog
This editionrsquos Connoisseur section takes you to some of the worldrsquos most exclusive holiday islands considers some of the most distinctive timepieces available to discerning buyers and reflects on the impressive qualities of the Argentinian wines now widely available in the UK
I hope you enjoy this first issue of Inspired Issue two will propel itself through the ether to you in June
Jeremy King publisher
PUBLISHERJeremy King
INVESTMENT EDITORAndrew Pitts
DESIGN Christopher Aldridge
PRODUCTION SUB EDITING David Grove
CONTRIBUTORSRichard Beddard Faith Glasgow Julie Fisher Jeff Salway Helen Pridham Fiona Hamilton
SALES Iain Adams
PUBLISHED BY Moneywise Publishing Limited 2014
Interactive Investor plcRegistered number 5034730
inspiredISSUE 1 I MARCH 2014
You should remember that the value of shares can fall as well as rise The information contained in Inspired is not intended to be a personal recommendation and you should always speak to your financial adviser before investing
Inspired | March 2014 3
CONTENTS
5 | MARKETS IN MOOD TO ENDURE IN 2014Stock markets should muddle through well enough this year with equity values likely to withstand any economic headwinds
10 | FEBRUARYrsquoS TOP TRUSTS AND FUNDSWe reveal the monthrsquos most in-demand investment vehicles on Interactive Investor and in the wider market
12 | SMART STRATEGIES FOR SAVVY ISA INVESTORSOur experts disclose their top tips for getting the maximum out of your Isa investments
16 | AIM FOR THE BESTRisk tolerant Isa investors can now use Alternative Investment Market shareholdings to bag spectacular returns
20 | PERFECT YOUR TRUST AND FUND PORTFOLIO We round up a collection of investment funds and trusts our experts believe are likely to prosper in the year ahead
29 | SHARE SLEUTHThe Share Sleuth portfolio is dedicated to showing investors how to track down good companies at bargain prices
FEATURES CONNOISSEUR40 | AN ODE TO JOYSavour the fruits of your success with our guide to some of the finer things in life
41 | TRAVELWe explore some of the worldrsquos most tantalising tropical islands
50 | CARSBMWrsquos new M4 concept super coupe will soon be turning heads
53 | GEMSColoured diamonds make durable assets that unlike shares give lasting pleasure
54 | WINEMake the most of Argentinarsquos deeply satisfying Malbec wines
58 | WATCHESTop-quality vintage watches have timeless charm and value
41
5
58
insp
ired
50
17 20
4 March 2014 | inspired
tocks bounced back after January jitters ndash to such an extent that Bank of Americarsquos chief technical analyst changed his mind to assert that lsquothe larger uptrend has resumedrsquo But is this true for stocks generally
Certainly a look at the FTSE 100 confirms that the recent bull market trend remains intact despite fear that the emerging markets crisis could fester The ousting of Viktor Yanukovych as president of Ukraine looks unlikely to become a wider east-west conflict despite the Russian militaryrsquos show of force in Crimea
The now familiar theme of markets muddling through looks set to persist Shares appear fairly valued while the fundamentals look to have improved during February The G20 ndash the worldrsquos 19 richest nations and the EU ndash have committed themselves to injecting $2 trillion (pound119 trillion) into the global economy over the next five years to raise global growth by at least 2 per cent by 2018 The group is shunning austerity to focus on private sector infrastructure spending encour-aged by tax breaks
Equity markets may experience mixed fortunes this year but they are likely to prevail against any economic headwinds overall
MARKETS SETTO MUDDLETHROUGH IN
2014S
inspired | March 2014 5
THE MARKETSIN 2014
INTHEUSJOBNUMBERSINCOMESANDALL-ROUNDCONSUMERCONFIDENCEAREIMPROVING
Sales have also improved although overall rev-enue growth remains weak and needs watching because a disparity between growth and profits is liable to puncture optimism just as company shares have soared amid loose monetary policy
Keep in mind the fact that the US economy has yet to break a habit of allowing growth spurts to fade GDP rose at an annualised rate of 32 per cent in the fourth quarter of 2013 and 19 per cent
overall last year while the consensus is for 28 per cent for 2014 and 29 per cent for 2015 Similarly after the mid 2009 recession GDP grew at an average annualised rate of 34 per cent in the second and third quarters of 2010 and
then by 43 per cent in the fourth quarter of 2011 and first quarter of 2012 Yet the improvement was short-lived
Last year rapid inventory accumulation boosted GDP at a level that is unsustainable However pri-vate consumption growth is running at its fastest rate in three years
Overall the economic figures are mixed and it remains to be seen where they will head next as the Fedrsquos stimulus expires
The recovery in the UK appears to be strengthen-ing The economy officially grew by 07 per cent in the fourth quarter of 2013 A growth rate of 18 per cent was estimated for the year as a whole
Significantly business investment rose by 24 per cent in the third quarter of 2013 and
Inevitably there is scepticism that reassuring words will be translated into practical deeds but they add to positive sentiment amid improving economic numbers in the US and the UK
The principal risk is that the US economy will stutter just as the US Federal Reserve commits to a monthly $10 billion wind-ing down of its monetary stimulus and sustains this drawdown rate to show itself to be more consistent with guidance than it was last year
Recent US data has been mixed and analysts are unsure how much the harsh winter in the US should affect their calculations Yet home sales jumped by 96 per cent in January the fastest rise in more than five years This suggests job numbers incomes and all-round consumer con-fidence are improving following years of worry that the US economy and house prices might falter again While pent-up demand probably explains some of the improvement in house sales the rise is especially notable given that higher mort-gage rates since mid 2013 have limited mortgage affordability
US corporate earnings have grown stronger than expected ndash by about 85 per cent in the fourth quar-ter of 2013 Some 72 per cent of SampP 500 firms beat expectations according to FactSet Research
The crisis in Crimea is unlikely to derail or impede the slow but steady progress in global stock markets seen so far this year
6 March 2014 | inspired
THE MARKETS
IN 2014
spread like some predicted it would and Chinarsquos debt problem could take a while to erupt if it ever does Even if it does Chinarsquos communist gov-ernment can deploy strong economic and social controls
It is interesting that in a recent television pro-gramme on risks in China the BBCrsquos business editor Robert Peston initially sounded as if he was marking the country out for trouble However
he softened his stance a little towards the end of the programme
Oil prices have not capit-ulated ndash as was feared at the start of the year ndash and created revenue problems for Russia and Saudi Arabia possibly showing that Saudi Arabia
can still control prices to a large degree Complacency is a danger given the real risks
associated with the Fed winding down its stimu-lus and doubts over whether corporate revenues can genuinely improve However figures in
February have supported the trend towards muddling through big risks seen during
the eurozone debt crisis two years ago the bailouts for Greece and Cyprus and the political posturing over the US debt ceiling While interest rates remain low shareholders can take heart that their
riskreward profiles look supportive overall and traders can keep their fingers
crossed for more volatility
85 per cent in the fourth quarter of 2013 This has been the missing link in a recovery feared to be overly dependent on rising house prices and consumers resorting to raiding savings to fund spending
There remains a lot to achieve on the export front and interest rates are expected to rise from 2015 although the Bank of England is ada-mant that this will be gradual
A potential Labour gen-eral election victory by May 2015 does not seem to trou-ble investors at the moment The net balance at the end of February appears positive for shares because GDP and corporate profits are the factors that influence it most and the situation in continental Europe (beyond youth unemployment) is not prov-ing as dire as many feared
It is frustrating for long-term inves-tors with fresh money because equity valuations appear to broadly price in prospects so they typically need to take a lsquomomentumrsquo view which is less comfortable for them than when value yardsticks are in their favour But unless company earnings stall the downside looks limited for now
The emerging markets crisis has not
Confidence in the economies of key Asian economic powerhouses such as mainland China Singapore and Hong Kong (pictured) remains high
8 March 2014 | inspired
THE MARKETS
IN 2014
THEEMERGINGMARKETSCRISISHASNOTSPREADANDCHINArsquoSDEBTPROBLEMCOULDTAKETIMETOERUPTIFITEVERDOES
SCOTTISH MORTGAGE INVESTMENT TRUST
For a limited period and new eligible ISA customers only Terms amp Conditions and minimum investment amounts apply Please refer to our website or the application pack that we will send you for full details Your call may be recorded for training or monitoring purposes Baillie Gifford Savings Management Limited (BGSM) is the manager of the Baillie Gifford Investment Trust ISA and is wholly owned by Baillie Gifford amp Co which is the manager and secretary of the Scottish Mortgage Investment Trust PLC Your personal data is held and used by BGSM in accordance with data protection legislation We may use your information to send you information about Baillie Gifford products funds or special offers and to contact you for business research purposes We will only disclose your information to other companies within the Baillie Gifford group and to agents appointed by us for these purposes You can withdraw your consent to receiving further marketing communications from us and to being contacted for business research purposes at any time You also have the right to review and amend your data at any time
Wersquore 100 committed to making sure our fund managers never have a restricted outlook That way the long-term view is a clear one So whatrsquos the secret to their liberated attitude
Well our flagship fund the Scottish Mortgage Investment Trust is a global stock-picking fund that is completely free of asset allocation constraints that ignores index weightings and that selects stocks purely on their merit We feel that this freedom allows us to focus on the long term
The Scottish Mortgage Investment Trust is managed by Baillie Gifford
Please remember that changing stock market conditions and currency exchange rates will affect the value of your investment in the fund and any income from it You may not get back the amount invested
You can purchase Scottish Mortgage from Interactive Investor Alternatively you can invest directly with Baillie Gifford through our ISA Open an ISA with Baillie Gifford before 30 April and you can receive a pound10 Amazon gift card
For more information contact Baillie Gifford on 0800 917 2112 or visit wwwscottishmortgageitcomBaillie Gifford ndash long-term investment partners
Freedom to roam
WE LIVE IN A PERIOD OF EXPONENTIAL CHANGE PROVIDING FANTASTIC OPPORTUNITIES FOR STOCK PICKERS LIKE US
cent over one year and 229 per cent over three
Alastair Mundyrsquos Temple Bar Investment Trust focuses on UK equities including GlaxoSmithKline Vodafone and Royal Dutch Shell
It failed to outperform the UK equity income sector over one year despite its popular-ity posting a return of 18 per cent compared with the sectorrsquos 21 per cent However it per-formed better over three years returning 62 per cent against the sectorrsquos 56 per cent
INCOME AND SMALLER COMPANIES STILL IMPORTANTInvestors retained an interest in income and smaller-companies investment trusts in February ndash extending the same purchasing trend in January And they con-tinued to flock to UK-focused trusts as a safe haven
Although two of the 10 most-bought trusts Murray International Trust and Bankers Investment Trust invest in international equities both counted UK equities among their top holdings with the Bankers trust favouring BP GlaxoSmithKline and Vodafone
The other popular
losed-end fund inves-tors stuck closely to income trusts in February but seemed more willing to accept
risk than those purchasing open-ended funds the latest data from Interactive Investor shows
The three most popular trusts were regular investor favourites Baillie Giffordrsquos Scottish Mortgage Investment Trust Investecrsquos Temple Bar Investment Trust and Frostrow Capitalrsquos Biotech Growth Trust
While open-ended fund investors looked mainly to UK equities for income two of these three top invest-ment trusts have a worldwide focus James Anderson and Tom Slaterrsquos Scottish Mortgage Investment Trust which posted a sector-beating 27 per cent return over one year and 56 per cent over three invests in worldwide large-cap equi-ties such as Google and Apple while the Biotech Growth Trust taps the worldwide biotechnol-ogy industry through US equity investments
This trust managed by Geoffrey Hsu and Richard Klemm also beat its sector the biotechnology and healthcare sector with returns of 49 per
income trust Premier Asset Mangementrsquos Acorn Income fund invests in UK mid- and large-cap equities includ-ing Electrocomponents John Menzies and Cineworld Group It returned 46 per cent over the past year and 144 per cent over the past three It was the seventh most-bought trust by Interactive Investor users in February
The UK focus also character-ised investorsrsquo smaller-company trust choices The UK-favoured Henderson Smaller Companies Investment Trust and BlackRock Smaller Companies Investment Trust in sixth and tenth place respectively
Both benefited from the UK housing boom through invest-ments in Bellway and Ashtead Group and both outperformed the UK smaller-companies sec-tor which recorded returns of 37 per cent over one year and 66 per cent over three
INVESTORS RETAINED AN INTEREST IN INCOME AND SMALLER-COMPANIES TRUSTS IN FEBRUARY
CMARKET
YOUR MONTH IN THE
Julie Fisher reveals Februaryrsquos 10 most popular trusts
Bankers trust favours a mix of shares in UK and multinational companies
TRADING
10 March 2014 | inspired
AN APPETITE FOR RISK BOOSTS TRUSTSInvestors showed a greater appetite for risk by invest-ing more heavily in trusts As a result BlackRock World Mining Trust and Templeton Emerging Market Trust took the final two places on the list fourth and fifth
Unfortunately both have posted negative returns in recent years due to the fact that they are positioned in unfavour-able markets
While the BlackRock trust was slightly above the com-modities and natural resources sector over six months one year and three years the Templeton trust only outperformed the global emerging markets equi-ties sector over the past month However investors appear to be buying in in the hope that there will be some improvement in the next few years
Emerging markets fell back out of favour among fund investors in February while pur-
chases of UK and smaller company funds held firm the latest data from Interactive Investor shows
After a brief revival for emerging markets in January when three EM funds were among the 10 most bought Februaryrsquos most-popular funds were generally UK-focused
Paul Marriagersquos Cazenove UK Smaller Companies fund was knocked off the list after five consecutive months at the top as it closed to new purchases on 22 January allowing Januaryrsquos sec-ond-placed fund AXA Framlington Biotech to take top spot The US biotechnology-focused fund managed by Linden Thompson is popular as it delivered a return of 61 per cent over the past year and 164 per cent over the past three
Although the AXA fund has little in common with the other top purchases there are trends to be spotted in the rest of the list most of which continue from January Income was a focus for investors while UK smaller companies remained popular
lsquoThere were strong flows into funds investing in the UK and Europe whereas Asia excluding Japan and emerging markets suffered outflows following relatively weak per-formance in these regions since May 2013rsquo say Charles Cade and Ewan Lovett-Taylor in their report on fund trades in January lsquoPerhaps the most notable sub-sector is UK smaller company funds which have bene-fited from net inflows every month since August 2012rsquo
SMALLER COMPANIESAccording to Numis January saw the highest number of monthly inflows into smaller com-pany funds on record pound241 million The Interactive
Investor data shows these funds remained popular in February
Three smaller-company funds made it into the top 10 Investec UK Smaller Companies fund the River and Mercantile UK Equity Smaller Companies fund and the CF Miton UK Smaller Companies fund took third fourth and fifth place respectively
All three outperformed the UK smaller-companies sector which delivered returns of 32 per cent over one year and 55 per cent over three Gervais Williamsrsquos CF Miton fund pro-vided the best return over a year at 55 per cent while the River and Mercantile fund managed by Daniel Hanbury delivered 112 per cent over three years
Ken Hsiarsquos Investec fund had the least impressive returns at 47 per cent over one year and 79 per cent over three but still outperformed the sector The fund invests in small-cap UK companies including Quindell Optimal Payments and Utilitywise
INCOME EMPHASISThe other priority for inves-tors in February was income and this too was UK focused Of five income funds appear-ing in the 10 most-bought category only the Artemis Global Income fund had a non-UK focus
Jacob de Tusch-Lecrsquos fund which delivered returns of 14 per cent over one year and 47 over three invests chiefly
in European and US equi-ties The other most-bought income funds were Unicorn UK Income Rathbone Income JOHCM UK Equity and the Invesco Perpetual Income
They all beat the UK equity income sectorrsquos returns of 16 per cent over one year and 36 per cent over three All invested in large-cap UK com-panies with GlaxoSmithKline AstraZeneca and Royal Dutch Shell among the top holdings
Despite its focus on income the Invesco Perpetual High Income fund dropped out of the 10 most-bought funds in February and the Invesco Perpetual
Income fund appeared only at the end of the list This suggests that investors may be get-ting nervous over the
imminent departure of star fund manager Neil Woodford in April
One growth fund also made the list the MFM Slater Growth fund which took ninth place Like the income funds it outperformed its sec-tor UK all companies
and focused on UK-listed companies including
Hutchison China (HCM) and Entertainment One (ETO)
THE 10 TOP MOST-BOUGHT FUNDSANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
THEREWERESTRONGFLOWSINTOFUNDINVESTINGINTHE
UKANDEUROPEWHEREASASIAEXCLUDINGJAPANANDEMERGINGMARKETSSUFFEREDOUTFLOWSFOLLOWINGRELATIVELYWEAKPERFORMANCEINTHESEREGIONSSINCEMAY2013Charles Cade and Ewan Lovett-Taylor
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
inspired | March 2014 11
DONrsquoT DISMISS AIM-BASED INVESTMENTS
Richard Beddard is an editor at Interactive Investor and manager of Money Observerrsquos Share Sleuth portfolio
Now that inves-tors can buy Alternative Investment Market shares
within Isas the universe of potentially profitable invest-ments has grown But therersquos also more room for disappointment
Aimrsquos light-touch regula-tion makes it easier for younger smaller companies to list and while such shares are reputed to be risky that need not frighten
INVEST REGULARLY
Mick Gilligan head of research Killik amp Co
Starting an Isa at the beginning of a new tax year and investing small amounts
regularly out of your income ndash rather than a larger amount in one lump sum at the end of each tax year ndash helps reduce the impact of market volatility and you start earning compound interest sooner When income is reinvested alongside the initial investment it effectively becomes capital so you have a larger sum producing an income which in turn can be reinvested
trsquos very easy to keep on doing the same things with your annual tax-efficient Isa allow-ance However investors can lose out badly if they do
Itrsquos not just the Isa allowances that keep changing the economic environment and the range of investments available do too So itrsquos important that investors con-sider all the Isa opportunities open to them before they make a any big
irrevocable decisionsWersquove asked a number of invest-
ment experts to reveal their top Isa tips We are sure they will give you some useful guidelines and help you refine the choices you make Some suggestions are reminders about long-standing opportunities others draw your attention to new developments in Isa invest-ing and highlight the opportunities they offer
Isa investorswhether using some or all of their annual allowances donrsquot always get the best out of their investments Faith Glasgow asks some financial experts for their most valuable tips
investors from investing in Aim firms Plenty of them have long illustrious track records in worthy businesses and itrsquos easy to find out about them on finan-cial websites More details are available on companiesrsquo own investor relations websites the contents of which are mandated by Aim rule 26 a rule the more heavily regulated main market would do well to emulate
UP YOUR ISA CONTRIBUTIONS
Darius McDermott managing director Chelsea Financial Services
Donrsquot forget to increase your monthly Isa investments each year in line with
inspired | March 2014 1312 March 2014 | inspired
EXPERTSrsquo TOP ISA
TIPS
ISAS SMART STRATEGY FOR
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
INVESTING SMALL AMOUNTS REGULARLY HELPS REDUCE THE IMPACT OF MARKET VOLATILITYMick Gilligan
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
I
and shares in [non-cash] Isas However this isnrsquot the case Indeed some other asset classes ndash in particular those that pro-duce income ndash offer even more tax benefits than equities when held within an Isa
Bond funds for example get (at least) 20 per cent income tax relief on the yield they pro-duce (dividends from equities in contrast are subjected to a 10 per cent tax at source which is not reclaimable even in an Isa)
The new property author-ised investment fund structure for property funds meanwhile means Isa investors no longer incur the 20 per cent tax that would previously have been applied on income received from a property investment
the increase in the contribution limit if you can afford to Itrsquos all too easy for regular investors with their money invested auto-matically every month to overlook those annual allow-ance increases And consider increasing your investment whenever you receive a salary increase
LOOK BEYOND STOCKS AND SHARES
Darius McDermott Chelsea Financial Services Some potential Isa investors think you can only hold stocks
PLOUGH INTO PROPERTYGavin Haynes managing director Whitechurch Securities
Many people donrsquot realise they can gain expo-sure to bricks and mortar through
commercial property funds held in a stocks and shares Isa
The asset class currently offers an attractive yield rela-tive to cash and bonds without the volatility of the stock market investments
Property funds are not with-out risk but an allocation to a commercial property fund (that invests directly in bricks and mortar not property shares) can add diversification to an Isa portfolio With the economic outlook improving the sector looks well placed for recovery
ACCEPT RISK BUT BE SURE TO DIVERSIFY
Rebecca OrsquoKeeffe head of investment Interactive Investor
The primary ben-efits of an Isa are felt over the long term so itrsquos important to rec-
ognise that taking on risk
inspired | March 2014 1312 March 2014 | inspired
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
ITrsquoS ALL TOO EASY TO OVERLOOK THOSE ANNUAL ALLOWANCE INCREASESDariusMcDermott
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
Isa can suddenly become a poorly paying one But never try to transfer an Isa yourself Contact the new provider first and follow its transfer rules
Remember the amount of money you can invest in a cash Isa in each tax year is capped (currently at pound5760) so if you want to switch in the middle of the tax year you will prob-ably be switching the entire amount ndash you cannot switch a portion of an existing Isa into a new one and top it up If your original Isa is due to pay you interest at the end of the year it should pay you the accrued interest up to the date you close the account
Itrsquos possible to transfer your cash Isa into a stocks and shares Isa if you decide this is a better home for you money but you canrsquot switch your money back from a stocks and shares Isa into a cash Isa
You can invest up to pound11520 in a stocks and shares Isa in a single tax year minus anything you may have paid into a cash Isa ndash which is capped at pound5760
over the long term is usually a far more profitable strategy than minimising risk Investors typi-cally take less risk than they should especially if they have suffered a loss in the past
You can mitigate your overall risk by diversifying across differ-ent asset classes and geographic areas Regular investing is also a great risk reduction strategy
Itrsquos also important to rec-ognise the value of dividend reinvestment and understand the benefit this compound-ing effect has on your portfolio And remember to choose a bro-ker that doesnrsquot penalise you for reinvesting
TRANSFER YOUR ISAS TO GET THE BEST DEALS
Mark King editor MoneywiseUnlike a stocks and shares Isa a cash Isa is a sim-ple savings account with a
tax-free Isa lsquowrapperrsquo placed around it so that you donrsquot pay tax on your interest
You can choose to have access to your money or tie it up until a future date just as with typical savings accounts Generally the longer you tie your money up for the better the interest rate you get
While a cash Isa is considered a low-risk investment ndash which sophisticated investors may find returns too little as a result ndash you can transfer a cash Isa should you decide you want to take on more risk or get a bet-ter rate Indeed you may have to transfer a cash Isa regularly Providers offer different rates that can change so a top-paying
From 6 April ndash the beginning of the 201415 tax year ndash however these limits rise to pound11880 and pound5940 respectively
LOOK AT THE LONG- TERM BENEFITS
Philippa Gee managing director Philippa Gee Wealth Management
Some investors look at the return on an Isa or at the limit on how much they can
invest in a single year and fail to see the value
However they would be wise to consider the longer-term view Those who have invested each year for a number of years have been able to build six- figure portfolios that they do not have to pay any further income or capital gains tax on or list on their tax assessment
By securing a significant sum in an Isa wrapper each year as far as yoursquore able you can build up a valuable flexible and tax-efficient investment
inspired | March 2014 PB14 March 2014 | inspired
EXPERTSrsquoTOP ISA
TIPS
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
TAKING ON RISK OVER THE LONG TERM IS USUALLY MORE PROFITABLERebecca OrsquoKeeffe
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
The ISA thatrsquos
fair and square
We believe in straightforward investing Thatrsquos why we donrsquot nibble at your investments with percentage charges Open an account and for pound20 per quarter you get two pound10 trades and an ISA for free After that itrsquos just pound10 per trade across a wide range of UK and international investmentsTransfer to us today and get up to pound240 as a thank you (terms apply) We believe thatrsquos fair and square
The value of investments and any income from them can fall as well as rise so you could get back less than you invest Tax treatment depends on your individual circumstances and may be subject to change If in any doubt please seek advice
iiicoukisa
Interactive Investor Trading Limited trading as ldquoInteractive Investorrdquo is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority Registered Office Standon House 21 Mansell Street London E1 8AA Tel 0845 200 3637 Registered in England with Company Registration number 3699618
hen new rules were introduced last August allowing the inclusion of Alternative Investment Market (Aim) shares in Isas demand for exposure to the junior market
quickly exceeded expectations Another surge in demand is likely in April as the new tax year dawns and investors have a fresh annual allow-ance to play with
Yet while stocks on Aim can boast eye-catching returns and attractive tax perks they can also be very volatile raising concerns that investors may be letting the tax tail wag the investment dog with-out understanding what they are getting into
The Treasuryrsquos decision to allow Aim shares into Isas was driven by a desire to encourage greater investment in small and medium-sized companies The move was immediately popular with investors and brokers reported a sharp rise in Aim-listed purchases Demand for smaller companies funds was up too as investors wary of direct share ownership
bought into funds offering exposure to Aim stocksIt helped that Aim stocks were enjoying a good
run as were smaller companies generally with the amount of money raised on the market over the summer rising sharply Performance is just one aspect of their appeal however
Aim shares already offered inheritance tax effi-ciency most of them qualify for business property relief making them exempt from IHT when held for two years or more However itrsquos worth noting that BPR is subject to change and a company can lose its eligibility and therefore its IHT relief status as a result Therefore investors wanting to continue benefiting from IHT relief have to switch out of such companies and into those still eligible
Wider income and capital gains tax benefits also drove some demand for Aim shares after the
Isa rule change in August The move created a bed- and-Isa opportunity whereby existing Aim share inves-tors sold their holdings and bought them back within an Isa
Among those quick
Alternative Investment Market stocks offer Isa investors a chance to realise heady returns ndash but you need to pick your holdings carefully because of the high risk of losses in an illiquid market says Jeff Salway
AIMSHARES
W
GEMSTO BE UNEARTHED
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
WE WOULD ONLY INCLUDE AIM STOCKS
IN THE PORTFOLIOS OF ADVENTUROUS CLIENTS David Thomson
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
inspired | March 2014 17
THERE ARE
Treatt has built up an immaculate record of delivering profits
to take advantage was Lord Lee of Trafford the UKrsquos first Isa millionaire and author of How to Make a Million ndash Slowly My Guiding Principles from a Lifetime of Successful Investing lsquoI have a
big holding of Christie Group that was originally in my per-sonal equity planrsquo he says lsquoWhen the company moved to Aim [from the main market] I took it out of the Pep but when Aim shares became Isa-eligible I sold it and bought it back again within my Isarsquo
April 2014 will mark the removal of stamp duty from Aim purchases a develop-ment expected to encourage asset managers to launch a new wave of Aim-focused funds The axing of stamp duty makes the junior market more appeal-ing to companies on the main market as well with several recently moving across
Alec Stewart partner at Anderson Strathern Asset Management explains lsquoA company can reduce its regulatory burden by moving to the junior market with lower audit and compliance requirementsrsquo For example the main market
stipulates that any potential listing should have a market capitalisation no lower than pound700000 whereas therersquos no such guideline on the Aim mar-ket Nor do companies need a trading history to list on Aim compared with the three years required for the main market Moreover the cost of listing on Aim is considerably lower
But for many private investors the main appeal of Aim stocks lies largely in the prospect of sky-high returns from the success of small and fledgling companies There are some 1200 stocks on the market from a wide range of sectors ndash albeit with a heavy weighting in technology and especially natural resources and with a gulf in size between the biggest and smallest
The largest are eligible for the FTSE AIM 50 and the FTSE AIM 100 where the likes of Bowleven Majestic Wine Dobbies Asos and MampC Saatchi are listed
Stewart picks out three he favours as part of a diversified portfolio One is Dart Group The owner of Jet2com and Jet2Holidays Dart has had a lsquostrong runrsquo and is focused on becoming more fam-ily friendly in these budget-conscious times says Stewart lsquoIt benefits from good visibility of future bookings and strong cash generationrsquo he adds
Aerospace and defence firm Cohort is another with a lsquoprogressive dividend policyrsquo that has grown at an annualised rate of 20 per cent over
DEWHURST (pound520)Dewhurst is a well-established manu-facturer of lift pushbuttons indicators and controls keypads for ATMs security devices and petrol pumps and traffic management products such as bollards
The company has a long record of profitability under the stewardship of the Dewhurst family and a debt-free balance sheet That suggests it is a strong competitor
Profits fell in 2013 ndash a result of a slowdown in Dewhurstrsquos major markets and customers having stocked up in the previous year Management is quite cagey about the companyrsquos prospects for 2014 but an improved performance is likely as conditions in the UK and the US improve The shares are probably good value at 11 times adjusted 2013 earnings
MS INTERNATIONAL (pound204)MS International manufactures military hardware forks for forklift trucks and petrol station canopies and car washes
The company has been profitable in each of the past 10 years and has a balance sheet flush with cash yet the share price has fallen to a level that val-ues MSI at five times adjusted 2013
earnings MSIrsquos current unpopularity stems from a decline in the profitability of MSI Defence Systems which has the highest turnover of its three businesses
The company expects 2014 to be no easier than 2013 due to continu-ing pressure on defence spending but itrsquos confident it will add to defence work already contracted and scheduled for every year until 2020
Itrsquos quite possible that MSI is having a lull that does not reflect on the qual-ity of its products or businesses If thatrsquos the case itrsquos a bargain
TREATT (pound747)Treatt distills flavourings and frag-rances essential oils and water-soluble essences Its products are used in drinks confectionery sauces and cosmetics worldwide
The companyrsquos expertise and close customer relationships might give it a competitive advantage and it has never suffered a loss However it has ushered out managing director Hugo Bovill and his family has sold its interest
Management with large share-holdings gives companies some independence from the often short-term imperatives of fund managers
However the new team is focused on controlling costs and developing the most profitable products
Profit grew 28 per cent in 2013 and Treattrsquos long-term prospects are prob-ably good but the share price has spiked valuing the shares at 15 times adjusted 2013 earnings
FW THORPE (pound143)FW Thorpe designs and manufactures light fittings known as luminaires They are becoming increasingly complex with the introduction of LED technology that requires printed circuit boards Its main business is Thorlux which supplies lighting to schools hospitals ware-houses and factories Other subsidiaries supply retailers emergency exit signage and cleanroom lighting
Stable family ownership long indus-try experience and a commitment to modernisation and investment are the keys to Thorpersquos prosperity
Although it has to contend with the additional investment required to produce LED lighting Thorpe is manag-ing the transition well The shares cost pound137 which values the company at about 15 times adjusted 2013 earnings Thatrsquos a fair price for a quality company
Richard Beddard picks out four Aim-listed companies worth considering for inclusion in a diversified Isa share portfolio
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
I TRANSFERRED INTO MY ISA A BIG
HOLDING OF CHRISTIE GROUP THAT USEDTO BE IN MY PEPLord Lee of Trafford
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
AIMSHARES
18 March 2014 | inspired
the past three years he adds Among food pro-ducers he likes Wynnstay It has lsquobenefited from strong revenue and pre-tax profitsrsquo increasing its interim dividend by 9 per cent
But therersquos ample cause for caution too because Aim shares are typically far riskier than those listed on the main market Not only is there the vol-atility inherent in shares issued by smaller firms but there remains the potential for liquidity issues even after the surge of money into the market in recent months Haig Bathgate chief investment officer at Turcan Connell says lsquoThey are by impli-cation of their size much less liquid in terms of the shares that trade hands on a daily basis so they are prone to more extreme price movementsrsquo
UK investors may also be averse to Aim stocks that are effectively overseas companies Indeed many Aim fund portfolios specifically exclude both these and natural resources firms as well as stocks that donrsquot offer business property relief
lsquoSignificant numbers of companies have failed to deliver on expectations in this part of the mar-ket and it is also quite heavily weighted towards technology (12 per cent) resources (9 per cent) and oil and gas companies (22 per cent)rsquo says Bathgate There are transparency concerns too due to the less stringent regulatory and company reporting requirements on the Aim market
lsquoWe would only include Aim stocks within the
portfolios of adventurous clients and then only up to a maximum of 10 per centrsquo says David Thomson chief investment officer at VWM Wealth lsquoEven then the bulk of this is likely to be via a venture capital trust where the investor can also enjoy 30 per cent income tax relief providing a further cushion against the volatility of Aim sharesrsquo
Collective investment funds and trusts offer a way into Aim stocks that provides useful diversification and so reduces the risk of heavy losses Investment trusts can offer particular advantages where Aim-listed shares are concerned as their closed-ended status gives them a hedge against the market liquidity issues that can affect Aim stocks Among the growing number of UK smaller companies investment trusts in which Aim shares are prominent are those run by BlackRock Standard Life and Aberforth Unit trusts invest-ing in Aim companies include the LampG UK Alpha Trust and Cazenove UK Smaller Companies
However there is a downside to access-ing Aim through funds and trusts as investors no longer benefit from the IHT-free status that direct holders of Aim stocks enjoy The risk of hefty losses remains the biggest caveat to investing in Aim
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
AIMSHARESAREMUCHLESS
LIQUIDINTERMSOFTHESHARESTHATTRADEHANDSDAILYHaig Bathgate
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
inspired | March 2014 19
Clockwise from top Cohort Wynnstay and Jet2com are Stewartrsquos picks for a diversified portfolio
rewarding such as smaller companies private equity and emerging markets
Trusts can also increase their assets by borrow-ing So long as this gearing is sensibly priced it should accelerate the trustrsquos gains in positive mar-ket conditions However gearing will exacerbate losses in any downturn The possible closing of the discount will also enhance share price returns
SOLID GROWTHBaillie Gifford Global DiscoveryThis fund picked by independent financial adviser Brian Dennehy invests globally in growth stocks especially companies operating in industries with potential for structural change and innova-tion Dennehy says manager Douglas Brodie has had considerable experience and success in iden-tifying growth opportunities particularly among exciting smaller-cap stocks
CF Lindsell Train UK EquityJohn Husselbee head of multi-asset at Liontrust Asset Management prefers investors to traders Renowned investor Warren Buffett takes a similar view and Husselbee says fund manager Nick Train invests like Buffett Train looks to buy great com-panies such as Burberry Heineken and Unilever when they are good value and hold them lsquoforeverrsquo
Cazenove UK Opportunities This fund aims to achieve long-term capital growth from a focused portfolio of large and medium-sized UK companies Gavin Haynes managing
huge variety of investment funds rang-ing from generalist funds to highly specialised versions aim to generate capital growth for investors
Investing in a specific fund entails investors accepting different degrees of risk in return for a range of potential rewards So when we asked financial advisers to predict which funds offer the best prospects for growth in 2014 we also urged them to consider which types of investor the funds would suit best
Solid growth funds will appeal to investors who prefer steady investment while higher-risk growth funds are likely to be more volatile and appeal to those with a higher risk tolerance Speculative funds could produce handsome returns this year but they could also dip sharply in value
Closed-ended status means investment trusts can invest in less liquid asset classes without having to worry about realising their holdings in a market setback This enables them to invest in areas that have historically proved particularly
A
Helen Pridham and Fiona Hamilton have rounded up a collection of investment funds and trusts experts believe will prosper in the year ahead for investors looking to cash in on an improving economic outlook
PERFECT YOUR FUND PORTFOLIOTO SEE IT
GROW
inspired | March 2014 2120 March 2014 | inspired
FUNDSAND
TRUSTS
GROW
inspired | March 2014 2120 March 2014 | inspired
A
RE Y
OU
A
GLO
BAL
INV
ESTO
R Take a global view of investment trusts expertly managed by Henderson
For over 75 years Henderson Global Investors has been at the forefront of investment trust innovation and development Now with a diverse and established range of managed investment trusts and investment companies Henderson has a global view of the market
Whether you are retirement planning investing for your children looking to take advantage of dynamic global markets or want a cautious investment approach our managed companies offer a wide range of investment objectives and strategies professionally managed by regional experts
If your priority is high income long term capital growth or a mixture of both Henderson Global Investors has a range of solutions which aims to meet your investment needs
Please remember that past performance is not a guide to future performance The value of an investment and the income from it can fall as well as rise as a result of market and currency fluctuations and you may not get back the amount originally invested
Call to receive your Investment Trust brochure or visit wwwhendersoninvestmenttrustscom
0800 856 5656
Investment Trusts managed by Henderson
Issued in the UK by Henderson Global Investors Henderson Global Investors is the name under which Henderson Global Investors Limited (reg no 906355) Henderson Fund Management Limited (reg no 2607112) Henderson Investment Funds Limited (reg no 2678531) Henderson Investment Management Limited (reg no 1795354) Henderson Alternative Investment Advisor Limited (reg no 962757) Henderson Equity Partners Limited (reg no2606646) Gartmore Investment Limited (reg no 1508030) (each incorporated and registered in England and Wales with registered office at 201 Bishopsgate London EC2M 3AE) are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority to provide investment products and services Telephone calls may be recorded and monitored H0046521113ad
Itrsquos a global marketplace
HGiTrusts
director at Whitechurch Securities says fund manager Julie Dean has built up an excellent track record
Securities Trust of ScotlandRobin McAdam likes Securities Trust of Scotland which seeks rising income and long-term capi-tal growth from global equities The trust yields 33 per cent so it provides income and growth potential lsquoThe trust has outperformed its bench-mark recently and we expect this to continuersquo says McAdam
Finsbury Growth amp Income TrustPeter Hewitt nominates Finsbury Growth amp Income Trust on the basis of its strong short- and long-term performance Manager Nick Train seeks out the highest-quality companies to hold long term The portfolio is dominated by companies Train expects to have longevity such as Diageo Unilever and Heineken lsquoThe manager looks for strong cash gen-eration and dividend growth which he believes are undervalued by the stock marketrsquo Hewitt says
RIT Capital PartnersThis multi-asset trust selected by John Newlands is the flagship financial vehicle for its chairman Lord Jacob Rothschild and his family lsquoGiven the uncertainty in the world it is no bad thing to be diversified both globally and across a range of asset classes RIT is a global growth trust that offers a combination of these benefitsrsquo Newlands says
His enthusiasm is bolstered by RITrsquos current relatively wide discount which reflects disap-pointment among investors that it was rather too cautious over the past two or three years
Perpetual Income amp Growth Trust This trust is classified as a member of the AIC UK growth and income sector but its yield tends to be below the sector average because manager Mark Barnett is more interested in income growth than immediate income Tim Cockerill classifies it as a total return trust and makes it his solid growth choice Barnett has secured excellent long-term returns dur-ing his 15 years at the helm
HIGHER-RISK GROWTHLazard Emerging MarketsMick Gilligan believes the investment case for emerging market equi-ties remains strong He says lsquoEquity markets in emerging regions are trading at their widest price-to-earnings discount to developed markets since 2006 We believe many well-capitalised businesses that have shown strong financial discipline should gener-ate good profitsrsquo The Lazard Emerging Markets fund focuses on such businesses
Rathbone Global OpportunitiesThis go-almost-anywhere bottom-up thorough stockpicking fund looks for undiscovered gems Rob Burdett fund manager at Thames River believes manager James Thomson strikes the
KEY FACTS ABOUT GROWTH FUND TIPS
Mininv pound
Ongoing Charges
1-yearreturn
Sectorrank
SOLID GROWTHBaillie Gifford Global Discovery 1000 086 5920 2248CF Lindsell Train UK Equity ndash 080 2910 53271Cazenove UK Opportunities 1000 082 3210 40271 HIGHER-RISK GROWTHInvestec Global Energy 1000 087 1420 40206Lazard Emerging Markets 2000 161 320 1668Rathbone Global Opportunities 1000 082 2150 111248 SPECULATIVE GROWTHAllianz BRIC Stars 500 122 -120 134206Liontrust Special Situations 1000 114 1450 251271MampG Recovery 500 096 1330 264271Note Ongoing charges figure refers to the least expensive retail share class Source Financial Express and companies websites as at 3 December 2013
KEY FACTS ABOUT THE TRUSTS TIPPED FOR GROWTH
Shareprice
p
Discprem to NAV
Netyield
Gearing
Net asset valuetotal return after
1 year
3 years
5 years
SOLID GROWTHFinsbury Growth amp Income 5010 (+) 12 21 50 305 767 2038Perpetual Income amp Growth 3686 10 32 120 346 714 1407RIT Capital Partners 12480 105 11 50 210 225 591Securities Trust of Scotland 1469 (+) 31 32 40 192 460 1132 HIGHER-RISK GROWTHBiotech Growth Trust 4335 72 00 70 582 1723 2968Fidelity Chinese Special Sits 1062 65 09 210 433 02 ndashGraphite Enterprise Trust 5690 170 09 -90 167 442 405Schroder Asia Pacific 2730 92 14 -20 08 201 1779 SPECULATIVE GROWTHBaker Steel Resources 470 331 00 10 -57 -137 740Hansa Trust A 8600 243 23 10 142 69 947Impax Environmental Markets 1463 112 06 -20 350 285 921Standard Life Eq Inc subscription 1070 ndash 00 3700 ndash ndash ndashNotes NAV = net asset value Annualised All data as at 1 December Source Numis Securities
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
MARK BARNETT HAS SECURED
EXCELLENT RETURNSTim Cockerill
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
inspired | March 2014 23PB March 2014 | inspired
FUNDSANDTRUSTS
right balance between taking calculated risks for high returns and investing in defensive holdings Burdett says lsquoHe likes companies undertaking gentle innovation ndash moving online for example ndash rather than game changers which have more potential to go wrongrsquo Investec Global EnergyThis fund invests in companies that produce energy and provide services to the energy sector Fund managers Tom Nelson and Charles Whall believe the consensus view on future oil prices anticipates weak demand and growing supply from US shale oil But they demur as does Tony Yarrow at Wise Investment He says lsquoOil is harder to extract from shale than gas is while demand for oil is growing as economies recover A higher oil price feeds straight through to the companiesrsquo profitsrsquo
Biotech Growth TrustPeter Hewitt favours Biotech Growth Trust which has achieved scorching gains recently ndash up 172 per cent over three years to 1 December 2013
It is managed in New York by Orbimed a specialist healthcare and biotechnology investor with $7 bil-lion (pound42 billion) under management It offers exposure to a mix of large and profitable biotech companies along-side emerging businesses Most of its holdings are US-based and they have
benefited from a much more positive approach by the Federal Drug Authority ndash new drug approvals in 2010 were the highest for 10 years
Graphite Enterprise TrustAndrew McHattie contends that just one sector offers great value private equity lsquoThese trusts were hammered in the credit crisis and discounts widened to extreme levelsrsquo he says
His selection is Graphite Enterprise Trust Its discount to net asset value remains at a level that rings alarm bells in most other sectors but it has a strong track record and a relatively mature port-folio of shares he expects to rise in value
Fidelity Chinese Special SituationslsquoWith Chinese equities looking cheap the long-term outlook for investing in China is positiversquo Cockerill says lsquoThis fund invests in medium and small caps where high growth can be achieved New manager Dale Nicholls is well qualified and the combination of Fidelity manager experience and China is compelling in the long termrsquo
Scottish Oriental Smaller Companies Trust This trust is favoured by McAdam The invest-ment team identifies quality companies offering sustainable predictable growth lsquoThe trust may underperform if the market rises strongly but the teamrsquos enviable track record and experience should be respectedrsquo he says
Tim Cockerill is investment director at Rowan Dartington
RowanDartingtonhas20investmentadvisersbasedinsevenofficesacrossthesouthofEnglandIthaspound900millionunderman-
agementInvestmenttrustshavefeaturedinitsdiscretionaryandadvisoryportfoliosformanyyears
Peter Hewittis a member of FampC Asset Managementrsquos global equities team
HehasmanagedtheFampCManagedPortfolioTrustsinceApril2008aswellasitsforerunnerFampCManagedPortfolio
Servicesince2002HewasheadofUKequitiesatMurray
Johnstonefrom1981to1983beforejoiningIvoryampSime
Jean Mattersonis a partner and chief investment officer at Rossie House Investment Management
Shejoinedthefirmin1998after20yearswithassetmanagerStewartIvory
BasedinEdinburghsheisoneoffiveinvestment
professionalsmanagingaroundpound300mil-lionallonadiscretionarybasisAroundhalfisininvestmenttrusts
Robin McAdamjoined Brooks MacDonald Asset Management in 2009 from Adam amp Company Investment Management
Hehas24yearsrsquoexperi-encemanagingprivateclientportfoliosandheadsBMrsquosEdinburghbranch
Thefirmhaspound537billionunderdiscretionarymanagementinbespokeandmanagedportfolios
Andrew McHattieis head of The McHattie Group
McHattieGroupisanauthorisedfirmthatpublishesspecialistinvestmentnewsletters
McHattiehasbeentheeditorofInvestmentTrustNewslettersince1996(wwwtipsheetscouk)andoffersafreeservicecalledthelsquoitlistrsquo(wwwtheitlistcouk)ThecompanyhasaFacebookpage(wwwfacebookcominvestmenttrusts)
John Newlandsis responsible for investment trust research at Brewin Dolphin
Heissupportedbyfouranalystswhocoverspecificsectorsresearchingopen-andclosed-endedfunds
BrewinDolphinhas35officesaroundtheUKandChannelIslandsandmanagespound28billionofwhichpound39billionisininvestmenttrusts
TrusttipstersOursixexpertsrevealtheirtopfundpicks
inspired | March 2014 PB24 March 2014 | inspired
FUNDSAND
TRUSTS
One in twelve goes free on your next golf break plus every golfer receives a free pint
12thmansagimme
Book online at MarriottGolfcouk
Offer is only valid on residential golf bookings booked during the promotional dates For every 11 players booked the 12th player will be free of charge Rates are per person per night based on 2 people sharing a twindouble room and include dinner bed amp breakfast Bookings must be made by one named player and separate bookings will not qualify Each residential player aged 18 and over will receive a voucher entitling them to a complimentary pint
of Beckrsquos or Boddingtons Offer is valid on bookings made via 3rd parties Offer is available on 1 night 2 rounds or 2 night 3 rounds and excludes Sunday Driver Maximum of 2 night stay and 2 people per room Day of week availability may vary based on location Limited number of rooms may be available This offer applies to new bookings only at Marriott Hotel amp Country Clubs and offer courses and tee times are subject to availability Offer cannot
be used in conjunction with any other promotion Course terms and conditions apply Advance reservations required Book between 17th February and 29th June 2014 for stays between 4th April and 29th September 2014
The SIPP thatrsquos
fair and square
We believe in straightforward investing Thatrsquos why we donrsquot nibble at your SIPP with percentage fees For just pound144 per year you can open a SIPP and add an ISA for free After that itrsquos just pound10 to buy or sell a wide range of investments including shares funds bonds and gilts Open an account today and if you transfer your existing SIPP wersquoll give you up to pound240 as a thank you (terms apply) We believe thatrsquos fair and square
The value of investments and any income from them can fall as well as rise so you could get back less than you invest Tax treatment depends on your individual circumstances and may be subject to change If in any doubt please seek advice
iiicouksipp
Interactive Investor Trading Limited trading as ldquoInteractive Investorrdquo is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority Registered Office Standon House 21 Mansell Street London E1 8AA Tel 0845 200 3637 Registered in England with Company Registration number 3699618
SPECULATIVE GROWTHMampG RecoveryDennehy says manager Tom Dobell backs his convictions engages with companies he invests in and has delivered long-term outperformance lsquoDobellrsquos MampG Recovery fund has a clear value-style process and management stability It invests in a wide range of firms that are out of favour or in difficulty or whose prospects are not fully rec-ognised by the marketrsquo he says
Liontrust Special SituationsHusselbee says Liontrustrsquos Anthony Cross and Julian Fosh have their own unique philosophy He adds lsquoThey look for characteristics in a company that its competitors find difficult to replicate such as intellectual property or distribution channelsrsquo
Allianz Bric StarsThis fund aims for capital growth in the long term by investing mainly in Brazil Russia India and China Haynes says investors have shunned these markets recently and valuations fallen He adds lsquoFor investors looking for a recovery story this fund is worth considerationrsquo
Standard Life Equity Income subscription shareMcHattie says warrant and subscription shares are widely ignored creating opportunities for those who understand them He favours the subscrip-tion shares of Standard Life Equity Income which can be exercised at 320p a share up to the end of December 2016 lsquoThey offer gearing of 37 times and if the ordinary shares grow by more than 28 per cent a year between now and the end of 2016 the subscription shares ought to outperformrsquo
Impax Environmental MarketsMcAdam likes this trust It invests in companies seeking to provide cleaner or more-efficient energy as well as water and waste solutions to the growing problems faced by authorities around the world It offers exposure to a rapidly changing marketplace as well as to socially responsible investments
Hansa TrustJohn Newlands sees potential in the A shares of Hansa Trust which languish at a discount of more than 25 per cent He says that whereas the trustrsquos portfolio appears skewed with a third of its assets in Ocean Wilsons there is actually plenty of diversification because Ocean Wilsons has an investment portfolio that stands at a discount to underlying value lsquoOne day an attractive bid [may] be made for Ocean Wilsons that will enhance Hansarsquos NAV and sim-plify its capital structure all to the good of its market ratingrsquo Newlands says
Baker Steel Resources TrustJean Matterson hopes for good returns from this trust shares in which trade on a near 30 per cent discount lsquoIt has not had an easy run of late but we believe the underlying assets are attractive and that the mining projects in the companyrsquos portfo-lio will continue to progressrsquo she says
Prospects have improved for biotechs (left) while growing interest in sustain-able energy has boosted Impax
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
AHIGHEROILPRICEFEEDSSTRAIGHT
THROUGHTOPROFITSTony Yarrow
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
inspired | March 2014 27PB March 2014 | inspired
FUNDSANDTRUSTS
The world of funds and trusts is a confusing place with over 2300 funds and more than 300 investment trusts to choose from
Money Observerrsquos Rated Funds system narrows down the playing field to help you decide which funds and investment trusts might be best for you
Our team of experts constantly monitor the marketplace rating those funds that have delivered consistently good returns However you should be aware that there is no guarantee this performance will be repeated
With our comparison tool you can filter by whatrsquos important to you compare up to four funds and trusts side-by-side as well as view factsheets
COMPAREMONEY OBSERVER RATED FUNDS
VISIT MONEYOBSERVERCOMCOMPAREFUNDS AND LOOK OUT FOR THE RATED FUND STAMP
had spare cash or I were start-ing afresh The companies in the add category are high qual-ity judging by the strategies they follow and their finan-cial strength and are probably undervalued
Irsquom more likely to eject or reduce holdings in companies in the watch and specula-tive categories These shares are more risky either because they have risen greatly in price or because their prospects are more uncertain than usual I may think the risk is worth tak-ing but I am prepared to act should that calculation change
Every decision to increase a portfolio holding must be weighed against the potential of new candidates drawn from all companies listed in the UK and corralled into another live spreadsheet the Share Sleuth watchlist When I add a share to the watchlist or trade a share in the portfolio I explain this in the Share Sleuth blog
ccumulating income and capital gains in an index tracking fund is inexpensive takes little effort and all but guarantees an
average return so it should be the default investment for a lazy equity investor saving for the long term
To justify the work of decid-ing which shares to buy and sell and the effort and cost of placing trades an active investor must do better Consequently the first objective of the active Share Sleuth portfolio is to beat passive investments after costs over the long-term which in practice means any five-year period The second objective is to win this tussle against an unknowing and unthinking opponent transparently
At the heart of the portfolio is an online spreadsheet The first page shows the constitu-ent shares arranged into three categories lsquoaddrsquo lsquowatchrsquo and lsquospeculativersquo The categorisa-tion is updated daily based on live data in subsequent spread-sheets each of which contains a financial model for a particular company
The Share Sleuth portfo-lio shows the holdings I would add to the portfolio today if it
Share Sleuth is a simulation no money changes hands But I use prices quoted by a bro-ker and adjust the accounting to factor in notional broker fees and stamp duty However I lsquoeat my own cookingrsquo by investing my self-invested personal pen-sion in Share Sleuth companies
No doubt you are wonder-ing how the portfolio is doing Share Sleuthrsquos five-year anni-versary judgement day is on 9 September this year and I will not prejudge it now
Short-term performance watching and the knee-jerk trad-ing it encourages is I think one reason why many inves-tors fail My focus is on ensuring the portfolio remains invested in good companies at reasona-ble prices
You can see a live perfor-mance table and learn what I think of every share in the port-folio and which companies I might add to it at wwwiiicoukZkr
SHAREBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIOR
The Share Sleuth portfolio has been carefully devised to show investors how to find good companies at cheap prices and also prove the value of its investment approach says Richard Beddard
Richard Beddard an editor at Interactive Investor since 1999 has managed the Share Sleuth portfolio since 9 September 2009 Hersquos a columnist at Money Observer magazine and a private investor
AMY FOCUS IS ON ENSURING THAT THE PORTFOLIO IS INVESTED IN GOOD FIRMS AT DECENT PRICES
inspired | March 2014 29PB March 2014 | inspired
SHARESLEUTH
iiicoukstraightforward
Interactive Investor Trading Limited trading as ldquoInteractive Investorrdquo is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority Registered Office Standon House 21 Mansell Street London E1 8AA Tel 0845 200 3637 Registered in England with Company Registration number 3699618
We believe in being straightforwardthis is why we donrsquot nibble at your investment by charging percentage fees Find out how this could affect your investment performance at iiicoukstraightforward
If you transfer to us you can even get up to pound240 as a thank you (terms apply)
Donrsquot forget the value of investments and any income from them can fall as well as rise so you could get back less than you invest If in any doubt please seek advice
7784_II_QI_MONEY_OBSERVER_210x297_AWindd 1 16012014 1224
Take a closer look
at your investment
options
Discover a straightforward way to understand everything from ISAs to SIPPs and OEICs to Investment Trusts
Investing for generationsEver feel yoursquod like to know more about investing Wersquove been helping people build their wealth for over 125 years Our guide lsquoMaking sense of the investment universersquo is just one of the resources yoursquoll find on our Investment Focus hub
As well as clear simple guides therersquos a wealth of information and expert opinion all designed to help you take control of your investments Please remember that investments can go down as well as up and investors may get back less than they originally invested
Introducing your free online source of information help and expert opinion
investment-focuscouk
This has been approved as a financial promotion by Alliance Trust Investments Limited for the purpose of Section 21 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 Alliance Trust Investments Limited is a subsidiary of Alliance Trust PLC and is registered in Scotland No SC330862 registered office 8 West Marketgait Dundee DD1 1QN is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority firm reference number 479764 Alliance Trust Investments gives no financial or investment advice
TAX YEAR ENDS APRIL 5TH ndash learn more about
your options now
Investment Focus Smart Insight from Alliance Trust
Yoursquove spoken Wersquove listened Introducing your free online source of information help and expert opinion
Based on real insight we have launched a new website which focuses on investment education
We believe that we are uniquely positioned to provide this hub of information based on the reputation we have built for trust and transparency over the last 125 years
We will be publishing new content over the next few months focusing on specific themes
bull Investing from scratch
bull Products in a portfolio
bull Global diversification
bull Planning for your familyrsquos future
bull Retirement planning
bull Getting more information
There is a generation of future investors out there who have been brought up in an era of economic turmoil and banking crises which has led to disillusionment and a lack of trust in our sector and the services we offer Despite it being more important than ever for investors to take control of their financial situation this new generation of savers lacks the basic knowledge and understanding to make these very important long-term decisions
Our goal is to develop a useful resource with contributions from third-parties as well as the team at Alliance Trust which offers insights into the various life stages and challenges faced and which can be built upon and adapted to meet savers needs in the long term
Katherine Garrett-Cox CBE Chief Executive Alliance Trust PLC
ldquo
rdquo
There are too many products to make an informed decision
I donrsquot know whereto go for reliable
information
investment-focuscouk
Yoursquoll naturally take a keen interest in the performance of your investments But itrsquos just as important to understand the fees you will be paying as they can have a significant impact on the returns you achieve Knowing what the different types of costs mean and exactly what they consist of can prove rewarding
Itrsquos worth remembering that for every fee you pay (whether it is a or flat fee) your investment needs to grow by at least the same amount just to stay ahead of the game It sounds obvious but itrsquos easy to forget Broadly speaking there are three types of fees fund fees platform fees and fees for a financial adviser You can either invest directly into a fund and pay the associated fees or you can invest via a platform provider (some of which are referred to as wrap platforms others as fund supermarkets) This is a service that lets you manage and review all your investments online in one place As a general rule fund fees are lower when
bought through a platform than if you buy direct You can invest through a platform on either an execution only basis where the investor assesses the risks and makes their own investment decisions or on an advised basis
Learn more about fund platform and financial advice fees
What can you expect to seeOver the next two pages we have provided a sneak preview of just some of the information you will find on the Investment Focus hub We will be updating the site regularly so make sure you sign up for our email alerts to be informed when new topics are published
Everything you need to know about fees
Risk informationInvestments can go down as well as up You may get back less than you originally invested
Alliance Trust does not give advice You need to ensure you understand the risks and commitments before investing If you are unsure you should consult a Financial Adviser before investing
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
For the vast majority of investors the simplest cheapest and most pragmatic way to invest is through pooled funds
Sometimes called managed funds unit trusts or even Open-Ended Investment Companies (or OEICs) these are designed to give ordinary savers access to a diverse range of investments
One of the principles of investment is that diversification helps reduce risk But it is expensive and time consuming for ordinary savers to buy shares of 80 to 100 different companies and keep track of how each is performing
But with a managed fund you are pooling your money with other investors enabling the fund manager to buy a wide range of assets
Investors have the option of buying an actively managed or passive fund With an active fund the manager selects and then monitors these stocks for investors in a bid to maximise returns
In contrast a passive fund will simply follow a stock market index such as the FTSE100 up and down
Having a manager at the helm can be beneficial in a market downturn as they can take a more defensive approach buying shares that are better able to hold their value or in some cases switching to bonds or cash instead to help preserve investorsrsquo capital Managers can also research individual companies and markets and have access to forecasts and economic data that isnrsquot always available to individuals
Learn more about investing for growth or income exploring different investment remits how to invest and keeping track of your investments
Understanding funds Written by Emma Simon Personal Finance Journalist
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
What are Investment TrustsInvestment Trusts are investment vehicles that are listed on the London Stock Exchange and which invest in shares and other securities They pool together investorsrsquo money and delegate responsibility to a professional fund manager to invest in a range of companies from different sectors and regions across the world They were designed for ldquothe investor of moderate meansrdquo
A brief historybull The first Investment Trust was launched by Foreign amp
Colonial in 1868
bull Investment Trusts made it possible for individual investors to gain diversified exposure to global stock markets
bull Many Investment Trusts were formed in Scotland including Alliance Trust PLC which was formed over 125 years ago
A guide to Investment Trusts
Learn more about Investment Trusts their main features and why you should consider them for your portfolio
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
Alliance Trust is an investment and savings business with over 125 year history of building investor wealth We offer our shareholders clients and customers a unique portfolio of products and services These range from a renowned global investment trust to an innovative range of investment strategies and funds and a multi-award winning investment platform where investors can host their ISAs SIPPs or investment accounts Our mission is to provide products and services that help to ensure a more sustainable financial future for generations of investors
Alliance Trust PLC is one of the largest generalist investment trusts by market value listed on the London Stock Exchange and is the parent company to two wholly-owned subsidiaries Alliance Trust Savings and Alliance Trust Investments
The fact that many of us make irrational decisions when it comes to our finances is widely debated and is often referred to as behavioural finance In this short video we talk to Professor Phyl Johnson Consultant Psychologist and Visiting Professor of Executive Education at Strathclyde Business School about why this is and more importantly about what we can do as individuals to avoid it
About us Alliance Trust Investments is a specialist fund management business offering a range of products and services focusing on global equities fixed income and sustainable investing with an emphasis on specialist investment solutions
Alliance Trust Savings is one of the UKrsquos leading financial services providers for private investors offering customers the information and services they need to manage their investments in a way that works for them
Risk informationInvestments can go down as well as up You may get back less than you originally invested
Alliance Trust does not give advice You need to ensure you understand the risks and commitments before investing If you are unsure you should consult a Financial Adviser before investing
Unusually for a company of our size around 70 of shares
in Alliance Trust are held by private
individuals
Nobodyrsquos perfect why we all make irrational decisions
Inflation by ageThis monthrsquos official inflation report showed that the headline rate of inflation fell from 20 to 19 Our Economic Research Team analyse this data on a monthly basis to see how inflation rates affect different age groups In February 2014 the summary highlights include
bull The over 75s and the under 30s face the highest rate of inflation in January at 21
bull The over 75s suffered the highest rate of inflation for the whole of 2013 and this trend continues into 2014 as they spend a larger share of their budgets on basic goods such as gas and electricity
bull The 65 to 74 year olds have faced the lowest rate of inflation in 11 out of the last 12 months thanks to lower inflation in food petrol and package holidays
Learn more about how inflation might affect you
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
You can also sign up for our regular email alerts to be informed when new topics are published by clicking here
Wersquove been bringing clarity to investment for over 125 years
Investing for generationsWhen it comes to investing therersquos no substitute for experience And at Alliance Trust wersquove been helping people invest since 1888 Our new Investment Focus hub is full of online information and expert opinion It aims to provide real insight to help you take control of your investments
Over the next few weeks the hub will build to cover everything from taking your first steps to diversifying worldwide Please remember that investments can go down as well as up and investors may get back less than they originally invested For valuable insight from Alliance Trust visit Investment Focus today
Introducing your free online source of information help and expert opinion
investment-focuscouk
This has been approved as a financial promotion by Alliance Trust Investments Limited for the purpose of Section 21 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 Alliance Trust Investments Limited is a subsidiary of Alliance Trust PLC and is registered in Scotland No SC330862 registered office 8 West Marketgait Dundee DD1 1QN is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority firm reference number 479764 Alliance Trust Investments gives no financial or investment advice
TAX YEAR ENDS APRIL 5TH ndash learn more about
your options now
Change the way you think about stocks reap the rewardsBy Edward Page Croft CEO Stockopediacom
I remember so clearly the day when I picked my first stock for clients Managing $2 billion (pound12 billion) in assets across 100 portfolios for high-net-wealth private investors is no easy task As I was to learn when you are green
and straight out of university itrsquos even harder The stock in question was on the Goldman
Sachs US lsquobuyrsquo list It had the potential to be hot Dotcoms were bubbling It was an internet stock in education services and cheap It seemed like it had everything but we needed to get in One day it fell out of bed Down 50 per cent on no news
Irsquod been trained to call the analyst in situations like this He reiterated his buy stance Double buy On my insistence we put almost $20 million of client money into the stock within an hour The next day it fell another 50 per cent on
bad newsThere is nothing more
painful than a loss but you never forget the first
one It immedi-ately forced me to reconsider every-thing I thought I
knew From that day on I vowed to never trust anotherrsquos opin-ion and find a better
way through the market minefieldIrsquove now spent 15 years
reassessing common
wisdom about stock selection No stone has gone unturned in the quest to understand the behav-ioural flaws that lead to poor decision making But there is one finding that crops up again and again in all the research that hurts stock market investors most We as investors are suckers for stories
A 1990rsquos study of 60000 private investor broker-age accounts by Kumar and Goetzmann found that 70 per cent of portfolios held less than four stocks
The stocks held all tended to be in the same sector highly correlated and risky Think internet stocks in the 1990s China in the 2000s or resource stocks more recently The grand theme sucks everyone in The outcome rarely dif-fers Kumar and Goetzmann showed that across these
60000 accounts the average underperformance was of the order of 4 per cent annually
This massive failing across private inves-tor portfolios is repeated in nearly every market cycle and is bound to happen again in this one Benjamin Graham the great father of value invest-ing and tutor of Warren Buffett once wrote
lsquoIn the short run the stock market is a vot-ing machine but in the long run it is a weighing machinersquo
ADVERTISING FEATURE
IN THE SHORT RUN THE STOCK MARKET IS A VOTING MACHINE BUT IN THE LONG RUN IT IS A WEIGHING MACHINEBenjamin Graham
What he meant was that while stories may drive stocks in the short run statistics drive stocks in the long run When statistics reassert them-selves it can cause huge damage to investors punting their portfolios on stories
It doesnrsquot take much to learn how basic statis-tics can guide your portfolio into winning stock selections though very few seem to understand how to do it Benjamin Graham as his life wore on gradually came to the conclusion that building portfolios according to rules-based processes was a far more appropriate methodology for the typi-cal investor
lsquoTry to buy groups of stocks that meet some sim-ple criterion for being undervalued ndash regardless of
the industry and with very little attention to the indi-vidual company It seems too good to be true but all I can tell you after 60 years of experience is it seems to stand up under any of the tests I would make uprsquo
My time is now dedi-cated to helping investors practice exactly what Benjamin Graham and many other investment luminaries have preached rules-based investing For the majority itrsquos a better process and leads to bet-ter outcomes Our work at
Stockopediacom where we crunch fundamental and technical data in order to model and track the investment processes of the great investors bears this out
Portfolios composed with stocks showing the right statistical mix of value quality and momen-tum have significantly outperformed Rules-based investing beats the market But more importantly it helps promote the emotional detachment needed to stop investors from beating themselves
Irsquoll never buy a stock on a punt or an analystrsquos tip again Perhaps neither should you
For a two week free trial and pound50 discount to Stockopedia UK Premium CLICK HERE
TANK MCM A N U F A C T U R E M O V E M E N T 1 9 0 4 M C
SINCE THE CREATION OF THE FIRST TANK WATCH IN 1917 THE TANK COLLECTION HAS CONTINUED
TO BREAK NEW GROUND THE INCREDIBLY REFINED AESTHETICS OF THE NEW TANK MC WATCH ARE FITTED
WITH THE CARTIER MANUFACTURE MOVEMENT 1904 MC ESTABLISHED IN 1847 CARTIER CREATES
EXCEPTIONAL WATCHES THAT COMBINE DARING DESIGN AND WATCHMAKING SAVOIR-FAIRE
EXPLORE AND SHOP WWWCARTIERCOUK - (020) 3147 4850
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Inside
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TO THE CONNOISSEUR section of Inspired a showcase for the finer things in life for those who truly appreciate them
Enjoying the fruits of your labour away from the relentless demands of our age poses its own challenges and quandaries Would a tropical idyll restore your ebbing energy levels Might a break based around hair-raising activities revive them even more effectively Perhaps reawakening a dormant passion for fine wines or luxury cars would be the most enjoyable reward for your industry
A luxury tropical holiday is probably near the top of most peoplersquos wish lists We take a look at some of the most tantalising options
The arrival of BMWrsquos new super coupe is featured on page 50 BMW aficionados and petrolheads alike are certain to be won over by its head-turning looks and mouthwatering specs
Gems come under the microscope on page 53 A rare coloured diamond can be a joy as well an appreciating asset
Wine is on the menu on page 54 where we explore the charms of Argentinian Malbec
Watches are often treasured objects and the best can turn out to be shrewd investments We look at the secondary watch market and the growth of online retailing on page 58 Enjoy
Welcome
40 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
FIVE TOP PRIVATE ISLAND RETREATSIslandFantasy
Top-rated resorts and hotels offer a variety of temptations and services to impress even the most discerning tastes but there is no better way to escape the rigours and
stresses of daily life than cutting off from the outside world while still enjoying lavish service
in the pinnacle of all resorts the private islandThere are thousands of small islands around
the world but only a few have chosen to cater to the most discriminating travellers seeking a rarified yet perfect world of quiet and relaxed luxury We look at five of the worldrsquos top private islands destinations where your holiday is certain to be an exceptional experience
TRAVEL
Necker Island is owned by Sir Richard Branson and guests stay in his home The island has become a popular des-tination for some of the worldrsquos most prominent figures as a hideaway from lifersquos stresses and strains
Because Necker Island is a resi-dence and not a resort guests who rent the island are treated as owners and catered for in a unique way
The74-acre island is fringed with beautiful white beaches and surrounded by turquoise waters and coral reefs It boasts every resort-type amenity guests can spend their days being pampered in the spa explor-ing underwater reefs in a submarine lounging by the pool bar or swimming in one of the worldrsquos most elab-orate private pools
Haute cuisine is a highlight for most guests ndash rates are fully inclusive of all food and drink A team of chefs creates bespoke menus featuring anything from lobster and caviar to a Sunday roast And because Necker is a home first and a resort second guests decide whether dining will be formal or informal inside or outside themed or traditional
The bar is stocked with international wines top-quality spirits and beers and a world renowned house champagne while special orders can be shipped in at no extra charge ndash unless an item is particularly rare Every service and amenity is available around the clock and guests are encouraged to treat Necker as their own home
As youLike it
NECKER ISLAND
42 March 2014 | inspired
Unalloyed luxury and an impressive range of amenities make Necker one of the most desirable island destinations in the world
The Jumby Bay resort which is only accessible by boat from Antigua is a Caribbean hideaway owned by Rosewood Resorts It is perfect for those seeking either relaxation or spirited adventure
You can rent the island resort entirely for your stay or simply take a room Those opt-ing for exclusive use of the island will have the resortrsquos two pools three tennis courts fitness centre croquet field and putting green to themselves
A wide range of water sports are available and guests can indulge in as much adventure or relaxation as they want during their stay The resort is ideal for large family
reunions or corporate retreats ndash 40 guest rooms and suites are available on the island
Executive chef Sylvain Hervochon celebrates gastron-omy ndash and mixology (cocktail making) ndash with casual elegance by creating Caribbean-style dishes inspired by fresh local ingredients and incorporating international influences
Jumby Bayrsquos rates start at pound150000 for four nights based on double occupancy between May and December Visit wwwrosewoodhotelscomenjumby-bay-antigua for further information
Fine BalanceCaribbean ambiance international sophistication and adventurous activities make Jumby Bay a compelling choice
JUMBY BAY
Just laze by the pool or venture beyond to dive in the turquoise waters of the South Pacific among stunning reefs and a dazzling array of marine creatures
Isle of PlentyT
he private island of Laucala in the South Pacific is a 3500-acre site in a picturesque rainforest-laced land-scape Enchanting deserted beaches nestle among coconut plantations organic farms and lush green vol-canic mountains
The resort offers an outstanding level of refined lux-ury as well as a compelling collection of sporting and cultural activities diving among iridescent marine life in the warm turquoise waters guided rainforest tours horse riding surfing and golfing on the 18-hole cham-pionship course The island is a superb choice for an escape from civilization whether you want an adven-ture in the wild or simply to relax in one of Laucalarsquos five restaurants and bars
Rates are available on request Visit wwwlaucalacom for further details
TRAVEL
LAUCALA ISLAND
inspired | March 2014 4544 March 2014 | inspired
Lush green surroundings sensitive development and beautiful beaches help Laucala island conjure up a complete South Seas experience
Isle of Plenty
inspired | March 2014 4544 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
inspired | March 2014 4746 March 2014 | inspired
Slow LaneSlow
Pulau Joyo is a seductively serene environment of pristine beaches surrounded by clear blue sea in Indonesiarsquos Riau Archipelago Accessible from Singapore or Bintan Pulau Joyo is a true castaway island offering every resort luxury
amid untouched natural beauty Pulau Joyo is famous for its remarkable sunsets and
brightly star-lit sky The resort can host 28 guests and 20 staff are on hand to cater to their every need Guests stay in open driftwood lsquopalacesrsquo that lsquoallow the sea inrsquoDespite its desert island appeal Pulau Joyo offers every modern convenience a range of adrenaline boosting activities and more relaxing options such as spa treatments and massages
The resortrsquos cuisine focuses on western and Indonesian dishes Meals are usually served buffet style and feature grilled fish squid prawns beef and chicken as well as many curry dishes Side dishes include fresh garden salads pasta salads boiled or steamed leafy greens and grilled aubergine (an island favourite) Prawn and tofu kebabs appear from time to time as does satay The chef will often provide a selection of freshly picked fruit and homemade cakes for dessert Itrsquos worth noting that the management will not serve pork or shellfish on this private island
Pulau Joyo may not be as refined as some islands but itrsquos an excellent choice for those who want a more casual laidback island experience that replicates the castaway experience like perhaps no other
Rates start at pound1913 a night More information is available at wwwpulau-joyocom
Wannabe castaways may find Pulau Joyorsquos purer simpler take on the luxury island experience more to their taste
PULAU JOYO
inspired | March 2014 4746 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
In the Fijian island paradise of Dolphin Island a small army of staff await to meet guestsrsquo every need On arriving ndash by boat helicopter or float plane ndash visitors are invariably struck by the beauty of the island and the luxuri-ous accommodation that awaits them amid 14-acres of lush tropical gardens
Three traditional palm-thatched bures individually designed by world renowned interior designer Virginia Fisher sit in an elevated position around the resortrsquos infinity pool
Guests are brought fresh tropical fish to choose each day that are cooked to perfec-
tion within hours of leaving the water The culinary focus is on
organic produce and ingredi-ents unique to Fijian cuisine but meals are tailored to guestsrsquo personal tastes Papayas man-goes bananas and pineapples
are plentiful throughout the day When it comes to recreation the
14-acre island is an expansive play-ground offering a diverse range of watersports as well as diving opportunities on Fijirsquos coral reefs
Rates start at pound720 a night More information is avail-able at wwwdolphinislandfijicom
Fijian Paean
Traditional features modern comforts and excellent facilities make for a harmonious whole on this Fijian island
DOLPHIN ISLAND
48 March 2014 | inspired
Pictured slightly larger than actual size
Big Pilotrsquos Watch Ref 5009
Your wrist never felt this big before The
case of the top model in the IWC Pilotrsquos
Watch range is a gigantic 462 mm in diashy
meter And the technology inside it is
even more impressive the largest IWCshy
manufactured automatic movement with
its Pellaton winding system is protected
against strong magnetic fields by a softshy
iron inner case And needless to say enshy
vious glances iwc engineered for men
Mechanical IWCshymanufactured movement Pellaton
automatic winding system 7shyday power reserve
with display (figure) Date display Softshyiron inner
case for protection against magnetic fields
Antireflective sapphire glass Watershyresistant 6 bar
Stainless steel
IWC Schaffhausen Switzerland iwccom The worldrsquos finest timepieces are exclusively available from selected watch specialists
For an illustrated catalogue or list of nationwide concessionaires please contact IWC UK Tel 0845 337 1868 Eshymail infoshyukiwccom
CARS
MunichLegend
50 March 2014 | inspired
BMW fanatics can open their eyes ndash the M4 has arrived
Most BMW aficionados are proba-bly pretty sad to see production of the M3 coupe ndash quite possibly the companyrsquos most noteworthy and celebrated model ndash end after almost 30 years Ever since the first wide-body E30 M3 saw the
light of day in 1985 drivers have loved the sporty coupe for its incredible balance intoxicating power and of course solid build quality
The model never got stale in all that time and always remained the poster child for the M division so itrsquos a lit-tle weird that BMW has apparently decided to axe it In truth though they havenrsquot really dropped the M3 The M3 sedan will continue to be produced in 2014 so all
is not lost Moreover BMW seems to be adopting a pat-tern of giving its sedans odd-numbered titles only and its coupes even-numbered titles only so the 4-Series and especially the M4 concept that debuted at Pebble Beach Monterey California will fill the gap left by the M3 Many people have been awaiting the new super coupe with great expectancy but can it fill in for the M3
The journalists who swarmed over the M4 concept at Pebble Beach were obviously much more interested in it than the somewhat predictable 428i that was also there Finished in an eye-catching colour called Aurum Dust (which actually looks a lot like the old M3rsquos Phoenix Yellow colour) the car presented in California may be a concept but typically BMW M cars donrsquot change much before they finally hit the showroom
MunichLegend
inspired | March 2014 51
CARS
52 March 2014 | inspired
From front to back the bodywork is manifestly differ-ent and much more aggressive looking than a standard 4-Series car It really looks to pretty much pick up where the E92E93 M3 coupe left off especially with its undeniably cool domed hood Wide wheel arches big wheels wrapped in low-profile tyres more than enough M badges and a well-executed double-bubble roof make the already underwhelming existing 4-Series coupe look even more pedestrian
Power for the new M4 is likely to come from a three-litre twin-turbo straight-six engine While the horsepower probably wonrsquot differ much from the M3rsquos old 4-litre V-8 it will generate more than 100lbft more in torque almost 400 in total With the M4 being a lighter 3300lb in weight the M4 promises to be an excit-ing worthy car A proper six-speed manual may be in the mix alongside the now obligatory dual clutch and paddles option
The best way to look at the M4 however it ends up is not as a new car but as a new and improved M3 thatrsquos just getting a new name The decision to rename the coupe is a strange one but thankfully BMW apparently felt the 3-Series coupe had made such an identity for itself that a new model was needed albeit in a slightly different incarnation
With BMW embarking on some new-ageish ideas such as its 1-Series ActiveE and the soon-to-arrive lsquoirsquo range of cars itrsquos nice to see the company also stick to classics such as the heart-stopping sports coupe even if the latest model does come with a new name
Seductive curves and racier performance make the BMW M4 a more than acceptable replacement for the M3 super coupe
SparklingForm Coloured diamonds are making their mark
One of the main factors that deter-mines the value of what we ordinarily think of as diamonds is their purity the degree to which col-our is absent in the gem However with coloured diamonds the extent to which they are saturated with
colour is a principal determinant of their valueColoured diamonds come in 12 basic colours more
than 90 secondary hues and nine intensity levels The depth of their colour is what really differentiates these diamonds from their colourless counterparts
Natural coloured diamonds are 10000 times rarer than typical colourless diamonds one of several rea-sons why they are treasured by the rich and famous yet remain unknown to most other people ndash despite hav-ing been around for centuries
Of course some colours are rarer than others Red violet and purple stones are as rare as the proverbial hensrsquo teeth while green and blue are also rare The most popular colours are pink and yellow (or canary) They also come in white grey orange black and lsquochame-leonrsquo form
A pinkie ring encrusted with a large coloured dia-mond has become a status symbol for men in Asia That little stone is an unregistered asset that could quickly be sold for millions of dollars should the need arise
Coloured diamonds are durable and never lose their sparkle or lustre so they are assets that can be enjoyed every day unlike stocks or bonds And they have proved to be fantastic investments having steadily appreciated in price with relatively little volatility for more than a decade They even held their own during the most recent financial crisis
Coloured diamonds are auctioned by reputable
auction houses such a Sothebyrsquos and Christiersquos where prices for large unique pink red blue or yellow stones can reach in excess of $2 million (pound12 million) a carat and other stones regularly sell for $1 million a carat
They are often bought by high-net-worth individu-als as an insurance policy Instead of stashing cash in undeclared bank accounts and potentially incurring the wrath of the authorities the wealthy can purchase some loose yellow diamonds to secure their future
Clearly coloured diamonds are much more than a magnificent indulgence
GEMS
inspired | March 2014 53PB March 2014 | inspired
WINE
Make the most of the deeply
satisfying Malbec wines emerging from Argentina
and perhaps even enjoy a return on a shrewd
investment says Ewan Lacey
Finding a red wine to enjoy in spring is a delicate balancing act The shock of seeing sunlight after a dark winter fosters in us a desire to drink some-thing refreshing while the still-cool temperatures demand something with comforting depth
Increasingly Malbec wines particularly those from Argentina provide a perfect solution to this quandary And while there are plenty of delicious wines for infor-mal occasions what is most interesting is the emergence of finer Malbec wines Some are so good they may well have ageing potential raising the intriguing possibility that the wine may one day become collectable
Malbec is the most popular wine among those aged 25-34 and is now becoming a fixture on most restaurant wine lists There are several reasons for its success the word Malbec is easy to pronounce the wine goes well with red meat the Malbec grape can be turned into wines that are both relatively easy to drink and packed with flavour and decent wines are available at reason-able prices Malbec is deep fruity and charming and it delivers instant pleasure ndash claret on a motorbike
The Malbec grape originated in France and it remains one of the permitted varieties used to make Bordeaux However it has gained prominence through the work of the post-junta Argentine wine industry
I recently had the pleasure of tasting some very fine Malbecs with Laura Catena managing director at the Catena Zapata winery and president of the International Wine and Spirit Competition She opened my
Mendoza Marvels
inspired | March 2014 55
WINE
eyes to the potential of this grape variety when handled with care
Laurarsquos family business makes a range of wines but the wine that truly astonished me was the Nicasia Vineyard Malbec 2006 The wine is perfumed with floral and fruit notes and it is smooth and soft at first Like all great wines it has many layers of flavour warm bursts of cherry and black-currant cede centre stage to deeper darker caramel and mocha notes and a touch of spice Therersquos an amazing depth of flavour and the finish is long and lingering Whatrsquos more at nearly eight years old it still has a slight purple tinge and tastes extremely fresh There is every indication that it will age beautifully for at least another decade
The winersquos character is heavily influenced by the alti-tude the grapes used to make it are grown at (1180m
above sea level) At this elevation the grapes ripen in bright sun but lsquorelaxrsquo during the cool evenings The fact that the wine is made in tiny quantities (eight barrels only) means every care can be taken during the winemak-ing process to ensure the wine is allowed to show its grown-up side The cost per bot-tle of pound70 is not insubstantial but neither is the wine
We cannot know whether these wines will ever become investments in the way the wines of Bordeaux have Whatrsquos cer-tain is that Malbec wines have a very rare quality a balance of finesse and power that
can delight wine lovers and linger in their memories
Ewan Lacey is a leading wine expert and general manager of the International Wine and Spirit Competition He has appeared on BBC television and radio as well as Channel 4 and written for the national press
Laura Catena is managing director at the Catena Zapata winery (above)
THE INTERNATIONAL WINE AND SPIRIT COMPETITIONThe International Wine and Spirit Competition has been the premier drinks competition in the world for 45 years Each year it receives and reviews thousands of wines and spirits and presents qual-ity awards to producers
More than anything the IWSC exists to help
people make better deci-sions particularly when buying wines and spirits An IWSC award on a bot-tle of wine is a guarantee
of quality backed not only by a rigorous and strin-gent judging process but also by the skill of the judges who are drawn from the ranks of masters of wine master distill-ers industry leaders and commentators
Each year the IWSC honours a leading figure
in the drinks industry with the presidency of the competition The current president is Laura Catena who succeeds a nota-ble line of predecessors including Prince Robert of Luxembourg winemakers Piero Antinori and Warren Winiarski and Baroness Philippine de Rothschild
56 March 2014 | inspired
LUXURY WATCHES
Time is preciousA
t a recent watch auc-tion in Geneva at Antiquorum ndash the worldrsquos premiere auc-tion house for modern and vintage time pieces ndash a Patek Philippe
pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon watch emerged as the auctionrsquos top lot and sold for 12 million Swiss francs (pound807000)
Unlike most of the timepieces sold at auctions outside Asia this particular Patek watch ndash the most complicated wristwatch the Swiss watchmaker has ever produced ndash was not a vintage model
That Geneva auction raised intriguing
1284Clocks with weights gears and regulators start to appear mostly with no dial to strike the important moments of daily life
Around 1410The mainspring is devel-oped Combined with the fusee this innovation makes possible the truly portable domestic clock
1492The mechanical watch appears simultaneously in Italy Germany and France
1675Christian Huygens invents the spiral balance spring
for watches significantly improving their accuracy
1704The first watch with jew-els is produced by French watchmaker de Beaufreacute
1714The British parliament offers pound20000 to who-ever can a find a method to determine longitude
1766Parliament publishes the rating results for John Harrisonrsquos H4 marine timekeeper Harrisonrsquos highly accurate marine clock solution to the problem of determining logitude wins him part of the pound20000 prize
1787Pierre-Freacutedeacuteric Ingold is born an important pio-neer in mechanised timepiece production and the use of interchangea-ble parts
1790Jacquet-Droz and Leschot manufactures a watch attached to a strap
1839Vacheron amp Constantin developes a full set of machine tools for manu-facturing its watches
1875Calcium sulphate is the first luminescent sub-stance to be used for numerals and hands
TIMEKEEPING MILESTONES
questions Are modern luxury timepieces every bit as appealing as the vintage watches that typically command top prices at auc-tion And does that Geneva auction tell us anything about the contemporary watch market as a whole
Julien Schaerer Antiquorumrsquos managing director in Geneva says top-quality vintage watches often appreciate in value over the long term But he urges buyers for whom appreciation is an important consideration to be cautious about purchasing contempo-rary watches
lsquoWatch price depreciation is the cost of ownership just as it is with a luxury carrsquo he says lsquoIf the value goes up then
58 March 2014 | inspired
1880The first water- resistant watch incorpo-rating a screwed case is produced by Genevan watchmaker Franccedilois Borgel
1889The first known patent for a wristwatch is filed in Bern Switzerland
1890Dialmaker A Beyeler invents a transfer press for applying numerals and letters to dials
1892Auguste Verneuil in France produces the first synthetic jewels to be used in watchmaking
1904Wens Wilsdorf launches large-scale production of a womenrsquos wristwatch
1924John Harwood files the
first Swiss patent for a self-winding wristwatch with a central oscillating weight
1925The first known wrist-watch with a perpetual calendar is manufactured using a pendant watch movement
1926Rolex creates the Oyster wristwatch with a water-resistant case and crown
1966The first quartz wrist-watch prototype is produced
1969The first quartz watch
with an LED display appears
1978Quartz watches overtake mechanical watches in popularity
2005Creation of the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie Seiko launches the spring drive Kinetic the first self-winding mechanical watch with an electro-magnetic escapement
A Patek Philippe pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon recently sold for pound807000
inspired | March 2014 59
online retailers from the comfort of your homeSince 2006 DM London has quietly estab-
lished a powerful presence for itself in the UK retail watch market with the acquisition of The Watch Hut and The Watch Gallery DM London chairman David Coleridge says the company has capitalised on the increasing willingness of buy-ers to purchase online
lsquoHaving decided that they would like to buy a watch for themselves or someone elsersquo he says lsquopeople start to do their research More often than not this starts online nowadays where they com-pare brands performance and functions
lsquoAs trust in the online marketplace has devel-oped many want to buy online because it is convenient and saves time Shopping online becomes a habit established sites build trust and awareness with customers which gives custom-ers the confidence to buy more expensive itemsrsquo
He adds lsquoOur challenge is to make the online environment as attractive informative and enjoy-able as a high street store Then customers will decide to spend onlinersquo
Coleridge believes a multi-channel approach is the way forward for retailers He says lsquoWithout doubt the future is multi-channel selling ndash a combination of direct selling on the internet and various forms of click and collect ndash combined with beautiful stores on the high street
Over the past few years demand for luxury watches (particularly contemporary models) has spiked sharply in Asia and according to some specialists emerging affluence in the
of course thatrsquos an added benefit However he adds lsquoPrice appreciation is still quite rare with modern watches There is some poten-tial for appreciation but probably only with ultra-limited editions A purchase has to be
seen as a medium- to long-term invest-ment One should buy a timepiece first out of love for the brand or [the watchrsquos] complicationrsquo
The watch brands that offer the greatest assurance of appreci-
ation include Cartier Patek Philippe Rolex Audemars
Piguet A Lange amp Sohne Breguet and Vacheron Constantin All enjoy views from the top of
the watchmaking hierarchy thanks to their longstand-ing histories and well-established brand identities
Relative new-comers to the industry such as Richard Mille and Roger Dubuis have carved out a niche for
themselves with their revolutionary designs and
space-age technologies but it remains to be seen just how well the values of their timepieces will stand up on the secondary market
According to Nathaniel Borgelt a specialist at auction house Sothebyrsquos
some modern watches have already achieved good prices at auction but these (like the Patek Philippe Sky Moon Tourbillon) were highly exclusive models when new
lsquoSome limited edition pieces currently fetch incredible prices at auctionrsquo he says lsquoAnd there is a select group of modern mod-els that could compete with a certain sector of the vintage market based on their brand innovative features such as materials or com-plications and avant-garde designs
Buying these has now become a whole lot easier The luxury watch retailing land-scape is changing and the traditional pattern of physically walking into a luxury salon to buy a watch is gradually being replaced by a trend towards visiting the websites of the big
LUXURY WATCHES
A Lange amp Sohne (above) is a long-standing high-end watchmaker Comparative new-comer Roger Dubuis (right) is forging a strong reputation
inspired | March 2014 PB60 March 2014 | inspired
helpthewatchgallerycom
Hublot ClassiC FusiontHe WatCH Gallery exClusive
The Watch Gallery and Hublot have joined forces to create two very special limited edition watches Both are limited to just 15 pieces worldwide and have been specifically designed to feature The Watch Gallery blue brand colour on the hands and tinted open case back
SelfridgeS OxfOrd StreetWeStfield lOndOnMancheSter exchange Square
wwwthewatchgallerycomhublot-watches
Far East has kept global values strong while other markets around the world continue to recover from recession
Despite the market boost from growing prosperity in Asia there are signs that the market is becoming saturated and that globally the new watch market isnrsquot as robust as some commentators suggest
It may still be a good time to buy but its important to know what you want and what yoursquore buying Modern watchmakers such as Richard Mille Roger Dubuis and Greubel Forsey are producing beautiful timepieces but because of their limited foothold in the market itrsquos difficult to predict their long-term success and desirability They donrsquot yet have the brand power that might ensure the value of their
watches in the secondhand market remains highSuch producers might one day stand eye to
eye with the most desirable brands such as Patek Philippe and Rolex but achieving that kind of parity wonrsquot be easy Collectors looking to invest in timepieces are advised to keep an open mind about modern producers uncertainty is the one aspect of modern luxury watch market most experts tend to agree on
That said the buoyancy in the watch market suggests that plenty of buyers are unconcerned about future values For them itrsquos all about the appreciation of the watch itself People buy watches because they bring them pleasure ndash and say some-thing about who they are
LUXURY WATCHES
Contemporary watches such as those made by Hublot (left) have yet to show they will have the lasting appeal of watches such as Cartierrsquos Rotonde de Cartier Astrocalendaire (right)
inspired | March 2014 63
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We steer carefully
Issued by Aberdeen Asset Managers Limited 10 Queenrsquos Terrace Aberdeen AB10 1YG which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority in the UK Telephone calls may be recorded aberdeen-assetcouk Please quote NAIT IM 01
The North American Income Trust ISA and Share PlanWhen yoursquore in search of equity income you need someone with the knowledge to take you in the right direction
The North American Income Trust draws on Aberdeenrsquos rigorous research process to find opportunities first-hand We meet companies ourselves we interrogate management about future profits and cash flow Then we only invest in their shares when we like what we see
The result - a portfolio that steers you towards the most promising income and growth opportunities we can find
Please remember the value of shares and the income from them can go down as well as up and you may get back less than the amount invested No recommendation is made positive or otherwise regarding the ISA and Share Plan
The value of tax benefits depends on individual circumstances and the favourable tax treatment for ISAs may not be maintained We recommend you seek financial advice prior to making an investment decision
Request a brochure 0500 00 40 00 northamericanincomecouk
Welcome to InspiredI
T JUST MAY BE THAT WE CAN START to look at prospects for investment markets with greater optimism The UK economy appears to be entering a more buoyant phase with business investment and confidence returning Meanwhile the interests of private investors are being advanced as companies such as Interactive Investor deliver trading and investing
propositions that reduce charges which have eaten into investorsrsquo returns Of course economic challenges remain not least the outcome of
unorthodox measures to bolster the global economy Here in the UK however stock market valuations indicate better times ahead Itrsquos in this environment that we are launching Inspired to help you take advantage of opportunities to profit from stock market buoyancy
Inspired is a new digital magazine that brings together the best thinking and analysis from the Interactive Investor team It complements this ndash in its Connoisseur section ndash with suggestions about how you might enjoy the fruits of your investment success We look at beautiful and inspirational travel destinations and review top-of-the-range luxury goods
Inspired is available to everyone who is part of the Interactive Investor community of investors and traders
In this first edition wersquove focused on maximising investment opportunities before the end of the tax year We consider the funds and investment trusts that might be profitably included in an Isa and examine how Aim stocks might now become part of your Isa portfolio We also explore the behaviour of Interactive Investorrsquos customers by revealing the funds and investment trusts they have been buying Richard Beddard our companies specialist outlines his approach to identifying investment opportunities and explains how you can follow his activities on the Share Sleuth blog
This editionrsquos Connoisseur section takes you to some of the worldrsquos most exclusive holiday islands considers some of the most distinctive timepieces available to discerning buyers and reflects on the impressive qualities of the Argentinian wines now widely available in the UK
I hope you enjoy this first issue of Inspired Issue two will propel itself through the ether to you in June
Jeremy King publisher
PUBLISHERJeremy King
INVESTMENT EDITORAndrew Pitts
DESIGN Christopher Aldridge
PRODUCTION SUB EDITING David Grove
CONTRIBUTORSRichard Beddard Faith Glasgow Julie Fisher Jeff Salway Helen Pridham Fiona Hamilton
SALES Iain Adams
PUBLISHED BY Moneywise Publishing Limited 2014
Interactive Investor plcRegistered number 5034730
inspiredISSUE 1 I MARCH 2014
You should remember that the value of shares can fall as well as rise The information contained in Inspired is not intended to be a personal recommendation and you should always speak to your financial adviser before investing
Inspired | March 2014 3
CONTENTS
5 | MARKETS IN MOOD TO ENDURE IN 2014Stock markets should muddle through well enough this year with equity values likely to withstand any economic headwinds
10 | FEBRUARYrsquoS TOP TRUSTS AND FUNDSWe reveal the monthrsquos most in-demand investment vehicles on Interactive Investor and in the wider market
12 | SMART STRATEGIES FOR SAVVY ISA INVESTORSOur experts disclose their top tips for getting the maximum out of your Isa investments
16 | AIM FOR THE BESTRisk tolerant Isa investors can now use Alternative Investment Market shareholdings to bag spectacular returns
20 | PERFECT YOUR TRUST AND FUND PORTFOLIO We round up a collection of investment funds and trusts our experts believe are likely to prosper in the year ahead
29 | SHARE SLEUTHThe Share Sleuth portfolio is dedicated to showing investors how to track down good companies at bargain prices
FEATURES CONNOISSEUR40 | AN ODE TO JOYSavour the fruits of your success with our guide to some of the finer things in life
41 | TRAVELWe explore some of the worldrsquos most tantalising tropical islands
50 | CARSBMWrsquos new M4 concept super coupe will soon be turning heads
53 | GEMSColoured diamonds make durable assets that unlike shares give lasting pleasure
54 | WINEMake the most of Argentinarsquos deeply satisfying Malbec wines
58 | WATCHESTop-quality vintage watches have timeless charm and value
41
5
58
insp
ired
50
17 20
4 March 2014 | inspired
tocks bounced back after January jitters ndash to such an extent that Bank of Americarsquos chief technical analyst changed his mind to assert that lsquothe larger uptrend has resumedrsquo But is this true for stocks generally
Certainly a look at the FTSE 100 confirms that the recent bull market trend remains intact despite fear that the emerging markets crisis could fester The ousting of Viktor Yanukovych as president of Ukraine looks unlikely to become a wider east-west conflict despite the Russian militaryrsquos show of force in Crimea
The now familiar theme of markets muddling through looks set to persist Shares appear fairly valued while the fundamentals look to have improved during February The G20 ndash the worldrsquos 19 richest nations and the EU ndash have committed themselves to injecting $2 trillion (pound119 trillion) into the global economy over the next five years to raise global growth by at least 2 per cent by 2018 The group is shunning austerity to focus on private sector infrastructure spending encour-aged by tax breaks
Equity markets may experience mixed fortunes this year but they are likely to prevail against any economic headwinds overall
MARKETS SETTO MUDDLETHROUGH IN
2014S
inspired | March 2014 5
THE MARKETSIN 2014
INTHEUSJOBNUMBERSINCOMESANDALL-ROUNDCONSUMERCONFIDENCEAREIMPROVING
Sales have also improved although overall rev-enue growth remains weak and needs watching because a disparity between growth and profits is liable to puncture optimism just as company shares have soared amid loose monetary policy
Keep in mind the fact that the US economy has yet to break a habit of allowing growth spurts to fade GDP rose at an annualised rate of 32 per cent in the fourth quarter of 2013 and 19 per cent
overall last year while the consensus is for 28 per cent for 2014 and 29 per cent for 2015 Similarly after the mid 2009 recession GDP grew at an average annualised rate of 34 per cent in the second and third quarters of 2010 and
then by 43 per cent in the fourth quarter of 2011 and first quarter of 2012 Yet the improvement was short-lived
Last year rapid inventory accumulation boosted GDP at a level that is unsustainable However pri-vate consumption growth is running at its fastest rate in three years
Overall the economic figures are mixed and it remains to be seen where they will head next as the Fedrsquos stimulus expires
The recovery in the UK appears to be strengthen-ing The economy officially grew by 07 per cent in the fourth quarter of 2013 A growth rate of 18 per cent was estimated for the year as a whole
Significantly business investment rose by 24 per cent in the third quarter of 2013 and
Inevitably there is scepticism that reassuring words will be translated into practical deeds but they add to positive sentiment amid improving economic numbers in the US and the UK
The principal risk is that the US economy will stutter just as the US Federal Reserve commits to a monthly $10 billion wind-ing down of its monetary stimulus and sustains this drawdown rate to show itself to be more consistent with guidance than it was last year
Recent US data has been mixed and analysts are unsure how much the harsh winter in the US should affect their calculations Yet home sales jumped by 96 per cent in January the fastest rise in more than five years This suggests job numbers incomes and all-round consumer con-fidence are improving following years of worry that the US economy and house prices might falter again While pent-up demand probably explains some of the improvement in house sales the rise is especially notable given that higher mort-gage rates since mid 2013 have limited mortgage affordability
US corporate earnings have grown stronger than expected ndash by about 85 per cent in the fourth quar-ter of 2013 Some 72 per cent of SampP 500 firms beat expectations according to FactSet Research
The crisis in Crimea is unlikely to derail or impede the slow but steady progress in global stock markets seen so far this year
6 March 2014 | inspired
THE MARKETS
IN 2014
spread like some predicted it would and Chinarsquos debt problem could take a while to erupt if it ever does Even if it does Chinarsquos communist gov-ernment can deploy strong economic and social controls
It is interesting that in a recent television pro-gramme on risks in China the BBCrsquos business editor Robert Peston initially sounded as if he was marking the country out for trouble However
he softened his stance a little towards the end of the programme
Oil prices have not capit-ulated ndash as was feared at the start of the year ndash and created revenue problems for Russia and Saudi Arabia possibly showing that Saudi Arabia
can still control prices to a large degree Complacency is a danger given the real risks
associated with the Fed winding down its stimu-lus and doubts over whether corporate revenues can genuinely improve However figures in
February have supported the trend towards muddling through big risks seen during
the eurozone debt crisis two years ago the bailouts for Greece and Cyprus and the political posturing over the US debt ceiling While interest rates remain low shareholders can take heart that their
riskreward profiles look supportive overall and traders can keep their fingers
crossed for more volatility
85 per cent in the fourth quarter of 2013 This has been the missing link in a recovery feared to be overly dependent on rising house prices and consumers resorting to raiding savings to fund spending
There remains a lot to achieve on the export front and interest rates are expected to rise from 2015 although the Bank of England is ada-mant that this will be gradual
A potential Labour gen-eral election victory by May 2015 does not seem to trou-ble investors at the moment The net balance at the end of February appears positive for shares because GDP and corporate profits are the factors that influence it most and the situation in continental Europe (beyond youth unemployment) is not prov-ing as dire as many feared
It is frustrating for long-term inves-tors with fresh money because equity valuations appear to broadly price in prospects so they typically need to take a lsquomomentumrsquo view which is less comfortable for them than when value yardsticks are in their favour But unless company earnings stall the downside looks limited for now
The emerging markets crisis has not
Confidence in the economies of key Asian economic powerhouses such as mainland China Singapore and Hong Kong (pictured) remains high
8 March 2014 | inspired
THE MARKETS
IN 2014
THEEMERGINGMARKETSCRISISHASNOTSPREADANDCHINArsquoSDEBTPROBLEMCOULDTAKETIMETOERUPTIFITEVERDOES
SCOTTISH MORTGAGE INVESTMENT TRUST
For a limited period and new eligible ISA customers only Terms amp Conditions and minimum investment amounts apply Please refer to our website or the application pack that we will send you for full details Your call may be recorded for training or monitoring purposes Baillie Gifford Savings Management Limited (BGSM) is the manager of the Baillie Gifford Investment Trust ISA and is wholly owned by Baillie Gifford amp Co which is the manager and secretary of the Scottish Mortgage Investment Trust PLC Your personal data is held and used by BGSM in accordance with data protection legislation We may use your information to send you information about Baillie Gifford products funds or special offers and to contact you for business research purposes We will only disclose your information to other companies within the Baillie Gifford group and to agents appointed by us for these purposes You can withdraw your consent to receiving further marketing communications from us and to being contacted for business research purposes at any time You also have the right to review and amend your data at any time
Wersquore 100 committed to making sure our fund managers never have a restricted outlook That way the long-term view is a clear one So whatrsquos the secret to their liberated attitude
Well our flagship fund the Scottish Mortgage Investment Trust is a global stock-picking fund that is completely free of asset allocation constraints that ignores index weightings and that selects stocks purely on their merit We feel that this freedom allows us to focus on the long term
The Scottish Mortgage Investment Trust is managed by Baillie Gifford
Please remember that changing stock market conditions and currency exchange rates will affect the value of your investment in the fund and any income from it You may not get back the amount invested
You can purchase Scottish Mortgage from Interactive Investor Alternatively you can invest directly with Baillie Gifford through our ISA Open an ISA with Baillie Gifford before 30 April and you can receive a pound10 Amazon gift card
For more information contact Baillie Gifford on 0800 917 2112 or visit wwwscottishmortgageitcomBaillie Gifford ndash long-term investment partners
Freedom to roam
WE LIVE IN A PERIOD OF EXPONENTIAL CHANGE PROVIDING FANTASTIC OPPORTUNITIES FOR STOCK PICKERS LIKE US
cent over one year and 229 per cent over three
Alastair Mundyrsquos Temple Bar Investment Trust focuses on UK equities including GlaxoSmithKline Vodafone and Royal Dutch Shell
It failed to outperform the UK equity income sector over one year despite its popular-ity posting a return of 18 per cent compared with the sectorrsquos 21 per cent However it per-formed better over three years returning 62 per cent against the sectorrsquos 56 per cent
INCOME AND SMALLER COMPANIES STILL IMPORTANTInvestors retained an interest in income and smaller-companies investment trusts in February ndash extending the same purchasing trend in January And they con-tinued to flock to UK-focused trusts as a safe haven
Although two of the 10 most-bought trusts Murray International Trust and Bankers Investment Trust invest in international equities both counted UK equities among their top holdings with the Bankers trust favouring BP GlaxoSmithKline and Vodafone
The other popular
losed-end fund inves-tors stuck closely to income trusts in February but seemed more willing to accept
risk than those purchasing open-ended funds the latest data from Interactive Investor shows
The three most popular trusts were regular investor favourites Baillie Giffordrsquos Scottish Mortgage Investment Trust Investecrsquos Temple Bar Investment Trust and Frostrow Capitalrsquos Biotech Growth Trust
While open-ended fund investors looked mainly to UK equities for income two of these three top invest-ment trusts have a worldwide focus James Anderson and Tom Slaterrsquos Scottish Mortgage Investment Trust which posted a sector-beating 27 per cent return over one year and 56 per cent over three invests in worldwide large-cap equi-ties such as Google and Apple while the Biotech Growth Trust taps the worldwide biotechnol-ogy industry through US equity investments
This trust managed by Geoffrey Hsu and Richard Klemm also beat its sector the biotechnology and healthcare sector with returns of 49 per
income trust Premier Asset Mangementrsquos Acorn Income fund invests in UK mid- and large-cap equities includ-ing Electrocomponents John Menzies and Cineworld Group It returned 46 per cent over the past year and 144 per cent over the past three It was the seventh most-bought trust by Interactive Investor users in February
The UK focus also character-ised investorsrsquo smaller-company trust choices The UK-favoured Henderson Smaller Companies Investment Trust and BlackRock Smaller Companies Investment Trust in sixth and tenth place respectively
Both benefited from the UK housing boom through invest-ments in Bellway and Ashtead Group and both outperformed the UK smaller-companies sec-tor which recorded returns of 37 per cent over one year and 66 per cent over three
INVESTORS RETAINED AN INTEREST IN INCOME AND SMALLER-COMPANIES TRUSTS IN FEBRUARY
CMARKET
YOUR MONTH IN THE
Julie Fisher reveals Februaryrsquos 10 most popular trusts
Bankers trust favours a mix of shares in UK and multinational companies
TRADING
10 March 2014 | inspired
AN APPETITE FOR RISK BOOSTS TRUSTSInvestors showed a greater appetite for risk by invest-ing more heavily in trusts As a result BlackRock World Mining Trust and Templeton Emerging Market Trust took the final two places on the list fourth and fifth
Unfortunately both have posted negative returns in recent years due to the fact that they are positioned in unfavour-able markets
While the BlackRock trust was slightly above the com-modities and natural resources sector over six months one year and three years the Templeton trust only outperformed the global emerging markets equi-ties sector over the past month However investors appear to be buying in in the hope that there will be some improvement in the next few years
Emerging markets fell back out of favour among fund investors in February while pur-
chases of UK and smaller company funds held firm the latest data from Interactive Investor shows
After a brief revival for emerging markets in January when three EM funds were among the 10 most bought Februaryrsquos most-popular funds were generally UK-focused
Paul Marriagersquos Cazenove UK Smaller Companies fund was knocked off the list after five consecutive months at the top as it closed to new purchases on 22 January allowing Januaryrsquos sec-ond-placed fund AXA Framlington Biotech to take top spot The US biotechnology-focused fund managed by Linden Thompson is popular as it delivered a return of 61 per cent over the past year and 164 per cent over the past three
Although the AXA fund has little in common with the other top purchases there are trends to be spotted in the rest of the list most of which continue from January Income was a focus for investors while UK smaller companies remained popular
lsquoThere were strong flows into funds investing in the UK and Europe whereas Asia excluding Japan and emerging markets suffered outflows following relatively weak per-formance in these regions since May 2013rsquo say Charles Cade and Ewan Lovett-Taylor in their report on fund trades in January lsquoPerhaps the most notable sub-sector is UK smaller company funds which have bene-fited from net inflows every month since August 2012rsquo
SMALLER COMPANIESAccording to Numis January saw the highest number of monthly inflows into smaller com-pany funds on record pound241 million The Interactive
Investor data shows these funds remained popular in February
Three smaller-company funds made it into the top 10 Investec UK Smaller Companies fund the River and Mercantile UK Equity Smaller Companies fund and the CF Miton UK Smaller Companies fund took third fourth and fifth place respectively
All three outperformed the UK smaller-companies sector which delivered returns of 32 per cent over one year and 55 per cent over three Gervais Williamsrsquos CF Miton fund pro-vided the best return over a year at 55 per cent while the River and Mercantile fund managed by Daniel Hanbury delivered 112 per cent over three years
Ken Hsiarsquos Investec fund had the least impressive returns at 47 per cent over one year and 79 per cent over three but still outperformed the sector The fund invests in small-cap UK companies including Quindell Optimal Payments and Utilitywise
INCOME EMPHASISThe other priority for inves-tors in February was income and this too was UK focused Of five income funds appear-ing in the 10 most-bought category only the Artemis Global Income fund had a non-UK focus
Jacob de Tusch-Lecrsquos fund which delivered returns of 14 per cent over one year and 47 over three invests chiefly
in European and US equi-ties The other most-bought income funds were Unicorn UK Income Rathbone Income JOHCM UK Equity and the Invesco Perpetual Income
They all beat the UK equity income sectorrsquos returns of 16 per cent over one year and 36 per cent over three All invested in large-cap UK com-panies with GlaxoSmithKline AstraZeneca and Royal Dutch Shell among the top holdings
Despite its focus on income the Invesco Perpetual High Income fund dropped out of the 10 most-bought funds in February and the Invesco Perpetual
Income fund appeared only at the end of the list This suggests that investors may be get-ting nervous over the
imminent departure of star fund manager Neil Woodford in April
One growth fund also made the list the MFM Slater Growth fund which took ninth place Like the income funds it outperformed its sec-tor UK all companies
and focused on UK-listed companies including
Hutchison China (HCM) and Entertainment One (ETO)
THE 10 TOP MOST-BOUGHT FUNDSANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
THEREWERESTRONGFLOWSINTOFUNDINVESTINGINTHE
UKANDEUROPEWHEREASASIAEXCLUDINGJAPANANDEMERGINGMARKETSSUFFEREDOUTFLOWSFOLLOWINGRELATIVELYWEAKPERFORMANCEINTHESEREGIONSSINCEMAY2013Charles Cade and Ewan Lovett-Taylor
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
inspired | March 2014 11
DONrsquoT DISMISS AIM-BASED INVESTMENTS
Richard Beddard is an editor at Interactive Investor and manager of Money Observerrsquos Share Sleuth portfolio
Now that inves-tors can buy Alternative Investment Market shares
within Isas the universe of potentially profitable invest-ments has grown But therersquos also more room for disappointment
Aimrsquos light-touch regula-tion makes it easier for younger smaller companies to list and while such shares are reputed to be risky that need not frighten
INVEST REGULARLY
Mick Gilligan head of research Killik amp Co
Starting an Isa at the beginning of a new tax year and investing small amounts
regularly out of your income ndash rather than a larger amount in one lump sum at the end of each tax year ndash helps reduce the impact of market volatility and you start earning compound interest sooner When income is reinvested alongside the initial investment it effectively becomes capital so you have a larger sum producing an income which in turn can be reinvested
trsquos very easy to keep on doing the same things with your annual tax-efficient Isa allow-ance However investors can lose out badly if they do
Itrsquos not just the Isa allowances that keep changing the economic environment and the range of investments available do too So itrsquos important that investors con-sider all the Isa opportunities open to them before they make a any big
irrevocable decisionsWersquove asked a number of invest-
ment experts to reveal their top Isa tips We are sure they will give you some useful guidelines and help you refine the choices you make Some suggestions are reminders about long-standing opportunities others draw your attention to new developments in Isa invest-ing and highlight the opportunities they offer
Isa investorswhether using some or all of their annual allowances donrsquot always get the best out of their investments Faith Glasgow asks some financial experts for their most valuable tips
investors from investing in Aim firms Plenty of them have long illustrious track records in worthy businesses and itrsquos easy to find out about them on finan-cial websites More details are available on companiesrsquo own investor relations websites the contents of which are mandated by Aim rule 26 a rule the more heavily regulated main market would do well to emulate
UP YOUR ISA CONTRIBUTIONS
Darius McDermott managing director Chelsea Financial Services
Donrsquot forget to increase your monthly Isa investments each year in line with
inspired | March 2014 1312 March 2014 | inspired
EXPERTSrsquo TOP ISA
TIPS
ISAS SMART STRATEGY FOR
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
INVESTING SMALL AMOUNTS REGULARLY HELPS REDUCE THE IMPACT OF MARKET VOLATILITYMick Gilligan
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
I
and shares in [non-cash] Isas However this isnrsquot the case Indeed some other asset classes ndash in particular those that pro-duce income ndash offer even more tax benefits than equities when held within an Isa
Bond funds for example get (at least) 20 per cent income tax relief on the yield they pro-duce (dividends from equities in contrast are subjected to a 10 per cent tax at source which is not reclaimable even in an Isa)
The new property author-ised investment fund structure for property funds meanwhile means Isa investors no longer incur the 20 per cent tax that would previously have been applied on income received from a property investment
the increase in the contribution limit if you can afford to Itrsquos all too easy for regular investors with their money invested auto-matically every month to overlook those annual allow-ance increases And consider increasing your investment whenever you receive a salary increase
LOOK BEYOND STOCKS AND SHARES
Darius McDermott Chelsea Financial Services Some potential Isa investors think you can only hold stocks
PLOUGH INTO PROPERTYGavin Haynes managing director Whitechurch Securities
Many people donrsquot realise they can gain expo-sure to bricks and mortar through
commercial property funds held in a stocks and shares Isa
The asset class currently offers an attractive yield rela-tive to cash and bonds without the volatility of the stock market investments
Property funds are not with-out risk but an allocation to a commercial property fund (that invests directly in bricks and mortar not property shares) can add diversification to an Isa portfolio With the economic outlook improving the sector looks well placed for recovery
ACCEPT RISK BUT BE SURE TO DIVERSIFY
Rebecca OrsquoKeeffe head of investment Interactive Investor
The primary ben-efits of an Isa are felt over the long term so itrsquos important to rec-
ognise that taking on risk
inspired | March 2014 1312 March 2014 | inspired
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
ITrsquoS ALL TOO EASY TO OVERLOOK THOSE ANNUAL ALLOWANCE INCREASESDariusMcDermott
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
Isa can suddenly become a poorly paying one But never try to transfer an Isa yourself Contact the new provider first and follow its transfer rules
Remember the amount of money you can invest in a cash Isa in each tax year is capped (currently at pound5760) so if you want to switch in the middle of the tax year you will prob-ably be switching the entire amount ndash you cannot switch a portion of an existing Isa into a new one and top it up If your original Isa is due to pay you interest at the end of the year it should pay you the accrued interest up to the date you close the account
Itrsquos possible to transfer your cash Isa into a stocks and shares Isa if you decide this is a better home for you money but you canrsquot switch your money back from a stocks and shares Isa into a cash Isa
You can invest up to pound11520 in a stocks and shares Isa in a single tax year minus anything you may have paid into a cash Isa ndash which is capped at pound5760
over the long term is usually a far more profitable strategy than minimising risk Investors typi-cally take less risk than they should especially if they have suffered a loss in the past
You can mitigate your overall risk by diversifying across differ-ent asset classes and geographic areas Regular investing is also a great risk reduction strategy
Itrsquos also important to rec-ognise the value of dividend reinvestment and understand the benefit this compound-ing effect has on your portfolio And remember to choose a bro-ker that doesnrsquot penalise you for reinvesting
TRANSFER YOUR ISAS TO GET THE BEST DEALS
Mark King editor MoneywiseUnlike a stocks and shares Isa a cash Isa is a sim-ple savings account with a
tax-free Isa lsquowrapperrsquo placed around it so that you donrsquot pay tax on your interest
You can choose to have access to your money or tie it up until a future date just as with typical savings accounts Generally the longer you tie your money up for the better the interest rate you get
While a cash Isa is considered a low-risk investment ndash which sophisticated investors may find returns too little as a result ndash you can transfer a cash Isa should you decide you want to take on more risk or get a bet-ter rate Indeed you may have to transfer a cash Isa regularly Providers offer different rates that can change so a top-paying
From 6 April ndash the beginning of the 201415 tax year ndash however these limits rise to pound11880 and pound5940 respectively
LOOK AT THE LONG- TERM BENEFITS
Philippa Gee managing director Philippa Gee Wealth Management
Some investors look at the return on an Isa or at the limit on how much they can
invest in a single year and fail to see the value
However they would be wise to consider the longer-term view Those who have invested each year for a number of years have been able to build six- figure portfolios that they do not have to pay any further income or capital gains tax on or list on their tax assessment
By securing a significant sum in an Isa wrapper each year as far as yoursquore able you can build up a valuable flexible and tax-efficient investment
inspired | March 2014 PB14 March 2014 | inspired
EXPERTSrsquoTOP ISA
TIPS
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
TAKING ON RISK OVER THE LONG TERM IS USUALLY MORE PROFITABLERebecca OrsquoKeeffe
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
The ISA thatrsquos
fair and square
We believe in straightforward investing Thatrsquos why we donrsquot nibble at your investments with percentage charges Open an account and for pound20 per quarter you get two pound10 trades and an ISA for free After that itrsquos just pound10 per trade across a wide range of UK and international investmentsTransfer to us today and get up to pound240 as a thank you (terms apply) We believe thatrsquos fair and square
The value of investments and any income from them can fall as well as rise so you could get back less than you invest Tax treatment depends on your individual circumstances and may be subject to change If in any doubt please seek advice
iiicoukisa
Interactive Investor Trading Limited trading as ldquoInteractive Investorrdquo is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority Registered Office Standon House 21 Mansell Street London E1 8AA Tel 0845 200 3637 Registered in England with Company Registration number 3699618
hen new rules were introduced last August allowing the inclusion of Alternative Investment Market (Aim) shares in Isas demand for exposure to the junior market
quickly exceeded expectations Another surge in demand is likely in April as the new tax year dawns and investors have a fresh annual allow-ance to play with
Yet while stocks on Aim can boast eye-catching returns and attractive tax perks they can also be very volatile raising concerns that investors may be letting the tax tail wag the investment dog with-out understanding what they are getting into
The Treasuryrsquos decision to allow Aim shares into Isas was driven by a desire to encourage greater investment in small and medium-sized companies The move was immediately popular with investors and brokers reported a sharp rise in Aim-listed purchases Demand for smaller companies funds was up too as investors wary of direct share ownership
bought into funds offering exposure to Aim stocksIt helped that Aim stocks were enjoying a good
run as were smaller companies generally with the amount of money raised on the market over the summer rising sharply Performance is just one aspect of their appeal however
Aim shares already offered inheritance tax effi-ciency most of them qualify for business property relief making them exempt from IHT when held for two years or more However itrsquos worth noting that BPR is subject to change and a company can lose its eligibility and therefore its IHT relief status as a result Therefore investors wanting to continue benefiting from IHT relief have to switch out of such companies and into those still eligible
Wider income and capital gains tax benefits also drove some demand for Aim shares after the
Isa rule change in August The move created a bed- and-Isa opportunity whereby existing Aim share inves-tors sold their holdings and bought them back within an Isa
Among those quick
Alternative Investment Market stocks offer Isa investors a chance to realise heady returns ndash but you need to pick your holdings carefully because of the high risk of losses in an illiquid market says Jeff Salway
AIMSHARES
W
GEMSTO BE UNEARTHED
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
WE WOULD ONLY INCLUDE AIM STOCKS
IN THE PORTFOLIOS OF ADVENTUROUS CLIENTS David Thomson
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
inspired | March 2014 17
THERE ARE
Treatt has built up an immaculate record of delivering profits
to take advantage was Lord Lee of Trafford the UKrsquos first Isa millionaire and author of How to Make a Million ndash Slowly My Guiding Principles from a Lifetime of Successful Investing lsquoI have a
big holding of Christie Group that was originally in my per-sonal equity planrsquo he says lsquoWhen the company moved to Aim [from the main market] I took it out of the Pep but when Aim shares became Isa-eligible I sold it and bought it back again within my Isarsquo
April 2014 will mark the removal of stamp duty from Aim purchases a develop-ment expected to encourage asset managers to launch a new wave of Aim-focused funds The axing of stamp duty makes the junior market more appeal-ing to companies on the main market as well with several recently moving across
Alec Stewart partner at Anderson Strathern Asset Management explains lsquoA company can reduce its regulatory burden by moving to the junior market with lower audit and compliance requirementsrsquo For example the main market
stipulates that any potential listing should have a market capitalisation no lower than pound700000 whereas therersquos no such guideline on the Aim mar-ket Nor do companies need a trading history to list on Aim compared with the three years required for the main market Moreover the cost of listing on Aim is considerably lower
But for many private investors the main appeal of Aim stocks lies largely in the prospect of sky-high returns from the success of small and fledgling companies There are some 1200 stocks on the market from a wide range of sectors ndash albeit with a heavy weighting in technology and especially natural resources and with a gulf in size between the biggest and smallest
The largest are eligible for the FTSE AIM 50 and the FTSE AIM 100 where the likes of Bowleven Majestic Wine Dobbies Asos and MampC Saatchi are listed
Stewart picks out three he favours as part of a diversified portfolio One is Dart Group The owner of Jet2com and Jet2Holidays Dart has had a lsquostrong runrsquo and is focused on becoming more fam-ily friendly in these budget-conscious times says Stewart lsquoIt benefits from good visibility of future bookings and strong cash generationrsquo he adds
Aerospace and defence firm Cohort is another with a lsquoprogressive dividend policyrsquo that has grown at an annualised rate of 20 per cent over
DEWHURST (pound520)Dewhurst is a well-established manu-facturer of lift pushbuttons indicators and controls keypads for ATMs security devices and petrol pumps and traffic management products such as bollards
The company has a long record of profitability under the stewardship of the Dewhurst family and a debt-free balance sheet That suggests it is a strong competitor
Profits fell in 2013 ndash a result of a slowdown in Dewhurstrsquos major markets and customers having stocked up in the previous year Management is quite cagey about the companyrsquos prospects for 2014 but an improved performance is likely as conditions in the UK and the US improve The shares are probably good value at 11 times adjusted 2013 earnings
MS INTERNATIONAL (pound204)MS International manufactures military hardware forks for forklift trucks and petrol station canopies and car washes
The company has been profitable in each of the past 10 years and has a balance sheet flush with cash yet the share price has fallen to a level that val-ues MSI at five times adjusted 2013
earnings MSIrsquos current unpopularity stems from a decline in the profitability of MSI Defence Systems which has the highest turnover of its three businesses
The company expects 2014 to be no easier than 2013 due to continu-ing pressure on defence spending but itrsquos confident it will add to defence work already contracted and scheduled for every year until 2020
Itrsquos quite possible that MSI is having a lull that does not reflect on the qual-ity of its products or businesses If thatrsquos the case itrsquos a bargain
TREATT (pound747)Treatt distills flavourings and frag-rances essential oils and water-soluble essences Its products are used in drinks confectionery sauces and cosmetics worldwide
The companyrsquos expertise and close customer relationships might give it a competitive advantage and it has never suffered a loss However it has ushered out managing director Hugo Bovill and his family has sold its interest
Management with large share-holdings gives companies some independence from the often short-term imperatives of fund managers
However the new team is focused on controlling costs and developing the most profitable products
Profit grew 28 per cent in 2013 and Treattrsquos long-term prospects are prob-ably good but the share price has spiked valuing the shares at 15 times adjusted 2013 earnings
FW THORPE (pound143)FW Thorpe designs and manufactures light fittings known as luminaires They are becoming increasingly complex with the introduction of LED technology that requires printed circuit boards Its main business is Thorlux which supplies lighting to schools hospitals ware-houses and factories Other subsidiaries supply retailers emergency exit signage and cleanroom lighting
Stable family ownership long indus-try experience and a commitment to modernisation and investment are the keys to Thorpersquos prosperity
Although it has to contend with the additional investment required to produce LED lighting Thorpe is manag-ing the transition well The shares cost pound137 which values the company at about 15 times adjusted 2013 earnings Thatrsquos a fair price for a quality company
Richard Beddard picks out four Aim-listed companies worth considering for inclusion in a diversified Isa share portfolio
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
I TRANSFERRED INTO MY ISA A BIG
HOLDING OF CHRISTIE GROUP THAT USEDTO BE IN MY PEPLord Lee of Trafford
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
AIMSHARES
18 March 2014 | inspired
the past three years he adds Among food pro-ducers he likes Wynnstay It has lsquobenefited from strong revenue and pre-tax profitsrsquo increasing its interim dividend by 9 per cent
But therersquos ample cause for caution too because Aim shares are typically far riskier than those listed on the main market Not only is there the vol-atility inherent in shares issued by smaller firms but there remains the potential for liquidity issues even after the surge of money into the market in recent months Haig Bathgate chief investment officer at Turcan Connell says lsquoThey are by impli-cation of their size much less liquid in terms of the shares that trade hands on a daily basis so they are prone to more extreme price movementsrsquo
UK investors may also be averse to Aim stocks that are effectively overseas companies Indeed many Aim fund portfolios specifically exclude both these and natural resources firms as well as stocks that donrsquot offer business property relief
lsquoSignificant numbers of companies have failed to deliver on expectations in this part of the mar-ket and it is also quite heavily weighted towards technology (12 per cent) resources (9 per cent) and oil and gas companies (22 per cent)rsquo says Bathgate There are transparency concerns too due to the less stringent regulatory and company reporting requirements on the Aim market
lsquoWe would only include Aim stocks within the
portfolios of adventurous clients and then only up to a maximum of 10 per centrsquo says David Thomson chief investment officer at VWM Wealth lsquoEven then the bulk of this is likely to be via a venture capital trust where the investor can also enjoy 30 per cent income tax relief providing a further cushion against the volatility of Aim sharesrsquo
Collective investment funds and trusts offer a way into Aim stocks that provides useful diversification and so reduces the risk of heavy losses Investment trusts can offer particular advantages where Aim-listed shares are concerned as their closed-ended status gives them a hedge against the market liquidity issues that can affect Aim stocks Among the growing number of UK smaller companies investment trusts in which Aim shares are prominent are those run by BlackRock Standard Life and Aberforth Unit trusts invest-ing in Aim companies include the LampG UK Alpha Trust and Cazenove UK Smaller Companies
However there is a downside to access-ing Aim through funds and trusts as investors no longer benefit from the IHT-free status that direct holders of Aim stocks enjoy The risk of hefty losses remains the biggest caveat to investing in Aim
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
AIMSHARESAREMUCHLESS
LIQUIDINTERMSOFTHESHARESTHATTRADEHANDSDAILYHaig Bathgate
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
inspired | March 2014 19
Clockwise from top Cohort Wynnstay and Jet2com are Stewartrsquos picks for a diversified portfolio
rewarding such as smaller companies private equity and emerging markets
Trusts can also increase their assets by borrow-ing So long as this gearing is sensibly priced it should accelerate the trustrsquos gains in positive mar-ket conditions However gearing will exacerbate losses in any downturn The possible closing of the discount will also enhance share price returns
SOLID GROWTHBaillie Gifford Global DiscoveryThis fund picked by independent financial adviser Brian Dennehy invests globally in growth stocks especially companies operating in industries with potential for structural change and innova-tion Dennehy says manager Douglas Brodie has had considerable experience and success in iden-tifying growth opportunities particularly among exciting smaller-cap stocks
CF Lindsell Train UK EquityJohn Husselbee head of multi-asset at Liontrust Asset Management prefers investors to traders Renowned investor Warren Buffett takes a similar view and Husselbee says fund manager Nick Train invests like Buffett Train looks to buy great com-panies such as Burberry Heineken and Unilever when they are good value and hold them lsquoforeverrsquo
Cazenove UK Opportunities This fund aims to achieve long-term capital growth from a focused portfolio of large and medium-sized UK companies Gavin Haynes managing
huge variety of investment funds rang-ing from generalist funds to highly specialised versions aim to generate capital growth for investors
Investing in a specific fund entails investors accepting different degrees of risk in return for a range of potential rewards So when we asked financial advisers to predict which funds offer the best prospects for growth in 2014 we also urged them to consider which types of investor the funds would suit best
Solid growth funds will appeal to investors who prefer steady investment while higher-risk growth funds are likely to be more volatile and appeal to those with a higher risk tolerance Speculative funds could produce handsome returns this year but they could also dip sharply in value
Closed-ended status means investment trusts can invest in less liquid asset classes without having to worry about realising their holdings in a market setback This enables them to invest in areas that have historically proved particularly
A
Helen Pridham and Fiona Hamilton have rounded up a collection of investment funds and trusts experts believe will prosper in the year ahead for investors looking to cash in on an improving economic outlook
PERFECT YOUR FUND PORTFOLIOTO SEE IT
GROW
inspired | March 2014 2120 March 2014 | inspired
FUNDSAND
TRUSTS
GROW
inspired | March 2014 2120 March 2014 | inspired
A
RE Y
OU
A
GLO
BAL
INV
ESTO
R Take a global view of investment trusts expertly managed by Henderson
For over 75 years Henderson Global Investors has been at the forefront of investment trust innovation and development Now with a diverse and established range of managed investment trusts and investment companies Henderson has a global view of the market
Whether you are retirement planning investing for your children looking to take advantage of dynamic global markets or want a cautious investment approach our managed companies offer a wide range of investment objectives and strategies professionally managed by regional experts
If your priority is high income long term capital growth or a mixture of both Henderson Global Investors has a range of solutions which aims to meet your investment needs
Please remember that past performance is not a guide to future performance The value of an investment and the income from it can fall as well as rise as a result of market and currency fluctuations and you may not get back the amount originally invested
Call to receive your Investment Trust brochure or visit wwwhendersoninvestmenttrustscom
0800 856 5656
Investment Trusts managed by Henderson
Issued in the UK by Henderson Global Investors Henderson Global Investors is the name under which Henderson Global Investors Limited (reg no 906355) Henderson Fund Management Limited (reg no 2607112) Henderson Investment Funds Limited (reg no 2678531) Henderson Investment Management Limited (reg no 1795354) Henderson Alternative Investment Advisor Limited (reg no 962757) Henderson Equity Partners Limited (reg no2606646) Gartmore Investment Limited (reg no 1508030) (each incorporated and registered in England and Wales with registered office at 201 Bishopsgate London EC2M 3AE) are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority to provide investment products and services Telephone calls may be recorded and monitored H0046521113ad
Itrsquos a global marketplace
HGiTrusts
director at Whitechurch Securities says fund manager Julie Dean has built up an excellent track record
Securities Trust of ScotlandRobin McAdam likes Securities Trust of Scotland which seeks rising income and long-term capi-tal growth from global equities The trust yields 33 per cent so it provides income and growth potential lsquoThe trust has outperformed its bench-mark recently and we expect this to continuersquo says McAdam
Finsbury Growth amp Income TrustPeter Hewitt nominates Finsbury Growth amp Income Trust on the basis of its strong short- and long-term performance Manager Nick Train seeks out the highest-quality companies to hold long term The portfolio is dominated by companies Train expects to have longevity such as Diageo Unilever and Heineken lsquoThe manager looks for strong cash gen-eration and dividend growth which he believes are undervalued by the stock marketrsquo Hewitt says
RIT Capital PartnersThis multi-asset trust selected by John Newlands is the flagship financial vehicle for its chairman Lord Jacob Rothschild and his family lsquoGiven the uncertainty in the world it is no bad thing to be diversified both globally and across a range of asset classes RIT is a global growth trust that offers a combination of these benefitsrsquo Newlands says
His enthusiasm is bolstered by RITrsquos current relatively wide discount which reflects disap-pointment among investors that it was rather too cautious over the past two or three years
Perpetual Income amp Growth Trust This trust is classified as a member of the AIC UK growth and income sector but its yield tends to be below the sector average because manager Mark Barnett is more interested in income growth than immediate income Tim Cockerill classifies it as a total return trust and makes it his solid growth choice Barnett has secured excellent long-term returns dur-ing his 15 years at the helm
HIGHER-RISK GROWTHLazard Emerging MarketsMick Gilligan believes the investment case for emerging market equi-ties remains strong He says lsquoEquity markets in emerging regions are trading at their widest price-to-earnings discount to developed markets since 2006 We believe many well-capitalised businesses that have shown strong financial discipline should gener-ate good profitsrsquo The Lazard Emerging Markets fund focuses on such businesses
Rathbone Global OpportunitiesThis go-almost-anywhere bottom-up thorough stockpicking fund looks for undiscovered gems Rob Burdett fund manager at Thames River believes manager James Thomson strikes the
KEY FACTS ABOUT GROWTH FUND TIPS
Mininv pound
Ongoing Charges
1-yearreturn
Sectorrank
SOLID GROWTHBaillie Gifford Global Discovery 1000 086 5920 2248CF Lindsell Train UK Equity ndash 080 2910 53271Cazenove UK Opportunities 1000 082 3210 40271 HIGHER-RISK GROWTHInvestec Global Energy 1000 087 1420 40206Lazard Emerging Markets 2000 161 320 1668Rathbone Global Opportunities 1000 082 2150 111248 SPECULATIVE GROWTHAllianz BRIC Stars 500 122 -120 134206Liontrust Special Situations 1000 114 1450 251271MampG Recovery 500 096 1330 264271Note Ongoing charges figure refers to the least expensive retail share class Source Financial Express and companies websites as at 3 December 2013
KEY FACTS ABOUT THE TRUSTS TIPPED FOR GROWTH
Shareprice
p
Discprem to NAV
Netyield
Gearing
Net asset valuetotal return after
1 year
3 years
5 years
SOLID GROWTHFinsbury Growth amp Income 5010 (+) 12 21 50 305 767 2038Perpetual Income amp Growth 3686 10 32 120 346 714 1407RIT Capital Partners 12480 105 11 50 210 225 591Securities Trust of Scotland 1469 (+) 31 32 40 192 460 1132 HIGHER-RISK GROWTHBiotech Growth Trust 4335 72 00 70 582 1723 2968Fidelity Chinese Special Sits 1062 65 09 210 433 02 ndashGraphite Enterprise Trust 5690 170 09 -90 167 442 405Schroder Asia Pacific 2730 92 14 -20 08 201 1779 SPECULATIVE GROWTHBaker Steel Resources 470 331 00 10 -57 -137 740Hansa Trust A 8600 243 23 10 142 69 947Impax Environmental Markets 1463 112 06 -20 350 285 921Standard Life Eq Inc subscription 1070 ndash 00 3700 ndash ndash ndashNotes NAV = net asset value Annualised All data as at 1 December Source Numis Securities
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
MARK BARNETT HAS SECURED
EXCELLENT RETURNSTim Cockerill
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
inspired | March 2014 23PB March 2014 | inspired
FUNDSANDTRUSTS
right balance between taking calculated risks for high returns and investing in defensive holdings Burdett says lsquoHe likes companies undertaking gentle innovation ndash moving online for example ndash rather than game changers which have more potential to go wrongrsquo Investec Global EnergyThis fund invests in companies that produce energy and provide services to the energy sector Fund managers Tom Nelson and Charles Whall believe the consensus view on future oil prices anticipates weak demand and growing supply from US shale oil But they demur as does Tony Yarrow at Wise Investment He says lsquoOil is harder to extract from shale than gas is while demand for oil is growing as economies recover A higher oil price feeds straight through to the companiesrsquo profitsrsquo
Biotech Growth TrustPeter Hewitt favours Biotech Growth Trust which has achieved scorching gains recently ndash up 172 per cent over three years to 1 December 2013
It is managed in New York by Orbimed a specialist healthcare and biotechnology investor with $7 bil-lion (pound42 billion) under management It offers exposure to a mix of large and profitable biotech companies along-side emerging businesses Most of its holdings are US-based and they have
benefited from a much more positive approach by the Federal Drug Authority ndash new drug approvals in 2010 were the highest for 10 years
Graphite Enterprise TrustAndrew McHattie contends that just one sector offers great value private equity lsquoThese trusts were hammered in the credit crisis and discounts widened to extreme levelsrsquo he says
His selection is Graphite Enterprise Trust Its discount to net asset value remains at a level that rings alarm bells in most other sectors but it has a strong track record and a relatively mature port-folio of shares he expects to rise in value
Fidelity Chinese Special SituationslsquoWith Chinese equities looking cheap the long-term outlook for investing in China is positiversquo Cockerill says lsquoThis fund invests in medium and small caps where high growth can be achieved New manager Dale Nicholls is well qualified and the combination of Fidelity manager experience and China is compelling in the long termrsquo
Scottish Oriental Smaller Companies Trust This trust is favoured by McAdam The invest-ment team identifies quality companies offering sustainable predictable growth lsquoThe trust may underperform if the market rises strongly but the teamrsquos enviable track record and experience should be respectedrsquo he says
Tim Cockerill is investment director at Rowan Dartington
RowanDartingtonhas20investmentadvisersbasedinsevenofficesacrossthesouthofEnglandIthaspound900millionunderman-
agementInvestmenttrustshavefeaturedinitsdiscretionaryandadvisoryportfoliosformanyyears
Peter Hewittis a member of FampC Asset Managementrsquos global equities team
HehasmanagedtheFampCManagedPortfolioTrustsinceApril2008aswellasitsforerunnerFampCManagedPortfolio
Servicesince2002HewasheadofUKequitiesatMurray
Johnstonefrom1981to1983beforejoiningIvoryampSime
Jean Mattersonis a partner and chief investment officer at Rossie House Investment Management
Shejoinedthefirmin1998after20yearswithassetmanagerStewartIvory
BasedinEdinburghsheisoneoffiveinvestment
professionalsmanagingaroundpound300mil-lionallonadiscretionarybasisAroundhalfisininvestmenttrusts
Robin McAdamjoined Brooks MacDonald Asset Management in 2009 from Adam amp Company Investment Management
Hehas24yearsrsquoexperi-encemanagingprivateclientportfoliosandheadsBMrsquosEdinburghbranch
Thefirmhaspound537billionunderdiscretionarymanagementinbespokeandmanagedportfolios
Andrew McHattieis head of The McHattie Group
McHattieGroupisanauthorisedfirmthatpublishesspecialistinvestmentnewsletters
McHattiehasbeentheeditorofInvestmentTrustNewslettersince1996(wwwtipsheetscouk)andoffersafreeservicecalledthelsquoitlistrsquo(wwwtheitlistcouk)ThecompanyhasaFacebookpage(wwwfacebookcominvestmenttrusts)
John Newlandsis responsible for investment trust research at Brewin Dolphin
Heissupportedbyfouranalystswhocoverspecificsectorsresearchingopen-andclosed-endedfunds
BrewinDolphinhas35officesaroundtheUKandChannelIslandsandmanagespound28billionofwhichpound39billionisininvestmenttrusts
TrusttipstersOursixexpertsrevealtheirtopfundpicks
inspired | March 2014 PB24 March 2014 | inspired
FUNDSAND
TRUSTS
One in twelve goes free on your next golf break plus every golfer receives a free pint
12thmansagimme
Book online at MarriottGolfcouk
Offer is only valid on residential golf bookings booked during the promotional dates For every 11 players booked the 12th player will be free of charge Rates are per person per night based on 2 people sharing a twindouble room and include dinner bed amp breakfast Bookings must be made by one named player and separate bookings will not qualify Each residential player aged 18 and over will receive a voucher entitling them to a complimentary pint
of Beckrsquos or Boddingtons Offer is valid on bookings made via 3rd parties Offer is available on 1 night 2 rounds or 2 night 3 rounds and excludes Sunday Driver Maximum of 2 night stay and 2 people per room Day of week availability may vary based on location Limited number of rooms may be available This offer applies to new bookings only at Marriott Hotel amp Country Clubs and offer courses and tee times are subject to availability Offer cannot
be used in conjunction with any other promotion Course terms and conditions apply Advance reservations required Book between 17th February and 29th June 2014 for stays between 4th April and 29th September 2014
The SIPP thatrsquos
fair and square
We believe in straightforward investing Thatrsquos why we donrsquot nibble at your SIPP with percentage fees For just pound144 per year you can open a SIPP and add an ISA for free After that itrsquos just pound10 to buy or sell a wide range of investments including shares funds bonds and gilts Open an account today and if you transfer your existing SIPP wersquoll give you up to pound240 as a thank you (terms apply) We believe thatrsquos fair and square
The value of investments and any income from them can fall as well as rise so you could get back less than you invest Tax treatment depends on your individual circumstances and may be subject to change If in any doubt please seek advice
iiicouksipp
Interactive Investor Trading Limited trading as ldquoInteractive Investorrdquo is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority Registered Office Standon House 21 Mansell Street London E1 8AA Tel 0845 200 3637 Registered in England with Company Registration number 3699618
SPECULATIVE GROWTHMampG RecoveryDennehy says manager Tom Dobell backs his convictions engages with companies he invests in and has delivered long-term outperformance lsquoDobellrsquos MampG Recovery fund has a clear value-style process and management stability It invests in a wide range of firms that are out of favour or in difficulty or whose prospects are not fully rec-ognised by the marketrsquo he says
Liontrust Special SituationsHusselbee says Liontrustrsquos Anthony Cross and Julian Fosh have their own unique philosophy He adds lsquoThey look for characteristics in a company that its competitors find difficult to replicate such as intellectual property or distribution channelsrsquo
Allianz Bric StarsThis fund aims for capital growth in the long term by investing mainly in Brazil Russia India and China Haynes says investors have shunned these markets recently and valuations fallen He adds lsquoFor investors looking for a recovery story this fund is worth considerationrsquo
Standard Life Equity Income subscription shareMcHattie says warrant and subscription shares are widely ignored creating opportunities for those who understand them He favours the subscrip-tion shares of Standard Life Equity Income which can be exercised at 320p a share up to the end of December 2016 lsquoThey offer gearing of 37 times and if the ordinary shares grow by more than 28 per cent a year between now and the end of 2016 the subscription shares ought to outperformrsquo
Impax Environmental MarketsMcAdam likes this trust It invests in companies seeking to provide cleaner or more-efficient energy as well as water and waste solutions to the growing problems faced by authorities around the world It offers exposure to a rapidly changing marketplace as well as to socially responsible investments
Hansa TrustJohn Newlands sees potential in the A shares of Hansa Trust which languish at a discount of more than 25 per cent He says that whereas the trustrsquos portfolio appears skewed with a third of its assets in Ocean Wilsons there is actually plenty of diversification because Ocean Wilsons has an investment portfolio that stands at a discount to underlying value lsquoOne day an attractive bid [may] be made for Ocean Wilsons that will enhance Hansarsquos NAV and sim-plify its capital structure all to the good of its market ratingrsquo Newlands says
Baker Steel Resources TrustJean Matterson hopes for good returns from this trust shares in which trade on a near 30 per cent discount lsquoIt has not had an easy run of late but we believe the underlying assets are attractive and that the mining projects in the companyrsquos portfo-lio will continue to progressrsquo she says
Prospects have improved for biotechs (left) while growing interest in sustain-able energy has boosted Impax
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
AHIGHEROILPRICEFEEDSSTRAIGHT
THROUGHTOPROFITSTony Yarrow
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
inspired | March 2014 27PB March 2014 | inspired
FUNDSANDTRUSTS
The world of funds and trusts is a confusing place with over 2300 funds and more than 300 investment trusts to choose from
Money Observerrsquos Rated Funds system narrows down the playing field to help you decide which funds and investment trusts might be best for you
Our team of experts constantly monitor the marketplace rating those funds that have delivered consistently good returns However you should be aware that there is no guarantee this performance will be repeated
With our comparison tool you can filter by whatrsquos important to you compare up to four funds and trusts side-by-side as well as view factsheets
COMPAREMONEY OBSERVER RATED FUNDS
VISIT MONEYOBSERVERCOMCOMPAREFUNDS AND LOOK OUT FOR THE RATED FUND STAMP
had spare cash or I were start-ing afresh The companies in the add category are high qual-ity judging by the strategies they follow and their finan-cial strength and are probably undervalued
Irsquom more likely to eject or reduce holdings in companies in the watch and specula-tive categories These shares are more risky either because they have risen greatly in price or because their prospects are more uncertain than usual I may think the risk is worth tak-ing but I am prepared to act should that calculation change
Every decision to increase a portfolio holding must be weighed against the potential of new candidates drawn from all companies listed in the UK and corralled into another live spreadsheet the Share Sleuth watchlist When I add a share to the watchlist or trade a share in the portfolio I explain this in the Share Sleuth blog
ccumulating income and capital gains in an index tracking fund is inexpensive takes little effort and all but guarantees an
average return so it should be the default investment for a lazy equity investor saving for the long term
To justify the work of decid-ing which shares to buy and sell and the effort and cost of placing trades an active investor must do better Consequently the first objective of the active Share Sleuth portfolio is to beat passive investments after costs over the long-term which in practice means any five-year period The second objective is to win this tussle against an unknowing and unthinking opponent transparently
At the heart of the portfolio is an online spreadsheet The first page shows the constitu-ent shares arranged into three categories lsquoaddrsquo lsquowatchrsquo and lsquospeculativersquo The categorisa-tion is updated daily based on live data in subsequent spread-sheets each of which contains a financial model for a particular company
The Share Sleuth portfo-lio shows the holdings I would add to the portfolio today if it
Share Sleuth is a simulation no money changes hands But I use prices quoted by a bro-ker and adjust the accounting to factor in notional broker fees and stamp duty However I lsquoeat my own cookingrsquo by investing my self-invested personal pen-sion in Share Sleuth companies
No doubt you are wonder-ing how the portfolio is doing Share Sleuthrsquos five-year anni-versary judgement day is on 9 September this year and I will not prejudge it now
Short-term performance watching and the knee-jerk trad-ing it encourages is I think one reason why many inves-tors fail My focus is on ensuring the portfolio remains invested in good companies at reasona-ble prices
You can see a live perfor-mance table and learn what I think of every share in the port-folio and which companies I might add to it at wwwiiicoukZkr
SHAREBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIOR
The Share Sleuth portfolio has been carefully devised to show investors how to find good companies at cheap prices and also prove the value of its investment approach says Richard Beddard
Richard Beddard an editor at Interactive Investor since 1999 has managed the Share Sleuth portfolio since 9 September 2009 Hersquos a columnist at Money Observer magazine and a private investor
AMY FOCUS IS ON ENSURING THAT THE PORTFOLIO IS INVESTED IN GOOD FIRMS AT DECENT PRICES
inspired | March 2014 29PB March 2014 | inspired
SHARESLEUTH
iiicoukstraightforward
Interactive Investor Trading Limited trading as ldquoInteractive Investorrdquo is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority Registered Office Standon House 21 Mansell Street London E1 8AA Tel 0845 200 3637 Registered in England with Company Registration number 3699618
We believe in being straightforwardthis is why we donrsquot nibble at your investment by charging percentage fees Find out how this could affect your investment performance at iiicoukstraightforward
If you transfer to us you can even get up to pound240 as a thank you (terms apply)
Donrsquot forget the value of investments and any income from them can fall as well as rise so you could get back less than you invest If in any doubt please seek advice
7784_II_QI_MONEY_OBSERVER_210x297_AWindd 1 16012014 1224
Take a closer look
at your investment
options
Discover a straightforward way to understand everything from ISAs to SIPPs and OEICs to Investment Trusts
Investing for generationsEver feel yoursquod like to know more about investing Wersquove been helping people build their wealth for over 125 years Our guide lsquoMaking sense of the investment universersquo is just one of the resources yoursquoll find on our Investment Focus hub
As well as clear simple guides therersquos a wealth of information and expert opinion all designed to help you take control of your investments Please remember that investments can go down as well as up and investors may get back less than they originally invested
Introducing your free online source of information help and expert opinion
investment-focuscouk
This has been approved as a financial promotion by Alliance Trust Investments Limited for the purpose of Section 21 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 Alliance Trust Investments Limited is a subsidiary of Alliance Trust PLC and is registered in Scotland No SC330862 registered office 8 West Marketgait Dundee DD1 1QN is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority firm reference number 479764 Alliance Trust Investments gives no financial or investment advice
TAX YEAR ENDS APRIL 5TH ndash learn more about
your options now
Investment Focus Smart Insight from Alliance Trust
Yoursquove spoken Wersquove listened Introducing your free online source of information help and expert opinion
Based on real insight we have launched a new website which focuses on investment education
We believe that we are uniquely positioned to provide this hub of information based on the reputation we have built for trust and transparency over the last 125 years
We will be publishing new content over the next few months focusing on specific themes
bull Investing from scratch
bull Products in a portfolio
bull Global diversification
bull Planning for your familyrsquos future
bull Retirement planning
bull Getting more information
There is a generation of future investors out there who have been brought up in an era of economic turmoil and banking crises which has led to disillusionment and a lack of trust in our sector and the services we offer Despite it being more important than ever for investors to take control of their financial situation this new generation of savers lacks the basic knowledge and understanding to make these very important long-term decisions
Our goal is to develop a useful resource with contributions from third-parties as well as the team at Alliance Trust which offers insights into the various life stages and challenges faced and which can be built upon and adapted to meet savers needs in the long term
Katherine Garrett-Cox CBE Chief Executive Alliance Trust PLC
ldquo
rdquo
There are too many products to make an informed decision
I donrsquot know whereto go for reliable
information
investment-focuscouk
Yoursquoll naturally take a keen interest in the performance of your investments But itrsquos just as important to understand the fees you will be paying as they can have a significant impact on the returns you achieve Knowing what the different types of costs mean and exactly what they consist of can prove rewarding
Itrsquos worth remembering that for every fee you pay (whether it is a or flat fee) your investment needs to grow by at least the same amount just to stay ahead of the game It sounds obvious but itrsquos easy to forget Broadly speaking there are three types of fees fund fees platform fees and fees for a financial adviser You can either invest directly into a fund and pay the associated fees or you can invest via a platform provider (some of which are referred to as wrap platforms others as fund supermarkets) This is a service that lets you manage and review all your investments online in one place As a general rule fund fees are lower when
bought through a platform than if you buy direct You can invest through a platform on either an execution only basis where the investor assesses the risks and makes their own investment decisions or on an advised basis
Learn more about fund platform and financial advice fees
What can you expect to seeOver the next two pages we have provided a sneak preview of just some of the information you will find on the Investment Focus hub We will be updating the site regularly so make sure you sign up for our email alerts to be informed when new topics are published
Everything you need to know about fees
Risk informationInvestments can go down as well as up You may get back less than you originally invested
Alliance Trust does not give advice You need to ensure you understand the risks and commitments before investing If you are unsure you should consult a Financial Adviser before investing
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
For the vast majority of investors the simplest cheapest and most pragmatic way to invest is through pooled funds
Sometimes called managed funds unit trusts or even Open-Ended Investment Companies (or OEICs) these are designed to give ordinary savers access to a diverse range of investments
One of the principles of investment is that diversification helps reduce risk But it is expensive and time consuming for ordinary savers to buy shares of 80 to 100 different companies and keep track of how each is performing
But with a managed fund you are pooling your money with other investors enabling the fund manager to buy a wide range of assets
Investors have the option of buying an actively managed or passive fund With an active fund the manager selects and then monitors these stocks for investors in a bid to maximise returns
In contrast a passive fund will simply follow a stock market index such as the FTSE100 up and down
Having a manager at the helm can be beneficial in a market downturn as they can take a more defensive approach buying shares that are better able to hold their value or in some cases switching to bonds or cash instead to help preserve investorsrsquo capital Managers can also research individual companies and markets and have access to forecasts and economic data that isnrsquot always available to individuals
Learn more about investing for growth or income exploring different investment remits how to invest and keeping track of your investments
Understanding funds Written by Emma Simon Personal Finance Journalist
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
What are Investment TrustsInvestment Trusts are investment vehicles that are listed on the London Stock Exchange and which invest in shares and other securities They pool together investorsrsquo money and delegate responsibility to a professional fund manager to invest in a range of companies from different sectors and regions across the world They were designed for ldquothe investor of moderate meansrdquo
A brief historybull The first Investment Trust was launched by Foreign amp
Colonial in 1868
bull Investment Trusts made it possible for individual investors to gain diversified exposure to global stock markets
bull Many Investment Trusts were formed in Scotland including Alliance Trust PLC which was formed over 125 years ago
A guide to Investment Trusts
Learn more about Investment Trusts their main features and why you should consider them for your portfolio
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
Alliance Trust is an investment and savings business with over 125 year history of building investor wealth We offer our shareholders clients and customers a unique portfolio of products and services These range from a renowned global investment trust to an innovative range of investment strategies and funds and a multi-award winning investment platform where investors can host their ISAs SIPPs or investment accounts Our mission is to provide products and services that help to ensure a more sustainable financial future for generations of investors
Alliance Trust PLC is one of the largest generalist investment trusts by market value listed on the London Stock Exchange and is the parent company to two wholly-owned subsidiaries Alliance Trust Savings and Alliance Trust Investments
The fact that many of us make irrational decisions when it comes to our finances is widely debated and is often referred to as behavioural finance In this short video we talk to Professor Phyl Johnson Consultant Psychologist and Visiting Professor of Executive Education at Strathclyde Business School about why this is and more importantly about what we can do as individuals to avoid it
About us Alliance Trust Investments is a specialist fund management business offering a range of products and services focusing on global equities fixed income and sustainable investing with an emphasis on specialist investment solutions
Alliance Trust Savings is one of the UKrsquos leading financial services providers for private investors offering customers the information and services they need to manage their investments in a way that works for them
Risk informationInvestments can go down as well as up You may get back less than you originally invested
Alliance Trust does not give advice You need to ensure you understand the risks and commitments before investing If you are unsure you should consult a Financial Adviser before investing
Unusually for a company of our size around 70 of shares
in Alliance Trust are held by private
individuals
Nobodyrsquos perfect why we all make irrational decisions
Inflation by ageThis monthrsquos official inflation report showed that the headline rate of inflation fell from 20 to 19 Our Economic Research Team analyse this data on a monthly basis to see how inflation rates affect different age groups In February 2014 the summary highlights include
bull The over 75s and the under 30s face the highest rate of inflation in January at 21
bull The over 75s suffered the highest rate of inflation for the whole of 2013 and this trend continues into 2014 as they spend a larger share of their budgets on basic goods such as gas and electricity
bull The 65 to 74 year olds have faced the lowest rate of inflation in 11 out of the last 12 months thanks to lower inflation in food petrol and package holidays
Learn more about how inflation might affect you
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
You can also sign up for our regular email alerts to be informed when new topics are published by clicking here
Wersquove been bringing clarity to investment for over 125 years
Investing for generationsWhen it comes to investing therersquos no substitute for experience And at Alliance Trust wersquove been helping people invest since 1888 Our new Investment Focus hub is full of online information and expert opinion It aims to provide real insight to help you take control of your investments
Over the next few weeks the hub will build to cover everything from taking your first steps to diversifying worldwide Please remember that investments can go down as well as up and investors may get back less than they originally invested For valuable insight from Alliance Trust visit Investment Focus today
Introducing your free online source of information help and expert opinion
investment-focuscouk
This has been approved as a financial promotion by Alliance Trust Investments Limited for the purpose of Section 21 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 Alliance Trust Investments Limited is a subsidiary of Alliance Trust PLC and is registered in Scotland No SC330862 registered office 8 West Marketgait Dundee DD1 1QN is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority firm reference number 479764 Alliance Trust Investments gives no financial or investment advice
TAX YEAR ENDS APRIL 5TH ndash learn more about
your options now
Change the way you think about stocks reap the rewardsBy Edward Page Croft CEO Stockopediacom
I remember so clearly the day when I picked my first stock for clients Managing $2 billion (pound12 billion) in assets across 100 portfolios for high-net-wealth private investors is no easy task As I was to learn when you are green
and straight out of university itrsquos even harder The stock in question was on the Goldman
Sachs US lsquobuyrsquo list It had the potential to be hot Dotcoms were bubbling It was an internet stock in education services and cheap It seemed like it had everything but we needed to get in One day it fell out of bed Down 50 per cent on no news
Irsquod been trained to call the analyst in situations like this He reiterated his buy stance Double buy On my insistence we put almost $20 million of client money into the stock within an hour The next day it fell another 50 per cent on
bad newsThere is nothing more
painful than a loss but you never forget the first
one It immedi-ately forced me to reconsider every-thing I thought I
knew From that day on I vowed to never trust anotherrsquos opin-ion and find a better
way through the market minefieldIrsquove now spent 15 years
reassessing common
wisdom about stock selection No stone has gone unturned in the quest to understand the behav-ioural flaws that lead to poor decision making But there is one finding that crops up again and again in all the research that hurts stock market investors most We as investors are suckers for stories
A 1990rsquos study of 60000 private investor broker-age accounts by Kumar and Goetzmann found that 70 per cent of portfolios held less than four stocks
The stocks held all tended to be in the same sector highly correlated and risky Think internet stocks in the 1990s China in the 2000s or resource stocks more recently The grand theme sucks everyone in The outcome rarely dif-fers Kumar and Goetzmann showed that across these
60000 accounts the average underperformance was of the order of 4 per cent annually
This massive failing across private inves-tor portfolios is repeated in nearly every market cycle and is bound to happen again in this one Benjamin Graham the great father of value invest-ing and tutor of Warren Buffett once wrote
lsquoIn the short run the stock market is a vot-ing machine but in the long run it is a weighing machinersquo
ADVERTISING FEATURE
IN THE SHORT RUN THE STOCK MARKET IS A VOTING MACHINE BUT IN THE LONG RUN IT IS A WEIGHING MACHINEBenjamin Graham
What he meant was that while stories may drive stocks in the short run statistics drive stocks in the long run When statistics reassert them-selves it can cause huge damage to investors punting their portfolios on stories
It doesnrsquot take much to learn how basic statis-tics can guide your portfolio into winning stock selections though very few seem to understand how to do it Benjamin Graham as his life wore on gradually came to the conclusion that building portfolios according to rules-based processes was a far more appropriate methodology for the typi-cal investor
lsquoTry to buy groups of stocks that meet some sim-ple criterion for being undervalued ndash regardless of
the industry and with very little attention to the indi-vidual company It seems too good to be true but all I can tell you after 60 years of experience is it seems to stand up under any of the tests I would make uprsquo
My time is now dedi-cated to helping investors practice exactly what Benjamin Graham and many other investment luminaries have preached rules-based investing For the majority itrsquos a better process and leads to bet-ter outcomes Our work at
Stockopediacom where we crunch fundamental and technical data in order to model and track the investment processes of the great investors bears this out
Portfolios composed with stocks showing the right statistical mix of value quality and momen-tum have significantly outperformed Rules-based investing beats the market But more importantly it helps promote the emotional detachment needed to stop investors from beating themselves
Irsquoll never buy a stock on a punt or an analystrsquos tip again Perhaps neither should you
For a two week free trial and pound50 discount to Stockopedia UK Premium CLICK HERE
TANK MCM A N U F A C T U R E M O V E M E N T 1 9 0 4 M C
SINCE THE CREATION OF THE FIRST TANK WATCH IN 1917 THE TANK COLLECTION HAS CONTINUED
TO BREAK NEW GROUND THE INCREDIBLY REFINED AESTHETICS OF THE NEW TANK MC WATCH ARE FITTED
WITH THE CARTIER MANUFACTURE MOVEMENT 1904 MC ESTABLISHED IN 1847 CARTIER CREATES
EXCEPTIONAL WATCHES THAT COMBINE DARING DESIGN AND WATCHMAKING SAVOIR-FAIRE
EXPLORE AND SHOP WWWCARTIERCOUK - (020) 3147 4850
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Inside
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TO THE CONNOISSEUR section of Inspired a showcase for the finer things in life for those who truly appreciate them
Enjoying the fruits of your labour away from the relentless demands of our age poses its own challenges and quandaries Would a tropical idyll restore your ebbing energy levels Might a break based around hair-raising activities revive them even more effectively Perhaps reawakening a dormant passion for fine wines or luxury cars would be the most enjoyable reward for your industry
A luxury tropical holiday is probably near the top of most peoplersquos wish lists We take a look at some of the most tantalising options
The arrival of BMWrsquos new super coupe is featured on page 50 BMW aficionados and petrolheads alike are certain to be won over by its head-turning looks and mouthwatering specs
Gems come under the microscope on page 53 A rare coloured diamond can be a joy as well an appreciating asset
Wine is on the menu on page 54 where we explore the charms of Argentinian Malbec
Watches are often treasured objects and the best can turn out to be shrewd investments We look at the secondary watch market and the growth of online retailing on page 58 Enjoy
Welcome
40 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
FIVE TOP PRIVATE ISLAND RETREATSIslandFantasy
Top-rated resorts and hotels offer a variety of temptations and services to impress even the most discerning tastes but there is no better way to escape the rigours and
stresses of daily life than cutting off from the outside world while still enjoying lavish service
in the pinnacle of all resorts the private islandThere are thousands of small islands around
the world but only a few have chosen to cater to the most discriminating travellers seeking a rarified yet perfect world of quiet and relaxed luxury We look at five of the worldrsquos top private islands destinations where your holiday is certain to be an exceptional experience
TRAVEL
Necker Island is owned by Sir Richard Branson and guests stay in his home The island has become a popular des-tination for some of the worldrsquos most prominent figures as a hideaway from lifersquos stresses and strains
Because Necker Island is a resi-dence and not a resort guests who rent the island are treated as owners and catered for in a unique way
The74-acre island is fringed with beautiful white beaches and surrounded by turquoise waters and coral reefs It boasts every resort-type amenity guests can spend their days being pampered in the spa explor-ing underwater reefs in a submarine lounging by the pool bar or swimming in one of the worldrsquos most elab-orate private pools
Haute cuisine is a highlight for most guests ndash rates are fully inclusive of all food and drink A team of chefs creates bespoke menus featuring anything from lobster and caviar to a Sunday roast And because Necker is a home first and a resort second guests decide whether dining will be formal or informal inside or outside themed or traditional
The bar is stocked with international wines top-quality spirits and beers and a world renowned house champagne while special orders can be shipped in at no extra charge ndash unless an item is particularly rare Every service and amenity is available around the clock and guests are encouraged to treat Necker as their own home
As youLike it
NECKER ISLAND
42 March 2014 | inspired
Unalloyed luxury and an impressive range of amenities make Necker one of the most desirable island destinations in the world
The Jumby Bay resort which is only accessible by boat from Antigua is a Caribbean hideaway owned by Rosewood Resorts It is perfect for those seeking either relaxation or spirited adventure
You can rent the island resort entirely for your stay or simply take a room Those opt-ing for exclusive use of the island will have the resortrsquos two pools three tennis courts fitness centre croquet field and putting green to themselves
A wide range of water sports are available and guests can indulge in as much adventure or relaxation as they want during their stay The resort is ideal for large family
reunions or corporate retreats ndash 40 guest rooms and suites are available on the island
Executive chef Sylvain Hervochon celebrates gastron-omy ndash and mixology (cocktail making) ndash with casual elegance by creating Caribbean-style dishes inspired by fresh local ingredients and incorporating international influences
Jumby Bayrsquos rates start at pound150000 for four nights based on double occupancy between May and December Visit wwwrosewoodhotelscomenjumby-bay-antigua for further information
Fine BalanceCaribbean ambiance international sophistication and adventurous activities make Jumby Bay a compelling choice
JUMBY BAY
Just laze by the pool or venture beyond to dive in the turquoise waters of the South Pacific among stunning reefs and a dazzling array of marine creatures
Isle of PlentyT
he private island of Laucala in the South Pacific is a 3500-acre site in a picturesque rainforest-laced land-scape Enchanting deserted beaches nestle among coconut plantations organic farms and lush green vol-canic mountains
The resort offers an outstanding level of refined lux-ury as well as a compelling collection of sporting and cultural activities diving among iridescent marine life in the warm turquoise waters guided rainforest tours horse riding surfing and golfing on the 18-hole cham-pionship course The island is a superb choice for an escape from civilization whether you want an adven-ture in the wild or simply to relax in one of Laucalarsquos five restaurants and bars
Rates are available on request Visit wwwlaucalacom for further details
TRAVEL
LAUCALA ISLAND
inspired | March 2014 4544 March 2014 | inspired
Lush green surroundings sensitive development and beautiful beaches help Laucala island conjure up a complete South Seas experience
Isle of Plenty
inspired | March 2014 4544 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
inspired | March 2014 4746 March 2014 | inspired
Slow LaneSlow
Pulau Joyo is a seductively serene environment of pristine beaches surrounded by clear blue sea in Indonesiarsquos Riau Archipelago Accessible from Singapore or Bintan Pulau Joyo is a true castaway island offering every resort luxury
amid untouched natural beauty Pulau Joyo is famous for its remarkable sunsets and
brightly star-lit sky The resort can host 28 guests and 20 staff are on hand to cater to their every need Guests stay in open driftwood lsquopalacesrsquo that lsquoallow the sea inrsquoDespite its desert island appeal Pulau Joyo offers every modern convenience a range of adrenaline boosting activities and more relaxing options such as spa treatments and massages
The resortrsquos cuisine focuses on western and Indonesian dishes Meals are usually served buffet style and feature grilled fish squid prawns beef and chicken as well as many curry dishes Side dishes include fresh garden salads pasta salads boiled or steamed leafy greens and grilled aubergine (an island favourite) Prawn and tofu kebabs appear from time to time as does satay The chef will often provide a selection of freshly picked fruit and homemade cakes for dessert Itrsquos worth noting that the management will not serve pork or shellfish on this private island
Pulau Joyo may not be as refined as some islands but itrsquos an excellent choice for those who want a more casual laidback island experience that replicates the castaway experience like perhaps no other
Rates start at pound1913 a night More information is available at wwwpulau-joyocom
Wannabe castaways may find Pulau Joyorsquos purer simpler take on the luxury island experience more to their taste
PULAU JOYO
inspired | March 2014 4746 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
In the Fijian island paradise of Dolphin Island a small army of staff await to meet guestsrsquo every need On arriving ndash by boat helicopter or float plane ndash visitors are invariably struck by the beauty of the island and the luxuri-ous accommodation that awaits them amid 14-acres of lush tropical gardens
Three traditional palm-thatched bures individually designed by world renowned interior designer Virginia Fisher sit in an elevated position around the resortrsquos infinity pool
Guests are brought fresh tropical fish to choose each day that are cooked to perfec-
tion within hours of leaving the water The culinary focus is on
organic produce and ingredi-ents unique to Fijian cuisine but meals are tailored to guestsrsquo personal tastes Papayas man-goes bananas and pineapples
are plentiful throughout the day When it comes to recreation the
14-acre island is an expansive play-ground offering a diverse range of watersports as well as diving opportunities on Fijirsquos coral reefs
Rates start at pound720 a night More information is avail-able at wwwdolphinislandfijicom
Fijian Paean
Traditional features modern comforts and excellent facilities make for a harmonious whole on this Fijian island
DOLPHIN ISLAND
48 March 2014 | inspired
Pictured slightly larger than actual size
Big Pilotrsquos Watch Ref 5009
Your wrist never felt this big before The
case of the top model in the IWC Pilotrsquos
Watch range is a gigantic 462 mm in diashy
meter And the technology inside it is
even more impressive the largest IWCshy
manufactured automatic movement with
its Pellaton winding system is protected
against strong magnetic fields by a softshy
iron inner case And needless to say enshy
vious glances iwc engineered for men
Mechanical IWCshymanufactured movement Pellaton
automatic winding system 7shyday power reserve
with display (figure) Date display Softshyiron inner
case for protection against magnetic fields
Antireflective sapphire glass Watershyresistant 6 bar
Stainless steel
IWC Schaffhausen Switzerland iwccom The worldrsquos finest timepieces are exclusively available from selected watch specialists
For an illustrated catalogue or list of nationwide concessionaires please contact IWC UK Tel 0845 337 1868 Eshymail infoshyukiwccom
CARS
MunichLegend
50 March 2014 | inspired
BMW fanatics can open their eyes ndash the M4 has arrived
Most BMW aficionados are proba-bly pretty sad to see production of the M3 coupe ndash quite possibly the companyrsquos most noteworthy and celebrated model ndash end after almost 30 years Ever since the first wide-body E30 M3 saw the
light of day in 1985 drivers have loved the sporty coupe for its incredible balance intoxicating power and of course solid build quality
The model never got stale in all that time and always remained the poster child for the M division so itrsquos a lit-tle weird that BMW has apparently decided to axe it In truth though they havenrsquot really dropped the M3 The M3 sedan will continue to be produced in 2014 so all
is not lost Moreover BMW seems to be adopting a pat-tern of giving its sedans odd-numbered titles only and its coupes even-numbered titles only so the 4-Series and especially the M4 concept that debuted at Pebble Beach Monterey California will fill the gap left by the M3 Many people have been awaiting the new super coupe with great expectancy but can it fill in for the M3
The journalists who swarmed over the M4 concept at Pebble Beach were obviously much more interested in it than the somewhat predictable 428i that was also there Finished in an eye-catching colour called Aurum Dust (which actually looks a lot like the old M3rsquos Phoenix Yellow colour) the car presented in California may be a concept but typically BMW M cars donrsquot change much before they finally hit the showroom
MunichLegend
inspired | March 2014 51
CARS
52 March 2014 | inspired
From front to back the bodywork is manifestly differ-ent and much more aggressive looking than a standard 4-Series car It really looks to pretty much pick up where the E92E93 M3 coupe left off especially with its undeniably cool domed hood Wide wheel arches big wheels wrapped in low-profile tyres more than enough M badges and a well-executed double-bubble roof make the already underwhelming existing 4-Series coupe look even more pedestrian
Power for the new M4 is likely to come from a three-litre twin-turbo straight-six engine While the horsepower probably wonrsquot differ much from the M3rsquos old 4-litre V-8 it will generate more than 100lbft more in torque almost 400 in total With the M4 being a lighter 3300lb in weight the M4 promises to be an excit-ing worthy car A proper six-speed manual may be in the mix alongside the now obligatory dual clutch and paddles option
The best way to look at the M4 however it ends up is not as a new car but as a new and improved M3 thatrsquos just getting a new name The decision to rename the coupe is a strange one but thankfully BMW apparently felt the 3-Series coupe had made such an identity for itself that a new model was needed albeit in a slightly different incarnation
With BMW embarking on some new-ageish ideas such as its 1-Series ActiveE and the soon-to-arrive lsquoirsquo range of cars itrsquos nice to see the company also stick to classics such as the heart-stopping sports coupe even if the latest model does come with a new name
Seductive curves and racier performance make the BMW M4 a more than acceptable replacement for the M3 super coupe
SparklingForm Coloured diamonds are making their mark
One of the main factors that deter-mines the value of what we ordinarily think of as diamonds is their purity the degree to which col-our is absent in the gem However with coloured diamonds the extent to which they are saturated with
colour is a principal determinant of their valueColoured diamonds come in 12 basic colours more
than 90 secondary hues and nine intensity levels The depth of their colour is what really differentiates these diamonds from their colourless counterparts
Natural coloured diamonds are 10000 times rarer than typical colourless diamonds one of several rea-sons why they are treasured by the rich and famous yet remain unknown to most other people ndash despite hav-ing been around for centuries
Of course some colours are rarer than others Red violet and purple stones are as rare as the proverbial hensrsquo teeth while green and blue are also rare The most popular colours are pink and yellow (or canary) They also come in white grey orange black and lsquochame-leonrsquo form
A pinkie ring encrusted with a large coloured dia-mond has become a status symbol for men in Asia That little stone is an unregistered asset that could quickly be sold for millions of dollars should the need arise
Coloured diamonds are durable and never lose their sparkle or lustre so they are assets that can be enjoyed every day unlike stocks or bonds And they have proved to be fantastic investments having steadily appreciated in price with relatively little volatility for more than a decade They even held their own during the most recent financial crisis
Coloured diamonds are auctioned by reputable
auction houses such a Sothebyrsquos and Christiersquos where prices for large unique pink red blue or yellow stones can reach in excess of $2 million (pound12 million) a carat and other stones regularly sell for $1 million a carat
They are often bought by high-net-worth individu-als as an insurance policy Instead of stashing cash in undeclared bank accounts and potentially incurring the wrath of the authorities the wealthy can purchase some loose yellow diamonds to secure their future
Clearly coloured diamonds are much more than a magnificent indulgence
GEMS
inspired | March 2014 53PB March 2014 | inspired
WINE
Make the most of the deeply
satisfying Malbec wines emerging from Argentina
and perhaps even enjoy a return on a shrewd
investment says Ewan Lacey
Finding a red wine to enjoy in spring is a delicate balancing act The shock of seeing sunlight after a dark winter fosters in us a desire to drink some-thing refreshing while the still-cool temperatures demand something with comforting depth
Increasingly Malbec wines particularly those from Argentina provide a perfect solution to this quandary And while there are plenty of delicious wines for infor-mal occasions what is most interesting is the emergence of finer Malbec wines Some are so good they may well have ageing potential raising the intriguing possibility that the wine may one day become collectable
Malbec is the most popular wine among those aged 25-34 and is now becoming a fixture on most restaurant wine lists There are several reasons for its success the word Malbec is easy to pronounce the wine goes well with red meat the Malbec grape can be turned into wines that are both relatively easy to drink and packed with flavour and decent wines are available at reason-able prices Malbec is deep fruity and charming and it delivers instant pleasure ndash claret on a motorbike
The Malbec grape originated in France and it remains one of the permitted varieties used to make Bordeaux However it has gained prominence through the work of the post-junta Argentine wine industry
I recently had the pleasure of tasting some very fine Malbecs with Laura Catena managing director at the Catena Zapata winery and president of the International Wine and Spirit Competition She opened my
Mendoza Marvels
inspired | March 2014 55
WINE
eyes to the potential of this grape variety when handled with care
Laurarsquos family business makes a range of wines but the wine that truly astonished me was the Nicasia Vineyard Malbec 2006 The wine is perfumed with floral and fruit notes and it is smooth and soft at first Like all great wines it has many layers of flavour warm bursts of cherry and black-currant cede centre stage to deeper darker caramel and mocha notes and a touch of spice Therersquos an amazing depth of flavour and the finish is long and lingering Whatrsquos more at nearly eight years old it still has a slight purple tinge and tastes extremely fresh There is every indication that it will age beautifully for at least another decade
The winersquos character is heavily influenced by the alti-tude the grapes used to make it are grown at (1180m
above sea level) At this elevation the grapes ripen in bright sun but lsquorelaxrsquo during the cool evenings The fact that the wine is made in tiny quantities (eight barrels only) means every care can be taken during the winemak-ing process to ensure the wine is allowed to show its grown-up side The cost per bot-tle of pound70 is not insubstantial but neither is the wine
We cannot know whether these wines will ever become investments in the way the wines of Bordeaux have Whatrsquos cer-tain is that Malbec wines have a very rare quality a balance of finesse and power that
can delight wine lovers and linger in their memories
Ewan Lacey is a leading wine expert and general manager of the International Wine and Spirit Competition He has appeared on BBC television and radio as well as Channel 4 and written for the national press
Laura Catena is managing director at the Catena Zapata winery (above)
THE INTERNATIONAL WINE AND SPIRIT COMPETITIONThe International Wine and Spirit Competition has been the premier drinks competition in the world for 45 years Each year it receives and reviews thousands of wines and spirits and presents qual-ity awards to producers
More than anything the IWSC exists to help
people make better deci-sions particularly when buying wines and spirits An IWSC award on a bot-tle of wine is a guarantee
of quality backed not only by a rigorous and strin-gent judging process but also by the skill of the judges who are drawn from the ranks of masters of wine master distill-ers industry leaders and commentators
Each year the IWSC honours a leading figure
in the drinks industry with the presidency of the competition The current president is Laura Catena who succeeds a nota-ble line of predecessors including Prince Robert of Luxembourg winemakers Piero Antinori and Warren Winiarski and Baroness Philippine de Rothschild
56 March 2014 | inspired
LUXURY WATCHES
Time is preciousA
t a recent watch auc-tion in Geneva at Antiquorum ndash the worldrsquos premiere auc-tion house for modern and vintage time pieces ndash a Patek Philippe
pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon watch emerged as the auctionrsquos top lot and sold for 12 million Swiss francs (pound807000)
Unlike most of the timepieces sold at auctions outside Asia this particular Patek watch ndash the most complicated wristwatch the Swiss watchmaker has ever produced ndash was not a vintage model
That Geneva auction raised intriguing
1284Clocks with weights gears and regulators start to appear mostly with no dial to strike the important moments of daily life
Around 1410The mainspring is devel-oped Combined with the fusee this innovation makes possible the truly portable domestic clock
1492The mechanical watch appears simultaneously in Italy Germany and France
1675Christian Huygens invents the spiral balance spring
for watches significantly improving their accuracy
1704The first watch with jew-els is produced by French watchmaker de Beaufreacute
1714The British parliament offers pound20000 to who-ever can a find a method to determine longitude
1766Parliament publishes the rating results for John Harrisonrsquos H4 marine timekeeper Harrisonrsquos highly accurate marine clock solution to the problem of determining logitude wins him part of the pound20000 prize
1787Pierre-Freacutedeacuteric Ingold is born an important pio-neer in mechanised timepiece production and the use of interchangea-ble parts
1790Jacquet-Droz and Leschot manufactures a watch attached to a strap
1839Vacheron amp Constantin developes a full set of machine tools for manu-facturing its watches
1875Calcium sulphate is the first luminescent sub-stance to be used for numerals and hands
TIMEKEEPING MILESTONES
questions Are modern luxury timepieces every bit as appealing as the vintage watches that typically command top prices at auc-tion And does that Geneva auction tell us anything about the contemporary watch market as a whole
Julien Schaerer Antiquorumrsquos managing director in Geneva says top-quality vintage watches often appreciate in value over the long term But he urges buyers for whom appreciation is an important consideration to be cautious about purchasing contempo-rary watches
lsquoWatch price depreciation is the cost of ownership just as it is with a luxury carrsquo he says lsquoIf the value goes up then
58 March 2014 | inspired
1880The first water- resistant watch incorpo-rating a screwed case is produced by Genevan watchmaker Franccedilois Borgel
1889The first known patent for a wristwatch is filed in Bern Switzerland
1890Dialmaker A Beyeler invents a transfer press for applying numerals and letters to dials
1892Auguste Verneuil in France produces the first synthetic jewels to be used in watchmaking
1904Wens Wilsdorf launches large-scale production of a womenrsquos wristwatch
1924John Harwood files the
first Swiss patent for a self-winding wristwatch with a central oscillating weight
1925The first known wrist-watch with a perpetual calendar is manufactured using a pendant watch movement
1926Rolex creates the Oyster wristwatch with a water-resistant case and crown
1966The first quartz wrist-watch prototype is produced
1969The first quartz watch
with an LED display appears
1978Quartz watches overtake mechanical watches in popularity
2005Creation of the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie Seiko launches the spring drive Kinetic the first self-winding mechanical watch with an electro-magnetic escapement
A Patek Philippe pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon recently sold for pound807000
inspired | March 2014 59
online retailers from the comfort of your homeSince 2006 DM London has quietly estab-
lished a powerful presence for itself in the UK retail watch market with the acquisition of The Watch Hut and The Watch Gallery DM London chairman David Coleridge says the company has capitalised on the increasing willingness of buy-ers to purchase online
lsquoHaving decided that they would like to buy a watch for themselves or someone elsersquo he says lsquopeople start to do their research More often than not this starts online nowadays where they com-pare brands performance and functions
lsquoAs trust in the online marketplace has devel-oped many want to buy online because it is convenient and saves time Shopping online becomes a habit established sites build trust and awareness with customers which gives custom-ers the confidence to buy more expensive itemsrsquo
He adds lsquoOur challenge is to make the online environment as attractive informative and enjoy-able as a high street store Then customers will decide to spend onlinersquo
Coleridge believes a multi-channel approach is the way forward for retailers He says lsquoWithout doubt the future is multi-channel selling ndash a combination of direct selling on the internet and various forms of click and collect ndash combined with beautiful stores on the high street
Over the past few years demand for luxury watches (particularly contemporary models) has spiked sharply in Asia and according to some specialists emerging affluence in the
of course thatrsquos an added benefit However he adds lsquoPrice appreciation is still quite rare with modern watches There is some poten-tial for appreciation but probably only with ultra-limited editions A purchase has to be
seen as a medium- to long-term invest-ment One should buy a timepiece first out of love for the brand or [the watchrsquos] complicationrsquo
The watch brands that offer the greatest assurance of appreci-
ation include Cartier Patek Philippe Rolex Audemars
Piguet A Lange amp Sohne Breguet and Vacheron Constantin All enjoy views from the top of
the watchmaking hierarchy thanks to their longstand-ing histories and well-established brand identities
Relative new-comers to the industry such as Richard Mille and Roger Dubuis have carved out a niche for
themselves with their revolutionary designs and
space-age technologies but it remains to be seen just how well the values of their timepieces will stand up on the secondary market
According to Nathaniel Borgelt a specialist at auction house Sothebyrsquos
some modern watches have already achieved good prices at auction but these (like the Patek Philippe Sky Moon Tourbillon) were highly exclusive models when new
lsquoSome limited edition pieces currently fetch incredible prices at auctionrsquo he says lsquoAnd there is a select group of modern mod-els that could compete with a certain sector of the vintage market based on their brand innovative features such as materials or com-plications and avant-garde designs
Buying these has now become a whole lot easier The luxury watch retailing land-scape is changing and the traditional pattern of physically walking into a luxury salon to buy a watch is gradually being replaced by a trend towards visiting the websites of the big
LUXURY WATCHES
A Lange amp Sohne (above) is a long-standing high-end watchmaker Comparative new-comer Roger Dubuis (right) is forging a strong reputation
inspired | March 2014 PB60 March 2014 | inspired
helpthewatchgallerycom
Hublot ClassiC FusiontHe WatCH Gallery exClusive
The Watch Gallery and Hublot have joined forces to create two very special limited edition watches Both are limited to just 15 pieces worldwide and have been specifically designed to feature The Watch Gallery blue brand colour on the hands and tinted open case back
SelfridgeS OxfOrd StreetWeStfield lOndOnMancheSter exchange Square
wwwthewatchgallerycomhublot-watches
Far East has kept global values strong while other markets around the world continue to recover from recession
Despite the market boost from growing prosperity in Asia there are signs that the market is becoming saturated and that globally the new watch market isnrsquot as robust as some commentators suggest
It may still be a good time to buy but its important to know what you want and what yoursquore buying Modern watchmakers such as Richard Mille Roger Dubuis and Greubel Forsey are producing beautiful timepieces but because of their limited foothold in the market itrsquos difficult to predict their long-term success and desirability They donrsquot yet have the brand power that might ensure the value of their
watches in the secondhand market remains highSuch producers might one day stand eye to
eye with the most desirable brands such as Patek Philippe and Rolex but achieving that kind of parity wonrsquot be easy Collectors looking to invest in timepieces are advised to keep an open mind about modern producers uncertainty is the one aspect of modern luxury watch market most experts tend to agree on
That said the buoyancy in the watch market suggests that plenty of buyers are unconcerned about future values For them itrsquos all about the appreciation of the watch itself People buy watches because they bring them pleasure ndash and say some-thing about who they are
LUXURY WATCHES
Contemporary watches such as those made by Hublot (left) have yet to show they will have the lasting appeal of watches such as Cartierrsquos Rotonde de Cartier Astrocalendaire (right)
inspired | March 2014 63
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-
Welcome to InspiredI
T JUST MAY BE THAT WE CAN START to look at prospects for investment markets with greater optimism The UK economy appears to be entering a more buoyant phase with business investment and confidence returning Meanwhile the interests of private investors are being advanced as companies such as Interactive Investor deliver trading and investing
propositions that reduce charges which have eaten into investorsrsquo returns Of course economic challenges remain not least the outcome of
unorthodox measures to bolster the global economy Here in the UK however stock market valuations indicate better times ahead Itrsquos in this environment that we are launching Inspired to help you take advantage of opportunities to profit from stock market buoyancy
Inspired is a new digital magazine that brings together the best thinking and analysis from the Interactive Investor team It complements this ndash in its Connoisseur section ndash with suggestions about how you might enjoy the fruits of your investment success We look at beautiful and inspirational travel destinations and review top-of-the-range luxury goods
Inspired is available to everyone who is part of the Interactive Investor community of investors and traders
In this first edition wersquove focused on maximising investment opportunities before the end of the tax year We consider the funds and investment trusts that might be profitably included in an Isa and examine how Aim stocks might now become part of your Isa portfolio We also explore the behaviour of Interactive Investorrsquos customers by revealing the funds and investment trusts they have been buying Richard Beddard our companies specialist outlines his approach to identifying investment opportunities and explains how you can follow his activities on the Share Sleuth blog
This editionrsquos Connoisseur section takes you to some of the worldrsquos most exclusive holiday islands considers some of the most distinctive timepieces available to discerning buyers and reflects on the impressive qualities of the Argentinian wines now widely available in the UK
I hope you enjoy this first issue of Inspired Issue two will propel itself through the ether to you in June
Jeremy King publisher
PUBLISHERJeremy King
INVESTMENT EDITORAndrew Pitts
DESIGN Christopher Aldridge
PRODUCTION SUB EDITING David Grove
CONTRIBUTORSRichard Beddard Faith Glasgow Julie Fisher Jeff Salway Helen Pridham Fiona Hamilton
SALES Iain Adams
PUBLISHED BY Moneywise Publishing Limited 2014
Interactive Investor plcRegistered number 5034730
inspiredISSUE 1 I MARCH 2014
You should remember that the value of shares can fall as well as rise The information contained in Inspired is not intended to be a personal recommendation and you should always speak to your financial adviser before investing
Inspired | March 2014 3
CONTENTS
5 | MARKETS IN MOOD TO ENDURE IN 2014Stock markets should muddle through well enough this year with equity values likely to withstand any economic headwinds
10 | FEBRUARYrsquoS TOP TRUSTS AND FUNDSWe reveal the monthrsquos most in-demand investment vehicles on Interactive Investor and in the wider market
12 | SMART STRATEGIES FOR SAVVY ISA INVESTORSOur experts disclose their top tips for getting the maximum out of your Isa investments
16 | AIM FOR THE BESTRisk tolerant Isa investors can now use Alternative Investment Market shareholdings to bag spectacular returns
20 | PERFECT YOUR TRUST AND FUND PORTFOLIO We round up a collection of investment funds and trusts our experts believe are likely to prosper in the year ahead
29 | SHARE SLEUTHThe Share Sleuth portfolio is dedicated to showing investors how to track down good companies at bargain prices
FEATURES CONNOISSEUR40 | AN ODE TO JOYSavour the fruits of your success with our guide to some of the finer things in life
41 | TRAVELWe explore some of the worldrsquos most tantalising tropical islands
50 | CARSBMWrsquos new M4 concept super coupe will soon be turning heads
53 | GEMSColoured diamonds make durable assets that unlike shares give lasting pleasure
54 | WINEMake the most of Argentinarsquos deeply satisfying Malbec wines
58 | WATCHESTop-quality vintage watches have timeless charm and value
41
5
58
insp
ired
50
17 20
4 March 2014 | inspired
tocks bounced back after January jitters ndash to such an extent that Bank of Americarsquos chief technical analyst changed his mind to assert that lsquothe larger uptrend has resumedrsquo But is this true for stocks generally
Certainly a look at the FTSE 100 confirms that the recent bull market trend remains intact despite fear that the emerging markets crisis could fester The ousting of Viktor Yanukovych as president of Ukraine looks unlikely to become a wider east-west conflict despite the Russian militaryrsquos show of force in Crimea
The now familiar theme of markets muddling through looks set to persist Shares appear fairly valued while the fundamentals look to have improved during February The G20 ndash the worldrsquos 19 richest nations and the EU ndash have committed themselves to injecting $2 trillion (pound119 trillion) into the global economy over the next five years to raise global growth by at least 2 per cent by 2018 The group is shunning austerity to focus on private sector infrastructure spending encour-aged by tax breaks
Equity markets may experience mixed fortunes this year but they are likely to prevail against any economic headwinds overall
MARKETS SETTO MUDDLETHROUGH IN
2014S
inspired | March 2014 5
THE MARKETSIN 2014
INTHEUSJOBNUMBERSINCOMESANDALL-ROUNDCONSUMERCONFIDENCEAREIMPROVING
Sales have also improved although overall rev-enue growth remains weak and needs watching because a disparity between growth and profits is liable to puncture optimism just as company shares have soared amid loose monetary policy
Keep in mind the fact that the US economy has yet to break a habit of allowing growth spurts to fade GDP rose at an annualised rate of 32 per cent in the fourth quarter of 2013 and 19 per cent
overall last year while the consensus is for 28 per cent for 2014 and 29 per cent for 2015 Similarly after the mid 2009 recession GDP grew at an average annualised rate of 34 per cent in the second and third quarters of 2010 and
then by 43 per cent in the fourth quarter of 2011 and first quarter of 2012 Yet the improvement was short-lived
Last year rapid inventory accumulation boosted GDP at a level that is unsustainable However pri-vate consumption growth is running at its fastest rate in three years
Overall the economic figures are mixed and it remains to be seen where they will head next as the Fedrsquos stimulus expires
The recovery in the UK appears to be strengthen-ing The economy officially grew by 07 per cent in the fourth quarter of 2013 A growth rate of 18 per cent was estimated for the year as a whole
Significantly business investment rose by 24 per cent in the third quarter of 2013 and
Inevitably there is scepticism that reassuring words will be translated into practical deeds but they add to positive sentiment amid improving economic numbers in the US and the UK
The principal risk is that the US economy will stutter just as the US Federal Reserve commits to a monthly $10 billion wind-ing down of its monetary stimulus and sustains this drawdown rate to show itself to be more consistent with guidance than it was last year
Recent US data has been mixed and analysts are unsure how much the harsh winter in the US should affect their calculations Yet home sales jumped by 96 per cent in January the fastest rise in more than five years This suggests job numbers incomes and all-round consumer con-fidence are improving following years of worry that the US economy and house prices might falter again While pent-up demand probably explains some of the improvement in house sales the rise is especially notable given that higher mort-gage rates since mid 2013 have limited mortgage affordability
US corporate earnings have grown stronger than expected ndash by about 85 per cent in the fourth quar-ter of 2013 Some 72 per cent of SampP 500 firms beat expectations according to FactSet Research
The crisis in Crimea is unlikely to derail or impede the slow but steady progress in global stock markets seen so far this year
6 March 2014 | inspired
THE MARKETS
IN 2014
spread like some predicted it would and Chinarsquos debt problem could take a while to erupt if it ever does Even if it does Chinarsquos communist gov-ernment can deploy strong economic and social controls
It is interesting that in a recent television pro-gramme on risks in China the BBCrsquos business editor Robert Peston initially sounded as if he was marking the country out for trouble However
he softened his stance a little towards the end of the programme
Oil prices have not capit-ulated ndash as was feared at the start of the year ndash and created revenue problems for Russia and Saudi Arabia possibly showing that Saudi Arabia
can still control prices to a large degree Complacency is a danger given the real risks
associated with the Fed winding down its stimu-lus and doubts over whether corporate revenues can genuinely improve However figures in
February have supported the trend towards muddling through big risks seen during
the eurozone debt crisis two years ago the bailouts for Greece and Cyprus and the political posturing over the US debt ceiling While interest rates remain low shareholders can take heart that their
riskreward profiles look supportive overall and traders can keep their fingers
crossed for more volatility
85 per cent in the fourth quarter of 2013 This has been the missing link in a recovery feared to be overly dependent on rising house prices and consumers resorting to raiding savings to fund spending
There remains a lot to achieve on the export front and interest rates are expected to rise from 2015 although the Bank of England is ada-mant that this will be gradual
A potential Labour gen-eral election victory by May 2015 does not seem to trou-ble investors at the moment The net balance at the end of February appears positive for shares because GDP and corporate profits are the factors that influence it most and the situation in continental Europe (beyond youth unemployment) is not prov-ing as dire as many feared
It is frustrating for long-term inves-tors with fresh money because equity valuations appear to broadly price in prospects so they typically need to take a lsquomomentumrsquo view which is less comfortable for them than when value yardsticks are in their favour But unless company earnings stall the downside looks limited for now
The emerging markets crisis has not
Confidence in the economies of key Asian economic powerhouses such as mainland China Singapore and Hong Kong (pictured) remains high
8 March 2014 | inspired
THE MARKETS
IN 2014
THEEMERGINGMARKETSCRISISHASNOTSPREADANDCHINArsquoSDEBTPROBLEMCOULDTAKETIMETOERUPTIFITEVERDOES
SCOTTISH MORTGAGE INVESTMENT TRUST
For a limited period and new eligible ISA customers only Terms amp Conditions and minimum investment amounts apply Please refer to our website or the application pack that we will send you for full details Your call may be recorded for training or monitoring purposes Baillie Gifford Savings Management Limited (BGSM) is the manager of the Baillie Gifford Investment Trust ISA and is wholly owned by Baillie Gifford amp Co which is the manager and secretary of the Scottish Mortgage Investment Trust PLC Your personal data is held and used by BGSM in accordance with data protection legislation We may use your information to send you information about Baillie Gifford products funds or special offers and to contact you for business research purposes We will only disclose your information to other companies within the Baillie Gifford group and to agents appointed by us for these purposes You can withdraw your consent to receiving further marketing communications from us and to being contacted for business research purposes at any time You also have the right to review and amend your data at any time
Wersquore 100 committed to making sure our fund managers never have a restricted outlook That way the long-term view is a clear one So whatrsquos the secret to their liberated attitude
Well our flagship fund the Scottish Mortgage Investment Trust is a global stock-picking fund that is completely free of asset allocation constraints that ignores index weightings and that selects stocks purely on their merit We feel that this freedom allows us to focus on the long term
The Scottish Mortgage Investment Trust is managed by Baillie Gifford
Please remember that changing stock market conditions and currency exchange rates will affect the value of your investment in the fund and any income from it You may not get back the amount invested
You can purchase Scottish Mortgage from Interactive Investor Alternatively you can invest directly with Baillie Gifford through our ISA Open an ISA with Baillie Gifford before 30 April and you can receive a pound10 Amazon gift card
For more information contact Baillie Gifford on 0800 917 2112 or visit wwwscottishmortgageitcomBaillie Gifford ndash long-term investment partners
Freedom to roam
WE LIVE IN A PERIOD OF EXPONENTIAL CHANGE PROVIDING FANTASTIC OPPORTUNITIES FOR STOCK PICKERS LIKE US
cent over one year and 229 per cent over three
Alastair Mundyrsquos Temple Bar Investment Trust focuses on UK equities including GlaxoSmithKline Vodafone and Royal Dutch Shell
It failed to outperform the UK equity income sector over one year despite its popular-ity posting a return of 18 per cent compared with the sectorrsquos 21 per cent However it per-formed better over three years returning 62 per cent against the sectorrsquos 56 per cent
INCOME AND SMALLER COMPANIES STILL IMPORTANTInvestors retained an interest in income and smaller-companies investment trusts in February ndash extending the same purchasing trend in January And they con-tinued to flock to UK-focused trusts as a safe haven
Although two of the 10 most-bought trusts Murray International Trust and Bankers Investment Trust invest in international equities both counted UK equities among their top holdings with the Bankers trust favouring BP GlaxoSmithKline and Vodafone
The other popular
losed-end fund inves-tors stuck closely to income trusts in February but seemed more willing to accept
risk than those purchasing open-ended funds the latest data from Interactive Investor shows
The three most popular trusts were regular investor favourites Baillie Giffordrsquos Scottish Mortgage Investment Trust Investecrsquos Temple Bar Investment Trust and Frostrow Capitalrsquos Biotech Growth Trust
While open-ended fund investors looked mainly to UK equities for income two of these three top invest-ment trusts have a worldwide focus James Anderson and Tom Slaterrsquos Scottish Mortgage Investment Trust which posted a sector-beating 27 per cent return over one year and 56 per cent over three invests in worldwide large-cap equi-ties such as Google and Apple while the Biotech Growth Trust taps the worldwide biotechnol-ogy industry through US equity investments
This trust managed by Geoffrey Hsu and Richard Klemm also beat its sector the biotechnology and healthcare sector with returns of 49 per
income trust Premier Asset Mangementrsquos Acorn Income fund invests in UK mid- and large-cap equities includ-ing Electrocomponents John Menzies and Cineworld Group It returned 46 per cent over the past year and 144 per cent over the past three It was the seventh most-bought trust by Interactive Investor users in February
The UK focus also character-ised investorsrsquo smaller-company trust choices The UK-favoured Henderson Smaller Companies Investment Trust and BlackRock Smaller Companies Investment Trust in sixth and tenth place respectively
Both benefited from the UK housing boom through invest-ments in Bellway and Ashtead Group and both outperformed the UK smaller-companies sec-tor which recorded returns of 37 per cent over one year and 66 per cent over three
INVESTORS RETAINED AN INTEREST IN INCOME AND SMALLER-COMPANIES TRUSTS IN FEBRUARY
CMARKET
YOUR MONTH IN THE
Julie Fisher reveals Februaryrsquos 10 most popular trusts
Bankers trust favours a mix of shares in UK and multinational companies
TRADING
10 March 2014 | inspired
AN APPETITE FOR RISK BOOSTS TRUSTSInvestors showed a greater appetite for risk by invest-ing more heavily in trusts As a result BlackRock World Mining Trust and Templeton Emerging Market Trust took the final two places on the list fourth and fifth
Unfortunately both have posted negative returns in recent years due to the fact that they are positioned in unfavour-able markets
While the BlackRock trust was slightly above the com-modities and natural resources sector over six months one year and three years the Templeton trust only outperformed the global emerging markets equi-ties sector over the past month However investors appear to be buying in in the hope that there will be some improvement in the next few years
Emerging markets fell back out of favour among fund investors in February while pur-
chases of UK and smaller company funds held firm the latest data from Interactive Investor shows
After a brief revival for emerging markets in January when three EM funds were among the 10 most bought Februaryrsquos most-popular funds were generally UK-focused
Paul Marriagersquos Cazenove UK Smaller Companies fund was knocked off the list after five consecutive months at the top as it closed to new purchases on 22 January allowing Januaryrsquos sec-ond-placed fund AXA Framlington Biotech to take top spot The US biotechnology-focused fund managed by Linden Thompson is popular as it delivered a return of 61 per cent over the past year and 164 per cent over the past three
Although the AXA fund has little in common with the other top purchases there are trends to be spotted in the rest of the list most of which continue from January Income was a focus for investors while UK smaller companies remained popular
lsquoThere were strong flows into funds investing in the UK and Europe whereas Asia excluding Japan and emerging markets suffered outflows following relatively weak per-formance in these regions since May 2013rsquo say Charles Cade and Ewan Lovett-Taylor in their report on fund trades in January lsquoPerhaps the most notable sub-sector is UK smaller company funds which have bene-fited from net inflows every month since August 2012rsquo
SMALLER COMPANIESAccording to Numis January saw the highest number of monthly inflows into smaller com-pany funds on record pound241 million The Interactive
Investor data shows these funds remained popular in February
Three smaller-company funds made it into the top 10 Investec UK Smaller Companies fund the River and Mercantile UK Equity Smaller Companies fund and the CF Miton UK Smaller Companies fund took third fourth and fifth place respectively
All three outperformed the UK smaller-companies sector which delivered returns of 32 per cent over one year and 55 per cent over three Gervais Williamsrsquos CF Miton fund pro-vided the best return over a year at 55 per cent while the River and Mercantile fund managed by Daniel Hanbury delivered 112 per cent over three years
Ken Hsiarsquos Investec fund had the least impressive returns at 47 per cent over one year and 79 per cent over three but still outperformed the sector The fund invests in small-cap UK companies including Quindell Optimal Payments and Utilitywise
INCOME EMPHASISThe other priority for inves-tors in February was income and this too was UK focused Of five income funds appear-ing in the 10 most-bought category only the Artemis Global Income fund had a non-UK focus
Jacob de Tusch-Lecrsquos fund which delivered returns of 14 per cent over one year and 47 over three invests chiefly
in European and US equi-ties The other most-bought income funds were Unicorn UK Income Rathbone Income JOHCM UK Equity and the Invesco Perpetual Income
They all beat the UK equity income sectorrsquos returns of 16 per cent over one year and 36 per cent over three All invested in large-cap UK com-panies with GlaxoSmithKline AstraZeneca and Royal Dutch Shell among the top holdings
Despite its focus on income the Invesco Perpetual High Income fund dropped out of the 10 most-bought funds in February and the Invesco Perpetual
Income fund appeared only at the end of the list This suggests that investors may be get-ting nervous over the
imminent departure of star fund manager Neil Woodford in April
One growth fund also made the list the MFM Slater Growth fund which took ninth place Like the income funds it outperformed its sec-tor UK all companies
and focused on UK-listed companies including
Hutchison China (HCM) and Entertainment One (ETO)
THE 10 TOP MOST-BOUGHT FUNDSANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
THEREWERESTRONGFLOWSINTOFUNDINVESTINGINTHE
UKANDEUROPEWHEREASASIAEXCLUDINGJAPANANDEMERGINGMARKETSSUFFEREDOUTFLOWSFOLLOWINGRELATIVELYWEAKPERFORMANCEINTHESEREGIONSSINCEMAY2013Charles Cade and Ewan Lovett-Taylor
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
inspired | March 2014 11
DONrsquoT DISMISS AIM-BASED INVESTMENTS
Richard Beddard is an editor at Interactive Investor and manager of Money Observerrsquos Share Sleuth portfolio
Now that inves-tors can buy Alternative Investment Market shares
within Isas the universe of potentially profitable invest-ments has grown But therersquos also more room for disappointment
Aimrsquos light-touch regula-tion makes it easier for younger smaller companies to list and while such shares are reputed to be risky that need not frighten
INVEST REGULARLY
Mick Gilligan head of research Killik amp Co
Starting an Isa at the beginning of a new tax year and investing small amounts
regularly out of your income ndash rather than a larger amount in one lump sum at the end of each tax year ndash helps reduce the impact of market volatility and you start earning compound interest sooner When income is reinvested alongside the initial investment it effectively becomes capital so you have a larger sum producing an income which in turn can be reinvested
trsquos very easy to keep on doing the same things with your annual tax-efficient Isa allow-ance However investors can lose out badly if they do
Itrsquos not just the Isa allowances that keep changing the economic environment and the range of investments available do too So itrsquos important that investors con-sider all the Isa opportunities open to them before they make a any big
irrevocable decisionsWersquove asked a number of invest-
ment experts to reveal their top Isa tips We are sure they will give you some useful guidelines and help you refine the choices you make Some suggestions are reminders about long-standing opportunities others draw your attention to new developments in Isa invest-ing and highlight the opportunities they offer
Isa investorswhether using some or all of their annual allowances donrsquot always get the best out of their investments Faith Glasgow asks some financial experts for their most valuable tips
investors from investing in Aim firms Plenty of them have long illustrious track records in worthy businesses and itrsquos easy to find out about them on finan-cial websites More details are available on companiesrsquo own investor relations websites the contents of which are mandated by Aim rule 26 a rule the more heavily regulated main market would do well to emulate
UP YOUR ISA CONTRIBUTIONS
Darius McDermott managing director Chelsea Financial Services
Donrsquot forget to increase your monthly Isa investments each year in line with
inspired | March 2014 1312 March 2014 | inspired
EXPERTSrsquo TOP ISA
TIPS
ISAS SMART STRATEGY FOR
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
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INVESTING SMALL AMOUNTS REGULARLY HELPS REDUCE THE IMPACT OF MARKET VOLATILITYMick Gilligan
ANT ORANGE
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I
and shares in [non-cash] Isas However this isnrsquot the case Indeed some other asset classes ndash in particular those that pro-duce income ndash offer even more tax benefits than equities when held within an Isa
Bond funds for example get (at least) 20 per cent income tax relief on the yield they pro-duce (dividends from equities in contrast are subjected to a 10 per cent tax at source which is not reclaimable even in an Isa)
The new property author-ised investment fund structure for property funds meanwhile means Isa investors no longer incur the 20 per cent tax that would previously have been applied on income received from a property investment
the increase in the contribution limit if you can afford to Itrsquos all too easy for regular investors with their money invested auto-matically every month to overlook those annual allow-ance increases And consider increasing your investment whenever you receive a salary increase
LOOK BEYOND STOCKS AND SHARES
Darius McDermott Chelsea Financial Services Some potential Isa investors think you can only hold stocks
PLOUGH INTO PROPERTYGavin Haynes managing director Whitechurch Securities
Many people donrsquot realise they can gain expo-sure to bricks and mortar through
commercial property funds held in a stocks and shares Isa
The asset class currently offers an attractive yield rela-tive to cash and bonds without the volatility of the stock market investments
Property funds are not with-out risk but an allocation to a commercial property fund (that invests directly in bricks and mortar not property shares) can add diversification to an Isa portfolio With the economic outlook improving the sector looks well placed for recovery
ACCEPT RISK BUT BE SURE TO DIVERSIFY
Rebecca OrsquoKeeffe head of investment Interactive Investor
The primary ben-efits of an Isa are felt over the long term so itrsquos important to rec-
ognise that taking on risk
inspired | March 2014 1312 March 2014 | inspired
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
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ISA BLUE
ITrsquoS ALL TOO EASY TO OVERLOOK THOSE ANNUAL ALLOWANCE INCREASESDariusMcDermott
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
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ISA BLUE
Isa can suddenly become a poorly paying one But never try to transfer an Isa yourself Contact the new provider first and follow its transfer rules
Remember the amount of money you can invest in a cash Isa in each tax year is capped (currently at pound5760) so if you want to switch in the middle of the tax year you will prob-ably be switching the entire amount ndash you cannot switch a portion of an existing Isa into a new one and top it up If your original Isa is due to pay you interest at the end of the year it should pay you the accrued interest up to the date you close the account
Itrsquos possible to transfer your cash Isa into a stocks and shares Isa if you decide this is a better home for you money but you canrsquot switch your money back from a stocks and shares Isa into a cash Isa
You can invest up to pound11520 in a stocks and shares Isa in a single tax year minus anything you may have paid into a cash Isa ndash which is capped at pound5760
over the long term is usually a far more profitable strategy than minimising risk Investors typi-cally take less risk than they should especially if they have suffered a loss in the past
You can mitigate your overall risk by diversifying across differ-ent asset classes and geographic areas Regular investing is also a great risk reduction strategy
Itrsquos also important to rec-ognise the value of dividend reinvestment and understand the benefit this compound-ing effect has on your portfolio And remember to choose a bro-ker that doesnrsquot penalise you for reinvesting
TRANSFER YOUR ISAS TO GET THE BEST DEALS
Mark King editor MoneywiseUnlike a stocks and shares Isa a cash Isa is a sim-ple savings account with a
tax-free Isa lsquowrapperrsquo placed around it so that you donrsquot pay tax on your interest
You can choose to have access to your money or tie it up until a future date just as with typical savings accounts Generally the longer you tie your money up for the better the interest rate you get
While a cash Isa is considered a low-risk investment ndash which sophisticated investors may find returns too little as a result ndash you can transfer a cash Isa should you decide you want to take on more risk or get a bet-ter rate Indeed you may have to transfer a cash Isa regularly Providers offer different rates that can change so a top-paying
From 6 April ndash the beginning of the 201415 tax year ndash however these limits rise to pound11880 and pound5940 respectively
LOOK AT THE LONG- TERM BENEFITS
Philippa Gee managing director Philippa Gee Wealth Management
Some investors look at the return on an Isa or at the limit on how much they can
invest in a single year and fail to see the value
However they would be wise to consider the longer-term view Those who have invested each year for a number of years have been able to build six- figure portfolios that they do not have to pay any further income or capital gains tax on or list on their tax assessment
By securing a significant sum in an Isa wrapper each year as far as yoursquore able you can build up a valuable flexible and tax-efficient investment
inspired | March 2014 PB14 March 2014 | inspired
EXPERTSrsquoTOP ISA
TIPS
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
TAKING ON RISK OVER THE LONG TERM IS USUALLY MORE PROFITABLERebecca OrsquoKeeffe
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
The ISA thatrsquos
fair and square
We believe in straightforward investing Thatrsquos why we donrsquot nibble at your investments with percentage charges Open an account and for pound20 per quarter you get two pound10 trades and an ISA for free After that itrsquos just pound10 per trade across a wide range of UK and international investmentsTransfer to us today and get up to pound240 as a thank you (terms apply) We believe thatrsquos fair and square
The value of investments and any income from them can fall as well as rise so you could get back less than you invest Tax treatment depends on your individual circumstances and may be subject to change If in any doubt please seek advice
iiicoukisa
Interactive Investor Trading Limited trading as ldquoInteractive Investorrdquo is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority Registered Office Standon House 21 Mansell Street London E1 8AA Tel 0845 200 3637 Registered in England with Company Registration number 3699618
hen new rules were introduced last August allowing the inclusion of Alternative Investment Market (Aim) shares in Isas demand for exposure to the junior market
quickly exceeded expectations Another surge in demand is likely in April as the new tax year dawns and investors have a fresh annual allow-ance to play with
Yet while stocks on Aim can boast eye-catching returns and attractive tax perks they can also be very volatile raising concerns that investors may be letting the tax tail wag the investment dog with-out understanding what they are getting into
The Treasuryrsquos decision to allow Aim shares into Isas was driven by a desire to encourage greater investment in small and medium-sized companies The move was immediately popular with investors and brokers reported a sharp rise in Aim-listed purchases Demand for smaller companies funds was up too as investors wary of direct share ownership
bought into funds offering exposure to Aim stocksIt helped that Aim stocks were enjoying a good
run as were smaller companies generally with the amount of money raised on the market over the summer rising sharply Performance is just one aspect of their appeal however
Aim shares already offered inheritance tax effi-ciency most of them qualify for business property relief making them exempt from IHT when held for two years or more However itrsquos worth noting that BPR is subject to change and a company can lose its eligibility and therefore its IHT relief status as a result Therefore investors wanting to continue benefiting from IHT relief have to switch out of such companies and into those still eligible
Wider income and capital gains tax benefits also drove some demand for Aim shares after the
Isa rule change in August The move created a bed- and-Isa opportunity whereby existing Aim share inves-tors sold their holdings and bought them back within an Isa
Among those quick
Alternative Investment Market stocks offer Isa investors a chance to realise heady returns ndash but you need to pick your holdings carefully because of the high risk of losses in an illiquid market says Jeff Salway
AIMSHARES
W
GEMSTO BE UNEARTHED
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
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ISA BLUE
WE WOULD ONLY INCLUDE AIM STOCKS
IN THE PORTFOLIOS OF ADVENTUROUS CLIENTS David Thomson
ANT ORANGE
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ISA BLUE
inspired | March 2014 17
THERE ARE
Treatt has built up an immaculate record of delivering profits
to take advantage was Lord Lee of Trafford the UKrsquos first Isa millionaire and author of How to Make a Million ndash Slowly My Guiding Principles from a Lifetime of Successful Investing lsquoI have a
big holding of Christie Group that was originally in my per-sonal equity planrsquo he says lsquoWhen the company moved to Aim [from the main market] I took it out of the Pep but when Aim shares became Isa-eligible I sold it and bought it back again within my Isarsquo
April 2014 will mark the removal of stamp duty from Aim purchases a develop-ment expected to encourage asset managers to launch a new wave of Aim-focused funds The axing of stamp duty makes the junior market more appeal-ing to companies on the main market as well with several recently moving across
Alec Stewart partner at Anderson Strathern Asset Management explains lsquoA company can reduce its regulatory burden by moving to the junior market with lower audit and compliance requirementsrsquo For example the main market
stipulates that any potential listing should have a market capitalisation no lower than pound700000 whereas therersquos no such guideline on the Aim mar-ket Nor do companies need a trading history to list on Aim compared with the three years required for the main market Moreover the cost of listing on Aim is considerably lower
But for many private investors the main appeal of Aim stocks lies largely in the prospect of sky-high returns from the success of small and fledgling companies There are some 1200 stocks on the market from a wide range of sectors ndash albeit with a heavy weighting in technology and especially natural resources and with a gulf in size between the biggest and smallest
The largest are eligible for the FTSE AIM 50 and the FTSE AIM 100 where the likes of Bowleven Majestic Wine Dobbies Asos and MampC Saatchi are listed
Stewart picks out three he favours as part of a diversified portfolio One is Dart Group The owner of Jet2com and Jet2Holidays Dart has had a lsquostrong runrsquo and is focused on becoming more fam-ily friendly in these budget-conscious times says Stewart lsquoIt benefits from good visibility of future bookings and strong cash generationrsquo he adds
Aerospace and defence firm Cohort is another with a lsquoprogressive dividend policyrsquo that has grown at an annualised rate of 20 per cent over
DEWHURST (pound520)Dewhurst is a well-established manu-facturer of lift pushbuttons indicators and controls keypads for ATMs security devices and petrol pumps and traffic management products such as bollards
The company has a long record of profitability under the stewardship of the Dewhurst family and a debt-free balance sheet That suggests it is a strong competitor
Profits fell in 2013 ndash a result of a slowdown in Dewhurstrsquos major markets and customers having stocked up in the previous year Management is quite cagey about the companyrsquos prospects for 2014 but an improved performance is likely as conditions in the UK and the US improve The shares are probably good value at 11 times adjusted 2013 earnings
MS INTERNATIONAL (pound204)MS International manufactures military hardware forks for forklift trucks and petrol station canopies and car washes
The company has been profitable in each of the past 10 years and has a balance sheet flush with cash yet the share price has fallen to a level that val-ues MSI at five times adjusted 2013
earnings MSIrsquos current unpopularity stems from a decline in the profitability of MSI Defence Systems which has the highest turnover of its three businesses
The company expects 2014 to be no easier than 2013 due to continu-ing pressure on defence spending but itrsquos confident it will add to defence work already contracted and scheduled for every year until 2020
Itrsquos quite possible that MSI is having a lull that does not reflect on the qual-ity of its products or businesses If thatrsquos the case itrsquos a bargain
TREATT (pound747)Treatt distills flavourings and frag-rances essential oils and water-soluble essences Its products are used in drinks confectionery sauces and cosmetics worldwide
The companyrsquos expertise and close customer relationships might give it a competitive advantage and it has never suffered a loss However it has ushered out managing director Hugo Bovill and his family has sold its interest
Management with large share-holdings gives companies some independence from the often short-term imperatives of fund managers
However the new team is focused on controlling costs and developing the most profitable products
Profit grew 28 per cent in 2013 and Treattrsquos long-term prospects are prob-ably good but the share price has spiked valuing the shares at 15 times adjusted 2013 earnings
FW THORPE (pound143)FW Thorpe designs and manufactures light fittings known as luminaires They are becoming increasingly complex with the introduction of LED technology that requires printed circuit boards Its main business is Thorlux which supplies lighting to schools hospitals ware-houses and factories Other subsidiaries supply retailers emergency exit signage and cleanroom lighting
Stable family ownership long indus-try experience and a commitment to modernisation and investment are the keys to Thorpersquos prosperity
Although it has to contend with the additional investment required to produce LED lighting Thorpe is manag-ing the transition well The shares cost pound137 which values the company at about 15 times adjusted 2013 earnings Thatrsquos a fair price for a quality company
Richard Beddard picks out four Aim-listed companies worth considering for inclusion in a diversified Isa share portfolio
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
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I TRANSFERRED INTO MY ISA A BIG
HOLDING OF CHRISTIE GROUP THAT USEDTO BE IN MY PEPLord Lee of Trafford
ANT ORANGE
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ISA BLUE
AIMSHARES
18 March 2014 | inspired
the past three years he adds Among food pro-ducers he likes Wynnstay It has lsquobenefited from strong revenue and pre-tax profitsrsquo increasing its interim dividend by 9 per cent
But therersquos ample cause for caution too because Aim shares are typically far riskier than those listed on the main market Not only is there the vol-atility inherent in shares issued by smaller firms but there remains the potential for liquidity issues even after the surge of money into the market in recent months Haig Bathgate chief investment officer at Turcan Connell says lsquoThey are by impli-cation of their size much less liquid in terms of the shares that trade hands on a daily basis so they are prone to more extreme price movementsrsquo
UK investors may also be averse to Aim stocks that are effectively overseas companies Indeed many Aim fund portfolios specifically exclude both these and natural resources firms as well as stocks that donrsquot offer business property relief
lsquoSignificant numbers of companies have failed to deliver on expectations in this part of the mar-ket and it is also quite heavily weighted towards technology (12 per cent) resources (9 per cent) and oil and gas companies (22 per cent)rsquo says Bathgate There are transparency concerns too due to the less stringent regulatory and company reporting requirements on the Aim market
lsquoWe would only include Aim stocks within the
portfolios of adventurous clients and then only up to a maximum of 10 per centrsquo says David Thomson chief investment officer at VWM Wealth lsquoEven then the bulk of this is likely to be via a venture capital trust where the investor can also enjoy 30 per cent income tax relief providing a further cushion against the volatility of Aim sharesrsquo
Collective investment funds and trusts offer a way into Aim stocks that provides useful diversification and so reduces the risk of heavy losses Investment trusts can offer particular advantages where Aim-listed shares are concerned as their closed-ended status gives them a hedge against the market liquidity issues that can affect Aim stocks Among the growing number of UK smaller companies investment trusts in which Aim shares are prominent are those run by BlackRock Standard Life and Aberforth Unit trusts invest-ing in Aim companies include the LampG UK Alpha Trust and Cazenove UK Smaller Companies
However there is a downside to access-ing Aim through funds and trusts as investors no longer benefit from the IHT-free status that direct holders of Aim stocks enjoy The risk of hefty losses remains the biggest caveat to investing in Aim
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
AIMSHARESAREMUCHLESS
LIQUIDINTERMSOFTHESHARESTHATTRADEHANDSDAILYHaig Bathgate
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
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ISA BLUE
inspired | March 2014 19
Clockwise from top Cohort Wynnstay and Jet2com are Stewartrsquos picks for a diversified portfolio
rewarding such as smaller companies private equity and emerging markets
Trusts can also increase their assets by borrow-ing So long as this gearing is sensibly priced it should accelerate the trustrsquos gains in positive mar-ket conditions However gearing will exacerbate losses in any downturn The possible closing of the discount will also enhance share price returns
SOLID GROWTHBaillie Gifford Global DiscoveryThis fund picked by independent financial adviser Brian Dennehy invests globally in growth stocks especially companies operating in industries with potential for structural change and innova-tion Dennehy says manager Douglas Brodie has had considerable experience and success in iden-tifying growth opportunities particularly among exciting smaller-cap stocks
CF Lindsell Train UK EquityJohn Husselbee head of multi-asset at Liontrust Asset Management prefers investors to traders Renowned investor Warren Buffett takes a similar view and Husselbee says fund manager Nick Train invests like Buffett Train looks to buy great com-panies such as Burberry Heineken and Unilever when they are good value and hold them lsquoforeverrsquo
Cazenove UK Opportunities This fund aims to achieve long-term capital growth from a focused portfolio of large and medium-sized UK companies Gavin Haynes managing
huge variety of investment funds rang-ing from generalist funds to highly specialised versions aim to generate capital growth for investors
Investing in a specific fund entails investors accepting different degrees of risk in return for a range of potential rewards So when we asked financial advisers to predict which funds offer the best prospects for growth in 2014 we also urged them to consider which types of investor the funds would suit best
Solid growth funds will appeal to investors who prefer steady investment while higher-risk growth funds are likely to be more volatile and appeal to those with a higher risk tolerance Speculative funds could produce handsome returns this year but they could also dip sharply in value
Closed-ended status means investment trusts can invest in less liquid asset classes without having to worry about realising their holdings in a market setback This enables them to invest in areas that have historically proved particularly
A
Helen Pridham and Fiona Hamilton have rounded up a collection of investment funds and trusts experts believe will prosper in the year ahead for investors looking to cash in on an improving economic outlook
PERFECT YOUR FUND PORTFOLIOTO SEE IT
GROW
inspired | March 2014 2120 March 2014 | inspired
FUNDSAND
TRUSTS
GROW
inspired | March 2014 2120 March 2014 | inspired
A
RE Y
OU
A
GLO
BAL
INV
ESTO
R Take a global view of investment trusts expertly managed by Henderson
For over 75 years Henderson Global Investors has been at the forefront of investment trust innovation and development Now with a diverse and established range of managed investment trusts and investment companies Henderson has a global view of the market
Whether you are retirement planning investing for your children looking to take advantage of dynamic global markets or want a cautious investment approach our managed companies offer a wide range of investment objectives and strategies professionally managed by regional experts
If your priority is high income long term capital growth or a mixture of both Henderson Global Investors has a range of solutions which aims to meet your investment needs
Please remember that past performance is not a guide to future performance The value of an investment and the income from it can fall as well as rise as a result of market and currency fluctuations and you may not get back the amount originally invested
Call to receive your Investment Trust brochure or visit wwwhendersoninvestmenttrustscom
0800 856 5656
Investment Trusts managed by Henderson
Issued in the UK by Henderson Global Investors Henderson Global Investors is the name under which Henderson Global Investors Limited (reg no 906355) Henderson Fund Management Limited (reg no 2607112) Henderson Investment Funds Limited (reg no 2678531) Henderson Investment Management Limited (reg no 1795354) Henderson Alternative Investment Advisor Limited (reg no 962757) Henderson Equity Partners Limited (reg no2606646) Gartmore Investment Limited (reg no 1508030) (each incorporated and registered in England and Wales with registered office at 201 Bishopsgate London EC2M 3AE) are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority to provide investment products and services Telephone calls may be recorded and monitored H0046521113ad
Itrsquos a global marketplace
HGiTrusts
director at Whitechurch Securities says fund manager Julie Dean has built up an excellent track record
Securities Trust of ScotlandRobin McAdam likes Securities Trust of Scotland which seeks rising income and long-term capi-tal growth from global equities The trust yields 33 per cent so it provides income and growth potential lsquoThe trust has outperformed its bench-mark recently and we expect this to continuersquo says McAdam
Finsbury Growth amp Income TrustPeter Hewitt nominates Finsbury Growth amp Income Trust on the basis of its strong short- and long-term performance Manager Nick Train seeks out the highest-quality companies to hold long term The portfolio is dominated by companies Train expects to have longevity such as Diageo Unilever and Heineken lsquoThe manager looks for strong cash gen-eration and dividend growth which he believes are undervalued by the stock marketrsquo Hewitt says
RIT Capital PartnersThis multi-asset trust selected by John Newlands is the flagship financial vehicle for its chairman Lord Jacob Rothschild and his family lsquoGiven the uncertainty in the world it is no bad thing to be diversified both globally and across a range of asset classes RIT is a global growth trust that offers a combination of these benefitsrsquo Newlands says
His enthusiasm is bolstered by RITrsquos current relatively wide discount which reflects disap-pointment among investors that it was rather too cautious over the past two or three years
Perpetual Income amp Growth Trust This trust is classified as a member of the AIC UK growth and income sector but its yield tends to be below the sector average because manager Mark Barnett is more interested in income growth than immediate income Tim Cockerill classifies it as a total return trust and makes it his solid growth choice Barnett has secured excellent long-term returns dur-ing his 15 years at the helm
HIGHER-RISK GROWTHLazard Emerging MarketsMick Gilligan believes the investment case for emerging market equi-ties remains strong He says lsquoEquity markets in emerging regions are trading at their widest price-to-earnings discount to developed markets since 2006 We believe many well-capitalised businesses that have shown strong financial discipline should gener-ate good profitsrsquo The Lazard Emerging Markets fund focuses on such businesses
Rathbone Global OpportunitiesThis go-almost-anywhere bottom-up thorough stockpicking fund looks for undiscovered gems Rob Burdett fund manager at Thames River believes manager James Thomson strikes the
KEY FACTS ABOUT GROWTH FUND TIPS
Mininv pound
Ongoing Charges
1-yearreturn
Sectorrank
SOLID GROWTHBaillie Gifford Global Discovery 1000 086 5920 2248CF Lindsell Train UK Equity ndash 080 2910 53271Cazenove UK Opportunities 1000 082 3210 40271 HIGHER-RISK GROWTHInvestec Global Energy 1000 087 1420 40206Lazard Emerging Markets 2000 161 320 1668Rathbone Global Opportunities 1000 082 2150 111248 SPECULATIVE GROWTHAllianz BRIC Stars 500 122 -120 134206Liontrust Special Situations 1000 114 1450 251271MampG Recovery 500 096 1330 264271Note Ongoing charges figure refers to the least expensive retail share class Source Financial Express and companies websites as at 3 December 2013
KEY FACTS ABOUT THE TRUSTS TIPPED FOR GROWTH
Shareprice
p
Discprem to NAV
Netyield
Gearing
Net asset valuetotal return after
1 year
3 years
5 years
SOLID GROWTHFinsbury Growth amp Income 5010 (+) 12 21 50 305 767 2038Perpetual Income amp Growth 3686 10 32 120 346 714 1407RIT Capital Partners 12480 105 11 50 210 225 591Securities Trust of Scotland 1469 (+) 31 32 40 192 460 1132 HIGHER-RISK GROWTHBiotech Growth Trust 4335 72 00 70 582 1723 2968Fidelity Chinese Special Sits 1062 65 09 210 433 02 ndashGraphite Enterprise Trust 5690 170 09 -90 167 442 405Schroder Asia Pacific 2730 92 14 -20 08 201 1779 SPECULATIVE GROWTHBaker Steel Resources 470 331 00 10 -57 -137 740Hansa Trust A 8600 243 23 10 142 69 947Impax Environmental Markets 1463 112 06 -20 350 285 921Standard Life Eq Inc subscription 1070 ndash 00 3700 ndash ndash ndashNotes NAV = net asset value Annualised All data as at 1 December Source Numis Securities
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
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ISA BLUE
MARK BARNETT HAS SECURED
EXCELLENT RETURNSTim Cockerill
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
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ISA BLUE
inspired | March 2014 23PB March 2014 | inspired
FUNDSANDTRUSTS
right balance between taking calculated risks for high returns and investing in defensive holdings Burdett says lsquoHe likes companies undertaking gentle innovation ndash moving online for example ndash rather than game changers which have more potential to go wrongrsquo Investec Global EnergyThis fund invests in companies that produce energy and provide services to the energy sector Fund managers Tom Nelson and Charles Whall believe the consensus view on future oil prices anticipates weak demand and growing supply from US shale oil But they demur as does Tony Yarrow at Wise Investment He says lsquoOil is harder to extract from shale than gas is while demand for oil is growing as economies recover A higher oil price feeds straight through to the companiesrsquo profitsrsquo
Biotech Growth TrustPeter Hewitt favours Biotech Growth Trust which has achieved scorching gains recently ndash up 172 per cent over three years to 1 December 2013
It is managed in New York by Orbimed a specialist healthcare and biotechnology investor with $7 bil-lion (pound42 billion) under management It offers exposure to a mix of large and profitable biotech companies along-side emerging businesses Most of its holdings are US-based and they have
benefited from a much more positive approach by the Federal Drug Authority ndash new drug approvals in 2010 were the highest for 10 years
Graphite Enterprise TrustAndrew McHattie contends that just one sector offers great value private equity lsquoThese trusts were hammered in the credit crisis and discounts widened to extreme levelsrsquo he says
His selection is Graphite Enterprise Trust Its discount to net asset value remains at a level that rings alarm bells in most other sectors but it has a strong track record and a relatively mature port-folio of shares he expects to rise in value
Fidelity Chinese Special SituationslsquoWith Chinese equities looking cheap the long-term outlook for investing in China is positiversquo Cockerill says lsquoThis fund invests in medium and small caps where high growth can be achieved New manager Dale Nicholls is well qualified and the combination of Fidelity manager experience and China is compelling in the long termrsquo
Scottish Oriental Smaller Companies Trust This trust is favoured by McAdam The invest-ment team identifies quality companies offering sustainable predictable growth lsquoThe trust may underperform if the market rises strongly but the teamrsquos enviable track record and experience should be respectedrsquo he says
Tim Cockerill is investment director at Rowan Dartington
RowanDartingtonhas20investmentadvisersbasedinsevenofficesacrossthesouthofEnglandIthaspound900millionunderman-
agementInvestmenttrustshavefeaturedinitsdiscretionaryandadvisoryportfoliosformanyyears
Peter Hewittis a member of FampC Asset Managementrsquos global equities team
HehasmanagedtheFampCManagedPortfolioTrustsinceApril2008aswellasitsforerunnerFampCManagedPortfolio
Servicesince2002HewasheadofUKequitiesatMurray
Johnstonefrom1981to1983beforejoiningIvoryampSime
Jean Mattersonis a partner and chief investment officer at Rossie House Investment Management
Shejoinedthefirmin1998after20yearswithassetmanagerStewartIvory
BasedinEdinburghsheisoneoffiveinvestment
professionalsmanagingaroundpound300mil-lionallonadiscretionarybasisAroundhalfisininvestmenttrusts
Robin McAdamjoined Brooks MacDonald Asset Management in 2009 from Adam amp Company Investment Management
Hehas24yearsrsquoexperi-encemanagingprivateclientportfoliosandheadsBMrsquosEdinburghbranch
Thefirmhaspound537billionunderdiscretionarymanagementinbespokeandmanagedportfolios
Andrew McHattieis head of The McHattie Group
McHattieGroupisanauthorisedfirmthatpublishesspecialistinvestmentnewsletters
McHattiehasbeentheeditorofInvestmentTrustNewslettersince1996(wwwtipsheetscouk)andoffersafreeservicecalledthelsquoitlistrsquo(wwwtheitlistcouk)ThecompanyhasaFacebookpage(wwwfacebookcominvestmenttrusts)
John Newlandsis responsible for investment trust research at Brewin Dolphin
Heissupportedbyfouranalystswhocoverspecificsectorsresearchingopen-andclosed-endedfunds
BrewinDolphinhas35officesaroundtheUKandChannelIslandsandmanagespound28billionofwhichpound39billionisininvestmenttrusts
TrusttipstersOursixexpertsrevealtheirtopfundpicks
inspired | March 2014 PB24 March 2014 | inspired
FUNDSAND
TRUSTS
One in twelve goes free on your next golf break plus every golfer receives a free pint
12thmansagimme
Book online at MarriottGolfcouk
Offer is only valid on residential golf bookings booked during the promotional dates For every 11 players booked the 12th player will be free of charge Rates are per person per night based on 2 people sharing a twindouble room and include dinner bed amp breakfast Bookings must be made by one named player and separate bookings will not qualify Each residential player aged 18 and over will receive a voucher entitling them to a complimentary pint
of Beckrsquos or Boddingtons Offer is valid on bookings made via 3rd parties Offer is available on 1 night 2 rounds or 2 night 3 rounds and excludes Sunday Driver Maximum of 2 night stay and 2 people per room Day of week availability may vary based on location Limited number of rooms may be available This offer applies to new bookings only at Marriott Hotel amp Country Clubs and offer courses and tee times are subject to availability Offer cannot
be used in conjunction with any other promotion Course terms and conditions apply Advance reservations required Book between 17th February and 29th June 2014 for stays between 4th April and 29th September 2014
The SIPP thatrsquos
fair and square
We believe in straightforward investing Thatrsquos why we donrsquot nibble at your SIPP with percentage fees For just pound144 per year you can open a SIPP and add an ISA for free After that itrsquos just pound10 to buy or sell a wide range of investments including shares funds bonds and gilts Open an account today and if you transfer your existing SIPP wersquoll give you up to pound240 as a thank you (terms apply) We believe thatrsquos fair and square
The value of investments and any income from them can fall as well as rise so you could get back less than you invest Tax treatment depends on your individual circumstances and may be subject to change If in any doubt please seek advice
iiicouksipp
Interactive Investor Trading Limited trading as ldquoInteractive Investorrdquo is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority Registered Office Standon House 21 Mansell Street London E1 8AA Tel 0845 200 3637 Registered in England with Company Registration number 3699618
SPECULATIVE GROWTHMampG RecoveryDennehy says manager Tom Dobell backs his convictions engages with companies he invests in and has delivered long-term outperformance lsquoDobellrsquos MampG Recovery fund has a clear value-style process and management stability It invests in a wide range of firms that are out of favour or in difficulty or whose prospects are not fully rec-ognised by the marketrsquo he says
Liontrust Special SituationsHusselbee says Liontrustrsquos Anthony Cross and Julian Fosh have their own unique philosophy He adds lsquoThey look for characteristics in a company that its competitors find difficult to replicate such as intellectual property or distribution channelsrsquo
Allianz Bric StarsThis fund aims for capital growth in the long term by investing mainly in Brazil Russia India and China Haynes says investors have shunned these markets recently and valuations fallen He adds lsquoFor investors looking for a recovery story this fund is worth considerationrsquo
Standard Life Equity Income subscription shareMcHattie says warrant and subscription shares are widely ignored creating opportunities for those who understand them He favours the subscrip-tion shares of Standard Life Equity Income which can be exercised at 320p a share up to the end of December 2016 lsquoThey offer gearing of 37 times and if the ordinary shares grow by more than 28 per cent a year between now and the end of 2016 the subscription shares ought to outperformrsquo
Impax Environmental MarketsMcAdam likes this trust It invests in companies seeking to provide cleaner or more-efficient energy as well as water and waste solutions to the growing problems faced by authorities around the world It offers exposure to a rapidly changing marketplace as well as to socially responsible investments
Hansa TrustJohn Newlands sees potential in the A shares of Hansa Trust which languish at a discount of more than 25 per cent He says that whereas the trustrsquos portfolio appears skewed with a third of its assets in Ocean Wilsons there is actually plenty of diversification because Ocean Wilsons has an investment portfolio that stands at a discount to underlying value lsquoOne day an attractive bid [may] be made for Ocean Wilsons that will enhance Hansarsquos NAV and sim-plify its capital structure all to the good of its market ratingrsquo Newlands says
Baker Steel Resources TrustJean Matterson hopes for good returns from this trust shares in which trade on a near 30 per cent discount lsquoIt has not had an easy run of late but we believe the underlying assets are attractive and that the mining projects in the companyrsquos portfo-lio will continue to progressrsquo she says
Prospects have improved for biotechs (left) while growing interest in sustain-able energy has boosted Impax
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
AHIGHEROILPRICEFEEDSSTRAIGHT
THROUGHTOPROFITSTony Yarrow
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
inspired | March 2014 27PB March 2014 | inspired
FUNDSANDTRUSTS
The world of funds and trusts is a confusing place with over 2300 funds and more than 300 investment trusts to choose from
Money Observerrsquos Rated Funds system narrows down the playing field to help you decide which funds and investment trusts might be best for you
Our team of experts constantly monitor the marketplace rating those funds that have delivered consistently good returns However you should be aware that there is no guarantee this performance will be repeated
With our comparison tool you can filter by whatrsquos important to you compare up to four funds and trusts side-by-side as well as view factsheets
COMPAREMONEY OBSERVER RATED FUNDS
VISIT MONEYOBSERVERCOMCOMPAREFUNDS AND LOOK OUT FOR THE RATED FUND STAMP
had spare cash or I were start-ing afresh The companies in the add category are high qual-ity judging by the strategies they follow and their finan-cial strength and are probably undervalued
Irsquom more likely to eject or reduce holdings in companies in the watch and specula-tive categories These shares are more risky either because they have risen greatly in price or because their prospects are more uncertain than usual I may think the risk is worth tak-ing but I am prepared to act should that calculation change
Every decision to increase a portfolio holding must be weighed against the potential of new candidates drawn from all companies listed in the UK and corralled into another live spreadsheet the Share Sleuth watchlist When I add a share to the watchlist or trade a share in the portfolio I explain this in the Share Sleuth blog
ccumulating income and capital gains in an index tracking fund is inexpensive takes little effort and all but guarantees an
average return so it should be the default investment for a lazy equity investor saving for the long term
To justify the work of decid-ing which shares to buy and sell and the effort and cost of placing trades an active investor must do better Consequently the first objective of the active Share Sleuth portfolio is to beat passive investments after costs over the long-term which in practice means any five-year period The second objective is to win this tussle against an unknowing and unthinking opponent transparently
At the heart of the portfolio is an online spreadsheet The first page shows the constitu-ent shares arranged into three categories lsquoaddrsquo lsquowatchrsquo and lsquospeculativersquo The categorisa-tion is updated daily based on live data in subsequent spread-sheets each of which contains a financial model for a particular company
The Share Sleuth portfo-lio shows the holdings I would add to the portfolio today if it
Share Sleuth is a simulation no money changes hands But I use prices quoted by a bro-ker and adjust the accounting to factor in notional broker fees and stamp duty However I lsquoeat my own cookingrsquo by investing my self-invested personal pen-sion in Share Sleuth companies
No doubt you are wonder-ing how the portfolio is doing Share Sleuthrsquos five-year anni-versary judgement day is on 9 September this year and I will not prejudge it now
Short-term performance watching and the knee-jerk trad-ing it encourages is I think one reason why many inves-tors fail My focus is on ensuring the portfolio remains invested in good companies at reasona-ble prices
You can see a live perfor-mance table and learn what I think of every share in the port-folio and which companies I might add to it at wwwiiicoukZkr
SHAREBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIOR
The Share Sleuth portfolio has been carefully devised to show investors how to find good companies at cheap prices and also prove the value of its investment approach says Richard Beddard
Richard Beddard an editor at Interactive Investor since 1999 has managed the Share Sleuth portfolio since 9 September 2009 Hersquos a columnist at Money Observer magazine and a private investor
AMY FOCUS IS ON ENSURING THAT THE PORTFOLIO IS INVESTED IN GOOD FIRMS AT DECENT PRICES
inspired | March 2014 29PB March 2014 | inspired
SHARESLEUTH
iiicoukstraightforward
Interactive Investor Trading Limited trading as ldquoInteractive Investorrdquo is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority Registered Office Standon House 21 Mansell Street London E1 8AA Tel 0845 200 3637 Registered in England with Company Registration number 3699618
We believe in being straightforwardthis is why we donrsquot nibble at your investment by charging percentage fees Find out how this could affect your investment performance at iiicoukstraightforward
If you transfer to us you can even get up to pound240 as a thank you (terms apply)
Donrsquot forget the value of investments and any income from them can fall as well as rise so you could get back less than you invest If in any doubt please seek advice
7784_II_QI_MONEY_OBSERVER_210x297_AWindd 1 16012014 1224
Take a closer look
at your investment
options
Discover a straightforward way to understand everything from ISAs to SIPPs and OEICs to Investment Trusts
Investing for generationsEver feel yoursquod like to know more about investing Wersquove been helping people build their wealth for over 125 years Our guide lsquoMaking sense of the investment universersquo is just one of the resources yoursquoll find on our Investment Focus hub
As well as clear simple guides therersquos a wealth of information and expert opinion all designed to help you take control of your investments Please remember that investments can go down as well as up and investors may get back less than they originally invested
Introducing your free online source of information help and expert opinion
investment-focuscouk
This has been approved as a financial promotion by Alliance Trust Investments Limited for the purpose of Section 21 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 Alliance Trust Investments Limited is a subsidiary of Alliance Trust PLC and is registered in Scotland No SC330862 registered office 8 West Marketgait Dundee DD1 1QN is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority firm reference number 479764 Alliance Trust Investments gives no financial or investment advice
TAX YEAR ENDS APRIL 5TH ndash learn more about
your options now
Investment Focus Smart Insight from Alliance Trust
Yoursquove spoken Wersquove listened Introducing your free online source of information help and expert opinion
Based on real insight we have launched a new website which focuses on investment education
We believe that we are uniquely positioned to provide this hub of information based on the reputation we have built for trust and transparency over the last 125 years
We will be publishing new content over the next few months focusing on specific themes
bull Investing from scratch
bull Products in a portfolio
bull Global diversification
bull Planning for your familyrsquos future
bull Retirement planning
bull Getting more information
There is a generation of future investors out there who have been brought up in an era of economic turmoil and banking crises which has led to disillusionment and a lack of trust in our sector and the services we offer Despite it being more important than ever for investors to take control of their financial situation this new generation of savers lacks the basic knowledge and understanding to make these very important long-term decisions
Our goal is to develop a useful resource with contributions from third-parties as well as the team at Alliance Trust which offers insights into the various life stages and challenges faced and which can be built upon and adapted to meet savers needs in the long term
Katherine Garrett-Cox CBE Chief Executive Alliance Trust PLC
ldquo
rdquo
There are too many products to make an informed decision
I donrsquot know whereto go for reliable
information
investment-focuscouk
Yoursquoll naturally take a keen interest in the performance of your investments But itrsquos just as important to understand the fees you will be paying as they can have a significant impact on the returns you achieve Knowing what the different types of costs mean and exactly what they consist of can prove rewarding
Itrsquos worth remembering that for every fee you pay (whether it is a or flat fee) your investment needs to grow by at least the same amount just to stay ahead of the game It sounds obvious but itrsquos easy to forget Broadly speaking there are three types of fees fund fees platform fees and fees for a financial adviser You can either invest directly into a fund and pay the associated fees or you can invest via a platform provider (some of which are referred to as wrap platforms others as fund supermarkets) This is a service that lets you manage and review all your investments online in one place As a general rule fund fees are lower when
bought through a platform than if you buy direct You can invest through a platform on either an execution only basis where the investor assesses the risks and makes their own investment decisions or on an advised basis
Learn more about fund platform and financial advice fees
What can you expect to seeOver the next two pages we have provided a sneak preview of just some of the information you will find on the Investment Focus hub We will be updating the site regularly so make sure you sign up for our email alerts to be informed when new topics are published
Everything you need to know about fees
Risk informationInvestments can go down as well as up You may get back less than you originally invested
Alliance Trust does not give advice You need to ensure you understand the risks and commitments before investing If you are unsure you should consult a Financial Adviser before investing
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
For the vast majority of investors the simplest cheapest and most pragmatic way to invest is through pooled funds
Sometimes called managed funds unit trusts or even Open-Ended Investment Companies (or OEICs) these are designed to give ordinary savers access to a diverse range of investments
One of the principles of investment is that diversification helps reduce risk But it is expensive and time consuming for ordinary savers to buy shares of 80 to 100 different companies and keep track of how each is performing
But with a managed fund you are pooling your money with other investors enabling the fund manager to buy a wide range of assets
Investors have the option of buying an actively managed or passive fund With an active fund the manager selects and then monitors these stocks for investors in a bid to maximise returns
In contrast a passive fund will simply follow a stock market index such as the FTSE100 up and down
Having a manager at the helm can be beneficial in a market downturn as they can take a more defensive approach buying shares that are better able to hold their value or in some cases switching to bonds or cash instead to help preserve investorsrsquo capital Managers can also research individual companies and markets and have access to forecasts and economic data that isnrsquot always available to individuals
Learn more about investing for growth or income exploring different investment remits how to invest and keeping track of your investments
Understanding funds Written by Emma Simon Personal Finance Journalist
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
What are Investment TrustsInvestment Trusts are investment vehicles that are listed on the London Stock Exchange and which invest in shares and other securities They pool together investorsrsquo money and delegate responsibility to a professional fund manager to invest in a range of companies from different sectors and regions across the world They were designed for ldquothe investor of moderate meansrdquo
A brief historybull The first Investment Trust was launched by Foreign amp
Colonial in 1868
bull Investment Trusts made it possible for individual investors to gain diversified exposure to global stock markets
bull Many Investment Trusts were formed in Scotland including Alliance Trust PLC which was formed over 125 years ago
A guide to Investment Trusts
Learn more about Investment Trusts their main features and why you should consider them for your portfolio
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
Alliance Trust is an investment and savings business with over 125 year history of building investor wealth We offer our shareholders clients and customers a unique portfolio of products and services These range from a renowned global investment trust to an innovative range of investment strategies and funds and a multi-award winning investment platform where investors can host their ISAs SIPPs or investment accounts Our mission is to provide products and services that help to ensure a more sustainable financial future for generations of investors
Alliance Trust PLC is one of the largest generalist investment trusts by market value listed on the London Stock Exchange and is the parent company to two wholly-owned subsidiaries Alliance Trust Savings and Alliance Trust Investments
The fact that many of us make irrational decisions when it comes to our finances is widely debated and is often referred to as behavioural finance In this short video we talk to Professor Phyl Johnson Consultant Psychologist and Visiting Professor of Executive Education at Strathclyde Business School about why this is and more importantly about what we can do as individuals to avoid it
About us Alliance Trust Investments is a specialist fund management business offering a range of products and services focusing on global equities fixed income and sustainable investing with an emphasis on specialist investment solutions
Alliance Trust Savings is one of the UKrsquos leading financial services providers for private investors offering customers the information and services they need to manage their investments in a way that works for them
Risk informationInvestments can go down as well as up You may get back less than you originally invested
Alliance Trust does not give advice You need to ensure you understand the risks and commitments before investing If you are unsure you should consult a Financial Adviser before investing
Unusually for a company of our size around 70 of shares
in Alliance Trust are held by private
individuals
Nobodyrsquos perfect why we all make irrational decisions
Inflation by ageThis monthrsquos official inflation report showed that the headline rate of inflation fell from 20 to 19 Our Economic Research Team analyse this data on a monthly basis to see how inflation rates affect different age groups In February 2014 the summary highlights include
bull The over 75s and the under 30s face the highest rate of inflation in January at 21
bull The over 75s suffered the highest rate of inflation for the whole of 2013 and this trend continues into 2014 as they spend a larger share of their budgets on basic goods such as gas and electricity
bull The 65 to 74 year olds have faced the lowest rate of inflation in 11 out of the last 12 months thanks to lower inflation in food petrol and package holidays
Learn more about how inflation might affect you
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
You can also sign up for our regular email alerts to be informed when new topics are published by clicking here
Wersquove been bringing clarity to investment for over 125 years
Investing for generationsWhen it comes to investing therersquos no substitute for experience And at Alliance Trust wersquove been helping people invest since 1888 Our new Investment Focus hub is full of online information and expert opinion It aims to provide real insight to help you take control of your investments
Over the next few weeks the hub will build to cover everything from taking your first steps to diversifying worldwide Please remember that investments can go down as well as up and investors may get back less than they originally invested For valuable insight from Alliance Trust visit Investment Focus today
Introducing your free online source of information help and expert opinion
investment-focuscouk
This has been approved as a financial promotion by Alliance Trust Investments Limited for the purpose of Section 21 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 Alliance Trust Investments Limited is a subsidiary of Alliance Trust PLC and is registered in Scotland No SC330862 registered office 8 West Marketgait Dundee DD1 1QN is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority firm reference number 479764 Alliance Trust Investments gives no financial or investment advice
TAX YEAR ENDS APRIL 5TH ndash learn more about
your options now
Change the way you think about stocks reap the rewardsBy Edward Page Croft CEO Stockopediacom
I remember so clearly the day when I picked my first stock for clients Managing $2 billion (pound12 billion) in assets across 100 portfolios for high-net-wealth private investors is no easy task As I was to learn when you are green
and straight out of university itrsquos even harder The stock in question was on the Goldman
Sachs US lsquobuyrsquo list It had the potential to be hot Dotcoms were bubbling It was an internet stock in education services and cheap It seemed like it had everything but we needed to get in One day it fell out of bed Down 50 per cent on no news
Irsquod been trained to call the analyst in situations like this He reiterated his buy stance Double buy On my insistence we put almost $20 million of client money into the stock within an hour The next day it fell another 50 per cent on
bad newsThere is nothing more
painful than a loss but you never forget the first
one It immedi-ately forced me to reconsider every-thing I thought I
knew From that day on I vowed to never trust anotherrsquos opin-ion and find a better
way through the market minefieldIrsquove now spent 15 years
reassessing common
wisdom about stock selection No stone has gone unturned in the quest to understand the behav-ioural flaws that lead to poor decision making But there is one finding that crops up again and again in all the research that hurts stock market investors most We as investors are suckers for stories
A 1990rsquos study of 60000 private investor broker-age accounts by Kumar and Goetzmann found that 70 per cent of portfolios held less than four stocks
The stocks held all tended to be in the same sector highly correlated and risky Think internet stocks in the 1990s China in the 2000s or resource stocks more recently The grand theme sucks everyone in The outcome rarely dif-fers Kumar and Goetzmann showed that across these
60000 accounts the average underperformance was of the order of 4 per cent annually
This massive failing across private inves-tor portfolios is repeated in nearly every market cycle and is bound to happen again in this one Benjamin Graham the great father of value invest-ing and tutor of Warren Buffett once wrote
lsquoIn the short run the stock market is a vot-ing machine but in the long run it is a weighing machinersquo
ADVERTISING FEATURE
IN THE SHORT RUN THE STOCK MARKET IS A VOTING MACHINE BUT IN THE LONG RUN IT IS A WEIGHING MACHINEBenjamin Graham
What he meant was that while stories may drive stocks in the short run statistics drive stocks in the long run When statistics reassert them-selves it can cause huge damage to investors punting their portfolios on stories
It doesnrsquot take much to learn how basic statis-tics can guide your portfolio into winning stock selections though very few seem to understand how to do it Benjamin Graham as his life wore on gradually came to the conclusion that building portfolios according to rules-based processes was a far more appropriate methodology for the typi-cal investor
lsquoTry to buy groups of stocks that meet some sim-ple criterion for being undervalued ndash regardless of
the industry and with very little attention to the indi-vidual company It seems too good to be true but all I can tell you after 60 years of experience is it seems to stand up under any of the tests I would make uprsquo
My time is now dedi-cated to helping investors practice exactly what Benjamin Graham and many other investment luminaries have preached rules-based investing For the majority itrsquos a better process and leads to bet-ter outcomes Our work at
Stockopediacom where we crunch fundamental and technical data in order to model and track the investment processes of the great investors bears this out
Portfolios composed with stocks showing the right statistical mix of value quality and momen-tum have significantly outperformed Rules-based investing beats the market But more importantly it helps promote the emotional detachment needed to stop investors from beating themselves
Irsquoll never buy a stock on a punt or an analystrsquos tip again Perhaps neither should you
For a two week free trial and pound50 discount to Stockopedia UK Premium CLICK HERE
TANK MCM A N U F A C T U R E M O V E M E N T 1 9 0 4 M C
SINCE THE CREATION OF THE FIRST TANK WATCH IN 1917 THE TANK COLLECTION HAS CONTINUED
TO BREAK NEW GROUND THE INCREDIBLY REFINED AESTHETICS OF THE NEW TANK MC WATCH ARE FITTED
WITH THE CARTIER MANUFACTURE MOVEMENT 1904 MC ESTABLISHED IN 1847 CARTIER CREATES
EXCEPTIONAL WATCHES THAT COMBINE DARING DESIGN AND WATCHMAKING SAVOIR-FAIRE
EXPLORE AND SHOP WWWCARTIERCOUK - (020) 3147 4850
Conn
oisseur
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Conn
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oisseur
Inside
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oisseur
TO THE CONNOISSEUR section of Inspired a showcase for the finer things in life for those who truly appreciate them
Enjoying the fruits of your labour away from the relentless demands of our age poses its own challenges and quandaries Would a tropical idyll restore your ebbing energy levels Might a break based around hair-raising activities revive them even more effectively Perhaps reawakening a dormant passion for fine wines or luxury cars would be the most enjoyable reward for your industry
A luxury tropical holiday is probably near the top of most peoplersquos wish lists We take a look at some of the most tantalising options
The arrival of BMWrsquos new super coupe is featured on page 50 BMW aficionados and petrolheads alike are certain to be won over by its head-turning looks and mouthwatering specs
Gems come under the microscope on page 53 A rare coloured diamond can be a joy as well an appreciating asset
Wine is on the menu on page 54 where we explore the charms of Argentinian Malbec
Watches are often treasured objects and the best can turn out to be shrewd investments We look at the secondary watch market and the growth of online retailing on page 58 Enjoy
Welcome
40 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
FIVE TOP PRIVATE ISLAND RETREATSIslandFantasy
Top-rated resorts and hotels offer a variety of temptations and services to impress even the most discerning tastes but there is no better way to escape the rigours and
stresses of daily life than cutting off from the outside world while still enjoying lavish service
in the pinnacle of all resorts the private islandThere are thousands of small islands around
the world but only a few have chosen to cater to the most discriminating travellers seeking a rarified yet perfect world of quiet and relaxed luxury We look at five of the worldrsquos top private islands destinations where your holiday is certain to be an exceptional experience
TRAVEL
Necker Island is owned by Sir Richard Branson and guests stay in his home The island has become a popular des-tination for some of the worldrsquos most prominent figures as a hideaway from lifersquos stresses and strains
Because Necker Island is a resi-dence and not a resort guests who rent the island are treated as owners and catered for in a unique way
The74-acre island is fringed with beautiful white beaches and surrounded by turquoise waters and coral reefs It boasts every resort-type amenity guests can spend their days being pampered in the spa explor-ing underwater reefs in a submarine lounging by the pool bar or swimming in one of the worldrsquos most elab-orate private pools
Haute cuisine is a highlight for most guests ndash rates are fully inclusive of all food and drink A team of chefs creates bespoke menus featuring anything from lobster and caviar to a Sunday roast And because Necker is a home first and a resort second guests decide whether dining will be formal or informal inside or outside themed or traditional
The bar is stocked with international wines top-quality spirits and beers and a world renowned house champagne while special orders can be shipped in at no extra charge ndash unless an item is particularly rare Every service and amenity is available around the clock and guests are encouraged to treat Necker as their own home
As youLike it
NECKER ISLAND
42 March 2014 | inspired
Unalloyed luxury and an impressive range of amenities make Necker one of the most desirable island destinations in the world
The Jumby Bay resort which is only accessible by boat from Antigua is a Caribbean hideaway owned by Rosewood Resorts It is perfect for those seeking either relaxation or spirited adventure
You can rent the island resort entirely for your stay or simply take a room Those opt-ing for exclusive use of the island will have the resortrsquos two pools three tennis courts fitness centre croquet field and putting green to themselves
A wide range of water sports are available and guests can indulge in as much adventure or relaxation as they want during their stay The resort is ideal for large family
reunions or corporate retreats ndash 40 guest rooms and suites are available on the island
Executive chef Sylvain Hervochon celebrates gastron-omy ndash and mixology (cocktail making) ndash with casual elegance by creating Caribbean-style dishes inspired by fresh local ingredients and incorporating international influences
Jumby Bayrsquos rates start at pound150000 for four nights based on double occupancy between May and December Visit wwwrosewoodhotelscomenjumby-bay-antigua for further information
Fine BalanceCaribbean ambiance international sophistication and adventurous activities make Jumby Bay a compelling choice
JUMBY BAY
Just laze by the pool or venture beyond to dive in the turquoise waters of the South Pacific among stunning reefs and a dazzling array of marine creatures
Isle of PlentyT
he private island of Laucala in the South Pacific is a 3500-acre site in a picturesque rainforest-laced land-scape Enchanting deserted beaches nestle among coconut plantations organic farms and lush green vol-canic mountains
The resort offers an outstanding level of refined lux-ury as well as a compelling collection of sporting and cultural activities diving among iridescent marine life in the warm turquoise waters guided rainforest tours horse riding surfing and golfing on the 18-hole cham-pionship course The island is a superb choice for an escape from civilization whether you want an adven-ture in the wild or simply to relax in one of Laucalarsquos five restaurants and bars
Rates are available on request Visit wwwlaucalacom for further details
TRAVEL
LAUCALA ISLAND
inspired | March 2014 4544 March 2014 | inspired
Lush green surroundings sensitive development and beautiful beaches help Laucala island conjure up a complete South Seas experience
Isle of Plenty
inspired | March 2014 4544 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
inspired | March 2014 4746 March 2014 | inspired
Slow LaneSlow
Pulau Joyo is a seductively serene environment of pristine beaches surrounded by clear blue sea in Indonesiarsquos Riau Archipelago Accessible from Singapore or Bintan Pulau Joyo is a true castaway island offering every resort luxury
amid untouched natural beauty Pulau Joyo is famous for its remarkable sunsets and
brightly star-lit sky The resort can host 28 guests and 20 staff are on hand to cater to their every need Guests stay in open driftwood lsquopalacesrsquo that lsquoallow the sea inrsquoDespite its desert island appeal Pulau Joyo offers every modern convenience a range of adrenaline boosting activities and more relaxing options such as spa treatments and massages
The resortrsquos cuisine focuses on western and Indonesian dishes Meals are usually served buffet style and feature grilled fish squid prawns beef and chicken as well as many curry dishes Side dishes include fresh garden salads pasta salads boiled or steamed leafy greens and grilled aubergine (an island favourite) Prawn and tofu kebabs appear from time to time as does satay The chef will often provide a selection of freshly picked fruit and homemade cakes for dessert Itrsquos worth noting that the management will not serve pork or shellfish on this private island
Pulau Joyo may not be as refined as some islands but itrsquos an excellent choice for those who want a more casual laidback island experience that replicates the castaway experience like perhaps no other
Rates start at pound1913 a night More information is available at wwwpulau-joyocom
Wannabe castaways may find Pulau Joyorsquos purer simpler take on the luxury island experience more to their taste
PULAU JOYO
inspired | March 2014 4746 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
In the Fijian island paradise of Dolphin Island a small army of staff await to meet guestsrsquo every need On arriving ndash by boat helicopter or float plane ndash visitors are invariably struck by the beauty of the island and the luxuri-ous accommodation that awaits them amid 14-acres of lush tropical gardens
Three traditional palm-thatched bures individually designed by world renowned interior designer Virginia Fisher sit in an elevated position around the resortrsquos infinity pool
Guests are brought fresh tropical fish to choose each day that are cooked to perfec-
tion within hours of leaving the water The culinary focus is on
organic produce and ingredi-ents unique to Fijian cuisine but meals are tailored to guestsrsquo personal tastes Papayas man-goes bananas and pineapples
are plentiful throughout the day When it comes to recreation the
14-acre island is an expansive play-ground offering a diverse range of watersports as well as diving opportunities on Fijirsquos coral reefs
Rates start at pound720 a night More information is avail-able at wwwdolphinislandfijicom
Fijian Paean
Traditional features modern comforts and excellent facilities make for a harmonious whole on this Fijian island
DOLPHIN ISLAND
48 March 2014 | inspired
Pictured slightly larger than actual size
Big Pilotrsquos Watch Ref 5009
Your wrist never felt this big before The
case of the top model in the IWC Pilotrsquos
Watch range is a gigantic 462 mm in diashy
meter And the technology inside it is
even more impressive the largest IWCshy
manufactured automatic movement with
its Pellaton winding system is protected
against strong magnetic fields by a softshy
iron inner case And needless to say enshy
vious glances iwc engineered for men
Mechanical IWCshymanufactured movement Pellaton
automatic winding system 7shyday power reserve
with display (figure) Date display Softshyiron inner
case for protection against magnetic fields
Antireflective sapphire glass Watershyresistant 6 bar
Stainless steel
IWC Schaffhausen Switzerland iwccom The worldrsquos finest timepieces are exclusively available from selected watch specialists
For an illustrated catalogue or list of nationwide concessionaires please contact IWC UK Tel 0845 337 1868 Eshymail infoshyukiwccom
CARS
MunichLegend
50 March 2014 | inspired
BMW fanatics can open their eyes ndash the M4 has arrived
Most BMW aficionados are proba-bly pretty sad to see production of the M3 coupe ndash quite possibly the companyrsquos most noteworthy and celebrated model ndash end after almost 30 years Ever since the first wide-body E30 M3 saw the
light of day in 1985 drivers have loved the sporty coupe for its incredible balance intoxicating power and of course solid build quality
The model never got stale in all that time and always remained the poster child for the M division so itrsquos a lit-tle weird that BMW has apparently decided to axe it In truth though they havenrsquot really dropped the M3 The M3 sedan will continue to be produced in 2014 so all
is not lost Moreover BMW seems to be adopting a pat-tern of giving its sedans odd-numbered titles only and its coupes even-numbered titles only so the 4-Series and especially the M4 concept that debuted at Pebble Beach Monterey California will fill the gap left by the M3 Many people have been awaiting the new super coupe with great expectancy but can it fill in for the M3
The journalists who swarmed over the M4 concept at Pebble Beach were obviously much more interested in it than the somewhat predictable 428i that was also there Finished in an eye-catching colour called Aurum Dust (which actually looks a lot like the old M3rsquos Phoenix Yellow colour) the car presented in California may be a concept but typically BMW M cars donrsquot change much before they finally hit the showroom
MunichLegend
inspired | March 2014 51
CARS
52 March 2014 | inspired
From front to back the bodywork is manifestly differ-ent and much more aggressive looking than a standard 4-Series car It really looks to pretty much pick up where the E92E93 M3 coupe left off especially with its undeniably cool domed hood Wide wheel arches big wheels wrapped in low-profile tyres more than enough M badges and a well-executed double-bubble roof make the already underwhelming existing 4-Series coupe look even more pedestrian
Power for the new M4 is likely to come from a three-litre twin-turbo straight-six engine While the horsepower probably wonrsquot differ much from the M3rsquos old 4-litre V-8 it will generate more than 100lbft more in torque almost 400 in total With the M4 being a lighter 3300lb in weight the M4 promises to be an excit-ing worthy car A proper six-speed manual may be in the mix alongside the now obligatory dual clutch and paddles option
The best way to look at the M4 however it ends up is not as a new car but as a new and improved M3 thatrsquos just getting a new name The decision to rename the coupe is a strange one but thankfully BMW apparently felt the 3-Series coupe had made such an identity for itself that a new model was needed albeit in a slightly different incarnation
With BMW embarking on some new-ageish ideas such as its 1-Series ActiveE and the soon-to-arrive lsquoirsquo range of cars itrsquos nice to see the company also stick to classics such as the heart-stopping sports coupe even if the latest model does come with a new name
Seductive curves and racier performance make the BMW M4 a more than acceptable replacement for the M3 super coupe
SparklingForm Coloured diamonds are making their mark
One of the main factors that deter-mines the value of what we ordinarily think of as diamonds is their purity the degree to which col-our is absent in the gem However with coloured diamonds the extent to which they are saturated with
colour is a principal determinant of their valueColoured diamonds come in 12 basic colours more
than 90 secondary hues and nine intensity levels The depth of their colour is what really differentiates these diamonds from their colourless counterparts
Natural coloured diamonds are 10000 times rarer than typical colourless diamonds one of several rea-sons why they are treasured by the rich and famous yet remain unknown to most other people ndash despite hav-ing been around for centuries
Of course some colours are rarer than others Red violet and purple stones are as rare as the proverbial hensrsquo teeth while green and blue are also rare The most popular colours are pink and yellow (or canary) They also come in white grey orange black and lsquochame-leonrsquo form
A pinkie ring encrusted with a large coloured dia-mond has become a status symbol for men in Asia That little stone is an unregistered asset that could quickly be sold for millions of dollars should the need arise
Coloured diamonds are durable and never lose their sparkle or lustre so they are assets that can be enjoyed every day unlike stocks or bonds And they have proved to be fantastic investments having steadily appreciated in price with relatively little volatility for more than a decade They even held their own during the most recent financial crisis
Coloured diamonds are auctioned by reputable
auction houses such a Sothebyrsquos and Christiersquos where prices for large unique pink red blue or yellow stones can reach in excess of $2 million (pound12 million) a carat and other stones regularly sell for $1 million a carat
They are often bought by high-net-worth individu-als as an insurance policy Instead of stashing cash in undeclared bank accounts and potentially incurring the wrath of the authorities the wealthy can purchase some loose yellow diamonds to secure their future
Clearly coloured diamonds are much more than a magnificent indulgence
GEMS
inspired | March 2014 53PB March 2014 | inspired
WINE
Make the most of the deeply
satisfying Malbec wines emerging from Argentina
and perhaps even enjoy a return on a shrewd
investment says Ewan Lacey
Finding a red wine to enjoy in spring is a delicate balancing act The shock of seeing sunlight after a dark winter fosters in us a desire to drink some-thing refreshing while the still-cool temperatures demand something with comforting depth
Increasingly Malbec wines particularly those from Argentina provide a perfect solution to this quandary And while there are plenty of delicious wines for infor-mal occasions what is most interesting is the emergence of finer Malbec wines Some are so good they may well have ageing potential raising the intriguing possibility that the wine may one day become collectable
Malbec is the most popular wine among those aged 25-34 and is now becoming a fixture on most restaurant wine lists There are several reasons for its success the word Malbec is easy to pronounce the wine goes well with red meat the Malbec grape can be turned into wines that are both relatively easy to drink and packed with flavour and decent wines are available at reason-able prices Malbec is deep fruity and charming and it delivers instant pleasure ndash claret on a motorbike
The Malbec grape originated in France and it remains one of the permitted varieties used to make Bordeaux However it has gained prominence through the work of the post-junta Argentine wine industry
I recently had the pleasure of tasting some very fine Malbecs with Laura Catena managing director at the Catena Zapata winery and president of the International Wine and Spirit Competition She opened my
Mendoza Marvels
inspired | March 2014 55
WINE
eyes to the potential of this grape variety when handled with care
Laurarsquos family business makes a range of wines but the wine that truly astonished me was the Nicasia Vineyard Malbec 2006 The wine is perfumed with floral and fruit notes and it is smooth and soft at first Like all great wines it has many layers of flavour warm bursts of cherry and black-currant cede centre stage to deeper darker caramel and mocha notes and a touch of spice Therersquos an amazing depth of flavour and the finish is long and lingering Whatrsquos more at nearly eight years old it still has a slight purple tinge and tastes extremely fresh There is every indication that it will age beautifully for at least another decade
The winersquos character is heavily influenced by the alti-tude the grapes used to make it are grown at (1180m
above sea level) At this elevation the grapes ripen in bright sun but lsquorelaxrsquo during the cool evenings The fact that the wine is made in tiny quantities (eight barrels only) means every care can be taken during the winemak-ing process to ensure the wine is allowed to show its grown-up side The cost per bot-tle of pound70 is not insubstantial but neither is the wine
We cannot know whether these wines will ever become investments in the way the wines of Bordeaux have Whatrsquos cer-tain is that Malbec wines have a very rare quality a balance of finesse and power that
can delight wine lovers and linger in their memories
Ewan Lacey is a leading wine expert and general manager of the International Wine and Spirit Competition He has appeared on BBC television and radio as well as Channel 4 and written for the national press
Laura Catena is managing director at the Catena Zapata winery (above)
THE INTERNATIONAL WINE AND SPIRIT COMPETITIONThe International Wine and Spirit Competition has been the premier drinks competition in the world for 45 years Each year it receives and reviews thousands of wines and spirits and presents qual-ity awards to producers
More than anything the IWSC exists to help
people make better deci-sions particularly when buying wines and spirits An IWSC award on a bot-tle of wine is a guarantee
of quality backed not only by a rigorous and strin-gent judging process but also by the skill of the judges who are drawn from the ranks of masters of wine master distill-ers industry leaders and commentators
Each year the IWSC honours a leading figure
in the drinks industry with the presidency of the competition The current president is Laura Catena who succeeds a nota-ble line of predecessors including Prince Robert of Luxembourg winemakers Piero Antinori and Warren Winiarski and Baroness Philippine de Rothschild
56 March 2014 | inspired
LUXURY WATCHES
Time is preciousA
t a recent watch auc-tion in Geneva at Antiquorum ndash the worldrsquos premiere auc-tion house for modern and vintage time pieces ndash a Patek Philippe
pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon watch emerged as the auctionrsquos top lot and sold for 12 million Swiss francs (pound807000)
Unlike most of the timepieces sold at auctions outside Asia this particular Patek watch ndash the most complicated wristwatch the Swiss watchmaker has ever produced ndash was not a vintage model
That Geneva auction raised intriguing
1284Clocks with weights gears and regulators start to appear mostly with no dial to strike the important moments of daily life
Around 1410The mainspring is devel-oped Combined with the fusee this innovation makes possible the truly portable domestic clock
1492The mechanical watch appears simultaneously in Italy Germany and France
1675Christian Huygens invents the spiral balance spring
for watches significantly improving their accuracy
1704The first watch with jew-els is produced by French watchmaker de Beaufreacute
1714The British parliament offers pound20000 to who-ever can a find a method to determine longitude
1766Parliament publishes the rating results for John Harrisonrsquos H4 marine timekeeper Harrisonrsquos highly accurate marine clock solution to the problem of determining logitude wins him part of the pound20000 prize
1787Pierre-Freacutedeacuteric Ingold is born an important pio-neer in mechanised timepiece production and the use of interchangea-ble parts
1790Jacquet-Droz and Leschot manufactures a watch attached to a strap
1839Vacheron amp Constantin developes a full set of machine tools for manu-facturing its watches
1875Calcium sulphate is the first luminescent sub-stance to be used for numerals and hands
TIMEKEEPING MILESTONES
questions Are modern luxury timepieces every bit as appealing as the vintage watches that typically command top prices at auc-tion And does that Geneva auction tell us anything about the contemporary watch market as a whole
Julien Schaerer Antiquorumrsquos managing director in Geneva says top-quality vintage watches often appreciate in value over the long term But he urges buyers for whom appreciation is an important consideration to be cautious about purchasing contempo-rary watches
lsquoWatch price depreciation is the cost of ownership just as it is with a luxury carrsquo he says lsquoIf the value goes up then
58 March 2014 | inspired
1880The first water- resistant watch incorpo-rating a screwed case is produced by Genevan watchmaker Franccedilois Borgel
1889The first known patent for a wristwatch is filed in Bern Switzerland
1890Dialmaker A Beyeler invents a transfer press for applying numerals and letters to dials
1892Auguste Verneuil in France produces the first synthetic jewels to be used in watchmaking
1904Wens Wilsdorf launches large-scale production of a womenrsquos wristwatch
1924John Harwood files the
first Swiss patent for a self-winding wristwatch with a central oscillating weight
1925The first known wrist-watch with a perpetual calendar is manufactured using a pendant watch movement
1926Rolex creates the Oyster wristwatch with a water-resistant case and crown
1966The first quartz wrist-watch prototype is produced
1969The first quartz watch
with an LED display appears
1978Quartz watches overtake mechanical watches in popularity
2005Creation of the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie Seiko launches the spring drive Kinetic the first self-winding mechanical watch with an electro-magnetic escapement
A Patek Philippe pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon recently sold for pound807000
inspired | March 2014 59
online retailers from the comfort of your homeSince 2006 DM London has quietly estab-
lished a powerful presence for itself in the UK retail watch market with the acquisition of The Watch Hut and The Watch Gallery DM London chairman David Coleridge says the company has capitalised on the increasing willingness of buy-ers to purchase online
lsquoHaving decided that they would like to buy a watch for themselves or someone elsersquo he says lsquopeople start to do their research More often than not this starts online nowadays where they com-pare brands performance and functions
lsquoAs trust in the online marketplace has devel-oped many want to buy online because it is convenient and saves time Shopping online becomes a habit established sites build trust and awareness with customers which gives custom-ers the confidence to buy more expensive itemsrsquo
He adds lsquoOur challenge is to make the online environment as attractive informative and enjoy-able as a high street store Then customers will decide to spend onlinersquo
Coleridge believes a multi-channel approach is the way forward for retailers He says lsquoWithout doubt the future is multi-channel selling ndash a combination of direct selling on the internet and various forms of click and collect ndash combined with beautiful stores on the high street
Over the past few years demand for luxury watches (particularly contemporary models) has spiked sharply in Asia and according to some specialists emerging affluence in the
of course thatrsquos an added benefit However he adds lsquoPrice appreciation is still quite rare with modern watches There is some poten-tial for appreciation but probably only with ultra-limited editions A purchase has to be
seen as a medium- to long-term invest-ment One should buy a timepiece first out of love for the brand or [the watchrsquos] complicationrsquo
The watch brands that offer the greatest assurance of appreci-
ation include Cartier Patek Philippe Rolex Audemars
Piguet A Lange amp Sohne Breguet and Vacheron Constantin All enjoy views from the top of
the watchmaking hierarchy thanks to their longstand-ing histories and well-established brand identities
Relative new-comers to the industry such as Richard Mille and Roger Dubuis have carved out a niche for
themselves with their revolutionary designs and
space-age technologies but it remains to be seen just how well the values of their timepieces will stand up on the secondary market
According to Nathaniel Borgelt a specialist at auction house Sothebyrsquos
some modern watches have already achieved good prices at auction but these (like the Patek Philippe Sky Moon Tourbillon) were highly exclusive models when new
lsquoSome limited edition pieces currently fetch incredible prices at auctionrsquo he says lsquoAnd there is a select group of modern mod-els that could compete with a certain sector of the vintage market based on their brand innovative features such as materials or com-plications and avant-garde designs
Buying these has now become a whole lot easier The luxury watch retailing land-scape is changing and the traditional pattern of physically walking into a luxury salon to buy a watch is gradually being replaced by a trend towards visiting the websites of the big
LUXURY WATCHES
A Lange amp Sohne (above) is a long-standing high-end watchmaker Comparative new-comer Roger Dubuis (right) is forging a strong reputation
inspired | March 2014 PB60 March 2014 | inspired
helpthewatchgallerycom
Hublot ClassiC FusiontHe WatCH Gallery exClusive
The Watch Gallery and Hublot have joined forces to create two very special limited edition watches Both are limited to just 15 pieces worldwide and have been specifically designed to feature The Watch Gallery blue brand colour on the hands and tinted open case back
SelfridgeS OxfOrd StreetWeStfield lOndOnMancheSter exchange Square
wwwthewatchgallerycomhublot-watches
Far East has kept global values strong while other markets around the world continue to recover from recession
Despite the market boost from growing prosperity in Asia there are signs that the market is becoming saturated and that globally the new watch market isnrsquot as robust as some commentators suggest
It may still be a good time to buy but its important to know what you want and what yoursquore buying Modern watchmakers such as Richard Mille Roger Dubuis and Greubel Forsey are producing beautiful timepieces but because of their limited foothold in the market itrsquos difficult to predict their long-term success and desirability They donrsquot yet have the brand power that might ensure the value of their
watches in the secondhand market remains highSuch producers might one day stand eye to
eye with the most desirable brands such as Patek Philippe and Rolex but achieving that kind of parity wonrsquot be easy Collectors looking to invest in timepieces are advised to keep an open mind about modern producers uncertainty is the one aspect of modern luxury watch market most experts tend to agree on
That said the buoyancy in the watch market suggests that plenty of buyers are unconcerned about future values For them itrsquos all about the appreciation of the watch itself People buy watches because they bring them pleasure ndash and say some-thing about who they are
LUXURY WATCHES
Contemporary watches such as those made by Hublot (left) have yet to show they will have the lasting appeal of watches such as Cartierrsquos Rotonde de Cartier Astrocalendaire (right)
inspired | March 2014 63
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CONTENTS
5 | MARKETS IN MOOD TO ENDURE IN 2014Stock markets should muddle through well enough this year with equity values likely to withstand any economic headwinds
10 | FEBRUARYrsquoS TOP TRUSTS AND FUNDSWe reveal the monthrsquos most in-demand investment vehicles on Interactive Investor and in the wider market
12 | SMART STRATEGIES FOR SAVVY ISA INVESTORSOur experts disclose their top tips for getting the maximum out of your Isa investments
16 | AIM FOR THE BESTRisk tolerant Isa investors can now use Alternative Investment Market shareholdings to bag spectacular returns
20 | PERFECT YOUR TRUST AND FUND PORTFOLIO We round up a collection of investment funds and trusts our experts believe are likely to prosper in the year ahead
29 | SHARE SLEUTHThe Share Sleuth portfolio is dedicated to showing investors how to track down good companies at bargain prices
FEATURES CONNOISSEUR40 | AN ODE TO JOYSavour the fruits of your success with our guide to some of the finer things in life
41 | TRAVELWe explore some of the worldrsquos most tantalising tropical islands
50 | CARSBMWrsquos new M4 concept super coupe will soon be turning heads
53 | GEMSColoured diamonds make durable assets that unlike shares give lasting pleasure
54 | WINEMake the most of Argentinarsquos deeply satisfying Malbec wines
58 | WATCHESTop-quality vintage watches have timeless charm and value
41
5
58
insp
ired
50
17 20
4 March 2014 | inspired
tocks bounced back after January jitters ndash to such an extent that Bank of Americarsquos chief technical analyst changed his mind to assert that lsquothe larger uptrend has resumedrsquo But is this true for stocks generally
Certainly a look at the FTSE 100 confirms that the recent bull market trend remains intact despite fear that the emerging markets crisis could fester The ousting of Viktor Yanukovych as president of Ukraine looks unlikely to become a wider east-west conflict despite the Russian militaryrsquos show of force in Crimea
The now familiar theme of markets muddling through looks set to persist Shares appear fairly valued while the fundamentals look to have improved during February The G20 ndash the worldrsquos 19 richest nations and the EU ndash have committed themselves to injecting $2 trillion (pound119 trillion) into the global economy over the next five years to raise global growth by at least 2 per cent by 2018 The group is shunning austerity to focus on private sector infrastructure spending encour-aged by tax breaks
Equity markets may experience mixed fortunes this year but they are likely to prevail against any economic headwinds overall
MARKETS SETTO MUDDLETHROUGH IN
2014S
inspired | March 2014 5
THE MARKETSIN 2014
INTHEUSJOBNUMBERSINCOMESANDALL-ROUNDCONSUMERCONFIDENCEAREIMPROVING
Sales have also improved although overall rev-enue growth remains weak and needs watching because a disparity between growth and profits is liable to puncture optimism just as company shares have soared amid loose monetary policy
Keep in mind the fact that the US economy has yet to break a habit of allowing growth spurts to fade GDP rose at an annualised rate of 32 per cent in the fourth quarter of 2013 and 19 per cent
overall last year while the consensus is for 28 per cent for 2014 and 29 per cent for 2015 Similarly after the mid 2009 recession GDP grew at an average annualised rate of 34 per cent in the second and third quarters of 2010 and
then by 43 per cent in the fourth quarter of 2011 and first quarter of 2012 Yet the improvement was short-lived
Last year rapid inventory accumulation boosted GDP at a level that is unsustainable However pri-vate consumption growth is running at its fastest rate in three years
Overall the economic figures are mixed and it remains to be seen where they will head next as the Fedrsquos stimulus expires
The recovery in the UK appears to be strengthen-ing The economy officially grew by 07 per cent in the fourth quarter of 2013 A growth rate of 18 per cent was estimated for the year as a whole
Significantly business investment rose by 24 per cent in the third quarter of 2013 and
Inevitably there is scepticism that reassuring words will be translated into practical deeds but they add to positive sentiment amid improving economic numbers in the US and the UK
The principal risk is that the US economy will stutter just as the US Federal Reserve commits to a monthly $10 billion wind-ing down of its monetary stimulus and sustains this drawdown rate to show itself to be more consistent with guidance than it was last year
Recent US data has been mixed and analysts are unsure how much the harsh winter in the US should affect their calculations Yet home sales jumped by 96 per cent in January the fastest rise in more than five years This suggests job numbers incomes and all-round consumer con-fidence are improving following years of worry that the US economy and house prices might falter again While pent-up demand probably explains some of the improvement in house sales the rise is especially notable given that higher mort-gage rates since mid 2013 have limited mortgage affordability
US corporate earnings have grown stronger than expected ndash by about 85 per cent in the fourth quar-ter of 2013 Some 72 per cent of SampP 500 firms beat expectations according to FactSet Research
The crisis in Crimea is unlikely to derail or impede the slow but steady progress in global stock markets seen so far this year
6 March 2014 | inspired
THE MARKETS
IN 2014
spread like some predicted it would and Chinarsquos debt problem could take a while to erupt if it ever does Even if it does Chinarsquos communist gov-ernment can deploy strong economic and social controls
It is interesting that in a recent television pro-gramme on risks in China the BBCrsquos business editor Robert Peston initially sounded as if he was marking the country out for trouble However
he softened his stance a little towards the end of the programme
Oil prices have not capit-ulated ndash as was feared at the start of the year ndash and created revenue problems for Russia and Saudi Arabia possibly showing that Saudi Arabia
can still control prices to a large degree Complacency is a danger given the real risks
associated with the Fed winding down its stimu-lus and doubts over whether corporate revenues can genuinely improve However figures in
February have supported the trend towards muddling through big risks seen during
the eurozone debt crisis two years ago the bailouts for Greece and Cyprus and the political posturing over the US debt ceiling While interest rates remain low shareholders can take heart that their
riskreward profiles look supportive overall and traders can keep their fingers
crossed for more volatility
85 per cent in the fourth quarter of 2013 This has been the missing link in a recovery feared to be overly dependent on rising house prices and consumers resorting to raiding savings to fund spending
There remains a lot to achieve on the export front and interest rates are expected to rise from 2015 although the Bank of England is ada-mant that this will be gradual
A potential Labour gen-eral election victory by May 2015 does not seem to trou-ble investors at the moment The net balance at the end of February appears positive for shares because GDP and corporate profits are the factors that influence it most and the situation in continental Europe (beyond youth unemployment) is not prov-ing as dire as many feared
It is frustrating for long-term inves-tors with fresh money because equity valuations appear to broadly price in prospects so they typically need to take a lsquomomentumrsquo view which is less comfortable for them than when value yardsticks are in their favour But unless company earnings stall the downside looks limited for now
The emerging markets crisis has not
Confidence in the economies of key Asian economic powerhouses such as mainland China Singapore and Hong Kong (pictured) remains high
8 March 2014 | inspired
THE MARKETS
IN 2014
THEEMERGINGMARKETSCRISISHASNOTSPREADANDCHINArsquoSDEBTPROBLEMCOULDTAKETIMETOERUPTIFITEVERDOES
SCOTTISH MORTGAGE INVESTMENT TRUST
For a limited period and new eligible ISA customers only Terms amp Conditions and minimum investment amounts apply Please refer to our website or the application pack that we will send you for full details Your call may be recorded for training or monitoring purposes Baillie Gifford Savings Management Limited (BGSM) is the manager of the Baillie Gifford Investment Trust ISA and is wholly owned by Baillie Gifford amp Co which is the manager and secretary of the Scottish Mortgage Investment Trust PLC Your personal data is held and used by BGSM in accordance with data protection legislation We may use your information to send you information about Baillie Gifford products funds or special offers and to contact you for business research purposes We will only disclose your information to other companies within the Baillie Gifford group and to agents appointed by us for these purposes You can withdraw your consent to receiving further marketing communications from us and to being contacted for business research purposes at any time You also have the right to review and amend your data at any time
Wersquore 100 committed to making sure our fund managers never have a restricted outlook That way the long-term view is a clear one So whatrsquos the secret to their liberated attitude
Well our flagship fund the Scottish Mortgage Investment Trust is a global stock-picking fund that is completely free of asset allocation constraints that ignores index weightings and that selects stocks purely on their merit We feel that this freedom allows us to focus on the long term
The Scottish Mortgage Investment Trust is managed by Baillie Gifford
Please remember that changing stock market conditions and currency exchange rates will affect the value of your investment in the fund and any income from it You may not get back the amount invested
You can purchase Scottish Mortgage from Interactive Investor Alternatively you can invest directly with Baillie Gifford through our ISA Open an ISA with Baillie Gifford before 30 April and you can receive a pound10 Amazon gift card
For more information contact Baillie Gifford on 0800 917 2112 or visit wwwscottishmortgageitcomBaillie Gifford ndash long-term investment partners
Freedom to roam
WE LIVE IN A PERIOD OF EXPONENTIAL CHANGE PROVIDING FANTASTIC OPPORTUNITIES FOR STOCK PICKERS LIKE US
cent over one year and 229 per cent over three
Alastair Mundyrsquos Temple Bar Investment Trust focuses on UK equities including GlaxoSmithKline Vodafone and Royal Dutch Shell
It failed to outperform the UK equity income sector over one year despite its popular-ity posting a return of 18 per cent compared with the sectorrsquos 21 per cent However it per-formed better over three years returning 62 per cent against the sectorrsquos 56 per cent
INCOME AND SMALLER COMPANIES STILL IMPORTANTInvestors retained an interest in income and smaller-companies investment trusts in February ndash extending the same purchasing trend in January And they con-tinued to flock to UK-focused trusts as a safe haven
Although two of the 10 most-bought trusts Murray International Trust and Bankers Investment Trust invest in international equities both counted UK equities among their top holdings with the Bankers trust favouring BP GlaxoSmithKline and Vodafone
The other popular
losed-end fund inves-tors stuck closely to income trusts in February but seemed more willing to accept
risk than those purchasing open-ended funds the latest data from Interactive Investor shows
The three most popular trusts were regular investor favourites Baillie Giffordrsquos Scottish Mortgage Investment Trust Investecrsquos Temple Bar Investment Trust and Frostrow Capitalrsquos Biotech Growth Trust
While open-ended fund investors looked mainly to UK equities for income two of these three top invest-ment trusts have a worldwide focus James Anderson and Tom Slaterrsquos Scottish Mortgage Investment Trust which posted a sector-beating 27 per cent return over one year and 56 per cent over three invests in worldwide large-cap equi-ties such as Google and Apple while the Biotech Growth Trust taps the worldwide biotechnol-ogy industry through US equity investments
This trust managed by Geoffrey Hsu and Richard Klemm also beat its sector the biotechnology and healthcare sector with returns of 49 per
income trust Premier Asset Mangementrsquos Acorn Income fund invests in UK mid- and large-cap equities includ-ing Electrocomponents John Menzies and Cineworld Group It returned 46 per cent over the past year and 144 per cent over the past three It was the seventh most-bought trust by Interactive Investor users in February
The UK focus also character-ised investorsrsquo smaller-company trust choices The UK-favoured Henderson Smaller Companies Investment Trust and BlackRock Smaller Companies Investment Trust in sixth and tenth place respectively
Both benefited from the UK housing boom through invest-ments in Bellway and Ashtead Group and both outperformed the UK smaller-companies sec-tor which recorded returns of 37 per cent over one year and 66 per cent over three
INVESTORS RETAINED AN INTEREST IN INCOME AND SMALLER-COMPANIES TRUSTS IN FEBRUARY
CMARKET
YOUR MONTH IN THE
Julie Fisher reveals Februaryrsquos 10 most popular trusts
Bankers trust favours a mix of shares in UK and multinational companies
TRADING
10 March 2014 | inspired
AN APPETITE FOR RISK BOOSTS TRUSTSInvestors showed a greater appetite for risk by invest-ing more heavily in trusts As a result BlackRock World Mining Trust and Templeton Emerging Market Trust took the final two places on the list fourth and fifth
Unfortunately both have posted negative returns in recent years due to the fact that they are positioned in unfavour-able markets
While the BlackRock trust was slightly above the com-modities and natural resources sector over six months one year and three years the Templeton trust only outperformed the global emerging markets equi-ties sector over the past month However investors appear to be buying in in the hope that there will be some improvement in the next few years
Emerging markets fell back out of favour among fund investors in February while pur-
chases of UK and smaller company funds held firm the latest data from Interactive Investor shows
After a brief revival for emerging markets in January when three EM funds were among the 10 most bought Februaryrsquos most-popular funds were generally UK-focused
Paul Marriagersquos Cazenove UK Smaller Companies fund was knocked off the list after five consecutive months at the top as it closed to new purchases on 22 January allowing Januaryrsquos sec-ond-placed fund AXA Framlington Biotech to take top spot The US biotechnology-focused fund managed by Linden Thompson is popular as it delivered a return of 61 per cent over the past year and 164 per cent over the past three
Although the AXA fund has little in common with the other top purchases there are trends to be spotted in the rest of the list most of which continue from January Income was a focus for investors while UK smaller companies remained popular
lsquoThere were strong flows into funds investing in the UK and Europe whereas Asia excluding Japan and emerging markets suffered outflows following relatively weak per-formance in these regions since May 2013rsquo say Charles Cade and Ewan Lovett-Taylor in their report on fund trades in January lsquoPerhaps the most notable sub-sector is UK smaller company funds which have bene-fited from net inflows every month since August 2012rsquo
SMALLER COMPANIESAccording to Numis January saw the highest number of monthly inflows into smaller com-pany funds on record pound241 million The Interactive
Investor data shows these funds remained popular in February
Three smaller-company funds made it into the top 10 Investec UK Smaller Companies fund the River and Mercantile UK Equity Smaller Companies fund and the CF Miton UK Smaller Companies fund took third fourth and fifth place respectively
All three outperformed the UK smaller-companies sector which delivered returns of 32 per cent over one year and 55 per cent over three Gervais Williamsrsquos CF Miton fund pro-vided the best return over a year at 55 per cent while the River and Mercantile fund managed by Daniel Hanbury delivered 112 per cent over three years
Ken Hsiarsquos Investec fund had the least impressive returns at 47 per cent over one year and 79 per cent over three but still outperformed the sector The fund invests in small-cap UK companies including Quindell Optimal Payments and Utilitywise
INCOME EMPHASISThe other priority for inves-tors in February was income and this too was UK focused Of five income funds appear-ing in the 10 most-bought category only the Artemis Global Income fund had a non-UK focus
Jacob de Tusch-Lecrsquos fund which delivered returns of 14 per cent over one year and 47 over three invests chiefly
in European and US equi-ties The other most-bought income funds were Unicorn UK Income Rathbone Income JOHCM UK Equity and the Invesco Perpetual Income
They all beat the UK equity income sectorrsquos returns of 16 per cent over one year and 36 per cent over three All invested in large-cap UK com-panies with GlaxoSmithKline AstraZeneca and Royal Dutch Shell among the top holdings
Despite its focus on income the Invesco Perpetual High Income fund dropped out of the 10 most-bought funds in February and the Invesco Perpetual
Income fund appeared only at the end of the list This suggests that investors may be get-ting nervous over the
imminent departure of star fund manager Neil Woodford in April
One growth fund also made the list the MFM Slater Growth fund which took ninth place Like the income funds it outperformed its sec-tor UK all companies
and focused on UK-listed companies including
Hutchison China (HCM) and Entertainment One (ETO)
THE 10 TOP MOST-BOUGHT FUNDSANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
THEREWERESTRONGFLOWSINTOFUNDINVESTINGINTHE
UKANDEUROPEWHEREASASIAEXCLUDINGJAPANANDEMERGINGMARKETSSUFFEREDOUTFLOWSFOLLOWINGRELATIVELYWEAKPERFORMANCEINTHESEREGIONSSINCEMAY2013Charles Cade and Ewan Lovett-Taylor
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
inspired | March 2014 11
DONrsquoT DISMISS AIM-BASED INVESTMENTS
Richard Beddard is an editor at Interactive Investor and manager of Money Observerrsquos Share Sleuth portfolio
Now that inves-tors can buy Alternative Investment Market shares
within Isas the universe of potentially profitable invest-ments has grown But therersquos also more room for disappointment
Aimrsquos light-touch regula-tion makes it easier for younger smaller companies to list and while such shares are reputed to be risky that need not frighten
INVEST REGULARLY
Mick Gilligan head of research Killik amp Co
Starting an Isa at the beginning of a new tax year and investing small amounts
regularly out of your income ndash rather than a larger amount in one lump sum at the end of each tax year ndash helps reduce the impact of market volatility and you start earning compound interest sooner When income is reinvested alongside the initial investment it effectively becomes capital so you have a larger sum producing an income which in turn can be reinvested
trsquos very easy to keep on doing the same things with your annual tax-efficient Isa allow-ance However investors can lose out badly if they do
Itrsquos not just the Isa allowances that keep changing the economic environment and the range of investments available do too So itrsquos important that investors con-sider all the Isa opportunities open to them before they make a any big
irrevocable decisionsWersquove asked a number of invest-
ment experts to reveal their top Isa tips We are sure they will give you some useful guidelines and help you refine the choices you make Some suggestions are reminders about long-standing opportunities others draw your attention to new developments in Isa invest-ing and highlight the opportunities they offer
Isa investorswhether using some or all of their annual allowances donrsquot always get the best out of their investments Faith Glasgow asks some financial experts for their most valuable tips
investors from investing in Aim firms Plenty of them have long illustrious track records in worthy businesses and itrsquos easy to find out about them on finan-cial websites More details are available on companiesrsquo own investor relations websites the contents of which are mandated by Aim rule 26 a rule the more heavily regulated main market would do well to emulate
UP YOUR ISA CONTRIBUTIONS
Darius McDermott managing director Chelsea Financial Services
Donrsquot forget to increase your monthly Isa investments each year in line with
inspired | March 2014 1312 March 2014 | inspired
EXPERTSrsquo TOP ISA
TIPS
ISAS SMART STRATEGY FOR
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
INVESTING SMALL AMOUNTS REGULARLY HELPS REDUCE THE IMPACT OF MARKET VOLATILITYMick Gilligan
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
I
and shares in [non-cash] Isas However this isnrsquot the case Indeed some other asset classes ndash in particular those that pro-duce income ndash offer even more tax benefits than equities when held within an Isa
Bond funds for example get (at least) 20 per cent income tax relief on the yield they pro-duce (dividends from equities in contrast are subjected to a 10 per cent tax at source which is not reclaimable even in an Isa)
The new property author-ised investment fund structure for property funds meanwhile means Isa investors no longer incur the 20 per cent tax that would previously have been applied on income received from a property investment
the increase in the contribution limit if you can afford to Itrsquos all too easy for regular investors with their money invested auto-matically every month to overlook those annual allow-ance increases And consider increasing your investment whenever you receive a salary increase
LOOK BEYOND STOCKS AND SHARES
Darius McDermott Chelsea Financial Services Some potential Isa investors think you can only hold stocks
PLOUGH INTO PROPERTYGavin Haynes managing director Whitechurch Securities
Many people donrsquot realise they can gain expo-sure to bricks and mortar through
commercial property funds held in a stocks and shares Isa
The asset class currently offers an attractive yield rela-tive to cash and bonds without the volatility of the stock market investments
Property funds are not with-out risk but an allocation to a commercial property fund (that invests directly in bricks and mortar not property shares) can add diversification to an Isa portfolio With the economic outlook improving the sector looks well placed for recovery
ACCEPT RISK BUT BE SURE TO DIVERSIFY
Rebecca OrsquoKeeffe head of investment Interactive Investor
The primary ben-efits of an Isa are felt over the long term so itrsquos important to rec-
ognise that taking on risk
inspired | March 2014 1312 March 2014 | inspired
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
ITrsquoS ALL TOO EASY TO OVERLOOK THOSE ANNUAL ALLOWANCE INCREASESDariusMcDermott
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
Isa can suddenly become a poorly paying one But never try to transfer an Isa yourself Contact the new provider first and follow its transfer rules
Remember the amount of money you can invest in a cash Isa in each tax year is capped (currently at pound5760) so if you want to switch in the middle of the tax year you will prob-ably be switching the entire amount ndash you cannot switch a portion of an existing Isa into a new one and top it up If your original Isa is due to pay you interest at the end of the year it should pay you the accrued interest up to the date you close the account
Itrsquos possible to transfer your cash Isa into a stocks and shares Isa if you decide this is a better home for you money but you canrsquot switch your money back from a stocks and shares Isa into a cash Isa
You can invest up to pound11520 in a stocks and shares Isa in a single tax year minus anything you may have paid into a cash Isa ndash which is capped at pound5760
over the long term is usually a far more profitable strategy than minimising risk Investors typi-cally take less risk than they should especially if they have suffered a loss in the past
You can mitigate your overall risk by diversifying across differ-ent asset classes and geographic areas Regular investing is also a great risk reduction strategy
Itrsquos also important to rec-ognise the value of dividend reinvestment and understand the benefit this compound-ing effect has on your portfolio And remember to choose a bro-ker that doesnrsquot penalise you for reinvesting
TRANSFER YOUR ISAS TO GET THE BEST DEALS
Mark King editor MoneywiseUnlike a stocks and shares Isa a cash Isa is a sim-ple savings account with a
tax-free Isa lsquowrapperrsquo placed around it so that you donrsquot pay tax on your interest
You can choose to have access to your money or tie it up until a future date just as with typical savings accounts Generally the longer you tie your money up for the better the interest rate you get
While a cash Isa is considered a low-risk investment ndash which sophisticated investors may find returns too little as a result ndash you can transfer a cash Isa should you decide you want to take on more risk or get a bet-ter rate Indeed you may have to transfer a cash Isa regularly Providers offer different rates that can change so a top-paying
From 6 April ndash the beginning of the 201415 tax year ndash however these limits rise to pound11880 and pound5940 respectively
LOOK AT THE LONG- TERM BENEFITS
Philippa Gee managing director Philippa Gee Wealth Management
Some investors look at the return on an Isa or at the limit on how much they can
invest in a single year and fail to see the value
However they would be wise to consider the longer-term view Those who have invested each year for a number of years have been able to build six- figure portfolios that they do not have to pay any further income or capital gains tax on or list on their tax assessment
By securing a significant sum in an Isa wrapper each year as far as yoursquore able you can build up a valuable flexible and tax-efficient investment
inspired | March 2014 PB14 March 2014 | inspired
EXPERTSrsquoTOP ISA
TIPS
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
TAKING ON RISK OVER THE LONG TERM IS USUALLY MORE PROFITABLERebecca OrsquoKeeffe
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
The ISA thatrsquos
fair and square
We believe in straightforward investing Thatrsquos why we donrsquot nibble at your investments with percentage charges Open an account and for pound20 per quarter you get two pound10 trades and an ISA for free After that itrsquos just pound10 per trade across a wide range of UK and international investmentsTransfer to us today and get up to pound240 as a thank you (terms apply) We believe thatrsquos fair and square
The value of investments and any income from them can fall as well as rise so you could get back less than you invest Tax treatment depends on your individual circumstances and may be subject to change If in any doubt please seek advice
iiicoukisa
Interactive Investor Trading Limited trading as ldquoInteractive Investorrdquo is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority Registered Office Standon House 21 Mansell Street London E1 8AA Tel 0845 200 3637 Registered in England with Company Registration number 3699618
hen new rules were introduced last August allowing the inclusion of Alternative Investment Market (Aim) shares in Isas demand for exposure to the junior market
quickly exceeded expectations Another surge in demand is likely in April as the new tax year dawns and investors have a fresh annual allow-ance to play with
Yet while stocks on Aim can boast eye-catching returns and attractive tax perks they can also be very volatile raising concerns that investors may be letting the tax tail wag the investment dog with-out understanding what they are getting into
The Treasuryrsquos decision to allow Aim shares into Isas was driven by a desire to encourage greater investment in small and medium-sized companies The move was immediately popular with investors and brokers reported a sharp rise in Aim-listed purchases Demand for smaller companies funds was up too as investors wary of direct share ownership
bought into funds offering exposure to Aim stocksIt helped that Aim stocks were enjoying a good
run as were smaller companies generally with the amount of money raised on the market over the summer rising sharply Performance is just one aspect of their appeal however
Aim shares already offered inheritance tax effi-ciency most of them qualify for business property relief making them exempt from IHT when held for two years or more However itrsquos worth noting that BPR is subject to change and a company can lose its eligibility and therefore its IHT relief status as a result Therefore investors wanting to continue benefiting from IHT relief have to switch out of such companies and into those still eligible
Wider income and capital gains tax benefits also drove some demand for Aim shares after the
Isa rule change in August The move created a bed- and-Isa opportunity whereby existing Aim share inves-tors sold their holdings and bought them back within an Isa
Among those quick
Alternative Investment Market stocks offer Isa investors a chance to realise heady returns ndash but you need to pick your holdings carefully because of the high risk of losses in an illiquid market says Jeff Salway
AIMSHARES
W
GEMSTO BE UNEARTHED
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
WE WOULD ONLY INCLUDE AIM STOCKS
IN THE PORTFOLIOS OF ADVENTUROUS CLIENTS David Thomson
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
inspired | March 2014 17
THERE ARE
Treatt has built up an immaculate record of delivering profits
to take advantage was Lord Lee of Trafford the UKrsquos first Isa millionaire and author of How to Make a Million ndash Slowly My Guiding Principles from a Lifetime of Successful Investing lsquoI have a
big holding of Christie Group that was originally in my per-sonal equity planrsquo he says lsquoWhen the company moved to Aim [from the main market] I took it out of the Pep but when Aim shares became Isa-eligible I sold it and bought it back again within my Isarsquo
April 2014 will mark the removal of stamp duty from Aim purchases a develop-ment expected to encourage asset managers to launch a new wave of Aim-focused funds The axing of stamp duty makes the junior market more appeal-ing to companies on the main market as well with several recently moving across
Alec Stewart partner at Anderson Strathern Asset Management explains lsquoA company can reduce its regulatory burden by moving to the junior market with lower audit and compliance requirementsrsquo For example the main market
stipulates that any potential listing should have a market capitalisation no lower than pound700000 whereas therersquos no such guideline on the Aim mar-ket Nor do companies need a trading history to list on Aim compared with the three years required for the main market Moreover the cost of listing on Aim is considerably lower
But for many private investors the main appeal of Aim stocks lies largely in the prospect of sky-high returns from the success of small and fledgling companies There are some 1200 stocks on the market from a wide range of sectors ndash albeit with a heavy weighting in technology and especially natural resources and with a gulf in size between the biggest and smallest
The largest are eligible for the FTSE AIM 50 and the FTSE AIM 100 where the likes of Bowleven Majestic Wine Dobbies Asos and MampC Saatchi are listed
Stewart picks out three he favours as part of a diversified portfolio One is Dart Group The owner of Jet2com and Jet2Holidays Dart has had a lsquostrong runrsquo and is focused on becoming more fam-ily friendly in these budget-conscious times says Stewart lsquoIt benefits from good visibility of future bookings and strong cash generationrsquo he adds
Aerospace and defence firm Cohort is another with a lsquoprogressive dividend policyrsquo that has grown at an annualised rate of 20 per cent over
DEWHURST (pound520)Dewhurst is a well-established manu-facturer of lift pushbuttons indicators and controls keypads for ATMs security devices and petrol pumps and traffic management products such as bollards
The company has a long record of profitability under the stewardship of the Dewhurst family and a debt-free balance sheet That suggests it is a strong competitor
Profits fell in 2013 ndash a result of a slowdown in Dewhurstrsquos major markets and customers having stocked up in the previous year Management is quite cagey about the companyrsquos prospects for 2014 but an improved performance is likely as conditions in the UK and the US improve The shares are probably good value at 11 times adjusted 2013 earnings
MS INTERNATIONAL (pound204)MS International manufactures military hardware forks for forklift trucks and petrol station canopies and car washes
The company has been profitable in each of the past 10 years and has a balance sheet flush with cash yet the share price has fallen to a level that val-ues MSI at five times adjusted 2013
earnings MSIrsquos current unpopularity stems from a decline in the profitability of MSI Defence Systems which has the highest turnover of its three businesses
The company expects 2014 to be no easier than 2013 due to continu-ing pressure on defence spending but itrsquos confident it will add to defence work already contracted and scheduled for every year until 2020
Itrsquos quite possible that MSI is having a lull that does not reflect on the qual-ity of its products or businesses If thatrsquos the case itrsquos a bargain
TREATT (pound747)Treatt distills flavourings and frag-rances essential oils and water-soluble essences Its products are used in drinks confectionery sauces and cosmetics worldwide
The companyrsquos expertise and close customer relationships might give it a competitive advantage and it has never suffered a loss However it has ushered out managing director Hugo Bovill and his family has sold its interest
Management with large share-holdings gives companies some independence from the often short-term imperatives of fund managers
However the new team is focused on controlling costs and developing the most profitable products
Profit grew 28 per cent in 2013 and Treattrsquos long-term prospects are prob-ably good but the share price has spiked valuing the shares at 15 times adjusted 2013 earnings
FW THORPE (pound143)FW Thorpe designs and manufactures light fittings known as luminaires They are becoming increasingly complex with the introduction of LED technology that requires printed circuit boards Its main business is Thorlux which supplies lighting to schools hospitals ware-houses and factories Other subsidiaries supply retailers emergency exit signage and cleanroom lighting
Stable family ownership long indus-try experience and a commitment to modernisation and investment are the keys to Thorpersquos prosperity
Although it has to contend with the additional investment required to produce LED lighting Thorpe is manag-ing the transition well The shares cost pound137 which values the company at about 15 times adjusted 2013 earnings Thatrsquos a fair price for a quality company
Richard Beddard picks out four Aim-listed companies worth considering for inclusion in a diversified Isa share portfolio
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
I TRANSFERRED INTO MY ISA A BIG
HOLDING OF CHRISTIE GROUP THAT USEDTO BE IN MY PEPLord Lee of Trafford
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
AIMSHARES
18 March 2014 | inspired
the past three years he adds Among food pro-ducers he likes Wynnstay It has lsquobenefited from strong revenue and pre-tax profitsrsquo increasing its interim dividend by 9 per cent
But therersquos ample cause for caution too because Aim shares are typically far riskier than those listed on the main market Not only is there the vol-atility inherent in shares issued by smaller firms but there remains the potential for liquidity issues even after the surge of money into the market in recent months Haig Bathgate chief investment officer at Turcan Connell says lsquoThey are by impli-cation of their size much less liquid in terms of the shares that trade hands on a daily basis so they are prone to more extreme price movementsrsquo
UK investors may also be averse to Aim stocks that are effectively overseas companies Indeed many Aim fund portfolios specifically exclude both these and natural resources firms as well as stocks that donrsquot offer business property relief
lsquoSignificant numbers of companies have failed to deliver on expectations in this part of the mar-ket and it is also quite heavily weighted towards technology (12 per cent) resources (9 per cent) and oil and gas companies (22 per cent)rsquo says Bathgate There are transparency concerns too due to the less stringent regulatory and company reporting requirements on the Aim market
lsquoWe would only include Aim stocks within the
portfolios of adventurous clients and then only up to a maximum of 10 per centrsquo says David Thomson chief investment officer at VWM Wealth lsquoEven then the bulk of this is likely to be via a venture capital trust where the investor can also enjoy 30 per cent income tax relief providing a further cushion against the volatility of Aim sharesrsquo
Collective investment funds and trusts offer a way into Aim stocks that provides useful diversification and so reduces the risk of heavy losses Investment trusts can offer particular advantages where Aim-listed shares are concerned as their closed-ended status gives them a hedge against the market liquidity issues that can affect Aim stocks Among the growing number of UK smaller companies investment trusts in which Aim shares are prominent are those run by BlackRock Standard Life and Aberforth Unit trusts invest-ing in Aim companies include the LampG UK Alpha Trust and Cazenove UK Smaller Companies
However there is a downside to access-ing Aim through funds and trusts as investors no longer benefit from the IHT-free status that direct holders of Aim stocks enjoy The risk of hefty losses remains the biggest caveat to investing in Aim
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
AIMSHARESAREMUCHLESS
LIQUIDINTERMSOFTHESHARESTHATTRADEHANDSDAILYHaig Bathgate
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
inspired | March 2014 19
Clockwise from top Cohort Wynnstay and Jet2com are Stewartrsquos picks for a diversified portfolio
rewarding such as smaller companies private equity and emerging markets
Trusts can also increase their assets by borrow-ing So long as this gearing is sensibly priced it should accelerate the trustrsquos gains in positive mar-ket conditions However gearing will exacerbate losses in any downturn The possible closing of the discount will also enhance share price returns
SOLID GROWTHBaillie Gifford Global DiscoveryThis fund picked by independent financial adviser Brian Dennehy invests globally in growth stocks especially companies operating in industries with potential for structural change and innova-tion Dennehy says manager Douglas Brodie has had considerable experience and success in iden-tifying growth opportunities particularly among exciting smaller-cap stocks
CF Lindsell Train UK EquityJohn Husselbee head of multi-asset at Liontrust Asset Management prefers investors to traders Renowned investor Warren Buffett takes a similar view and Husselbee says fund manager Nick Train invests like Buffett Train looks to buy great com-panies such as Burberry Heineken and Unilever when they are good value and hold them lsquoforeverrsquo
Cazenove UK Opportunities This fund aims to achieve long-term capital growth from a focused portfolio of large and medium-sized UK companies Gavin Haynes managing
huge variety of investment funds rang-ing from generalist funds to highly specialised versions aim to generate capital growth for investors
Investing in a specific fund entails investors accepting different degrees of risk in return for a range of potential rewards So when we asked financial advisers to predict which funds offer the best prospects for growth in 2014 we also urged them to consider which types of investor the funds would suit best
Solid growth funds will appeal to investors who prefer steady investment while higher-risk growth funds are likely to be more volatile and appeal to those with a higher risk tolerance Speculative funds could produce handsome returns this year but they could also dip sharply in value
Closed-ended status means investment trusts can invest in less liquid asset classes without having to worry about realising their holdings in a market setback This enables them to invest in areas that have historically proved particularly
A
Helen Pridham and Fiona Hamilton have rounded up a collection of investment funds and trusts experts believe will prosper in the year ahead for investors looking to cash in on an improving economic outlook
PERFECT YOUR FUND PORTFOLIOTO SEE IT
GROW
inspired | March 2014 2120 March 2014 | inspired
FUNDSAND
TRUSTS
GROW
inspired | March 2014 2120 March 2014 | inspired
A
RE Y
OU
A
GLO
BAL
INV
ESTO
R Take a global view of investment trusts expertly managed by Henderson
For over 75 years Henderson Global Investors has been at the forefront of investment trust innovation and development Now with a diverse and established range of managed investment trusts and investment companies Henderson has a global view of the market
Whether you are retirement planning investing for your children looking to take advantage of dynamic global markets or want a cautious investment approach our managed companies offer a wide range of investment objectives and strategies professionally managed by regional experts
If your priority is high income long term capital growth or a mixture of both Henderson Global Investors has a range of solutions which aims to meet your investment needs
Please remember that past performance is not a guide to future performance The value of an investment and the income from it can fall as well as rise as a result of market and currency fluctuations and you may not get back the amount originally invested
Call to receive your Investment Trust brochure or visit wwwhendersoninvestmenttrustscom
0800 856 5656
Investment Trusts managed by Henderson
Issued in the UK by Henderson Global Investors Henderson Global Investors is the name under which Henderson Global Investors Limited (reg no 906355) Henderson Fund Management Limited (reg no 2607112) Henderson Investment Funds Limited (reg no 2678531) Henderson Investment Management Limited (reg no 1795354) Henderson Alternative Investment Advisor Limited (reg no 962757) Henderson Equity Partners Limited (reg no2606646) Gartmore Investment Limited (reg no 1508030) (each incorporated and registered in England and Wales with registered office at 201 Bishopsgate London EC2M 3AE) are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority to provide investment products and services Telephone calls may be recorded and monitored H0046521113ad
Itrsquos a global marketplace
HGiTrusts
director at Whitechurch Securities says fund manager Julie Dean has built up an excellent track record
Securities Trust of ScotlandRobin McAdam likes Securities Trust of Scotland which seeks rising income and long-term capi-tal growth from global equities The trust yields 33 per cent so it provides income and growth potential lsquoThe trust has outperformed its bench-mark recently and we expect this to continuersquo says McAdam
Finsbury Growth amp Income TrustPeter Hewitt nominates Finsbury Growth amp Income Trust on the basis of its strong short- and long-term performance Manager Nick Train seeks out the highest-quality companies to hold long term The portfolio is dominated by companies Train expects to have longevity such as Diageo Unilever and Heineken lsquoThe manager looks for strong cash gen-eration and dividend growth which he believes are undervalued by the stock marketrsquo Hewitt says
RIT Capital PartnersThis multi-asset trust selected by John Newlands is the flagship financial vehicle for its chairman Lord Jacob Rothschild and his family lsquoGiven the uncertainty in the world it is no bad thing to be diversified both globally and across a range of asset classes RIT is a global growth trust that offers a combination of these benefitsrsquo Newlands says
His enthusiasm is bolstered by RITrsquos current relatively wide discount which reflects disap-pointment among investors that it was rather too cautious over the past two or three years
Perpetual Income amp Growth Trust This trust is classified as a member of the AIC UK growth and income sector but its yield tends to be below the sector average because manager Mark Barnett is more interested in income growth than immediate income Tim Cockerill classifies it as a total return trust and makes it his solid growth choice Barnett has secured excellent long-term returns dur-ing his 15 years at the helm
HIGHER-RISK GROWTHLazard Emerging MarketsMick Gilligan believes the investment case for emerging market equi-ties remains strong He says lsquoEquity markets in emerging regions are trading at their widest price-to-earnings discount to developed markets since 2006 We believe many well-capitalised businesses that have shown strong financial discipline should gener-ate good profitsrsquo The Lazard Emerging Markets fund focuses on such businesses
Rathbone Global OpportunitiesThis go-almost-anywhere bottom-up thorough stockpicking fund looks for undiscovered gems Rob Burdett fund manager at Thames River believes manager James Thomson strikes the
KEY FACTS ABOUT GROWTH FUND TIPS
Mininv pound
Ongoing Charges
1-yearreturn
Sectorrank
SOLID GROWTHBaillie Gifford Global Discovery 1000 086 5920 2248CF Lindsell Train UK Equity ndash 080 2910 53271Cazenove UK Opportunities 1000 082 3210 40271 HIGHER-RISK GROWTHInvestec Global Energy 1000 087 1420 40206Lazard Emerging Markets 2000 161 320 1668Rathbone Global Opportunities 1000 082 2150 111248 SPECULATIVE GROWTHAllianz BRIC Stars 500 122 -120 134206Liontrust Special Situations 1000 114 1450 251271MampG Recovery 500 096 1330 264271Note Ongoing charges figure refers to the least expensive retail share class Source Financial Express and companies websites as at 3 December 2013
KEY FACTS ABOUT THE TRUSTS TIPPED FOR GROWTH
Shareprice
p
Discprem to NAV
Netyield
Gearing
Net asset valuetotal return after
1 year
3 years
5 years
SOLID GROWTHFinsbury Growth amp Income 5010 (+) 12 21 50 305 767 2038Perpetual Income amp Growth 3686 10 32 120 346 714 1407RIT Capital Partners 12480 105 11 50 210 225 591Securities Trust of Scotland 1469 (+) 31 32 40 192 460 1132 HIGHER-RISK GROWTHBiotech Growth Trust 4335 72 00 70 582 1723 2968Fidelity Chinese Special Sits 1062 65 09 210 433 02 ndashGraphite Enterprise Trust 5690 170 09 -90 167 442 405Schroder Asia Pacific 2730 92 14 -20 08 201 1779 SPECULATIVE GROWTHBaker Steel Resources 470 331 00 10 -57 -137 740Hansa Trust A 8600 243 23 10 142 69 947Impax Environmental Markets 1463 112 06 -20 350 285 921Standard Life Eq Inc subscription 1070 ndash 00 3700 ndash ndash ndashNotes NAV = net asset value Annualised All data as at 1 December Source Numis Securities
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
MARK BARNETT HAS SECURED
EXCELLENT RETURNSTim Cockerill
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
inspired | March 2014 23PB March 2014 | inspired
FUNDSANDTRUSTS
right balance between taking calculated risks for high returns and investing in defensive holdings Burdett says lsquoHe likes companies undertaking gentle innovation ndash moving online for example ndash rather than game changers which have more potential to go wrongrsquo Investec Global EnergyThis fund invests in companies that produce energy and provide services to the energy sector Fund managers Tom Nelson and Charles Whall believe the consensus view on future oil prices anticipates weak demand and growing supply from US shale oil But they demur as does Tony Yarrow at Wise Investment He says lsquoOil is harder to extract from shale than gas is while demand for oil is growing as economies recover A higher oil price feeds straight through to the companiesrsquo profitsrsquo
Biotech Growth TrustPeter Hewitt favours Biotech Growth Trust which has achieved scorching gains recently ndash up 172 per cent over three years to 1 December 2013
It is managed in New York by Orbimed a specialist healthcare and biotechnology investor with $7 bil-lion (pound42 billion) under management It offers exposure to a mix of large and profitable biotech companies along-side emerging businesses Most of its holdings are US-based and they have
benefited from a much more positive approach by the Federal Drug Authority ndash new drug approvals in 2010 were the highest for 10 years
Graphite Enterprise TrustAndrew McHattie contends that just one sector offers great value private equity lsquoThese trusts were hammered in the credit crisis and discounts widened to extreme levelsrsquo he says
His selection is Graphite Enterprise Trust Its discount to net asset value remains at a level that rings alarm bells in most other sectors but it has a strong track record and a relatively mature port-folio of shares he expects to rise in value
Fidelity Chinese Special SituationslsquoWith Chinese equities looking cheap the long-term outlook for investing in China is positiversquo Cockerill says lsquoThis fund invests in medium and small caps where high growth can be achieved New manager Dale Nicholls is well qualified and the combination of Fidelity manager experience and China is compelling in the long termrsquo
Scottish Oriental Smaller Companies Trust This trust is favoured by McAdam The invest-ment team identifies quality companies offering sustainable predictable growth lsquoThe trust may underperform if the market rises strongly but the teamrsquos enviable track record and experience should be respectedrsquo he says
Tim Cockerill is investment director at Rowan Dartington
RowanDartingtonhas20investmentadvisersbasedinsevenofficesacrossthesouthofEnglandIthaspound900millionunderman-
agementInvestmenttrustshavefeaturedinitsdiscretionaryandadvisoryportfoliosformanyyears
Peter Hewittis a member of FampC Asset Managementrsquos global equities team
HehasmanagedtheFampCManagedPortfolioTrustsinceApril2008aswellasitsforerunnerFampCManagedPortfolio
Servicesince2002HewasheadofUKequitiesatMurray
Johnstonefrom1981to1983beforejoiningIvoryampSime
Jean Mattersonis a partner and chief investment officer at Rossie House Investment Management
Shejoinedthefirmin1998after20yearswithassetmanagerStewartIvory
BasedinEdinburghsheisoneoffiveinvestment
professionalsmanagingaroundpound300mil-lionallonadiscretionarybasisAroundhalfisininvestmenttrusts
Robin McAdamjoined Brooks MacDonald Asset Management in 2009 from Adam amp Company Investment Management
Hehas24yearsrsquoexperi-encemanagingprivateclientportfoliosandheadsBMrsquosEdinburghbranch
Thefirmhaspound537billionunderdiscretionarymanagementinbespokeandmanagedportfolios
Andrew McHattieis head of The McHattie Group
McHattieGroupisanauthorisedfirmthatpublishesspecialistinvestmentnewsletters
McHattiehasbeentheeditorofInvestmentTrustNewslettersince1996(wwwtipsheetscouk)andoffersafreeservicecalledthelsquoitlistrsquo(wwwtheitlistcouk)ThecompanyhasaFacebookpage(wwwfacebookcominvestmenttrusts)
John Newlandsis responsible for investment trust research at Brewin Dolphin
Heissupportedbyfouranalystswhocoverspecificsectorsresearchingopen-andclosed-endedfunds
BrewinDolphinhas35officesaroundtheUKandChannelIslandsandmanagespound28billionofwhichpound39billionisininvestmenttrusts
TrusttipstersOursixexpertsrevealtheirtopfundpicks
inspired | March 2014 PB24 March 2014 | inspired
FUNDSAND
TRUSTS
One in twelve goes free on your next golf break plus every golfer receives a free pint
12thmansagimme
Book online at MarriottGolfcouk
Offer is only valid on residential golf bookings booked during the promotional dates For every 11 players booked the 12th player will be free of charge Rates are per person per night based on 2 people sharing a twindouble room and include dinner bed amp breakfast Bookings must be made by one named player and separate bookings will not qualify Each residential player aged 18 and over will receive a voucher entitling them to a complimentary pint
of Beckrsquos or Boddingtons Offer is valid on bookings made via 3rd parties Offer is available on 1 night 2 rounds or 2 night 3 rounds and excludes Sunday Driver Maximum of 2 night stay and 2 people per room Day of week availability may vary based on location Limited number of rooms may be available This offer applies to new bookings only at Marriott Hotel amp Country Clubs and offer courses and tee times are subject to availability Offer cannot
be used in conjunction with any other promotion Course terms and conditions apply Advance reservations required Book between 17th February and 29th June 2014 for stays between 4th April and 29th September 2014
The SIPP thatrsquos
fair and square
We believe in straightforward investing Thatrsquos why we donrsquot nibble at your SIPP with percentage fees For just pound144 per year you can open a SIPP and add an ISA for free After that itrsquos just pound10 to buy or sell a wide range of investments including shares funds bonds and gilts Open an account today and if you transfer your existing SIPP wersquoll give you up to pound240 as a thank you (terms apply) We believe thatrsquos fair and square
The value of investments and any income from them can fall as well as rise so you could get back less than you invest Tax treatment depends on your individual circumstances and may be subject to change If in any doubt please seek advice
iiicouksipp
Interactive Investor Trading Limited trading as ldquoInteractive Investorrdquo is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority Registered Office Standon House 21 Mansell Street London E1 8AA Tel 0845 200 3637 Registered in England with Company Registration number 3699618
SPECULATIVE GROWTHMampG RecoveryDennehy says manager Tom Dobell backs his convictions engages with companies he invests in and has delivered long-term outperformance lsquoDobellrsquos MampG Recovery fund has a clear value-style process and management stability It invests in a wide range of firms that are out of favour or in difficulty or whose prospects are not fully rec-ognised by the marketrsquo he says
Liontrust Special SituationsHusselbee says Liontrustrsquos Anthony Cross and Julian Fosh have their own unique philosophy He adds lsquoThey look for characteristics in a company that its competitors find difficult to replicate such as intellectual property or distribution channelsrsquo
Allianz Bric StarsThis fund aims for capital growth in the long term by investing mainly in Brazil Russia India and China Haynes says investors have shunned these markets recently and valuations fallen He adds lsquoFor investors looking for a recovery story this fund is worth considerationrsquo
Standard Life Equity Income subscription shareMcHattie says warrant and subscription shares are widely ignored creating opportunities for those who understand them He favours the subscrip-tion shares of Standard Life Equity Income which can be exercised at 320p a share up to the end of December 2016 lsquoThey offer gearing of 37 times and if the ordinary shares grow by more than 28 per cent a year between now and the end of 2016 the subscription shares ought to outperformrsquo
Impax Environmental MarketsMcAdam likes this trust It invests in companies seeking to provide cleaner or more-efficient energy as well as water and waste solutions to the growing problems faced by authorities around the world It offers exposure to a rapidly changing marketplace as well as to socially responsible investments
Hansa TrustJohn Newlands sees potential in the A shares of Hansa Trust which languish at a discount of more than 25 per cent He says that whereas the trustrsquos portfolio appears skewed with a third of its assets in Ocean Wilsons there is actually plenty of diversification because Ocean Wilsons has an investment portfolio that stands at a discount to underlying value lsquoOne day an attractive bid [may] be made for Ocean Wilsons that will enhance Hansarsquos NAV and sim-plify its capital structure all to the good of its market ratingrsquo Newlands says
Baker Steel Resources TrustJean Matterson hopes for good returns from this trust shares in which trade on a near 30 per cent discount lsquoIt has not had an easy run of late but we believe the underlying assets are attractive and that the mining projects in the companyrsquos portfo-lio will continue to progressrsquo she says
Prospects have improved for biotechs (left) while growing interest in sustain-able energy has boosted Impax
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
AHIGHEROILPRICEFEEDSSTRAIGHT
THROUGHTOPROFITSTony Yarrow
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
inspired | March 2014 27PB March 2014 | inspired
FUNDSANDTRUSTS
The world of funds and trusts is a confusing place with over 2300 funds and more than 300 investment trusts to choose from
Money Observerrsquos Rated Funds system narrows down the playing field to help you decide which funds and investment trusts might be best for you
Our team of experts constantly monitor the marketplace rating those funds that have delivered consistently good returns However you should be aware that there is no guarantee this performance will be repeated
With our comparison tool you can filter by whatrsquos important to you compare up to four funds and trusts side-by-side as well as view factsheets
COMPAREMONEY OBSERVER RATED FUNDS
VISIT MONEYOBSERVERCOMCOMPAREFUNDS AND LOOK OUT FOR THE RATED FUND STAMP
had spare cash or I were start-ing afresh The companies in the add category are high qual-ity judging by the strategies they follow and their finan-cial strength and are probably undervalued
Irsquom more likely to eject or reduce holdings in companies in the watch and specula-tive categories These shares are more risky either because they have risen greatly in price or because their prospects are more uncertain than usual I may think the risk is worth tak-ing but I am prepared to act should that calculation change
Every decision to increase a portfolio holding must be weighed against the potential of new candidates drawn from all companies listed in the UK and corralled into another live spreadsheet the Share Sleuth watchlist When I add a share to the watchlist or trade a share in the portfolio I explain this in the Share Sleuth blog
ccumulating income and capital gains in an index tracking fund is inexpensive takes little effort and all but guarantees an
average return so it should be the default investment for a lazy equity investor saving for the long term
To justify the work of decid-ing which shares to buy and sell and the effort and cost of placing trades an active investor must do better Consequently the first objective of the active Share Sleuth portfolio is to beat passive investments after costs over the long-term which in practice means any five-year period The second objective is to win this tussle against an unknowing and unthinking opponent transparently
At the heart of the portfolio is an online spreadsheet The first page shows the constitu-ent shares arranged into three categories lsquoaddrsquo lsquowatchrsquo and lsquospeculativersquo The categorisa-tion is updated daily based on live data in subsequent spread-sheets each of which contains a financial model for a particular company
The Share Sleuth portfo-lio shows the holdings I would add to the portfolio today if it
Share Sleuth is a simulation no money changes hands But I use prices quoted by a bro-ker and adjust the accounting to factor in notional broker fees and stamp duty However I lsquoeat my own cookingrsquo by investing my self-invested personal pen-sion in Share Sleuth companies
No doubt you are wonder-ing how the portfolio is doing Share Sleuthrsquos five-year anni-versary judgement day is on 9 September this year and I will not prejudge it now
Short-term performance watching and the knee-jerk trad-ing it encourages is I think one reason why many inves-tors fail My focus is on ensuring the portfolio remains invested in good companies at reasona-ble prices
You can see a live perfor-mance table and learn what I think of every share in the port-folio and which companies I might add to it at wwwiiicoukZkr
SHAREBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIOR
The Share Sleuth portfolio has been carefully devised to show investors how to find good companies at cheap prices and also prove the value of its investment approach says Richard Beddard
Richard Beddard an editor at Interactive Investor since 1999 has managed the Share Sleuth portfolio since 9 September 2009 Hersquos a columnist at Money Observer magazine and a private investor
AMY FOCUS IS ON ENSURING THAT THE PORTFOLIO IS INVESTED IN GOOD FIRMS AT DECENT PRICES
inspired | March 2014 29PB March 2014 | inspired
SHARESLEUTH
iiicoukstraightforward
Interactive Investor Trading Limited trading as ldquoInteractive Investorrdquo is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority Registered Office Standon House 21 Mansell Street London E1 8AA Tel 0845 200 3637 Registered in England with Company Registration number 3699618
We believe in being straightforwardthis is why we donrsquot nibble at your investment by charging percentage fees Find out how this could affect your investment performance at iiicoukstraightforward
If you transfer to us you can even get up to pound240 as a thank you (terms apply)
Donrsquot forget the value of investments and any income from them can fall as well as rise so you could get back less than you invest If in any doubt please seek advice
7784_II_QI_MONEY_OBSERVER_210x297_AWindd 1 16012014 1224
Take a closer look
at your investment
options
Discover a straightforward way to understand everything from ISAs to SIPPs and OEICs to Investment Trusts
Investing for generationsEver feel yoursquod like to know more about investing Wersquove been helping people build their wealth for over 125 years Our guide lsquoMaking sense of the investment universersquo is just one of the resources yoursquoll find on our Investment Focus hub
As well as clear simple guides therersquos a wealth of information and expert opinion all designed to help you take control of your investments Please remember that investments can go down as well as up and investors may get back less than they originally invested
Introducing your free online source of information help and expert opinion
investment-focuscouk
This has been approved as a financial promotion by Alliance Trust Investments Limited for the purpose of Section 21 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 Alliance Trust Investments Limited is a subsidiary of Alliance Trust PLC and is registered in Scotland No SC330862 registered office 8 West Marketgait Dundee DD1 1QN is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority firm reference number 479764 Alliance Trust Investments gives no financial or investment advice
TAX YEAR ENDS APRIL 5TH ndash learn more about
your options now
Investment Focus Smart Insight from Alliance Trust
Yoursquove spoken Wersquove listened Introducing your free online source of information help and expert opinion
Based on real insight we have launched a new website which focuses on investment education
We believe that we are uniquely positioned to provide this hub of information based on the reputation we have built for trust and transparency over the last 125 years
We will be publishing new content over the next few months focusing on specific themes
bull Investing from scratch
bull Products in a portfolio
bull Global diversification
bull Planning for your familyrsquos future
bull Retirement planning
bull Getting more information
There is a generation of future investors out there who have been brought up in an era of economic turmoil and banking crises which has led to disillusionment and a lack of trust in our sector and the services we offer Despite it being more important than ever for investors to take control of their financial situation this new generation of savers lacks the basic knowledge and understanding to make these very important long-term decisions
Our goal is to develop a useful resource with contributions from third-parties as well as the team at Alliance Trust which offers insights into the various life stages and challenges faced and which can be built upon and adapted to meet savers needs in the long term
Katherine Garrett-Cox CBE Chief Executive Alliance Trust PLC
ldquo
rdquo
There are too many products to make an informed decision
I donrsquot know whereto go for reliable
information
investment-focuscouk
Yoursquoll naturally take a keen interest in the performance of your investments But itrsquos just as important to understand the fees you will be paying as they can have a significant impact on the returns you achieve Knowing what the different types of costs mean and exactly what they consist of can prove rewarding
Itrsquos worth remembering that for every fee you pay (whether it is a or flat fee) your investment needs to grow by at least the same amount just to stay ahead of the game It sounds obvious but itrsquos easy to forget Broadly speaking there are three types of fees fund fees platform fees and fees for a financial adviser You can either invest directly into a fund and pay the associated fees or you can invest via a platform provider (some of which are referred to as wrap platforms others as fund supermarkets) This is a service that lets you manage and review all your investments online in one place As a general rule fund fees are lower when
bought through a platform than if you buy direct You can invest through a platform on either an execution only basis where the investor assesses the risks and makes their own investment decisions or on an advised basis
Learn more about fund platform and financial advice fees
What can you expect to seeOver the next two pages we have provided a sneak preview of just some of the information you will find on the Investment Focus hub We will be updating the site regularly so make sure you sign up for our email alerts to be informed when new topics are published
Everything you need to know about fees
Risk informationInvestments can go down as well as up You may get back less than you originally invested
Alliance Trust does not give advice You need to ensure you understand the risks and commitments before investing If you are unsure you should consult a Financial Adviser before investing
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
For the vast majority of investors the simplest cheapest and most pragmatic way to invest is through pooled funds
Sometimes called managed funds unit trusts or even Open-Ended Investment Companies (or OEICs) these are designed to give ordinary savers access to a diverse range of investments
One of the principles of investment is that diversification helps reduce risk But it is expensive and time consuming for ordinary savers to buy shares of 80 to 100 different companies and keep track of how each is performing
But with a managed fund you are pooling your money with other investors enabling the fund manager to buy a wide range of assets
Investors have the option of buying an actively managed or passive fund With an active fund the manager selects and then monitors these stocks for investors in a bid to maximise returns
In contrast a passive fund will simply follow a stock market index such as the FTSE100 up and down
Having a manager at the helm can be beneficial in a market downturn as they can take a more defensive approach buying shares that are better able to hold their value or in some cases switching to bonds or cash instead to help preserve investorsrsquo capital Managers can also research individual companies and markets and have access to forecasts and economic data that isnrsquot always available to individuals
Learn more about investing for growth or income exploring different investment remits how to invest and keeping track of your investments
Understanding funds Written by Emma Simon Personal Finance Journalist
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
What are Investment TrustsInvestment Trusts are investment vehicles that are listed on the London Stock Exchange and which invest in shares and other securities They pool together investorsrsquo money and delegate responsibility to a professional fund manager to invest in a range of companies from different sectors and regions across the world They were designed for ldquothe investor of moderate meansrdquo
A brief historybull The first Investment Trust was launched by Foreign amp
Colonial in 1868
bull Investment Trusts made it possible for individual investors to gain diversified exposure to global stock markets
bull Many Investment Trusts were formed in Scotland including Alliance Trust PLC which was formed over 125 years ago
A guide to Investment Trusts
Learn more about Investment Trusts their main features and why you should consider them for your portfolio
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
Alliance Trust is an investment and savings business with over 125 year history of building investor wealth We offer our shareholders clients and customers a unique portfolio of products and services These range from a renowned global investment trust to an innovative range of investment strategies and funds and a multi-award winning investment platform where investors can host their ISAs SIPPs or investment accounts Our mission is to provide products and services that help to ensure a more sustainable financial future for generations of investors
Alliance Trust PLC is one of the largest generalist investment trusts by market value listed on the London Stock Exchange and is the parent company to two wholly-owned subsidiaries Alliance Trust Savings and Alliance Trust Investments
The fact that many of us make irrational decisions when it comes to our finances is widely debated and is often referred to as behavioural finance In this short video we talk to Professor Phyl Johnson Consultant Psychologist and Visiting Professor of Executive Education at Strathclyde Business School about why this is and more importantly about what we can do as individuals to avoid it
About us Alliance Trust Investments is a specialist fund management business offering a range of products and services focusing on global equities fixed income and sustainable investing with an emphasis on specialist investment solutions
Alliance Trust Savings is one of the UKrsquos leading financial services providers for private investors offering customers the information and services they need to manage their investments in a way that works for them
Risk informationInvestments can go down as well as up You may get back less than you originally invested
Alliance Trust does not give advice You need to ensure you understand the risks and commitments before investing If you are unsure you should consult a Financial Adviser before investing
Unusually for a company of our size around 70 of shares
in Alliance Trust are held by private
individuals
Nobodyrsquos perfect why we all make irrational decisions
Inflation by ageThis monthrsquos official inflation report showed that the headline rate of inflation fell from 20 to 19 Our Economic Research Team analyse this data on a monthly basis to see how inflation rates affect different age groups In February 2014 the summary highlights include
bull The over 75s and the under 30s face the highest rate of inflation in January at 21
bull The over 75s suffered the highest rate of inflation for the whole of 2013 and this trend continues into 2014 as they spend a larger share of their budgets on basic goods such as gas and electricity
bull The 65 to 74 year olds have faced the lowest rate of inflation in 11 out of the last 12 months thanks to lower inflation in food petrol and package holidays
Learn more about how inflation might affect you
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
You can also sign up for our regular email alerts to be informed when new topics are published by clicking here
Wersquove been bringing clarity to investment for over 125 years
Investing for generationsWhen it comes to investing therersquos no substitute for experience And at Alliance Trust wersquove been helping people invest since 1888 Our new Investment Focus hub is full of online information and expert opinion It aims to provide real insight to help you take control of your investments
Over the next few weeks the hub will build to cover everything from taking your first steps to diversifying worldwide Please remember that investments can go down as well as up and investors may get back less than they originally invested For valuable insight from Alliance Trust visit Investment Focus today
Introducing your free online source of information help and expert opinion
investment-focuscouk
This has been approved as a financial promotion by Alliance Trust Investments Limited for the purpose of Section 21 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 Alliance Trust Investments Limited is a subsidiary of Alliance Trust PLC and is registered in Scotland No SC330862 registered office 8 West Marketgait Dundee DD1 1QN is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority firm reference number 479764 Alliance Trust Investments gives no financial or investment advice
TAX YEAR ENDS APRIL 5TH ndash learn more about
your options now
Change the way you think about stocks reap the rewardsBy Edward Page Croft CEO Stockopediacom
I remember so clearly the day when I picked my first stock for clients Managing $2 billion (pound12 billion) in assets across 100 portfolios for high-net-wealth private investors is no easy task As I was to learn when you are green
and straight out of university itrsquos even harder The stock in question was on the Goldman
Sachs US lsquobuyrsquo list It had the potential to be hot Dotcoms were bubbling It was an internet stock in education services and cheap It seemed like it had everything but we needed to get in One day it fell out of bed Down 50 per cent on no news
Irsquod been trained to call the analyst in situations like this He reiterated his buy stance Double buy On my insistence we put almost $20 million of client money into the stock within an hour The next day it fell another 50 per cent on
bad newsThere is nothing more
painful than a loss but you never forget the first
one It immedi-ately forced me to reconsider every-thing I thought I
knew From that day on I vowed to never trust anotherrsquos opin-ion and find a better
way through the market minefieldIrsquove now spent 15 years
reassessing common
wisdom about stock selection No stone has gone unturned in the quest to understand the behav-ioural flaws that lead to poor decision making But there is one finding that crops up again and again in all the research that hurts stock market investors most We as investors are suckers for stories
A 1990rsquos study of 60000 private investor broker-age accounts by Kumar and Goetzmann found that 70 per cent of portfolios held less than four stocks
The stocks held all tended to be in the same sector highly correlated and risky Think internet stocks in the 1990s China in the 2000s or resource stocks more recently The grand theme sucks everyone in The outcome rarely dif-fers Kumar and Goetzmann showed that across these
60000 accounts the average underperformance was of the order of 4 per cent annually
This massive failing across private inves-tor portfolios is repeated in nearly every market cycle and is bound to happen again in this one Benjamin Graham the great father of value invest-ing and tutor of Warren Buffett once wrote
lsquoIn the short run the stock market is a vot-ing machine but in the long run it is a weighing machinersquo
ADVERTISING FEATURE
IN THE SHORT RUN THE STOCK MARKET IS A VOTING MACHINE BUT IN THE LONG RUN IT IS A WEIGHING MACHINEBenjamin Graham
What he meant was that while stories may drive stocks in the short run statistics drive stocks in the long run When statistics reassert them-selves it can cause huge damage to investors punting their portfolios on stories
It doesnrsquot take much to learn how basic statis-tics can guide your portfolio into winning stock selections though very few seem to understand how to do it Benjamin Graham as his life wore on gradually came to the conclusion that building portfolios according to rules-based processes was a far more appropriate methodology for the typi-cal investor
lsquoTry to buy groups of stocks that meet some sim-ple criterion for being undervalued ndash regardless of
the industry and with very little attention to the indi-vidual company It seems too good to be true but all I can tell you after 60 years of experience is it seems to stand up under any of the tests I would make uprsquo
My time is now dedi-cated to helping investors practice exactly what Benjamin Graham and many other investment luminaries have preached rules-based investing For the majority itrsquos a better process and leads to bet-ter outcomes Our work at
Stockopediacom where we crunch fundamental and technical data in order to model and track the investment processes of the great investors bears this out
Portfolios composed with stocks showing the right statistical mix of value quality and momen-tum have significantly outperformed Rules-based investing beats the market But more importantly it helps promote the emotional detachment needed to stop investors from beating themselves
Irsquoll never buy a stock on a punt or an analystrsquos tip again Perhaps neither should you
For a two week free trial and pound50 discount to Stockopedia UK Premium CLICK HERE
TANK MCM A N U F A C T U R E M O V E M E N T 1 9 0 4 M C
SINCE THE CREATION OF THE FIRST TANK WATCH IN 1917 THE TANK COLLECTION HAS CONTINUED
TO BREAK NEW GROUND THE INCREDIBLY REFINED AESTHETICS OF THE NEW TANK MC WATCH ARE FITTED
WITH THE CARTIER MANUFACTURE MOVEMENT 1904 MC ESTABLISHED IN 1847 CARTIER CREATES
EXCEPTIONAL WATCHES THAT COMBINE DARING DESIGN AND WATCHMAKING SAVOIR-FAIRE
EXPLORE AND SHOP WWWCARTIERCOUK - (020) 3147 4850
Conn
oisseur
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Conn
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oisseur
Inside
Conn
oisseur
TO THE CONNOISSEUR section of Inspired a showcase for the finer things in life for those who truly appreciate them
Enjoying the fruits of your labour away from the relentless demands of our age poses its own challenges and quandaries Would a tropical idyll restore your ebbing energy levels Might a break based around hair-raising activities revive them even more effectively Perhaps reawakening a dormant passion for fine wines or luxury cars would be the most enjoyable reward for your industry
A luxury tropical holiday is probably near the top of most peoplersquos wish lists We take a look at some of the most tantalising options
The arrival of BMWrsquos new super coupe is featured on page 50 BMW aficionados and petrolheads alike are certain to be won over by its head-turning looks and mouthwatering specs
Gems come under the microscope on page 53 A rare coloured diamond can be a joy as well an appreciating asset
Wine is on the menu on page 54 where we explore the charms of Argentinian Malbec
Watches are often treasured objects and the best can turn out to be shrewd investments We look at the secondary watch market and the growth of online retailing on page 58 Enjoy
Welcome
40 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
FIVE TOP PRIVATE ISLAND RETREATSIslandFantasy
Top-rated resorts and hotels offer a variety of temptations and services to impress even the most discerning tastes but there is no better way to escape the rigours and
stresses of daily life than cutting off from the outside world while still enjoying lavish service
in the pinnacle of all resorts the private islandThere are thousands of small islands around
the world but only a few have chosen to cater to the most discriminating travellers seeking a rarified yet perfect world of quiet and relaxed luxury We look at five of the worldrsquos top private islands destinations where your holiday is certain to be an exceptional experience
TRAVEL
Necker Island is owned by Sir Richard Branson and guests stay in his home The island has become a popular des-tination for some of the worldrsquos most prominent figures as a hideaway from lifersquos stresses and strains
Because Necker Island is a resi-dence and not a resort guests who rent the island are treated as owners and catered for in a unique way
The74-acre island is fringed with beautiful white beaches and surrounded by turquoise waters and coral reefs It boasts every resort-type amenity guests can spend their days being pampered in the spa explor-ing underwater reefs in a submarine lounging by the pool bar or swimming in one of the worldrsquos most elab-orate private pools
Haute cuisine is a highlight for most guests ndash rates are fully inclusive of all food and drink A team of chefs creates bespoke menus featuring anything from lobster and caviar to a Sunday roast And because Necker is a home first and a resort second guests decide whether dining will be formal or informal inside or outside themed or traditional
The bar is stocked with international wines top-quality spirits and beers and a world renowned house champagne while special orders can be shipped in at no extra charge ndash unless an item is particularly rare Every service and amenity is available around the clock and guests are encouraged to treat Necker as their own home
As youLike it
NECKER ISLAND
42 March 2014 | inspired
Unalloyed luxury and an impressive range of amenities make Necker one of the most desirable island destinations in the world
The Jumby Bay resort which is only accessible by boat from Antigua is a Caribbean hideaway owned by Rosewood Resorts It is perfect for those seeking either relaxation or spirited adventure
You can rent the island resort entirely for your stay or simply take a room Those opt-ing for exclusive use of the island will have the resortrsquos two pools three tennis courts fitness centre croquet field and putting green to themselves
A wide range of water sports are available and guests can indulge in as much adventure or relaxation as they want during their stay The resort is ideal for large family
reunions or corporate retreats ndash 40 guest rooms and suites are available on the island
Executive chef Sylvain Hervochon celebrates gastron-omy ndash and mixology (cocktail making) ndash with casual elegance by creating Caribbean-style dishes inspired by fresh local ingredients and incorporating international influences
Jumby Bayrsquos rates start at pound150000 for four nights based on double occupancy between May and December Visit wwwrosewoodhotelscomenjumby-bay-antigua for further information
Fine BalanceCaribbean ambiance international sophistication and adventurous activities make Jumby Bay a compelling choice
JUMBY BAY
Just laze by the pool or venture beyond to dive in the turquoise waters of the South Pacific among stunning reefs and a dazzling array of marine creatures
Isle of PlentyT
he private island of Laucala in the South Pacific is a 3500-acre site in a picturesque rainforest-laced land-scape Enchanting deserted beaches nestle among coconut plantations organic farms and lush green vol-canic mountains
The resort offers an outstanding level of refined lux-ury as well as a compelling collection of sporting and cultural activities diving among iridescent marine life in the warm turquoise waters guided rainforest tours horse riding surfing and golfing on the 18-hole cham-pionship course The island is a superb choice for an escape from civilization whether you want an adven-ture in the wild or simply to relax in one of Laucalarsquos five restaurants and bars
Rates are available on request Visit wwwlaucalacom for further details
TRAVEL
LAUCALA ISLAND
inspired | March 2014 4544 March 2014 | inspired
Lush green surroundings sensitive development and beautiful beaches help Laucala island conjure up a complete South Seas experience
Isle of Plenty
inspired | March 2014 4544 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
inspired | March 2014 4746 March 2014 | inspired
Slow LaneSlow
Pulau Joyo is a seductively serene environment of pristine beaches surrounded by clear blue sea in Indonesiarsquos Riau Archipelago Accessible from Singapore or Bintan Pulau Joyo is a true castaway island offering every resort luxury
amid untouched natural beauty Pulau Joyo is famous for its remarkable sunsets and
brightly star-lit sky The resort can host 28 guests and 20 staff are on hand to cater to their every need Guests stay in open driftwood lsquopalacesrsquo that lsquoallow the sea inrsquoDespite its desert island appeal Pulau Joyo offers every modern convenience a range of adrenaline boosting activities and more relaxing options such as spa treatments and massages
The resortrsquos cuisine focuses on western and Indonesian dishes Meals are usually served buffet style and feature grilled fish squid prawns beef and chicken as well as many curry dishes Side dishes include fresh garden salads pasta salads boiled or steamed leafy greens and grilled aubergine (an island favourite) Prawn and tofu kebabs appear from time to time as does satay The chef will often provide a selection of freshly picked fruit and homemade cakes for dessert Itrsquos worth noting that the management will not serve pork or shellfish on this private island
Pulau Joyo may not be as refined as some islands but itrsquos an excellent choice for those who want a more casual laidback island experience that replicates the castaway experience like perhaps no other
Rates start at pound1913 a night More information is available at wwwpulau-joyocom
Wannabe castaways may find Pulau Joyorsquos purer simpler take on the luxury island experience more to their taste
PULAU JOYO
inspired | March 2014 4746 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
In the Fijian island paradise of Dolphin Island a small army of staff await to meet guestsrsquo every need On arriving ndash by boat helicopter or float plane ndash visitors are invariably struck by the beauty of the island and the luxuri-ous accommodation that awaits them amid 14-acres of lush tropical gardens
Three traditional palm-thatched bures individually designed by world renowned interior designer Virginia Fisher sit in an elevated position around the resortrsquos infinity pool
Guests are brought fresh tropical fish to choose each day that are cooked to perfec-
tion within hours of leaving the water The culinary focus is on
organic produce and ingredi-ents unique to Fijian cuisine but meals are tailored to guestsrsquo personal tastes Papayas man-goes bananas and pineapples
are plentiful throughout the day When it comes to recreation the
14-acre island is an expansive play-ground offering a diverse range of watersports as well as diving opportunities on Fijirsquos coral reefs
Rates start at pound720 a night More information is avail-able at wwwdolphinislandfijicom
Fijian Paean
Traditional features modern comforts and excellent facilities make for a harmonious whole on this Fijian island
DOLPHIN ISLAND
48 March 2014 | inspired
Pictured slightly larger than actual size
Big Pilotrsquos Watch Ref 5009
Your wrist never felt this big before The
case of the top model in the IWC Pilotrsquos
Watch range is a gigantic 462 mm in diashy
meter And the technology inside it is
even more impressive the largest IWCshy
manufactured automatic movement with
its Pellaton winding system is protected
against strong magnetic fields by a softshy
iron inner case And needless to say enshy
vious glances iwc engineered for men
Mechanical IWCshymanufactured movement Pellaton
automatic winding system 7shyday power reserve
with display (figure) Date display Softshyiron inner
case for protection against magnetic fields
Antireflective sapphire glass Watershyresistant 6 bar
Stainless steel
IWC Schaffhausen Switzerland iwccom The worldrsquos finest timepieces are exclusively available from selected watch specialists
For an illustrated catalogue or list of nationwide concessionaires please contact IWC UK Tel 0845 337 1868 Eshymail infoshyukiwccom
CARS
MunichLegend
50 March 2014 | inspired
BMW fanatics can open their eyes ndash the M4 has arrived
Most BMW aficionados are proba-bly pretty sad to see production of the M3 coupe ndash quite possibly the companyrsquos most noteworthy and celebrated model ndash end after almost 30 years Ever since the first wide-body E30 M3 saw the
light of day in 1985 drivers have loved the sporty coupe for its incredible balance intoxicating power and of course solid build quality
The model never got stale in all that time and always remained the poster child for the M division so itrsquos a lit-tle weird that BMW has apparently decided to axe it In truth though they havenrsquot really dropped the M3 The M3 sedan will continue to be produced in 2014 so all
is not lost Moreover BMW seems to be adopting a pat-tern of giving its sedans odd-numbered titles only and its coupes even-numbered titles only so the 4-Series and especially the M4 concept that debuted at Pebble Beach Monterey California will fill the gap left by the M3 Many people have been awaiting the new super coupe with great expectancy but can it fill in for the M3
The journalists who swarmed over the M4 concept at Pebble Beach were obviously much more interested in it than the somewhat predictable 428i that was also there Finished in an eye-catching colour called Aurum Dust (which actually looks a lot like the old M3rsquos Phoenix Yellow colour) the car presented in California may be a concept but typically BMW M cars donrsquot change much before they finally hit the showroom
MunichLegend
inspired | March 2014 51
CARS
52 March 2014 | inspired
From front to back the bodywork is manifestly differ-ent and much more aggressive looking than a standard 4-Series car It really looks to pretty much pick up where the E92E93 M3 coupe left off especially with its undeniably cool domed hood Wide wheel arches big wheels wrapped in low-profile tyres more than enough M badges and a well-executed double-bubble roof make the already underwhelming existing 4-Series coupe look even more pedestrian
Power for the new M4 is likely to come from a three-litre twin-turbo straight-six engine While the horsepower probably wonrsquot differ much from the M3rsquos old 4-litre V-8 it will generate more than 100lbft more in torque almost 400 in total With the M4 being a lighter 3300lb in weight the M4 promises to be an excit-ing worthy car A proper six-speed manual may be in the mix alongside the now obligatory dual clutch and paddles option
The best way to look at the M4 however it ends up is not as a new car but as a new and improved M3 thatrsquos just getting a new name The decision to rename the coupe is a strange one but thankfully BMW apparently felt the 3-Series coupe had made such an identity for itself that a new model was needed albeit in a slightly different incarnation
With BMW embarking on some new-ageish ideas such as its 1-Series ActiveE and the soon-to-arrive lsquoirsquo range of cars itrsquos nice to see the company also stick to classics such as the heart-stopping sports coupe even if the latest model does come with a new name
Seductive curves and racier performance make the BMW M4 a more than acceptable replacement for the M3 super coupe
SparklingForm Coloured diamonds are making their mark
One of the main factors that deter-mines the value of what we ordinarily think of as diamonds is their purity the degree to which col-our is absent in the gem However with coloured diamonds the extent to which they are saturated with
colour is a principal determinant of their valueColoured diamonds come in 12 basic colours more
than 90 secondary hues and nine intensity levels The depth of their colour is what really differentiates these diamonds from their colourless counterparts
Natural coloured diamonds are 10000 times rarer than typical colourless diamonds one of several rea-sons why they are treasured by the rich and famous yet remain unknown to most other people ndash despite hav-ing been around for centuries
Of course some colours are rarer than others Red violet and purple stones are as rare as the proverbial hensrsquo teeth while green and blue are also rare The most popular colours are pink and yellow (or canary) They also come in white grey orange black and lsquochame-leonrsquo form
A pinkie ring encrusted with a large coloured dia-mond has become a status symbol for men in Asia That little stone is an unregistered asset that could quickly be sold for millions of dollars should the need arise
Coloured diamonds are durable and never lose their sparkle or lustre so they are assets that can be enjoyed every day unlike stocks or bonds And they have proved to be fantastic investments having steadily appreciated in price with relatively little volatility for more than a decade They even held their own during the most recent financial crisis
Coloured diamonds are auctioned by reputable
auction houses such a Sothebyrsquos and Christiersquos where prices for large unique pink red blue or yellow stones can reach in excess of $2 million (pound12 million) a carat and other stones regularly sell for $1 million a carat
They are often bought by high-net-worth individu-als as an insurance policy Instead of stashing cash in undeclared bank accounts and potentially incurring the wrath of the authorities the wealthy can purchase some loose yellow diamonds to secure their future
Clearly coloured diamonds are much more than a magnificent indulgence
GEMS
inspired | March 2014 53PB March 2014 | inspired
WINE
Make the most of the deeply
satisfying Malbec wines emerging from Argentina
and perhaps even enjoy a return on a shrewd
investment says Ewan Lacey
Finding a red wine to enjoy in spring is a delicate balancing act The shock of seeing sunlight after a dark winter fosters in us a desire to drink some-thing refreshing while the still-cool temperatures demand something with comforting depth
Increasingly Malbec wines particularly those from Argentina provide a perfect solution to this quandary And while there are plenty of delicious wines for infor-mal occasions what is most interesting is the emergence of finer Malbec wines Some are so good they may well have ageing potential raising the intriguing possibility that the wine may one day become collectable
Malbec is the most popular wine among those aged 25-34 and is now becoming a fixture on most restaurant wine lists There are several reasons for its success the word Malbec is easy to pronounce the wine goes well with red meat the Malbec grape can be turned into wines that are both relatively easy to drink and packed with flavour and decent wines are available at reason-able prices Malbec is deep fruity and charming and it delivers instant pleasure ndash claret on a motorbike
The Malbec grape originated in France and it remains one of the permitted varieties used to make Bordeaux However it has gained prominence through the work of the post-junta Argentine wine industry
I recently had the pleasure of tasting some very fine Malbecs with Laura Catena managing director at the Catena Zapata winery and president of the International Wine and Spirit Competition She opened my
Mendoza Marvels
inspired | March 2014 55
WINE
eyes to the potential of this grape variety when handled with care
Laurarsquos family business makes a range of wines but the wine that truly astonished me was the Nicasia Vineyard Malbec 2006 The wine is perfumed with floral and fruit notes and it is smooth and soft at first Like all great wines it has many layers of flavour warm bursts of cherry and black-currant cede centre stage to deeper darker caramel and mocha notes and a touch of spice Therersquos an amazing depth of flavour and the finish is long and lingering Whatrsquos more at nearly eight years old it still has a slight purple tinge and tastes extremely fresh There is every indication that it will age beautifully for at least another decade
The winersquos character is heavily influenced by the alti-tude the grapes used to make it are grown at (1180m
above sea level) At this elevation the grapes ripen in bright sun but lsquorelaxrsquo during the cool evenings The fact that the wine is made in tiny quantities (eight barrels only) means every care can be taken during the winemak-ing process to ensure the wine is allowed to show its grown-up side The cost per bot-tle of pound70 is not insubstantial but neither is the wine
We cannot know whether these wines will ever become investments in the way the wines of Bordeaux have Whatrsquos cer-tain is that Malbec wines have a very rare quality a balance of finesse and power that
can delight wine lovers and linger in their memories
Ewan Lacey is a leading wine expert and general manager of the International Wine and Spirit Competition He has appeared on BBC television and radio as well as Channel 4 and written for the national press
Laura Catena is managing director at the Catena Zapata winery (above)
THE INTERNATIONAL WINE AND SPIRIT COMPETITIONThe International Wine and Spirit Competition has been the premier drinks competition in the world for 45 years Each year it receives and reviews thousands of wines and spirits and presents qual-ity awards to producers
More than anything the IWSC exists to help
people make better deci-sions particularly when buying wines and spirits An IWSC award on a bot-tle of wine is a guarantee
of quality backed not only by a rigorous and strin-gent judging process but also by the skill of the judges who are drawn from the ranks of masters of wine master distill-ers industry leaders and commentators
Each year the IWSC honours a leading figure
in the drinks industry with the presidency of the competition The current president is Laura Catena who succeeds a nota-ble line of predecessors including Prince Robert of Luxembourg winemakers Piero Antinori and Warren Winiarski and Baroness Philippine de Rothschild
56 March 2014 | inspired
LUXURY WATCHES
Time is preciousA
t a recent watch auc-tion in Geneva at Antiquorum ndash the worldrsquos premiere auc-tion house for modern and vintage time pieces ndash a Patek Philippe
pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon watch emerged as the auctionrsquos top lot and sold for 12 million Swiss francs (pound807000)
Unlike most of the timepieces sold at auctions outside Asia this particular Patek watch ndash the most complicated wristwatch the Swiss watchmaker has ever produced ndash was not a vintage model
That Geneva auction raised intriguing
1284Clocks with weights gears and regulators start to appear mostly with no dial to strike the important moments of daily life
Around 1410The mainspring is devel-oped Combined with the fusee this innovation makes possible the truly portable domestic clock
1492The mechanical watch appears simultaneously in Italy Germany and France
1675Christian Huygens invents the spiral balance spring
for watches significantly improving their accuracy
1704The first watch with jew-els is produced by French watchmaker de Beaufreacute
1714The British parliament offers pound20000 to who-ever can a find a method to determine longitude
1766Parliament publishes the rating results for John Harrisonrsquos H4 marine timekeeper Harrisonrsquos highly accurate marine clock solution to the problem of determining logitude wins him part of the pound20000 prize
1787Pierre-Freacutedeacuteric Ingold is born an important pio-neer in mechanised timepiece production and the use of interchangea-ble parts
1790Jacquet-Droz and Leschot manufactures a watch attached to a strap
1839Vacheron amp Constantin developes a full set of machine tools for manu-facturing its watches
1875Calcium sulphate is the first luminescent sub-stance to be used for numerals and hands
TIMEKEEPING MILESTONES
questions Are modern luxury timepieces every bit as appealing as the vintage watches that typically command top prices at auc-tion And does that Geneva auction tell us anything about the contemporary watch market as a whole
Julien Schaerer Antiquorumrsquos managing director in Geneva says top-quality vintage watches often appreciate in value over the long term But he urges buyers for whom appreciation is an important consideration to be cautious about purchasing contempo-rary watches
lsquoWatch price depreciation is the cost of ownership just as it is with a luxury carrsquo he says lsquoIf the value goes up then
58 March 2014 | inspired
1880The first water- resistant watch incorpo-rating a screwed case is produced by Genevan watchmaker Franccedilois Borgel
1889The first known patent for a wristwatch is filed in Bern Switzerland
1890Dialmaker A Beyeler invents a transfer press for applying numerals and letters to dials
1892Auguste Verneuil in France produces the first synthetic jewels to be used in watchmaking
1904Wens Wilsdorf launches large-scale production of a womenrsquos wristwatch
1924John Harwood files the
first Swiss patent for a self-winding wristwatch with a central oscillating weight
1925The first known wrist-watch with a perpetual calendar is manufactured using a pendant watch movement
1926Rolex creates the Oyster wristwatch with a water-resistant case and crown
1966The first quartz wrist-watch prototype is produced
1969The first quartz watch
with an LED display appears
1978Quartz watches overtake mechanical watches in popularity
2005Creation of the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie Seiko launches the spring drive Kinetic the first self-winding mechanical watch with an electro-magnetic escapement
A Patek Philippe pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon recently sold for pound807000
inspired | March 2014 59
online retailers from the comfort of your homeSince 2006 DM London has quietly estab-
lished a powerful presence for itself in the UK retail watch market with the acquisition of The Watch Hut and The Watch Gallery DM London chairman David Coleridge says the company has capitalised on the increasing willingness of buy-ers to purchase online
lsquoHaving decided that they would like to buy a watch for themselves or someone elsersquo he says lsquopeople start to do their research More often than not this starts online nowadays where they com-pare brands performance and functions
lsquoAs trust in the online marketplace has devel-oped many want to buy online because it is convenient and saves time Shopping online becomes a habit established sites build trust and awareness with customers which gives custom-ers the confidence to buy more expensive itemsrsquo
He adds lsquoOur challenge is to make the online environment as attractive informative and enjoy-able as a high street store Then customers will decide to spend onlinersquo
Coleridge believes a multi-channel approach is the way forward for retailers He says lsquoWithout doubt the future is multi-channel selling ndash a combination of direct selling on the internet and various forms of click and collect ndash combined with beautiful stores on the high street
Over the past few years demand for luxury watches (particularly contemporary models) has spiked sharply in Asia and according to some specialists emerging affluence in the
of course thatrsquos an added benefit However he adds lsquoPrice appreciation is still quite rare with modern watches There is some poten-tial for appreciation but probably only with ultra-limited editions A purchase has to be
seen as a medium- to long-term invest-ment One should buy a timepiece first out of love for the brand or [the watchrsquos] complicationrsquo
The watch brands that offer the greatest assurance of appreci-
ation include Cartier Patek Philippe Rolex Audemars
Piguet A Lange amp Sohne Breguet and Vacheron Constantin All enjoy views from the top of
the watchmaking hierarchy thanks to their longstand-ing histories and well-established brand identities
Relative new-comers to the industry such as Richard Mille and Roger Dubuis have carved out a niche for
themselves with their revolutionary designs and
space-age technologies but it remains to be seen just how well the values of their timepieces will stand up on the secondary market
According to Nathaniel Borgelt a specialist at auction house Sothebyrsquos
some modern watches have already achieved good prices at auction but these (like the Patek Philippe Sky Moon Tourbillon) were highly exclusive models when new
lsquoSome limited edition pieces currently fetch incredible prices at auctionrsquo he says lsquoAnd there is a select group of modern mod-els that could compete with a certain sector of the vintage market based on their brand innovative features such as materials or com-plications and avant-garde designs
Buying these has now become a whole lot easier The luxury watch retailing land-scape is changing and the traditional pattern of physically walking into a luxury salon to buy a watch is gradually being replaced by a trend towards visiting the websites of the big
LUXURY WATCHES
A Lange amp Sohne (above) is a long-standing high-end watchmaker Comparative new-comer Roger Dubuis (right) is forging a strong reputation
inspired | March 2014 PB60 March 2014 | inspired
helpthewatchgallerycom
Hublot ClassiC FusiontHe WatCH Gallery exClusive
The Watch Gallery and Hublot have joined forces to create two very special limited edition watches Both are limited to just 15 pieces worldwide and have been specifically designed to feature The Watch Gallery blue brand colour on the hands and tinted open case back
SelfridgeS OxfOrd StreetWeStfield lOndOnMancheSter exchange Square
wwwthewatchgallerycomhublot-watches
Far East has kept global values strong while other markets around the world continue to recover from recession
Despite the market boost from growing prosperity in Asia there are signs that the market is becoming saturated and that globally the new watch market isnrsquot as robust as some commentators suggest
It may still be a good time to buy but its important to know what you want and what yoursquore buying Modern watchmakers such as Richard Mille Roger Dubuis and Greubel Forsey are producing beautiful timepieces but because of their limited foothold in the market itrsquos difficult to predict their long-term success and desirability They donrsquot yet have the brand power that might ensure the value of their
watches in the secondhand market remains highSuch producers might one day stand eye to
eye with the most desirable brands such as Patek Philippe and Rolex but achieving that kind of parity wonrsquot be easy Collectors looking to invest in timepieces are advised to keep an open mind about modern producers uncertainty is the one aspect of modern luxury watch market most experts tend to agree on
That said the buoyancy in the watch market suggests that plenty of buyers are unconcerned about future values For them itrsquos all about the appreciation of the watch itself People buy watches because they bring them pleasure ndash and say some-thing about who they are
LUXURY WATCHES
Contemporary watches such as those made by Hublot (left) have yet to show they will have the lasting appeal of watches such as Cartierrsquos Rotonde de Cartier Astrocalendaire (right)
inspired | March 2014 63
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-
tocks bounced back after January jitters ndash to such an extent that Bank of Americarsquos chief technical analyst changed his mind to assert that lsquothe larger uptrend has resumedrsquo But is this true for stocks generally
Certainly a look at the FTSE 100 confirms that the recent bull market trend remains intact despite fear that the emerging markets crisis could fester The ousting of Viktor Yanukovych as president of Ukraine looks unlikely to become a wider east-west conflict despite the Russian militaryrsquos show of force in Crimea
The now familiar theme of markets muddling through looks set to persist Shares appear fairly valued while the fundamentals look to have improved during February The G20 ndash the worldrsquos 19 richest nations and the EU ndash have committed themselves to injecting $2 trillion (pound119 trillion) into the global economy over the next five years to raise global growth by at least 2 per cent by 2018 The group is shunning austerity to focus on private sector infrastructure spending encour-aged by tax breaks
Equity markets may experience mixed fortunes this year but they are likely to prevail against any economic headwinds overall
MARKETS SETTO MUDDLETHROUGH IN
2014S
inspired | March 2014 5
THE MARKETSIN 2014
INTHEUSJOBNUMBERSINCOMESANDALL-ROUNDCONSUMERCONFIDENCEAREIMPROVING
Sales have also improved although overall rev-enue growth remains weak and needs watching because a disparity between growth and profits is liable to puncture optimism just as company shares have soared amid loose monetary policy
Keep in mind the fact that the US economy has yet to break a habit of allowing growth spurts to fade GDP rose at an annualised rate of 32 per cent in the fourth quarter of 2013 and 19 per cent
overall last year while the consensus is for 28 per cent for 2014 and 29 per cent for 2015 Similarly after the mid 2009 recession GDP grew at an average annualised rate of 34 per cent in the second and third quarters of 2010 and
then by 43 per cent in the fourth quarter of 2011 and first quarter of 2012 Yet the improvement was short-lived
Last year rapid inventory accumulation boosted GDP at a level that is unsustainable However pri-vate consumption growth is running at its fastest rate in three years
Overall the economic figures are mixed and it remains to be seen where they will head next as the Fedrsquos stimulus expires
The recovery in the UK appears to be strengthen-ing The economy officially grew by 07 per cent in the fourth quarter of 2013 A growth rate of 18 per cent was estimated for the year as a whole
Significantly business investment rose by 24 per cent in the third quarter of 2013 and
Inevitably there is scepticism that reassuring words will be translated into practical deeds but they add to positive sentiment amid improving economic numbers in the US and the UK
The principal risk is that the US economy will stutter just as the US Federal Reserve commits to a monthly $10 billion wind-ing down of its monetary stimulus and sustains this drawdown rate to show itself to be more consistent with guidance than it was last year
Recent US data has been mixed and analysts are unsure how much the harsh winter in the US should affect their calculations Yet home sales jumped by 96 per cent in January the fastest rise in more than five years This suggests job numbers incomes and all-round consumer con-fidence are improving following years of worry that the US economy and house prices might falter again While pent-up demand probably explains some of the improvement in house sales the rise is especially notable given that higher mort-gage rates since mid 2013 have limited mortgage affordability
US corporate earnings have grown stronger than expected ndash by about 85 per cent in the fourth quar-ter of 2013 Some 72 per cent of SampP 500 firms beat expectations according to FactSet Research
The crisis in Crimea is unlikely to derail or impede the slow but steady progress in global stock markets seen so far this year
6 March 2014 | inspired
THE MARKETS
IN 2014
spread like some predicted it would and Chinarsquos debt problem could take a while to erupt if it ever does Even if it does Chinarsquos communist gov-ernment can deploy strong economic and social controls
It is interesting that in a recent television pro-gramme on risks in China the BBCrsquos business editor Robert Peston initially sounded as if he was marking the country out for trouble However
he softened his stance a little towards the end of the programme
Oil prices have not capit-ulated ndash as was feared at the start of the year ndash and created revenue problems for Russia and Saudi Arabia possibly showing that Saudi Arabia
can still control prices to a large degree Complacency is a danger given the real risks
associated with the Fed winding down its stimu-lus and doubts over whether corporate revenues can genuinely improve However figures in
February have supported the trend towards muddling through big risks seen during
the eurozone debt crisis two years ago the bailouts for Greece and Cyprus and the political posturing over the US debt ceiling While interest rates remain low shareholders can take heart that their
riskreward profiles look supportive overall and traders can keep their fingers
crossed for more volatility
85 per cent in the fourth quarter of 2013 This has been the missing link in a recovery feared to be overly dependent on rising house prices and consumers resorting to raiding savings to fund spending
There remains a lot to achieve on the export front and interest rates are expected to rise from 2015 although the Bank of England is ada-mant that this will be gradual
A potential Labour gen-eral election victory by May 2015 does not seem to trou-ble investors at the moment The net balance at the end of February appears positive for shares because GDP and corporate profits are the factors that influence it most and the situation in continental Europe (beyond youth unemployment) is not prov-ing as dire as many feared
It is frustrating for long-term inves-tors with fresh money because equity valuations appear to broadly price in prospects so they typically need to take a lsquomomentumrsquo view which is less comfortable for them than when value yardsticks are in their favour But unless company earnings stall the downside looks limited for now
The emerging markets crisis has not
Confidence in the economies of key Asian economic powerhouses such as mainland China Singapore and Hong Kong (pictured) remains high
8 March 2014 | inspired
THE MARKETS
IN 2014
THEEMERGINGMARKETSCRISISHASNOTSPREADANDCHINArsquoSDEBTPROBLEMCOULDTAKETIMETOERUPTIFITEVERDOES
SCOTTISH MORTGAGE INVESTMENT TRUST
For a limited period and new eligible ISA customers only Terms amp Conditions and minimum investment amounts apply Please refer to our website or the application pack that we will send you for full details Your call may be recorded for training or monitoring purposes Baillie Gifford Savings Management Limited (BGSM) is the manager of the Baillie Gifford Investment Trust ISA and is wholly owned by Baillie Gifford amp Co which is the manager and secretary of the Scottish Mortgage Investment Trust PLC Your personal data is held and used by BGSM in accordance with data protection legislation We may use your information to send you information about Baillie Gifford products funds or special offers and to contact you for business research purposes We will only disclose your information to other companies within the Baillie Gifford group and to agents appointed by us for these purposes You can withdraw your consent to receiving further marketing communications from us and to being contacted for business research purposes at any time You also have the right to review and amend your data at any time
Wersquore 100 committed to making sure our fund managers never have a restricted outlook That way the long-term view is a clear one So whatrsquos the secret to their liberated attitude
Well our flagship fund the Scottish Mortgage Investment Trust is a global stock-picking fund that is completely free of asset allocation constraints that ignores index weightings and that selects stocks purely on their merit We feel that this freedom allows us to focus on the long term
The Scottish Mortgage Investment Trust is managed by Baillie Gifford
Please remember that changing stock market conditions and currency exchange rates will affect the value of your investment in the fund and any income from it You may not get back the amount invested
You can purchase Scottish Mortgage from Interactive Investor Alternatively you can invest directly with Baillie Gifford through our ISA Open an ISA with Baillie Gifford before 30 April and you can receive a pound10 Amazon gift card
For more information contact Baillie Gifford on 0800 917 2112 or visit wwwscottishmortgageitcomBaillie Gifford ndash long-term investment partners
Freedom to roam
WE LIVE IN A PERIOD OF EXPONENTIAL CHANGE PROVIDING FANTASTIC OPPORTUNITIES FOR STOCK PICKERS LIKE US
cent over one year and 229 per cent over three
Alastair Mundyrsquos Temple Bar Investment Trust focuses on UK equities including GlaxoSmithKline Vodafone and Royal Dutch Shell
It failed to outperform the UK equity income sector over one year despite its popular-ity posting a return of 18 per cent compared with the sectorrsquos 21 per cent However it per-formed better over three years returning 62 per cent against the sectorrsquos 56 per cent
INCOME AND SMALLER COMPANIES STILL IMPORTANTInvestors retained an interest in income and smaller-companies investment trusts in February ndash extending the same purchasing trend in January And they con-tinued to flock to UK-focused trusts as a safe haven
Although two of the 10 most-bought trusts Murray International Trust and Bankers Investment Trust invest in international equities both counted UK equities among their top holdings with the Bankers trust favouring BP GlaxoSmithKline and Vodafone
The other popular
losed-end fund inves-tors stuck closely to income trusts in February but seemed more willing to accept
risk than those purchasing open-ended funds the latest data from Interactive Investor shows
The three most popular trusts were regular investor favourites Baillie Giffordrsquos Scottish Mortgage Investment Trust Investecrsquos Temple Bar Investment Trust and Frostrow Capitalrsquos Biotech Growth Trust
While open-ended fund investors looked mainly to UK equities for income two of these three top invest-ment trusts have a worldwide focus James Anderson and Tom Slaterrsquos Scottish Mortgage Investment Trust which posted a sector-beating 27 per cent return over one year and 56 per cent over three invests in worldwide large-cap equi-ties such as Google and Apple while the Biotech Growth Trust taps the worldwide biotechnol-ogy industry through US equity investments
This trust managed by Geoffrey Hsu and Richard Klemm also beat its sector the biotechnology and healthcare sector with returns of 49 per
income trust Premier Asset Mangementrsquos Acorn Income fund invests in UK mid- and large-cap equities includ-ing Electrocomponents John Menzies and Cineworld Group It returned 46 per cent over the past year and 144 per cent over the past three It was the seventh most-bought trust by Interactive Investor users in February
The UK focus also character-ised investorsrsquo smaller-company trust choices The UK-favoured Henderson Smaller Companies Investment Trust and BlackRock Smaller Companies Investment Trust in sixth and tenth place respectively
Both benefited from the UK housing boom through invest-ments in Bellway and Ashtead Group and both outperformed the UK smaller-companies sec-tor which recorded returns of 37 per cent over one year and 66 per cent over three
INVESTORS RETAINED AN INTEREST IN INCOME AND SMALLER-COMPANIES TRUSTS IN FEBRUARY
CMARKET
YOUR MONTH IN THE
Julie Fisher reveals Februaryrsquos 10 most popular trusts
Bankers trust favours a mix of shares in UK and multinational companies
TRADING
10 March 2014 | inspired
AN APPETITE FOR RISK BOOSTS TRUSTSInvestors showed a greater appetite for risk by invest-ing more heavily in trusts As a result BlackRock World Mining Trust and Templeton Emerging Market Trust took the final two places on the list fourth and fifth
Unfortunately both have posted negative returns in recent years due to the fact that they are positioned in unfavour-able markets
While the BlackRock trust was slightly above the com-modities and natural resources sector over six months one year and three years the Templeton trust only outperformed the global emerging markets equi-ties sector over the past month However investors appear to be buying in in the hope that there will be some improvement in the next few years
Emerging markets fell back out of favour among fund investors in February while pur-
chases of UK and smaller company funds held firm the latest data from Interactive Investor shows
After a brief revival for emerging markets in January when three EM funds were among the 10 most bought Februaryrsquos most-popular funds were generally UK-focused
Paul Marriagersquos Cazenove UK Smaller Companies fund was knocked off the list after five consecutive months at the top as it closed to new purchases on 22 January allowing Januaryrsquos sec-ond-placed fund AXA Framlington Biotech to take top spot The US biotechnology-focused fund managed by Linden Thompson is popular as it delivered a return of 61 per cent over the past year and 164 per cent over the past three
Although the AXA fund has little in common with the other top purchases there are trends to be spotted in the rest of the list most of which continue from January Income was a focus for investors while UK smaller companies remained popular
lsquoThere were strong flows into funds investing in the UK and Europe whereas Asia excluding Japan and emerging markets suffered outflows following relatively weak per-formance in these regions since May 2013rsquo say Charles Cade and Ewan Lovett-Taylor in their report on fund trades in January lsquoPerhaps the most notable sub-sector is UK smaller company funds which have bene-fited from net inflows every month since August 2012rsquo
SMALLER COMPANIESAccording to Numis January saw the highest number of monthly inflows into smaller com-pany funds on record pound241 million The Interactive
Investor data shows these funds remained popular in February
Three smaller-company funds made it into the top 10 Investec UK Smaller Companies fund the River and Mercantile UK Equity Smaller Companies fund and the CF Miton UK Smaller Companies fund took third fourth and fifth place respectively
All three outperformed the UK smaller-companies sector which delivered returns of 32 per cent over one year and 55 per cent over three Gervais Williamsrsquos CF Miton fund pro-vided the best return over a year at 55 per cent while the River and Mercantile fund managed by Daniel Hanbury delivered 112 per cent over three years
Ken Hsiarsquos Investec fund had the least impressive returns at 47 per cent over one year and 79 per cent over three but still outperformed the sector The fund invests in small-cap UK companies including Quindell Optimal Payments and Utilitywise
INCOME EMPHASISThe other priority for inves-tors in February was income and this too was UK focused Of five income funds appear-ing in the 10 most-bought category only the Artemis Global Income fund had a non-UK focus
Jacob de Tusch-Lecrsquos fund which delivered returns of 14 per cent over one year and 47 over three invests chiefly
in European and US equi-ties The other most-bought income funds were Unicorn UK Income Rathbone Income JOHCM UK Equity and the Invesco Perpetual Income
They all beat the UK equity income sectorrsquos returns of 16 per cent over one year and 36 per cent over three All invested in large-cap UK com-panies with GlaxoSmithKline AstraZeneca and Royal Dutch Shell among the top holdings
Despite its focus on income the Invesco Perpetual High Income fund dropped out of the 10 most-bought funds in February and the Invesco Perpetual
Income fund appeared only at the end of the list This suggests that investors may be get-ting nervous over the
imminent departure of star fund manager Neil Woodford in April
One growth fund also made the list the MFM Slater Growth fund which took ninth place Like the income funds it outperformed its sec-tor UK all companies
and focused on UK-listed companies including
Hutchison China (HCM) and Entertainment One (ETO)
THE 10 TOP MOST-BOUGHT FUNDSANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
THEREWERESTRONGFLOWSINTOFUNDINVESTINGINTHE
UKANDEUROPEWHEREASASIAEXCLUDINGJAPANANDEMERGINGMARKETSSUFFEREDOUTFLOWSFOLLOWINGRELATIVELYWEAKPERFORMANCEINTHESEREGIONSSINCEMAY2013Charles Cade and Ewan Lovett-Taylor
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
inspired | March 2014 11
DONrsquoT DISMISS AIM-BASED INVESTMENTS
Richard Beddard is an editor at Interactive Investor and manager of Money Observerrsquos Share Sleuth portfolio
Now that inves-tors can buy Alternative Investment Market shares
within Isas the universe of potentially profitable invest-ments has grown But therersquos also more room for disappointment
Aimrsquos light-touch regula-tion makes it easier for younger smaller companies to list and while such shares are reputed to be risky that need not frighten
INVEST REGULARLY
Mick Gilligan head of research Killik amp Co
Starting an Isa at the beginning of a new tax year and investing small amounts
regularly out of your income ndash rather than a larger amount in one lump sum at the end of each tax year ndash helps reduce the impact of market volatility and you start earning compound interest sooner When income is reinvested alongside the initial investment it effectively becomes capital so you have a larger sum producing an income which in turn can be reinvested
trsquos very easy to keep on doing the same things with your annual tax-efficient Isa allow-ance However investors can lose out badly if they do
Itrsquos not just the Isa allowances that keep changing the economic environment and the range of investments available do too So itrsquos important that investors con-sider all the Isa opportunities open to them before they make a any big
irrevocable decisionsWersquove asked a number of invest-
ment experts to reveal their top Isa tips We are sure they will give you some useful guidelines and help you refine the choices you make Some suggestions are reminders about long-standing opportunities others draw your attention to new developments in Isa invest-ing and highlight the opportunities they offer
Isa investorswhether using some or all of their annual allowances donrsquot always get the best out of their investments Faith Glasgow asks some financial experts for their most valuable tips
investors from investing in Aim firms Plenty of them have long illustrious track records in worthy businesses and itrsquos easy to find out about them on finan-cial websites More details are available on companiesrsquo own investor relations websites the contents of which are mandated by Aim rule 26 a rule the more heavily regulated main market would do well to emulate
UP YOUR ISA CONTRIBUTIONS
Darius McDermott managing director Chelsea Financial Services
Donrsquot forget to increase your monthly Isa investments each year in line with
inspired | March 2014 1312 March 2014 | inspired
EXPERTSrsquo TOP ISA
TIPS
ISAS SMART STRATEGY FOR
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
INVESTING SMALL AMOUNTS REGULARLY HELPS REDUCE THE IMPACT OF MARKET VOLATILITYMick Gilligan
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
I
and shares in [non-cash] Isas However this isnrsquot the case Indeed some other asset classes ndash in particular those that pro-duce income ndash offer even more tax benefits than equities when held within an Isa
Bond funds for example get (at least) 20 per cent income tax relief on the yield they pro-duce (dividends from equities in contrast are subjected to a 10 per cent tax at source which is not reclaimable even in an Isa)
The new property author-ised investment fund structure for property funds meanwhile means Isa investors no longer incur the 20 per cent tax that would previously have been applied on income received from a property investment
the increase in the contribution limit if you can afford to Itrsquos all too easy for regular investors with their money invested auto-matically every month to overlook those annual allow-ance increases And consider increasing your investment whenever you receive a salary increase
LOOK BEYOND STOCKS AND SHARES
Darius McDermott Chelsea Financial Services Some potential Isa investors think you can only hold stocks
PLOUGH INTO PROPERTYGavin Haynes managing director Whitechurch Securities
Many people donrsquot realise they can gain expo-sure to bricks and mortar through
commercial property funds held in a stocks and shares Isa
The asset class currently offers an attractive yield rela-tive to cash and bonds without the volatility of the stock market investments
Property funds are not with-out risk but an allocation to a commercial property fund (that invests directly in bricks and mortar not property shares) can add diversification to an Isa portfolio With the economic outlook improving the sector looks well placed for recovery
ACCEPT RISK BUT BE SURE TO DIVERSIFY
Rebecca OrsquoKeeffe head of investment Interactive Investor
The primary ben-efits of an Isa are felt over the long term so itrsquos important to rec-
ognise that taking on risk
inspired | March 2014 1312 March 2014 | inspired
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
ITrsquoS ALL TOO EASY TO OVERLOOK THOSE ANNUAL ALLOWANCE INCREASESDariusMcDermott
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
Isa can suddenly become a poorly paying one But never try to transfer an Isa yourself Contact the new provider first and follow its transfer rules
Remember the amount of money you can invest in a cash Isa in each tax year is capped (currently at pound5760) so if you want to switch in the middle of the tax year you will prob-ably be switching the entire amount ndash you cannot switch a portion of an existing Isa into a new one and top it up If your original Isa is due to pay you interest at the end of the year it should pay you the accrued interest up to the date you close the account
Itrsquos possible to transfer your cash Isa into a stocks and shares Isa if you decide this is a better home for you money but you canrsquot switch your money back from a stocks and shares Isa into a cash Isa
You can invest up to pound11520 in a stocks and shares Isa in a single tax year minus anything you may have paid into a cash Isa ndash which is capped at pound5760
over the long term is usually a far more profitable strategy than minimising risk Investors typi-cally take less risk than they should especially if they have suffered a loss in the past
You can mitigate your overall risk by diversifying across differ-ent asset classes and geographic areas Regular investing is also a great risk reduction strategy
Itrsquos also important to rec-ognise the value of dividend reinvestment and understand the benefit this compound-ing effect has on your portfolio And remember to choose a bro-ker that doesnrsquot penalise you for reinvesting
TRANSFER YOUR ISAS TO GET THE BEST DEALS
Mark King editor MoneywiseUnlike a stocks and shares Isa a cash Isa is a sim-ple savings account with a
tax-free Isa lsquowrapperrsquo placed around it so that you donrsquot pay tax on your interest
You can choose to have access to your money or tie it up until a future date just as with typical savings accounts Generally the longer you tie your money up for the better the interest rate you get
While a cash Isa is considered a low-risk investment ndash which sophisticated investors may find returns too little as a result ndash you can transfer a cash Isa should you decide you want to take on more risk or get a bet-ter rate Indeed you may have to transfer a cash Isa regularly Providers offer different rates that can change so a top-paying
From 6 April ndash the beginning of the 201415 tax year ndash however these limits rise to pound11880 and pound5940 respectively
LOOK AT THE LONG- TERM BENEFITS
Philippa Gee managing director Philippa Gee Wealth Management
Some investors look at the return on an Isa or at the limit on how much they can
invest in a single year and fail to see the value
However they would be wise to consider the longer-term view Those who have invested each year for a number of years have been able to build six- figure portfolios that they do not have to pay any further income or capital gains tax on or list on their tax assessment
By securing a significant sum in an Isa wrapper each year as far as yoursquore able you can build up a valuable flexible and tax-efficient investment
inspired | March 2014 PB14 March 2014 | inspired
EXPERTSrsquoTOP ISA
TIPS
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
TAKING ON RISK OVER THE LONG TERM IS USUALLY MORE PROFITABLERebecca OrsquoKeeffe
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
The ISA thatrsquos
fair and square
We believe in straightforward investing Thatrsquos why we donrsquot nibble at your investments with percentage charges Open an account and for pound20 per quarter you get two pound10 trades and an ISA for free After that itrsquos just pound10 per trade across a wide range of UK and international investmentsTransfer to us today and get up to pound240 as a thank you (terms apply) We believe thatrsquos fair and square
The value of investments and any income from them can fall as well as rise so you could get back less than you invest Tax treatment depends on your individual circumstances and may be subject to change If in any doubt please seek advice
iiicoukisa
Interactive Investor Trading Limited trading as ldquoInteractive Investorrdquo is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority Registered Office Standon House 21 Mansell Street London E1 8AA Tel 0845 200 3637 Registered in England with Company Registration number 3699618
hen new rules were introduced last August allowing the inclusion of Alternative Investment Market (Aim) shares in Isas demand for exposure to the junior market
quickly exceeded expectations Another surge in demand is likely in April as the new tax year dawns and investors have a fresh annual allow-ance to play with
Yet while stocks on Aim can boast eye-catching returns and attractive tax perks they can also be very volatile raising concerns that investors may be letting the tax tail wag the investment dog with-out understanding what they are getting into
The Treasuryrsquos decision to allow Aim shares into Isas was driven by a desire to encourage greater investment in small and medium-sized companies The move was immediately popular with investors and brokers reported a sharp rise in Aim-listed purchases Demand for smaller companies funds was up too as investors wary of direct share ownership
bought into funds offering exposure to Aim stocksIt helped that Aim stocks were enjoying a good
run as were smaller companies generally with the amount of money raised on the market over the summer rising sharply Performance is just one aspect of their appeal however
Aim shares already offered inheritance tax effi-ciency most of them qualify for business property relief making them exempt from IHT when held for two years or more However itrsquos worth noting that BPR is subject to change and a company can lose its eligibility and therefore its IHT relief status as a result Therefore investors wanting to continue benefiting from IHT relief have to switch out of such companies and into those still eligible
Wider income and capital gains tax benefits also drove some demand for Aim shares after the
Isa rule change in August The move created a bed- and-Isa opportunity whereby existing Aim share inves-tors sold their holdings and bought them back within an Isa
Among those quick
Alternative Investment Market stocks offer Isa investors a chance to realise heady returns ndash but you need to pick your holdings carefully because of the high risk of losses in an illiquid market says Jeff Salway
AIMSHARES
W
GEMSTO BE UNEARTHED
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
WE WOULD ONLY INCLUDE AIM STOCKS
IN THE PORTFOLIOS OF ADVENTUROUS CLIENTS David Thomson
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
inspired | March 2014 17
THERE ARE
Treatt has built up an immaculate record of delivering profits
to take advantage was Lord Lee of Trafford the UKrsquos first Isa millionaire and author of How to Make a Million ndash Slowly My Guiding Principles from a Lifetime of Successful Investing lsquoI have a
big holding of Christie Group that was originally in my per-sonal equity planrsquo he says lsquoWhen the company moved to Aim [from the main market] I took it out of the Pep but when Aim shares became Isa-eligible I sold it and bought it back again within my Isarsquo
April 2014 will mark the removal of stamp duty from Aim purchases a develop-ment expected to encourage asset managers to launch a new wave of Aim-focused funds The axing of stamp duty makes the junior market more appeal-ing to companies on the main market as well with several recently moving across
Alec Stewart partner at Anderson Strathern Asset Management explains lsquoA company can reduce its regulatory burden by moving to the junior market with lower audit and compliance requirementsrsquo For example the main market
stipulates that any potential listing should have a market capitalisation no lower than pound700000 whereas therersquos no such guideline on the Aim mar-ket Nor do companies need a trading history to list on Aim compared with the three years required for the main market Moreover the cost of listing on Aim is considerably lower
But for many private investors the main appeal of Aim stocks lies largely in the prospect of sky-high returns from the success of small and fledgling companies There are some 1200 stocks on the market from a wide range of sectors ndash albeit with a heavy weighting in technology and especially natural resources and with a gulf in size between the biggest and smallest
The largest are eligible for the FTSE AIM 50 and the FTSE AIM 100 where the likes of Bowleven Majestic Wine Dobbies Asos and MampC Saatchi are listed
Stewart picks out three he favours as part of a diversified portfolio One is Dart Group The owner of Jet2com and Jet2Holidays Dart has had a lsquostrong runrsquo and is focused on becoming more fam-ily friendly in these budget-conscious times says Stewart lsquoIt benefits from good visibility of future bookings and strong cash generationrsquo he adds
Aerospace and defence firm Cohort is another with a lsquoprogressive dividend policyrsquo that has grown at an annualised rate of 20 per cent over
DEWHURST (pound520)Dewhurst is a well-established manu-facturer of lift pushbuttons indicators and controls keypads for ATMs security devices and petrol pumps and traffic management products such as bollards
The company has a long record of profitability under the stewardship of the Dewhurst family and a debt-free balance sheet That suggests it is a strong competitor
Profits fell in 2013 ndash a result of a slowdown in Dewhurstrsquos major markets and customers having stocked up in the previous year Management is quite cagey about the companyrsquos prospects for 2014 but an improved performance is likely as conditions in the UK and the US improve The shares are probably good value at 11 times adjusted 2013 earnings
MS INTERNATIONAL (pound204)MS International manufactures military hardware forks for forklift trucks and petrol station canopies and car washes
The company has been profitable in each of the past 10 years and has a balance sheet flush with cash yet the share price has fallen to a level that val-ues MSI at five times adjusted 2013
earnings MSIrsquos current unpopularity stems from a decline in the profitability of MSI Defence Systems which has the highest turnover of its three businesses
The company expects 2014 to be no easier than 2013 due to continu-ing pressure on defence spending but itrsquos confident it will add to defence work already contracted and scheduled for every year until 2020
Itrsquos quite possible that MSI is having a lull that does not reflect on the qual-ity of its products or businesses If thatrsquos the case itrsquos a bargain
TREATT (pound747)Treatt distills flavourings and frag-rances essential oils and water-soluble essences Its products are used in drinks confectionery sauces and cosmetics worldwide
The companyrsquos expertise and close customer relationships might give it a competitive advantage and it has never suffered a loss However it has ushered out managing director Hugo Bovill and his family has sold its interest
Management with large share-holdings gives companies some independence from the often short-term imperatives of fund managers
However the new team is focused on controlling costs and developing the most profitable products
Profit grew 28 per cent in 2013 and Treattrsquos long-term prospects are prob-ably good but the share price has spiked valuing the shares at 15 times adjusted 2013 earnings
FW THORPE (pound143)FW Thorpe designs and manufactures light fittings known as luminaires They are becoming increasingly complex with the introduction of LED technology that requires printed circuit boards Its main business is Thorlux which supplies lighting to schools hospitals ware-houses and factories Other subsidiaries supply retailers emergency exit signage and cleanroom lighting
Stable family ownership long indus-try experience and a commitment to modernisation and investment are the keys to Thorpersquos prosperity
Although it has to contend with the additional investment required to produce LED lighting Thorpe is manag-ing the transition well The shares cost pound137 which values the company at about 15 times adjusted 2013 earnings Thatrsquos a fair price for a quality company
Richard Beddard picks out four Aim-listed companies worth considering for inclusion in a diversified Isa share portfolio
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
I TRANSFERRED INTO MY ISA A BIG
HOLDING OF CHRISTIE GROUP THAT USEDTO BE IN MY PEPLord Lee of Trafford
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
AIMSHARES
18 March 2014 | inspired
the past three years he adds Among food pro-ducers he likes Wynnstay It has lsquobenefited from strong revenue and pre-tax profitsrsquo increasing its interim dividend by 9 per cent
But therersquos ample cause for caution too because Aim shares are typically far riskier than those listed on the main market Not only is there the vol-atility inherent in shares issued by smaller firms but there remains the potential for liquidity issues even after the surge of money into the market in recent months Haig Bathgate chief investment officer at Turcan Connell says lsquoThey are by impli-cation of their size much less liquid in terms of the shares that trade hands on a daily basis so they are prone to more extreme price movementsrsquo
UK investors may also be averse to Aim stocks that are effectively overseas companies Indeed many Aim fund portfolios specifically exclude both these and natural resources firms as well as stocks that donrsquot offer business property relief
lsquoSignificant numbers of companies have failed to deliver on expectations in this part of the mar-ket and it is also quite heavily weighted towards technology (12 per cent) resources (9 per cent) and oil and gas companies (22 per cent)rsquo says Bathgate There are transparency concerns too due to the less stringent regulatory and company reporting requirements on the Aim market
lsquoWe would only include Aim stocks within the
portfolios of adventurous clients and then only up to a maximum of 10 per centrsquo says David Thomson chief investment officer at VWM Wealth lsquoEven then the bulk of this is likely to be via a venture capital trust where the investor can also enjoy 30 per cent income tax relief providing a further cushion against the volatility of Aim sharesrsquo
Collective investment funds and trusts offer a way into Aim stocks that provides useful diversification and so reduces the risk of heavy losses Investment trusts can offer particular advantages where Aim-listed shares are concerned as their closed-ended status gives them a hedge against the market liquidity issues that can affect Aim stocks Among the growing number of UK smaller companies investment trusts in which Aim shares are prominent are those run by BlackRock Standard Life and Aberforth Unit trusts invest-ing in Aim companies include the LampG UK Alpha Trust and Cazenove UK Smaller Companies
However there is a downside to access-ing Aim through funds and trusts as investors no longer benefit from the IHT-free status that direct holders of Aim stocks enjoy The risk of hefty losses remains the biggest caveat to investing in Aim
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
AIMSHARESAREMUCHLESS
LIQUIDINTERMSOFTHESHARESTHATTRADEHANDSDAILYHaig Bathgate
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
inspired | March 2014 19
Clockwise from top Cohort Wynnstay and Jet2com are Stewartrsquos picks for a diversified portfolio
rewarding such as smaller companies private equity and emerging markets
Trusts can also increase their assets by borrow-ing So long as this gearing is sensibly priced it should accelerate the trustrsquos gains in positive mar-ket conditions However gearing will exacerbate losses in any downturn The possible closing of the discount will also enhance share price returns
SOLID GROWTHBaillie Gifford Global DiscoveryThis fund picked by independent financial adviser Brian Dennehy invests globally in growth stocks especially companies operating in industries with potential for structural change and innova-tion Dennehy says manager Douglas Brodie has had considerable experience and success in iden-tifying growth opportunities particularly among exciting smaller-cap stocks
CF Lindsell Train UK EquityJohn Husselbee head of multi-asset at Liontrust Asset Management prefers investors to traders Renowned investor Warren Buffett takes a similar view and Husselbee says fund manager Nick Train invests like Buffett Train looks to buy great com-panies such as Burberry Heineken and Unilever when they are good value and hold them lsquoforeverrsquo
Cazenove UK Opportunities This fund aims to achieve long-term capital growth from a focused portfolio of large and medium-sized UK companies Gavin Haynes managing
huge variety of investment funds rang-ing from generalist funds to highly specialised versions aim to generate capital growth for investors
Investing in a specific fund entails investors accepting different degrees of risk in return for a range of potential rewards So when we asked financial advisers to predict which funds offer the best prospects for growth in 2014 we also urged them to consider which types of investor the funds would suit best
Solid growth funds will appeal to investors who prefer steady investment while higher-risk growth funds are likely to be more volatile and appeal to those with a higher risk tolerance Speculative funds could produce handsome returns this year but they could also dip sharply in value
Closed-ended status means investment trusts can invest in less liquid asset classes without having to worry about realising their holdings in a market setback This enables them to invest in areas that have historically proved particularly
A
Helen Pridham and Fiona Hamilton have rounded up a collection of investment funds and trusts experts believe will prosper in the year ahead for investors looking to cash in on an improving economic outlook
PERFECT YOUR FUND PORTFOLIOTO SEE IT
GROW
inspired | March 2014 2120 March 2014 | inspired
FUNDSAND
TRUSTS
GROW
inspired | March 2014 2120 March 2014 | inspired
A
RE Y
OU
A
GLO
BAL
INV
ESTO
R Take a global view of investment trusts expertly managed by Henderson
For over 75 years Henderson Global Investors has been at the forefront of investment trust innovation and development Now with a diverse and established range of managed investment trusts and investment companies Henderson has a global view of the market
Whether you are retirement planning investing for your children looking to take advantage of dynamic global markets or want a cautious investment approach our managed companies offer a wide range of investment objectives and strategies professionally managed by regional experts
If your priority is high income long term capital growth or a mixture of both Henderson Global Investors has a range of solutions which aims to meet your investment needs
Please remember that past performance is not a guide to future performance The value of an investment and the income from it can fall as well as rise as a result of market and currency fluctuations and you may not get back the amount originally invested
Call to receive your Investment Trust brochure or visit wwwhendersoninvestmenttrustscom
0800 856 5656
Investment Trusts managed by Henderson
Issued in the UK by Henderson Global Investors Henderson Global Investors is the name under which Henderson Global Investors Limited (reg no 906355) Henderson Fund Management Limited (reg no 2607112) Henderson Investment Funds Limited (reg no 2678531) Henderson Investment Management Limited (reg no 1795354) Henderson Alternative Investment Advisor Limited (reg no 962757) Henderson Equity Partners Limited (reg no2606646) Gartmore Investment Limited (reg no 1508030) (each incorporated and registered in England and Wales with registered office at 201 Bishopsgate London EC2M 3AE) are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority to provide investment products and services Telephone calls may be recorded and monitored H0046521113ad
Itrsquos a global marketplace
HGiTrusts
director at Whitechurch Securities says fund manager Julie Dean has built up an excellent track record
Securities Trust of ScotlandRobin McAdam likes Securities Trust of Scotland which seeks rising income and long-term capi-tal growth from global equities The trust yields 33 per cent so it provides income and growth potential lsquoThe trust has outperformed its bench-mark recently and we expect this to continuersquo says McAdam
Finsbury Growth amp Income TrustPeter Hewitt nominates Finsbury Growth amp Income Trust on the basis of its strong short- and long-term performance Manager Nick Train seeks out the highest-quality companies to hold long term The portfolio is dominated by companies Train expects to have longevity such as Diageo Unilever and Heineken lsquoThe manager looks for strong cash gen-eration and dividend growth which he believes are undervalued by the stock marketrsquo Hewitt says
RIT Capital PartnersThis multi-asset trust selected by John Newlands is the flagship financial vehicle for its chairman Lord Jacob Rothschild and his family lsquoGiven the uncertainty in the world it is no bad thing to be diversified both globally and across a range of asset classes RIT is a global growth trust that offers a combination of these benefitsrsquo Newlands says
His enthusiasm is bolstered by RITrsquos current relatively wide discount which reflects disap-pointment among investors that it was rather too cautious over the past two or three years
Perpetual Income amp Growth Trust This trust is classified as a member of the AIC UK growth and income sector but its yield tends to be below the sector average because manager Mark Barnett is more interested in income growth than immediate income Tim Cockerill classifies it as a total return trust and makes it his solid growth choice Barnett has secured excellent long-term returns dur-ing his 15 years at the helm
HIGHER-RISK GROWTHLazard Emerging MarketsMick Gilligan believes the investment case for emerging market equi-ties remains strong He says lsquoEquity markets in emerging regions are trading at their widest price-to-earnings discount to developed markets since 2006 We believe many well-capitalised businesses that have shown strong financial discipline should gener-ate good profitsrsquo The Lazard Emerging Markets fund focuses on such businesses
Rathbone Global OpportunitiesThis go-almost-anywhere bottom-up thorough stockpicking fund looks for undiscovered gems Rob Burdett fund manager at Thames River believes manager James Thomson strikes the
KEY FACTS ABOUT GROWTH FUND TIPS
Mininv pound
Ongoing Charges
1-yearreturn
Sectorrank
SOLID GROWTHBaillie Gifford Global Discovery 1000 086 5920 2248CF Lindsell Train UK Equity ndash 080 2910 53271Cazenove UK Opportunities 1000 082 3210 40271 HIGHER-RISK GROWTHInvestec Global Energy 1000 087 1420 40206Lazard Emerging Markets 2000 161 320 1668Rathbone Global Opportunities 1000 082 2150 111248 SPECULATIVE GROWTHAllianz BRIC Stars 500 122 -120 134206Liontrust Special Situations 1000 114 1450 251271MampG Recovery 500 096 1330 264271Note Ongoing charges figure refers to the least expensive retail share class Source Financial Express and companies websites as at 3 December 2013
KEY FACTS ABOUT THE TRUSTS TIPPED FOR GROWTH
Shareprice
p
Discprem to NAV
Netyield
Gearing
Net asset valuetotal return after
1 year
3 years
5 years
SOLID GROWTHFinsbury Growth amp Income 5010 (+) 12 21 50 305 767 2038Perpetual Income amp Growth 3686 10 32 120 346 714 1407RIT Capital Partners 12480 105 11 50 210 225 591Securities Trust of Scotland 1469 (+) 31 32 40 192 460 1132 HIGHER-RISK GROWTHBiotech Growth Trust 4335 72 00 70 582 1723 2968Fidelity Chinese Special Sits 1062 65 09 210 433 02 ndashGraphite Enterprise Trust 5690 170 09 -90 167 442 405Schroder Asia Pacific 2730 92 14 -20 08 201 1779 SPECULATIVE GROWTHBaker Steel Resources 470 331 00 10 -57 -137 740Hansa Trust A 8600 243 23 10 142 69 947Impax Environmental Markets 1463 112 06 -20 350 285 921Standard Life Eq Inc subscription 1070 ndash 00 3700 ndash ndash ndashNotes NAV = net asset value Annualised All data as at 1 December Source Numis Securities
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
MARK BARNETT HAS SECURED
EXCELLENT RETURNSTim Cockerill
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
inspired | March 2014 23PB March 2014 | inspired
FUNDSANDTRUSTS
right balance between taking calculated risks for high returns and investing in defensive holdings Burdett says lsquoHe likes companies undertaking gentle innovation ndash moving online for example ndash rather than game changers which have more potential to go wrongrsquo Investec Global EnergyThis fund invests in companies that produce energy and provide services to the energy sector Fund managers Tom Nelson and Charles Whall believe the consensus view on future oil prices anticipates weak demand and growing supply from US shale oil But they demur as does Tony Yarrow at Wise Investment He says lsquoOil is harder to extract from shale than gas is while demand for oil is growing as economies recover A higher oil price feeds straight through to the companiesrsquo profitsrsquo
Biotech Growth TrustPeter Hewitt favours Biotech Growth Trust which has achieved scorching gains recently ndash up 172 per cent over three years to 1 December 2013
It is managed in New York by Orbimed a specialist healthcare and biotechnology investor with $7 bil-lion (pound42 billion) under management It offers exposure to a mix of large and profitable biotech companies along-side emerging businesses Most of its holdings are US-based and they have
benefited from a much more positive approach by the Federal Drug Authority ndash new drug approvals in 2010 were the highest for 10 years
Graphite Enterprise TrustAndrew McHattie contends that just one sector offers great value private equity lsquoThese trusts were hammered in the credit crisis and discounts widened to extreme levelsrsquo he says
His selection is Graphite Enterprise Trust Its discount to net asset value remains at a level that rings alarm bells in most other sectors but it has a strong track record and a relatively mature port-folio of shares he expects to rise in value
Fidelity Chinese Special SituationslsquoWith Chinese equities looking cheap the long-term outlook for investing in China is positiversquo Cockerill says lsquoThis fund invests in medium and small caps where high growth can be achieved New manager Dale Nicholls is well qualified and the combination of Fidelity manager experience and China is compelling in the long termrsquo
Scottish Oriental Smaller Companies Trust This trust is favoured by McAdam The invest-ment team identifies quality companies offering sustainable predictable growth lsquoThe trust may underperform if the market rises strongly but the teamrsquos enviable track record and experience should be respectedrsquo he says
Tim Cockerill is investment director at Rowan Dartington
RowanDartingtonhas20investmentadvisersbasedinsevenofficesacrossthesouthofEnglandIthaspound900millionunderman-
agementInvestmenttrustshavefeaturedinitsdiscretionaryandadvisoryportfoliosformanyyears
Peter Hewittis a member of FampC Asset Managementrsquos global equities team
HehasmanagedtheFampCManagedPortfolioTrustsinceApril2008aswellasitsforerunnerFampCManagedPortfolio
Servicesince2002HewasheadofUKequitiesatMurray
Johnstonefrom1981to1983beforejoiningIvoryampSime
Jean Mattersonis a partner and chief investment officer at Rossie House Investment Management
Shejoinedthefirmin1998after20yearswithassetmanagerStewartIvory
BasedinEdinburghsheisoneoffiveinvestment
professionalsmanagingaroundpound300mil-lionallonadiscretionarybasisAroundhalfisininvestmenttrusts
Robin McAdamjoined Brooks MacDonald Asset Management in 2009 from Adam amp Company Investment Management
Hehas24yearsrsquoexperi-encemanagingprivateclientportfoliosandheadsBMrsquosEdinburghbranch
Thefirmhaspound537billionunderdiscretionarymanagementinbespokeandmanagedportfolios
Andrew McHattieis head of The McHattie Group
McHattieGroupisanauthorisedfirmthatpublishesspecialistinvestmentnewsletters
McHattiehasbeentheeditorofInvestmentTrustNewslettersince1996(wwwtipsheetscouk)andoffersafreeservicecalledthelsquoitlistrsquo(wwwtheitlistcouk)ThecompanyhasaFacebookpage(wwwfacebookcominvestmenttrusts)
John Newlandsis responsible for investment trust research at Brewin Dolphin
Heissupportedbyfouranalystswhocoverspecificsectorsresearchingopen-andclosed-endedfunds
BrewinDolphinhas35officesaroundtheUKandChannelIslandsandmanagespound28billionofwhichpound39billionisininvestmenttrusts
TrusttipstersOursixexpertsrevealtheirtopfundpicks
inspired | March 2014 PB24 March 2014 | inspired
FUNDSAND
TRUSTS
One in twelve goes free on your next golf break plus every golfer receives a free pint
12thmansagimme
Book online at MarriottGolfcouk
Offer is only valid on residential golf bookings booked during the promotional dates For every 11 players booked the 12th player will be free of charge Rates are per person per night based on 2 people sharing a twindouble room and include dinner bed amp breakfast Bookings must be made by one named player and separate bookings will not qualify Each residential player aged 18 and over will receive a voucher entitling them to a complimentary pint
of Beckrsquos or Boddingtons Offer is valid on bookings made via 3rd parties Offer is available on 1 night 2 rounds or 2 night 3 rounds and excludes Sunday Driver Maximum of 2 night stay and 2 people per room Day of week availability may vary based on location Limited number of rooms may be available This offer applies to new bookings only at Marriott Hotel amp Country Clubs and offer courses and tee times are subject to availability Offer cannot
be used in conjunction with any other promotion Course terms and conditions apply Advance reservations required Book between 17th February and 29th June 2014 for stays between 4th April and 29th September 2014
The SIPP thatrsquos
fair and square
We believe in straightforward investing Thatrsquos why we donrsquot nibble at your SIPP with percentage fees For just pound144 per year you can open a SIPP and add an ISA for free After that itrsquos just pound10 to buy or sell a wide range of investments including shares funds bonds and gilts Open an account today and if you transfer your existing SIPP wersquoll give you up to pound240 as a thank you (terms apply) We believe thatrsquos fair and square
The value of investments and any income from them can fall as well as rise so you could get back less than you invest Tax treatment depends on your individual circumstances and may be subject to change If in any doubt please seek advice
iiicouksipp
Interactive Investor Trading Limited trading as ldquoInteractive Investorrdquo is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority Registered Office Standon House 21 Mansell Street London E1 8AA Tel 0845 200 3637 Registered in England with Company Registration number 3699618
SPECULATIVE GROWTHMampG RecoveryDennehy says manager Tom Dobell backs his convictions engages with companies he invests in and has delivered long-term outperformance lsquoDobellrsquos MampG Recovery fund has a clear value-style process and management stability It invests in a wide range of firms that are out of favour or in difficulty or whose prospects are not fully rec-ognised by the marketrsquo he says
Liontrust Special SituationsHusselbee says Liontrustrsquos Anthony Cross and Julian Fosh have their own unique philosophy He adds lsquoThey look for characteristics in a company that its competitors find difficult to replicate such as intellectual property or distribution channelsrsquo
Allianz Bric StarsThis fund aims for capital growth in the long term by investing mainly in Brazil Russia India and China Haynes says investors have shunned these markets recently and valuations fallen He adds lsquoFor investors looking for a recovery story this fund is worth considerationrsquo
Standard Life Equity Income subscription shareMcHattie says warrant and subscription shares are widely ignored creating opportunities for those who understand them He favours the subscrip-tion shares of Standard Life Equity Income which can be exercised at 320p a share up to the end of December 2016 lsquoThey offer gearing of 37 times and if the ordinary shares grow by more than 28 per cent a year between now and the end of 2016 the subscription shares ought to outperformrsquo
Impax Environmental MarketsMcAdam likes this trust It invests in companies seeking to provide cleaner or more-efficient energy as well as water and waste solutions to the growing problems faced by authorities around the world It offers exposure to a rapidly changing marketplace as well as to socially responsible investments
Hansa TrustJohn Newlands sees potential in the A shares of Hansa Trust which languish at a discount of more than 25 per cent He says that whereas the trustrsquos portfolio appears skewed with a third of its assets in Ocean Wilsons there is actually plenty of diversification because Ocean Wilsons has an investment portfolio that stands at a discount to underlying value lsquoOne day an attractive bid [may] be made for Ocean Wilsons that will enhance Hansarsquos NAV and sim-plify its capital structure all to the good of its market ratingrsquo Newlands says
Baker Steel Resources TrustJean Matterson hopes for good returns from this trust shares in which trade on a near 30 per cent discount lsquoIt has not had an easy run of late but we believe the underlying assets are attractive and that the mining projects in the companyrsquos portfo-lio will continue to progressrsquo she says
Prospects have improved for biotechs (left) while growing interest in sustain-able energy has boosted Impax
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
AHIGHEROILPRICEFEEDSSTRAIGHT
THROUGHTOPROFITSTony Yarrow
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
inspired | March 2014 27PB March 2014 | inspired
FUNDSANDTRUSTS
The world of funds and trusts is a confusing place with over 2300 funds and more than 300 investment trusts to choose from
Money Observerrsquos Rated Funds system narrows down the playing field to help you decide which funds and investment trusts might be best for you
Our team of experts constantly monitor the marketplace rating those funds that have delivered consistently good returns However you should be aware that there is no guarantee this performance will be repeated
With our comparison tool you can filter by whatrsquos important to you compare up to four funds and trusts side-by-side as well as view factsheets
COMPAREMONEY OBSERVER RATED FUNDS
VISIT MONEYOBSERVERCOMCOMPAREFUNDS AND LOOK OUT FOR THE RATED FUND STAMP
had spare cash or I were start-ing afresh The companies in the add category are high qual-ity judging by the strategies they follow and their finan-cial strength and are probably undervalued
Irsquom more likely to eject or reduce holdings in companies in the watch and specula-tive categories These shares are more risky either because they have risen greatly in price or because their prospects are more uncertain than usual I may think the risk is worth tak-ing but I am prepared to act should that calculation change
Every decision to increase a portfolio holding must be weighed against the potential of new candidates drawn from all companies listed in the UK and corralled into another live spreadsheet the Share Sleuth watchlist When I add a share to the watchlist or trade a share in the portfolio I explain this in the Share Sleuth blog
ccumulating income and capital gains in an index tracking fund is inexpensive takes little effort and all but guarantees an
average return so it should be the default investment for a lazy equity investor saving for the long term
To justify the work of decid-ing which shares to buy and sell and the effort and cost of placing trades an active investor must do better Consequently the first objective of the active Share Sleuth portfolio is to beat passive investments after costs over the long-term which in practice means any five-year period The second objective is to win this tussle against an unknowing and unthinking opponent transparently
At the heart of the portfolio is an online spreadsheet The first page shows the constitu-ent shares arranged into three categories lsquoaddrsquo lsquowatchrsquo and lsquospeculativersquo The categorisa-tion is updated daily based on live data in subsequent spread-sheets each of which contains a financial model for a particular company
The Share Sleuth portfo-lio shows the holdings I would add to the portfolio today if it
Share Sleuth is a simulation no money changes hands But I use prices quoted by a bro-ker and adjust the accounting to factor in notional broker fees and stamp duty However I lsquoeat my own cookingrsquo by investing my self-invested personal pen-sion in Share Sleuth companies
No doubt you are wonder-ing how the portfolio is doing Share Sleuthrsquos five-year anni-versary judgement day is on 9 September this year and I will not prejudge it now
Short-term performance watching and the knee-jerk trad-ing it encourages is I think one reason why many inves-tors fail My focus is on ensuring the portfolio remains invested in good companies at reasona-ble prices
You can see a live perfor-mance table and learn what I think of every share in the port-folio and which companies I might add to it at wwwiiicoukZkr
SHAREBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIOR
The Share Sleuth portfolio has been carefully devised to show investors how to find good companies at cheap prices and also prove the value of its investment approach says Richard Beddard
Richard Beddard an editor at Interactive Investor since 1999 has managed the Share Sleuth portfolio since 9 September 2009 Hersquos a columnist at Money Observer magazine and a private investor
AMY FOCUS IS ON ENSURING THAT THE PORTFOLIO IS INVESTED IN GOOD FIRMS AT DECENT PRICES
inspired | March 2014 29PB March 2014 | inspired
SHARESLEUTH
iiicoukstraightforward
Interactive Investor Trading Limited trading as ldquoInteractive Investorrdquo is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority Registered Office Standon House 21 Mansell Street London E1 8AA Tel 0845 200 3637 Registered in England with Company Registration number 3699618
We believe in being straightforwardthis is why we donrsquot nibble at your investment by charging percentage fees Find out how this could affect your investment performance at iiicoukstraightforward
If you transfer to us you can even get up to pound240 as a thank you (terms apply)
Donrsquot forget the value of investments and any income from them can fall as well as rise so you could get back less than you invest If in any doubt please seek advice
7784_II_QI_MONEY_OBSERVER_210x297_AWindd 1 16012014 1224
Take a closer look
at your investment
options
Discover a straightforward way to understand everything from ISAs to SIPPs and OEICs to Investment Trusts
Investing for generationsEver feel yoursquod like to know more about investing Wersquove been helping people build their wealth for over 125 years Our guide lsquoMaking sense of the investment universersquo is just one of the resources yoursquoll find on our Investment Focus hub
As well as clear simple guides therersquos a wealth of information and expert opinion all designed to help you take control of your investments Please remember that investments can go down as well as up and investors may get back less than they originally invested
Introducing your free online source of information help and expert opinion
investment-focuscouk
This has been approved as a financial promotion by Alliance Trust Investments Limited for the purpose of Section 21 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 Alliance Trust Investments Limited is a subsidiary of Alliance Trust PLC and is registered in Scotland No SC330862 registered office 8 West Marketgait Dundee DD1 1QN is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority firm reference number 479764 Alliance Trust Investments gives no financial or investment advice
TAX YEAR ENDS APRIL 5TH ndash learn more about
your options now
Investment Focus Smart Insight from Alliance Trust
Yoursquove spoken Wersquove listened Introducing your free online source of information help and expert opinion
Based on real insight we have launched a new website which focuses on investment education
We believe that we are uniquely positioned to provide this hub of information based on the reputation we have built for trust and transparency over the last 125 years
We will be publishing new content over the next few months focusing on specific themes
bull Investing from scratch
bull Products in a portfolio
bull Global diversification
bull Planning for your familyrsquos future
bull Retirement planning
bull Getting more information
There is a generation of future investors out there who have been brought up in an era of economic turmoil and banking crises which has led to disillusionment and a lack of trust in our sector and the services we offer Despite it being more important than ever for investors to take control of their financial situation this new generation of savers lacks the basic knowledge and understanding to make these very important long-term decisions
Our goal is to develop a useful resource with contributions from third-parties as well as the team at Alliance Trust which offers insights into the various life stages and challenges faced and which can be built upon and adapted to meet savers needs in the long term
Katherine Garrett-Cox CBE Chief Executive Alliance Trust PLC
ldquo
rdquo
There are too many products to make an informed decision
I donrsquot know whereto go for reliable
information
investment-focuscouk
Yoursquoll naturally take a keen interest in the performance of your investments But itrsquos just as important to understand the fees you will be paying as they can have a significant impact on the returns you achieve Knowing what the different types of costs mean and exactly what they consist of can prove rewarding
Itrsquos worth remembering that for every fee you pay (whether it is a or flat fee) your investment needs to grow by at least the same amount just to stay ahead of the game It sounds obvious but itrsquos easy to forget Broadly speaking there are three types of fees fund fees platform fees and fees for a financial adviser You can either invest directly into a fund and pay the associated fees or you can invest via a platform provider (some of which are referred to as wrap platforms others as fund supermarkets) This is a service that lets you manage and review all your investments online in one place As a general rule fund fees are lower when
bought through a platform than if you buy direct You can invest through a platform on either an execution only basis where the investor assesses the risks and makes their own investment decisions or on an advised basis
Learn more about fund platform and financial advice fees
What can you expect to seeOver the next two pages we have provided a sneak preview of just some of the information you will find on the Investment Focus hub We will be updating the site regularly so make sure you sign up for our email alerts to be informed when new topics are published
Everything you need to know about fees
Risk informationInvestments can go down as well as up You may get back less than you originally invested
Alliance Trust does not give advice You need to ensure you understand the risks and commitments before investing If you are unsure you should consult a Financial Adviser before investing
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
For the vast majority of investors the simplest cheapest and most pragmatic way to invest is through pooled funds
Sometimes called managed funds unit trusts or even Open-Ended Investment Companies (or OEICs) these are designed to give ordinary savers access to a diverse range of investments
One of the principles of investment is that diversification helps reduce risk But it is expensive and time consuming for ordinary savers to buy shares of 80 to 100 different companies and keep track of how each is performing
But with a managed fund you are pooling your money with other investors enabling the fund manager to buy a wide range of assets
Investors have the option of buying an actively managed or passive fund With an active fund the manager selects and then monitors these stocks for investors in a bid to maximise returns
In contrast a passive fund will simply follow a stock market index such as the FTSE100 up and down
Having a manager at the helm can be beneficial in a market downturn as they can take a more defensive approach buying shares that are better able to hold their value or in some cases switching to bonds or cash instead to help preserve investorsrsquo capital Managers can also research individual companies and markets and have access to forecasts and economic data that isnrsquot always available to individuals
Learn more about investing for growth or income exploring different investment remits how to invest and keeping track of your investments
Understanding funds Written by Emma Simon Personal Finance Journalist
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
What are Investment TrustsInvestment Trusts are investment vehicles that are listed on the London Stock Exchange and which invest in shares and other securities They pool together investorsrsquo money and delegate responsibility to a professional fund manager to invest in a range of companies from different sectors and regions across the world They were designed for ldquothe investor of moderate meansrdquo
A brief historybull The first Investment Trust was launched by Foreign amp
Colonial in 1868
bull Investment Trusts made it possible for individual investors to gain diversified exposure to global stock markets
bull Many Investment Trusts were formed in Scotland including Alliance Trust PLC which was formed over 125 years ago
A guide to Investment Trusts
Learn more about Investment Trusts their main features and why you should consider them for your portfolio
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
Alliance Trust is an investment and savings business with over 125 year history of building investor wealth We offer our shareholders clients and customers a unique portfolio of products and services These range from a renowned global investment trust to an innovative range of investment strategies and funds and a multi-award winning investment platform where investors can host their ISAs SIPPs or investment accounts Our mission is to provide products and services that help to ensure a more sustainable financial future for generations of investors
Alliance Trust PLC is one of the largest generalist investment trusts by market value listed on the London Stock Exchange and is the parent company to two wholly-owned subsidiaries Alliance Trust Savings and Alliance Trust Investments
The fact that many of us make irrational decisions when it comes to our finances is widely debated and is often referred to as behavioural finance In this short video we talk to Professor Phyl Johnson Consultant Psychologist and Visiting Professor of Executive Education at Strathclyde Business School about why this is and more importantly about what we can do as individuals to avoid it
About us Alliance Trust Investments is a specialist fund management business offering a range of products and services focusing on global equities fixed income and sustainable investing with an emphasis on specialist investment solutions
Alliance Trust Savings is one of the UKrsquos leading financial services providers for private investors offering customers the information and services they need to manage their investments in a way that works for them
Risk informationInvestments can go down as well as up You may get back less than you originally invested
Alliance Trust does not give advice You need to ensure you understand the risks and commitments before investing If you are unsure you should consult a Financial Adviser before investing
Unusually for a company of our size around 70 of shares
in Alliance Trust are held by private
individuals
Nobodyrsquos perfect why we all make irrational decisions
Inflation by ageThis monthrsquos official inflation report showed that the headline rate of inflation fell from 20 to 19 Our Economic Research Team analyse this data on a monthly basis to see how inflation rates affect different age groups In February 2014 the summary highlights include
bull The over 75s and the under 30s face the highest rate of inflation in January at 21
bull The over 75s suffered the highest rate of inflation for the whole of 2013 and this trend continues into 2014 as they spend a larger share of their budgets on basic goods such as gas and electricity
bull The 65 to 74 year olds have faced the lowest rate of inflation in 11 out of the last 12 months thanks to lower inflation in food petrol and package holidays
Learn more about how inflation might affect you
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
You can also sign up for our regular email alerts to be informed when new topics are published by clicking here
Wersquove been bringing clarity to investment for over 125 years
Investing for generationsWhen it comes to investing therersquos no substitute for experience And at Alliance Trust wersquove been helping people invest since 1888 Our new Investment Focus hub is full of online information and expert opinion It aims to provide real insight to help you take control of your investments
Over the next few weeks the hub will build to cover everything from taking your first steps to diversifying worldwide Please remember that investments can go down as well as up and investors may get back less than they originally invested For valuable insight from Alliance Trust visit Investment Focus today
Introducing your free online source of information help and expert opinion
investment-focuscouk
This has been approved as a financial promotion by Alliance Trust Investments Limited for the purpose of Section 21 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 Alliance Trust Investments Limited is a subsidiary of Alliance Trust PLC and is registered in Scotland No SC330862 registered office 8 West Marketgait Dundee DD1 1QN is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority firm reference number 479764 Alliance Trust Investments gives no financial or investment advice
TAX YEAR ENDS APRIL 5TH ndash learn more about
your options now
Change the way you think about stocks reap the rewardsBy Edward Page Croft CEO Stockopediacom
I remember so clearly the day when I picked my first stock for clients Managing $2 billion (pound12 billion) in assets across 100 portfolios for high-net-wealth private investors is no easy task As I was to learn when you are green
and straight out of university itrsquos even harder The stock in question was on the Goldman
Sachs US lsquobuyrsquo list It had the potential to be hot Dotcoms were bubbling It was an internet stock in education services and cheap It seemed like it had everything but we needed to get in One day it fell out of bed Down 50 per cent on no news
Irsquod been trained to call the analyst in situations like this He reiterated his buy stance Double buy On my insistence we put almost $20 million of client money into the stock within an hour The next day it fell another 50 per cent on
bad newsThere is nothing more
painful than a loss but you never forget the first
one It immedi-ately forced me to reconsider every-thing I thought I
knew From that day on I vowed to never trust anotherrsquos opin-ion and find a better
way through the market minefieldIrsquove now spent 15 years
reassessing common
wisdom about stock selection No stone has gone unturned in the quest to understand the behav-ioural flaws that lead to poor decision making But there is one finding that crops up again and again in all the research that hurts stock market investors most We as investors are suckers for stories
A 1990rsquos study of 60000 private investor broker-age accounts by Kumar and Goetzmann found that 70 per cent of portfolios held less than four stocks
The stocks held all tended to be in the same sector highly correlated and risky Think internet stocks in the 1990s China in the 2000s or resource stocks more recently The grand theme sucks everyone in The outcome rarely dif-fers Kumar and Goetzmann showed that across these
60000 accounts the average underperformance was of the order of 4 per cent annually
This massive failing across private inves-tor portfolios is repeated in nearly every market cycle and is bound to happen again in this one Benjamin Graham the great father of value invest-ing and tutor of Warren Buffett once wrote
lsquoIn the short run the stock market is a vot-ing machine but in the long run it is a weighing machinersquo
ADVERTISING FEATURE
IN THE SHORT RUN THE STOCK MARKET IS A VOTING MACHINE BUT IN THE LONG RUN IT IS A WEIGHING MACHINEBenjamin Graham
What he meant was that while stories may drive stocks in the short run statistics drive stocks in the long run When statistics reassert them-selves it can cause huge damage to investors punting their portfolios on stories
It doesnrsquot take much to learn how basic statis-tics can guide your portfolio into winning stock selections though very few seem to understand how to do it Benjamin Graham as his life wore on gradually came to the conclusion that building portfolios according to rules-based processes was a far more appropriate methodology for the typi-cal investor
lsquoTry to buy groups of stocks that meet some sim-ple criterion for being undervalued ndash regardless of
the industry and with very little attention to the indi-vidual company It seems too good to be true but all I can tell you after 60 years of experience is it seems to stand up under any of the tests I would make uprsquo
My time is now dedi-cated to helping investors practice exactly what Benjamin Graham and many other investment luminaries have preached rules-based investing For the majority itrsquos a better process and leads to bet-ter outcomes Our work at
Stockopediacom where we crunch fundamental and technical data in order to model and track the investment processes of the great investors bears this out
Portfolios composed with stocks showing the right statistical mix of value quality and momen-tum have significantly outperformed Rules-based investing beats the market But more importantly it helps promote the emotional detachment needed to stop investors from beating themselves
Irsquoll never buy a stock on a punt or an analystrsquos tip again Perhaps neither should you
For a two week free trial and pound50 discount to Stockopedia UK Premium CLICK HERE
TANK MCM A N U F A C T U R E M O V E M E N T 1 9 0 4 M C
SINCE THE CREATION OF THE FIRST TANK WATCH IN 1917 THE TANK COLLECTION HAS CONTINUED
TO BREAK NEW GROUND THE INCREDIBLY REFINED AESTHETICS OF THE NEW TANK MC WATCH ARE FITTED
WITH THE CARTIER MANUFACTURE MOVEMENT 1904 MC ESTABLISHED IN 1847 CARTIER CREATES
EXCEPTIONAL WATCHES THAT COMBINE DARING DESIGN AND WATCHMAKING SAVOIR-FAIRE
EXPLORE AND SHOP WWWCARTIERCOUK - (020) 3147 4850
Conn
oisseur
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Conn
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oisseur
Inside
Conn
oisseur
TO THE CONNOISSEUR section of Inspired a showcase for the finer things in life for those who truly appreciate them
Enjoying the fruits of your labour away from the relentless demands of our age poses its own challenges and quandaries Would a tropical idyll restore your ebbing energy levels Might a break based around hair-raising activities revive them even more effectively Perhaps reawakening a dormant passion for fine wines or luxury cars would be the most enjoyable reward for your industry
A luxury tropical holiday is probably near the top of most peoplersquos wish lists We take a look at some of the most tantalising options
The arrival of BMWrsquos new super coupe is featured on page 50 BMW aficionados and petrolheads alike are certain to be won over by its head-turning looks and mouthwatering specs
Gems come under the microscope on page 53 A rare coloured diamond can be a joy as well an appreciating asset
Wine is on the menu on page 54 where we explore the charms of Argentinian Malbec
Watches are often treasured objects and the best can turn out to be shrewd investments We look at the secondary watch market and the growth of online retailing on page 58 Enjoy
Welcome
40 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
FIVE TOP PRIVATE ISLAND RETREATSIslandFantasy
Top-rated resorts and hotels offer a variety of temptations and services to impress even the most discerning tastes but there is no better way to escape the rigours and
stresses of daily life than cutting off from the outside world while still enjoying lavish service
in the pinnacle of all resorts the private islandThere are thousands of small islands around
the world but only a few have chosen to cater to the most discriminating travellers seeking a rarified yet perfect world of quiet and relaxed luxury We look at five of the worldrsquos top private islands destinations where your holiday is certain to be an exceptional experience
TRAVEL
Necker Island is owned by Sir Richard Branson and guests stay in his home The island has become a popular des-tination for some of the worldrsquos most prominent figures as a hideaway from lifersquos stresses and strains
Because Necker Island is a resi-dence and not a resort guests who rent the island are treated as owners and catered for in a unique way
The74-acre island is fringed with beautiful white beaches and surrounded by turquoise waters and coral reefs It boasts every resort-type amenity guests can spend their days being pampered in the spa explor-ing underwater reefs in a submarine lounging by the pool bar or swimming in one of the worldrsquos most elab-orate private pools
Haute cuisine is a highlight for most guests ndash rates are fully inclusive of all food and drink A team of chefs creates bespoke menus featuring anything from lobster and caviar to a Sunday roast And because Necker is a home first and a resort second guests decide whether dining will be formal or informal inside or outside themed or traditional
The bar is stocked with international wines top-quality spirits and beers and a world renowned house champagne while special orders can be shipped in at no extra charge ndash unless an item is particularly rare Every service and amenity is available around the clock and guests are encouraged to treat Necker as their own home
As youLike it
NECKER ISLAND
42 March 2014 | inspired
Unalloyed luxury and an impressive range of amenities make Necker one of the most desirable island destinations in the world
The Jumby Bay resort which is only accessible by boat from Antigua is a Caribbean hideaway owned by Rosewood Resorts It is perfect for those seeking either relaxation or spirited adventure
You can rent the island resort entirely for your stay or simply take a room Those opt-ing for exclusive use of the island will have the resortrsquos two pools three tennis courts fitness centre croquet field and putting green to themselves
A wide range of water sports are available and guests can indulge in as much adventure or relaxation as they want during their stay The resort is ideal for large family
reunions or corporate retreats ndash 40 guest rooms and suites are available on the island
Executive chef Sylvain Hervochon celebrates gastron-omy ndash and mixology (cocktail making) ndash with casual elegance by creating Caribbean-style dishes inspired by fresh local ingredients and incorporating international influences
Jumby Bayrsquos rates start at pound150000 for four nights based on double occupancy between May and December Visit wwwrosewoodhotelscomenjumby-bay-antigua for further information
Fine BalanceCaribbean ambiance international sophistication and adventurous activities make Jumby Bay a compelling choice
JUMBY BAY
Just laze by the pool or venture beyond to dive in the turquoise waters of the South Pacific among stunning reefs and a dazzling array of marine creatures
Isle of PlentyT
he private island of Laucala in the South Pacific is a 3500-acre site in a picturesque rainforest-laced land-scape Enchanting deserted beaches nestle among coconut plantations organic farms and lush green vol-canic mountains
The resort offers an outstanding level of refined lux-ury as well as a compelling collection of sporting and cultural activities diving among iridescent marine life in the warm turquoise waters guided rainforest tours horse riding surfing and golfing on the 18-hole cham-pionship course The island is a superb choice for an escape from civilization whether you want an adven-ture in the wild or simply to relax in one of Laucalarsquos five restaurants and bars
Rates are available on request Visit wwwlaucalacom for further details
TRAVEL
LAUCALA ISLAND
inspired | March 2014 4544 March 2014 | inspired
Lush green surroundings sensitive development and beautiful beaches help Laucala island conjure up a complete South Seas experience
Isle of Plenty
inspired | March 2014 4544 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
inspired | March 2014 4746 March 2014 | inspired
Slow LaneSlow
Pulau Joyo is a seductively serene environment of pristine beaches surrounded by clear blue sea in Indonesiarsquos Riau Archipelago Accessible from Singapore or Bintan Pulau Joyo is a true castaway island offering every resort luxury
amid untouched natural beauty Pulau Joyo is famous for its remarkable sunsets and
brightly star-lit sky The resort can host 28 guests and 20 staff are on hand to cater to their every need Guests stay in open driftwood lsquopalacesrsquo that lsquoallow the sea inrsquoDespite its desert island appeal Pulau Joyo offers every modern convenience a range of adrenaline boosting activities and more relaxing options such as spa treatments and massages
The resortrsquos cuisine focuses on western and Indonesian dishes Meals are usually served buffet style and feature grilled fish squid prawns beef and chicken as well as many curry dishes Side dishes include fresh garden salads pasta salads boiled or steamed leafy greens and grilled aubergine (an island favourite) Prawn and tofu kebabs appear from time to time as does satay The chef will often provide a selection of freshly picked fruit and homemade cakes for dessert Itrsquos worth noting that the management will not serve pork or shellfish on this private island
Pulau Joyo may not be as refined as some islands but itrsquos an excellent choice for those who want a more casual laidback island experience that replicates the castaway experience like perhaps no other
Rates start at pound1913 a night More information is available at wwwpulau-joyocom
Wannabe castaways may find Pulau Joyorsquos purer simpler take on the luxury island experience more to their taste
PULAU JOYO
inspired | March 2014 4746 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
In the Fijian island paradise of Dolphin Island a small army of staff await to meet guestsrsquo every need On arriving ndash by boat helicopter or float plane ndash visitors are invariably struck by the beauty of the island and the luxuri-ous accommodation that awaits them amid 14-acres of lush tropical gardens
Three traditional palm-thatched bures individually designed by world renowned interior designer Virginia Fisher sit in an elevated position around the resortrsquos infinity pool
Guests are brought fresh tropical fish to choose each day that are cooked to perfec-
tion within hours of leaving the water The culinary focus is on
organic produce and ingredi-ents unique to Fijian cuisine but meals are tailored to guestsrsquo personal tastes Papayas man-goes bananas and pineapples
are plentiful throughout the day When it comes to recreation the
14-acre island is an expansive play-ground offering a diverse range of watersports as well as diving opportunities on Fijirsquos coral reefs
Rates start at pound720 a night More information is avail-able at wwwdolphinislandfijicom
Fijian Paean
Traditional features modern comforts and excellent facilities make for a harmonious whole on this Fijian island
DOLPHIN ISLAND
48 March 2014 | inspired
Pictured slightly larger than actual size
Big Pilotrsquos Watch Ref 5009
Your wrist never felt this big before The
case of the top model in the IWC Pilotrsquos
Watch range is a gigantic 462 mm in diashy
meter And the technology inside it is
even more impressive the largest IWCshy
manufactured automatic movement with
its Pellaton winding system is protected
against strong magnetic fields by a softshy
iron inner case And needless to say enshy
vious glances iwc engineered for men
Mechanical IWCshymanufactured movement Pellaton
automatic winding system 7shyday power reserve
with display (figure) Date display Softshyiron inner
case for protection against magnetic fields
Antireflective sapphire glass Watershyresistant 6 bar
Stainless steel
IWC Schaffhausen Switzerland iwccom The worldrsquos finest timepieces are exclusively available from selected watch specialists
For an illustrated catalogue or list of nationwide concessionaires please contact IWC UK Tel 0845 337 1868 Eshymail infoshyukiwccom
CARS
MunichLegend
50 March 2014 | inspired
BMW fanatics can open their eyes ndash the M4 has arrived
Most BMW aficionados are proba-bly pretty sad to see production of the M3 coupe ndash quite possibly the companyrsquos most noteworthy and celebrated model ndash end after almost 30 years Ever since the first wide-body E30 M3 saw the
light of day in 1985 drivers have loved the sporty coupe for its incredible balance intoxicating power and of course solid build quality
The model never got stale in all that time and always remained the poster child for the M division so itrsquos a lit-tle weird that BMW has apparently decided to axe it In truth though they havenrsquot really dropped the M3 The M3 sedan will continue to be produced in 2014 so all
is not lost Moreover BMW seems to be adopting a pat-tern of giving its sedans odd-numbered titles only and its coupes even-numbered titles only so the 4-Series and especially the M4 concept that debuted at Pebble Beach Monterey California will fill the gap left by the M3 Many people have been awaiting the new super coupe with great expectancy but can it fill in for the M3
The journalists who swarmed over the M4 concept at Pebble Beach were obviously much more interested in it than the somewhat predictable 428i that was also there Finished in an eye-catching colour called Aurum Dust (which actually looks a lot like the old M3rsquos Phoenix Yellow colour) the car presented in California may be a concept but typically BMW M cars donrsquot change much before they finally hit the showroom
MunichLegend
inspired | March 2014 51
CARS
52 March 2014 | inspired
From front to back the bodywork is manifestly differ-ent and much more aggressive looking than a standard 4-Series car It really looks to pretty much pick up where the E92E93 M3 coupe left off especially with its undeniably cool domed hood Wide wheel arches big wheels wrapped in low-profile tyres more than enough M badges and a well-executed double-bubble roof make the already underwhelming existing 4-Series coupe look even more pedestrian
Power for the new M4 is likely to come from a three-litre twin-turbo straight-six engine While the horsepower probably wonrsquot differ much from the M3rsquos old 4-litre V-8 it will generate more than 100lbft more in torque almost 400 in total With the M4 being a lighter 3300lb in weight the M4 promises to be an excit-ing worthy car A proper six-speed manual may be in the mix alongside the now obligatory dual clutch and paddles option
The best way to look at the M4 however it ends up is not as a new car but as a new and improved M3 thatrsquos just getting a new name The decision to rename the coupe is a strange one but thankfully BMW apparently felt the 3-Series coupe had made such an identity for itself that a new model was needed albeit in a slightly different incarnation
With BMW embarking on some new-ageish ideas such as its 1-Series ActiveE and the soon-to-arrive lsquoirsquo range of cars itrsquos nice to see the company also stick to classics such as the heart-stopping sports coupe even if the latest model does come with a new name
Seductive curves and racier performance make the BMW M4 a more than acceptable replacement for the M3 super coupe
SparklingForm Coloured diamonds are making their mark
One of the main factors that deter-mines the value of what we ordinarily think of as diamonds is their purity the degree to which col-our is absent in the gem However with coloured diamonds the extent to which they are saturated with
colour is a principal determinant of their valueColoured diamonds come in 12 basic colours more
than 90 secondary hues and nine intensity levels The depth of their colour is what really differentiates these diamonds from their colourless counterparts
Natural coloured diamonds are 10000 times rarer than typical colourless diamonds one of several rea-sons why they are treasured by the rich and famous yet remain unknown to most other people ndash despite hav-ing been around for centuries
Of course some colours are rarer than others Red violet and purple stones are as rare as the proverbial hensrsquo teeth while green and blue are also rare The most popular colours are pink and yellow (or canary) They also come in white grey orange black and lsquochame-leonrsquo form
A pinkie ring encrusted with a large coloured dia-mond has become a status symbol for men in Asia That little stone is an unregistered asset that could quickly be sold for millions of dollars should the need arise
Coloured diamonds are durable and never lose their sparkle or lustre so they are assets that can be enjoyed every day unlike stocks or bonds And they have proved to be fantastic investments having steadily appreciated in price with relatively little volatility for more than a decade They even held their own during the most recent financial crisis
Coloured diamonds are auctioned by reputable
auction houses such a Sothebyrsquos and Christiersquos where prices for large unique pink red blue or yellow stones can reach in excess of $2 million (pound12 million) a carat and other stones regularly sell for $1 million a carat
They are often bought by high-net-worth individu-als as an insurance policy Instead of stashing cash in undeclared bank accounts and potentially incurring the wrath of the authorities the wealthy can purchase some loose yellow diamonds to secure their future
Clearly coloured diamonds are much more than a magnificent indulgence
GEMS
inspired | March 2014 53PB March 2014 | inspired
WINE
Make the most of the deeply
satisfying Malbec wines emerging from Argentina
and perhaps even enjoy a return on a shrewd
investment says Ewan Lacey
Finding a red wine to enjoy in spring is a delicate balancing act The shock of seeing sunlight after a dark winter fosters in us a desire to drink some-thing refreshing while the still-cool temperatures demand something with comforting depth
Increasingly Malbec wines particularly those from Argentina provide a perfect solution to this quandary And while there are plenty of delicious wines for infor-mal occasions what is most interesting is the emergence of finer Malbec wines Some are so good they may well have ageing potential raising the intriguing possibility that the wine may one day become collectable
Malbec is the most popular wine among those aged 25-34 and is now becoming a fixture on most restaurant wine lists There are several reasons for its success the word Malbec is easy to pronounce the wine goes well with red meat the Malbec grape can be turned into wines that are both relatively easy to drink and packed with flavour and decent wines are available at reason-able prices Malbec is deep fruity and charming and it delivers instant pleasure ndash claret on a motorbike
The Malbec grape originated in France and it remains one of the permitted varieties used to make Bordeaux However it has gained prominence through the work of the post-junta Argentine wine industry
I recently had the pleasure of tasting some very fine Malbecs with Laura Catena managing director at the Catena Zapata winery and president of the International Wine and Spirit Competition She opened my
Mendoza Marvels
inspired | March 2014 55
WINE
eyes to the potential of this grape variety when handled with care
Laurarsquos family business makes a range of wines but the wine that truly astonished me was the Nicasia Vineyard Malbec 2006 The wine is perfumed with floral and fruit notes and it is smooth and soft at first Like all great wines it has many layers of flavour warm bursts of cherry and black-currant cede centre stage to deeper darker caramel and mocha notes and a touch of spice Therersquos an amazing depth of flavour and the finish is long and lingering Whatrsquos more at nearly eight years old it still has a slight purple tinge and tastes extremely fresh There is every indication that it will age beautifully for at least another decade
The winersquos character is heavily influenced by the alti-tude the grapes used to make it are grown at (1180m
above sea level) At this elevation the grapes ripen in bright sun but lsquorelaxrsquo during the cool evenings The fact that the wine is made in tiny quantities (eight barrels only) means every care can be taken during the winemak-ing process to ensure the wine is allowed to show its grown-up side The cost per bot-tle of pound70 is not insubstantial but neither is the wine
We cannot know whether these wines will ever become investments in the way the wines of Bordeaux have Whatrsquos cer-tain is that Malbec wines have a very rare quality a balance of finesse and power that
can delight wine lovers and linger in their memories
Ewan Lacey is a leading wine expert and general manager of the International Wine and Spirit Competition He has appeared on BBC television and radio as well as Channel 4 and written for the national press
Laura Catena is managing director at the Catena Zapata winery (above)
THE INTERNATIONAL WINE AND SPIRIT COMPETITIONThe International Wine and Spirit Competition has been the premier drinks competition in the world for 45 years Each year it receives and reviews thousands of wines and spirits and presents qual-ity awards to producers
More than anything the IWSC exists to help
people make better deci-sions particularly when buying wines and spirits An IWSC award on a bot-tle of wine is a guarantee
of quality backed not only by a rigorous and strin-gent judging process but also by the skill of the judges who are drawn from the ranks of masters of wine master distill-ers industry leaders and commentators
Each year the IWSC honours a leading figure
in the drinks industry with the presidency of the competition The current president is Laura Catena who succeeds a nota-ble line of predecessors including Prince Robert of Luxembourg winemakers Piero Antinori and Warren Winiarski and Baroness Philippine de Rothschild
56 March 2014 | inspired
LUXURY WATCHES
Time is preciousA
t a recent watch auc-tion in Geneva at Antiquorum ndash the worldrsquos premiere auc-tion house for modern and vintage time pieces ndash a Patek Philippe
pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon watch emerged as the auctionrsquos top lot and sold for 12 million Swiss francs (pound807000)
Unlike most of the timepieces sold at auctions outside Asia this particular Patek watch ndash the most complicated wristwatch the Swiss watchmaker has ever produced ndash was not a vintage model
That Geneva auction raised intriguing
1284Clocks with weights gears and regulators start to appear mostly with no dial to strike the important moments of daily life
Around 1410The mainspring is devel-oped Combined with the fusee this innovation makes possible the truly portable domestic clock
1492The mechanical watch appears simultaneously in Italy Germany and France
1675Christian Huygens invents the spiral balance spring
for watches significantly improving their accuracy
1704The first watch with jew-els is produced by French watchmaker de Beaufreacute
1714The British parliament offers pound20000 to who-ever can a find a method to determine longitude
1766Parliament publishes the rating results for John Harrisonrsquos H4 marine timekeeper Harrisonrsquos highly accurate marine clock solution to the problem of determining logitude wins him part of the pound20000 prize
1787Pierre-Freacutedeacuteric Ingold is born an important pio-neer in mechanised timepiece production and the use of interchangea-ble parts
1790Jacquet-Droz and Leschot manufactures a watch attached to a strap
1839Vacheron amp Constantin developes a full set of machine tools for manu-facturing its watches
1875Calcium sulphate is the first luminescent sub-stance to be used for numerals and hands
TIMEKEEPING MILESTONES
questions Are modern luxury timepieces every bit as appealing as the vintage watches that typically command top prices at auc-tion And does that Geneva auction tell us anything about the contemporary watch market as a whole
Julien Schaerer Antiquorumrsquos managing director in Geneva says top-quality vintage watches often appreciate in value over the long term But he urges buyers for whom appreciation is an important consideration to be cautious about purchasing contempo-rary watches
lsquoWatch price depreciation is the cost of ownership just as it is with a luxury carrsquo he says lsquoIf the value goes up then
58 March 2014 | inspired
1880The first water- resistant watch incorpo-rating a screwed case is produced by Genevan watchmaker Franccedilois Borgel
1889The first known patent for a wristwatch is filed in Bern Switzerland
1890Dialmaker A Beyeler invents a transfer press for applying numerals and letters to dials
1892Auguste Verneuil in France produces the first synthetic jewels to be used in watchmaking
1904Wens Wilsdorf launches large-scale production of a womenrsquos wristwatch
1924John Harwood files the
first Swiss patent for a self-winding wristwatch with a central oscillating weight
1925The first known wrist-watch with a perpetual calendar is manufactured using a pendant watch movement
1926Rolex creates the Oyster wristwatch with a water-resistant case and crown
1966The first quartz wrist-watch prototype is produced
1969The first quartz watch
with an LED display appears
1978Quartz watches overtake mechanical watches in popularity
2005Creation of the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie Seiko launches the spring drive Kinetic the first self-winding mechanical watch with an electro-magnetic escapement
A Patek Philippe pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon recently sold for pound807000
inspired | March 2014 59
online retailers from the comfort of your homeSince 2006 DM London has quietly estab-
lished a powerful presence for itself in the UK retail watch market with the acquisition of The Watch Hut and The Watch Gallery DM London chairman David Coleridge says the company has capitalised on the increasing willingness of buy-ers to purchase online
lsquoHaving decided that they would like to buy a watch for themselves or someone elsersquo he says lsquopeople start to do their research More often than not this starts online nowadays where they com-pare brands performance and functions
lsquoAs trust in the online marketplace has devel-oped many want to buy online because it is convenient and saves time Shopping online becomes a habit established sites build trust and awareness with customers which gives custom-ers the confidence to buy more expensive itemsrsquo
He adds lsquoOur challenge is to make the online environment as attractive informative and enjoy-able as a high street store Then customers will decide to spend onlinersquo
Coleridge believes a multi-channel approach is the way forward for retailers He says lsquoWithout doubt the future is multi-channel selling ndash a combination of direct selling on the internet and various forms of click and collect ndash combined with beautiful stores on the high street
Over the past few years demand for luxury watches (particularly contemporary models) has spiked sharply in Asia and according to some specialists emerging affluence in the
of course thatrsquos an added benefit However he adds lsquoPrice appreciation is still quite rare with modern watches There is some poten-tial for appreciation but probably only with ultra-limited editions A purchase has to be
seen as a medium- to long-term invest-ment One should buy a timepiece first out of love for the brand or [the watchrsquos] complicationrsquo
The watch brands that offer the greatest assurance of appreci-
ation include Cartier Patek Philippe Rolex Audemars
Piguet A Lange amp Sohne Breguet and Vacheron Constantin All enjoy views from the top of
the watchmaking hierarchy thanks to their longstand-ing histories and well-established brand identities
Relative new-comers to the industry such as Richard Mille and Roger Dubuis have carved out a niche for
themselves with their revolutionary designs and
space-age technologies but it remains to be seen just how well the values of their timepieces will stand up on the secondary market
According to Nathaniel Borgelt a specialist at auction house Sothebyrsquos
some modern watches have already achieved good prices at auction but these (like the Patek Philippe Sky Moon Tourbillon) were highly exclusive models when new
lsquoSome limited edition pieces currently fetch incredible prices at auctionrsquo he says lsquoAnd there is a select group of modern mod-els that could compete with a certain sector of the vintage market based on their brand innovative features such as materials or com-plications and avant-garde designs
Buying these has now become a whole lot easier The luxury watch retailing land-scape is changing and the traditional pattern of physically walking into a luxury salon to buy a watch is gradually being replaced by a trend towards visiting the websites of the big
LUXURY WATCHES
A Lange amp Sohne (above) is a long-standing high-end watchmaker Comparative new-comer Roger Dubuis (right) is forging a strong reputation
inspired | March 2014 PB60 March 2014 | inspired
helpthewatchgallerycom
Hublot ClassiC FusiontHe WatCH Gallery exClusive
The Watch Gallery and Hublot have joined forces to create two very special limited edition watches Both are limited to just 15 pieces worldwide and have been specifically designed to feature The Watch Gallery blue brand colour on the hands and tinted open case back
SelfridgeS OxfOrd StreetWeStfield lOndOnMancheSter exchange Square
wwwthewatchgallerycomhublot-watches
Far East has kept global values strong while other markets around the world continue to recover from recession
Despite the market boost from growing prosperity in Asia there are signs that the market is becoming saturated and that globally the new watch market isnrsquot as robust as some commentators suggest
It may still be a good time to buy but its important to know what you want and what yoursquore buying Modern watchmakers such as Richard Mille Roger Dubuis and Greubel Forsey are producing beautiful timepieces but because of their limited foothold in the market itrsquos difficult to predict their long-term success and desirability They donrsquot yet have the brand power that might ensure the value of their
watches in the secondhand market remains highSuch producers might one day stand eye to
eye with the most desirable brands such as Patek Philippe and Rolex but achieving that kind of parity wonrsquot be easy Collectors looking to invest in timepieces are advised to keep an open mind about modern producers uncertainty is the one aspect of modern luxury watch market most experts tend to agree on
That said the buoyancy in the watch market suggests that plenty of buyers are unconcerned about future values For them itrsquos all about the appreciation of the watch itself People buy watches because they bring them pleasure ndash and say some-thing about who they are
LUXURY WATCHES
Contemporary watches such as those made by Hublot (left) have yet to show they will have the lasting appeal of watches such as Cartierrsquos Rotonde de Cartier Astrocalendaire (right)
inspired | March 2014 63
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-
INTHEUSJOBNUMBERSINCOMESANDALL-ROUNDCONSUMERCONFIDENCEAREIMPROVING
Sales have also improved although overall rev-enue growth remains weak and needs watching because a disparity between growth and profits is liable to puncture optimism just as company shares have soared amid loose monetary policy
Keep in mind the fact that the US economy has yet to break a habit of allowing growth spurts to fade GDP rose at an annualised rate of 32 per cent in the fourth quarter of 2013 and 19 per cent
overall last year while the consensus is for 28 per cent for 2014 and 29 per cent for 2015 Similarly after the mid 2009 recession GDP grew at an average annualised rate of 34 per cent in the second and third quarters of 2010 and
then by 43 per cent in the fourth quarter of 2011 and first quarter of 2012 Yet the improvement was short-lived
Last year rapid inventory accumulation boosted GDP at a level that is unsustainable However pri-vate consumption growth is running at its fastest rate in three years
Overall the economic figures are mixed and it remains to be seen where they will head next as the Fedrsquos stimulus expires
The recovery in the UK appears to be strengthen-ing The economy officially grew by 07 per cent in the fourth quarter of 2013 A growth rate of 18 per cent was estimated for the year as a whole
Significantly business investment rose by 24 per cent in the third quarter of 2013 and
Inevitably there is scepticism that reassuring words will be translated into practical deeds but they add to positive sentiment amid improving economic numbers in the US and the UK
The principal risk is that the US economy will stutter just as the US Federal Reserve commits to a monthly $10 billion wind-ing down of its monetary stimulus and sustains this drawdown rate to show itself to be more consistent with guidance than it was last year
Recent US data has been mixed and analysts are unsure how much the harsh winter in the US should affect their calculations Yet home sales jumped by 96 per cent in January the fastest rise in more than five years This suggests job numbers incomes and all-round consumer con-fidence are improving following years of worry that the US economy and house prices might falter again While pent-up demand probably explains some of the improvement in house sales the rise is especially notable given that higher mort-gage rates since mid 2013 have limited mortgage affordability
US corporate earnings have grown stronger than expected ndash by about 85 per cent in the fourth quar-ter of 2013 Some 72 per cent of SampP 500 firms beat expectations according to FactSet Research
The crisis in Crimea is unlikely to derail or impede the slow but steady progress in global stock markets seen so far this year
6 March 2014 | inspired
THE MARKETS
IN 2014
spread like some predicted it would and Chinarsquos debt problem could take a while to erupt if it ever does Even if it does Chinarsquos communist gov-ernment can deploy strong economic and social controls
It is interesting that in a recent television pro-gramme on risks in China the BBCrsquos business editor Robert Peston initially sounded as if he was marking the country out for trouble However
he softened his stance a little towards the end of the programme
Oil prices have not capit-ulated ndash as was feared at the start of the year ndash and created revenue problems for Russia and Saudi Arabia possibly showing that Saudi Arabia
can still control prices to a large degree Complacency is a danger given the real risks
associated with the Fed winding down its stimu-lus and doubts over whether corporate revenues can genuinely improve However figures in
February have supported the trend towards muddling through big risks seen during
the eurozone debt crisis two years ago the bailouts for Greece and Cyprus and the political posturing over the US debt ceiling While interest rates remain low shareholders can take heart that their
riskreward profiles look supportive overall and traders can keep their fingers
crossed for more volatility
85 per cent in the fourth quarter of 2013 This has been the missing link in a recovery feared to be overly dependent on rising house prices and consumers resorting to raiding savings to fund spending
There remains a lot to achieve on the export front and interest rates are expected to rise from 2015 although the Bank of England is ada-mant that this will be gradual
A potential Labour gen-eral election victory by May 2015 does not seem to trou-ble investors at the moment The net balance at the end of February appears positive for shares because GDP and corporate profits are the factors that influence it most and the situation in continental Europe (beyond youth unemployment) is not prov-ing as dire as many feared
It is frustrating for long-term inves-tors with fresh money because equity valuations appear to broadly price in prospects so they typically need to take a lsquomomentumrsquo view which is less comfortable for them than when value yardsticks are in their favour But unless company earnings stall the downside looks limited for now
The emerging markets crisis has not
Confidence in the economies of key Asian economic powerhouses such as mainland China Singapore and Hong Kong (pictured) remains high
8 March 2014 | inspired
THE MARKETS
IN 2014
THEEMERGINGMARKETSCRISISHASNOTSPREADANDCHINArsquoSDEBTPROBLEMCOULDTAKETIMETOERUPTIFITEVERDOES
SCOTTISH MORTGAGE INVESTMENT TRUST
For a limited period and new eligible ISA customers only Terms amp Conditions and minimum investment amounts apply Please refer to our website or the application pack that we will send you for full details Your call may be recorded for training or monitoring purposes Baillie Gifford Savings Management Limited (BGSM) is the manager of the Baillie Gifford Investment Trust ISA and is wholly owned by Baillie Gifford amp Co which is the manager and secretary of the Scottish Mortgage Investment Trust PLC Your personal data is held and used by BGSM in accordance with data protection legislation We may use your information to send you information about Baillie Gifford products funds or special offers and to contact you for business research purposes We will only disclose your information to other companies within the Baillie Gifford group and to agents appointed by us for these purposes You can withdraw your consent to receiving further marketing communications from us and to being contacted for business research purposes at any time You also have the right to review and amend your data at any time
Wersquore 100 committed to making sure our fund managers never have a restricted outlook That way the long-term view is a clear one So whatrsquos the secret to their liberated attitude
Well our flagship fund the Scottish Mortgage Investment Trust is a global stock-picking fund that is completely free of asset allocation constraints that ignores index weightings and that selects stocks purely on their merit We feel that this freedom allows us to focus on the long term
The Scottish Mortgage Investment Trust is managed by Baillie Gifford
Please remember that changing stock market conditions and currency exchange rates will affect the value of your investment in the fund and any income from it You may not get back the amount invested
You can purchase Scottish Mortgage from Interactive Investor Alternatively you can invest directly with Baillie Gifford through our ISA Open an ISA with Baillie Gifford before 30 April and you can receive a pound10 Amazon gift card
For more information contact Baillie Gifford on 0800 917 2112 or visit wwwscottishmortgageitcomBaillie Gifford ndash long-term investment partners
Freedom to roam
WE LIVE IN A PERIOD OF EXPONENTIAL CHANGE PROVIDING FANTASTIC OPPORTUNITIES FOR STOCK PICKERS LIKE US
cent over one year and 229 per cent over three
Alastair Mundyrsquos Temple Bar Investment Trust focuses on UK equities including GlaxoSmithKline Vodafone and Royal Dutch Shell
It failed to outperform the UK equity income sector over one year despite its popular-ity posting a return of 18 per cent compared with the sectorrsquos 21 per cent However it per-formed better over three years returning 62 per cent against the sectorrsquos 56 per cent
INCOME AND SMALLER COMPANIES STILL IMPORTANTInvestors retained an interest in income and smaller-companies investment trusts in February ndash extending the same purchasing trend in January And they con-tinued to flock to UK-focused trusts as a safe haven
Although two of the 10 most-bought trusts Murray International Trust and Bankers Investment Trust invest in international equities both counted UK equities among their top holdings with the Bankers trust favouring BP GlaxoSmithKline and Vodafone
The other popular
losed-end fund inves-tors stuck closely to income trusts in February but seemed more willing to accept
risk than those purchasing open-ended funds the latest data from Interactive Investor shows
The three most popular trusts were regular investor favourites Baillie Giffordrsquos Scottish Mortgage Investment Trust Investecrsquos Temple Bar Investment Trust and Frostrow Capitalrsquos Biotech Growth Trust
While open-ended fund investors looked mainly to UK equities for income two of these three top invest-ment trusts have a worldwide focus James Anderson and Tom Slaterrsquos Scottish Mortgage Investment Trust which posted a sector-beating 27 per cent return over one year and 56 per cent over three invests in worldwide large-cap equi-ties such as Google and Apple while the Biotech Growth Trust taps the worldwide biotechnol-ogy industry through US equity investments
This trust managed by Geoffrey Hsu and Richard Klemm also beat its sector the biotechnology and healthcare sector with returns of 49 per
income trust Premier Asset Mangementrsquos Acorn Income fund invests in UK mid- and large-cap equities includ-ing Electrocomponents John Menzies and Cineworld Group It returned 46 per cent over the past year and 144 per cent over the past three It was the seventh most-bought trust by Interactive Investor users in February
The UK focus also character-ised investorsrsquo smaller-company trust choices The UK-favoured Henderson Smaller Companies Investment Trust and BlackRock Smaller Companies Investment Trust in sixth and tenth place respectively
Both benefited from the UK housing boom through invest-ments in Bellway and Ashtead Group and both outperformed the UK smaller-companies sec-tor which recorded returns of 37 per cent over one year and 66 per cent over three
INVESTORS RETAINED AN INTEREST IN INCOME AND SMALLER-COMPANIES TRUSTS IN FEBRUARY
CMARKET
YOUR MONTH IN THE
Julie Fisher reveals Februaryrsquos 10 most popular trusts
Bankers trust favours a mix of shares in UK and multinational companies
TRADING
10 March 2014 | inspired
AN APPETITE FOR RISK BOOSTS TRUSTSInvestors showed a greater appetite for risk by invest-ing more heavily in trusts As a result BlackRock World Mining Trust and Templeton Emerging Market Trust took the final two places on the list fourth and fifth
Unfortunately both have posted negative returns in recent years due to the fact that they are positioned in unfavour-able markets
While the BlackRock trust was slightly above the com-modities and natural resources sector over six months one year and three years the Templeton trust only outperformed the global emerging markets equi-ties sector over the past month However investors appear to be buying in in the hope that there will be some improvement in the next few years
Emerging markets fell back out of favour among fund investors in February while pur-
chases of UK and smaller company funds held firm the latest data from Interactive Investor shows
After a brief revival for emerging markets in January when three EM funds were among the 10 most bought Februaryrsquos most-popular funds were generally UK-focused
Paul Marriagersquos Cazenove UK Smaller Companies fund was knocked off the list after five consecutive months at the top as it closed to new purchases on 22 January allowing Januaryrsquos sec-ond-placed fund AXA Framlington Biotech to take top spot The US biotechnology-focused fund managed by Linden Thompson is popular as it delivered a return of 61 per cent over the past year and 164 per cent over the past three
Although the AXA fund has little in common with the other top purchases there are trends to be spotted in the rest of the list most of which continue from January Income was a focus for investors while UK smaller companies remained popular
lsquoThere were strong flows into funds investing in the UK and Europe whereas Asia excluding Japan and emerging markets suffered outflows following relatively weak per-formance in these regions since May 2013rsquo say Charles Cade and Ewan Lovett-Taylor in their report on fund trades in January lsquoPerhaps the most notable sub-sector is UK smaller company funds which have bene-fited from net inflows every month since August 2012rsquo
SMALLER COMPANIESAccording to Numis January saw the highest number of monthly inflows into smaller com-pany funds on record pound241 million The Interactive
Investor data shows these funds remained popular in February
Three smaller-company funds made it into the top 10 Investec UK Smaller Companies fund the River and Mercantile UK Equity Smaller Companies fund and the CF Miton UK Smaller Companies fund took third fourth and fifth place respectively
All three outperformed the UK smaller-companies sector which delivered returns of 32 per cent over one year and 55 per cent over three Gervais Williamsrsquos CF Miton fund pro-vided the best return over a year at 55 per cent while the River and Mercantile fund managed by Daniel Hanbury delivered 112 per cent over three years
Ken Hsiarsquos Investec fund had the least impressive returns at 47 per cent over one year and 79 per cent over three but still outperformed the sector The fund invests in small-cap UK companies including Quindell Optimal Payments and Utilitywise
INCOME EMPHASISThe other priority for inves-tors in February was income and this too was UK focused Of five income funds appear-ing in the 10 most-bought category only the Artemis Global Income fund had a non-UK focus
Jacob de Tusch-Lecrsquos fund which delivered returns of 14 per cent over one year and 47 over three invests chiefly
in European and US equi-ties The other most-bought income funds were Unicorn UK Income Rathbone Income JOHCM UK Equity and the Invesco Perpetual Income
They all beat the UK equity income sectorrsquos returns of 16 per cent over one year and 36 per cent over three All invested in large-cap UK com-panies with GlaxoSmithKline AstraZeneca and Royal Dutch Shell among the top holdings
Despite its focus on income the Invesco Perpetual High Income fund dropped out of the 10 most-bought funds in February and the Invesco Perpetual
Income fund appeared only at the end of the list This suggests that investors may be get-ting nervous over the
imminent departure of star fund manager Neil Woodford in April
One growth fund also made the list the MFM Slater Growth fund which took ninth place Like the income funds it outperformed its sec-tor UK all companies
and focused on UK-listed companies including
Hutchison China (HCM) and Entertainment One (ETO)
THE 10 TOP MOST-BOUGHT FUNDSANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
THEREWERESTRONGFLOWSINTOFUNDINVESTINGINTHE
UKANDEUROPEWHEREASASIAEXCLUDINGJAPANANDEMERGINGMARKETSSUFFEREDOUTFLOWSFOLLOWINGRELATIVELYWEAKPERFORMANCEINTHESEREGIONSSINCEMAY2013Charles Cade and Ewan Lovett-Taylor
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
inspired | March 2014 11
DONrsquoT DISMISS AIM-BASED INVESTMENTS
Richard Beddard is an editor at Interactive Investor and manager of Money Observerrsquos Share Sleuth portfolio
Now that inves-tors can buy Alternative Investment Market shares
within Isas the universe of potentially profitable invest-ments has grown But therersquos also more room for disappointment
Aimrsquos light-touch regula-tion makes it easier for younger smaller companies to list and while such shares are reputed to be risky that need not frighten
INVEST REGULARLY
Mick Gilligan head of research Killik amp Co
Starting an Isa at the beginning of a new tax year and investing small amounts
regularly out of your income ndash rather than a larger amount in one lump sum at the end of each tax year ndash helps reduce the impact of market volatility and you start earning compound interest sooner When income is reinvested alongside the initial investment it effectively becomes capital so you have a larger sum producing an income which in turn can be reinvested
trsquos very easy to keep on doing the same things with your annual tax-efficient Isa allow-ance However investors can lose out badly if they do
Itrsquos not just the Isa allowances that keep changing the economic environment and the range of investments available do too So itrsquos important that investors con-sider all the Isa opportunities open to them before they make a any big
irrevocable decisionsWersquove asked a number of invest-
ment experts to reveal their top Isa tips We are sure they will give you some useful guidelines and help you refine the choices you make Some suggestions are reminders about long-standing opportunities others draw your attention to new developments in Isa invest-ing and highlight the opportunities they offer
Isa investorswhether using some or all of their annual allowances donrsquot always get the best out of their investments Faith Glasgow asks some financial experts for their most valuable tips
investors from investing in Aim firms Plenty of them have long illustrious track records in worthy businesses and itrsquos easy to find out about them on finan-cial websites More details are available on companiesrsquo own investor relations websites the contents of which are mandated by Aim rule 26 a rule the more heavily regulated main market would do well to emulate
UP YOUR ISA CONTRIBUTIONS
Darius McDermott managing director Chelsea Financial Services
Donrsquot forget to increase your monthly Isa investments each year in line with
inspired | March 2014 1312 March 2014 | inspired
EXPERTSrsquo TOP ISA
TIPS
ISAS SMART STRATEGY FOR
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
INVESTING SMALL AMOUNTS REGULARLY HELPS REDUCE THE IMPACT OF MARKET VOLATILITYMick Gilligan
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
I
and shares in [non-cash] Isas However this isnrsquot the case Indeed some other asset classes ndash in particular those that pro-duce income ndash offer even more tax benefits than equities when held within an Isa
Bond funds for example get (at least) 20 per cent income tax relief on the yield they pro-duce (dividends from equities in contrast are subjected to a 10 per cent tax at source which is not reclaimable even in an Isa)
The new property author-ised investment fund structure for property funds meanwhile means Isa investors no longer incur the 20 per cent tax that would previously have been applied on income received from a property investment
the increase in the contribution limit if you can afford to Itrsquos all too easy for regular investors with their money invested auto-matically every month to overlook those annual allow-ance increases And consider increasing your investment whenever you receive a salary increase
LOOK BEYOND STOCKS AND SHARES
Darius McDermott Chelsea Financial Services Some potential Isa investors think you can only hold stocks
PLOUGH INTO PROPERTYGavin Haynes managing director Whitechurch Securities
Many people donrsquot realise they can gain expo-sure to bricks and mortar through
commercial property funds held in a stocks and shares Isa
The asset class currently offers an attractive yield rela-tive to cash and bonds without the volatility of the stock market investments
Property funds are not with-out risk but an allocation to a commercial property fund (that invests directly in bricks and mortar not property shares) can add diversification to an Isa portfolio With the economic outlook improving the sector looks well placed for recovery
ACCEPT RISK BUT BE SURE TO DIVERSIFY
Rebecca OrsquoKeeffe head of investment Interactive Investor
The primary ben-efits of an Isa are felt over the long term so itrsquos important to rec-
ognise that taking on risk
inspired | March 2014 1312 March 2014 | inspired
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
ITrsquoS ALL TOO EASY TO OVERLOOK THOSE ANNUAL ALLOWANCE INCREASESDariusMcDermott
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
Isa can suddenly become a poorly paying one But never try to transfer an Isa yourself Contact the new provider first and follow its transfer rules
Remember the amount of money you can invest in a cash Isa in each tax year is capped (currently at pound5760) so if you want to switch in the middle of the tax year you will prob-ably be switching the entire amount ndash you cannot switch a portion of an existing Isa into a new one and top it up If your original Isa is due to pay you interest at the end of the year it should pay you the accrued interest up to the date you close the account
Itrsquos possible to transfer your cash Isa into a stocks and shares Isa if you decide this is a better home for you money but you canrsquot switch your money back from a stocks and shares Isa into a cash Isa
You can invest up to pound11520 in a stocks and shares Isa in a single tax year minus anything you may have paid into a cash Isa ndash which is capped at pound5760
over the long term is usually a far more profitable strategy than minimising risk Investors typi-cally take less risk than they should especially if they have suffered a loss in the past
You can mitigate your overall risk by diversifying across differ-ent asset classes and geographic areas Regular investing is also a great risk reduction strategy
Itrsquos also important to rec-ognise the value of dividend reinvestment and understand the benefit this compound-ing effect has on your portfolio And remember to choose a bro-ker that doesnrsquot penalise you for reinvesting
TRANSFER YOUR ISAS TO GET THE BEST DEALS
Mark King editor MoneywiseUnlike a stocks and shares Isa a cash Isa is a sim-ple savings account with a
tax-free Isa lsquowrapperrsquo placed around it so that you donrsquot pay tax on your interest
You can choose to have access to your money or tie it up until a future date just as with typical savings accounts Generally the longer you tie your money up for the better the interest rate you get
While a cash Isa is considered a low-risk investment ndash which sophisticated investors may find returns too little as a result ndash you can transfer a cash Isa should you decide you want to take on more risk or get a bet-ter rate Indeed you may have to transfer a cash Isa regularly Providers offer different rates that can change so a top-paying
From 6 April ndash the beginning of the 201415 tax year ndash however these limits rise to pound11880 and pound5940 respectively
LOOK AT THE LONG- TERM BENEFITS
Philippa Gee managing director Philippa Gee Wealth Management
Some investors look at the return on an Isa or at the limit on how much they can
invest in a single year and fail to see the value
However they would be wise to consider the longer-term view Those who have invested each year for a number of years have been able to build six- figure portfolios that they do not have to pay any further income or capital gains tax on or list on their tax assessment
By securing a significant sum in an Isa wrapper each year as far as yoursquore able you can build up a valuable flexible and tax-efficient investment
inspired | March 2014 PB14 March 2014 | inspired
EXPERTSrsquoTOP ISA
TIPS
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
TAKING ON RISK OVER THE LONG TERM IS USUALLY MORE PROFITABLERebecca OrsquoKeeffe
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
The ISA thatrsquos
fair and square
We believe in straightforward investing Thatrsquos why we donrsquot nibble at your investments with percentage charges Open an account and for pound20 per quarter you get two pound10 trades and an ISA for free After that itrsquos just pound10 per trade across a wide range of UK and international investmentsTransfer to us today and get up to pound240 as a thank you (terms apply) We believe thatrsquos fair and square
The value of investments and any income from them can fall as well as rise so you could get back less than you invest Tax treatment depends on your individual circumstances and may be subject to change If in any doubt please seek advice
iiicoukisa
Interactive Investor Trading Limited trading as ldquoInteractive Investorrdquo is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority Registered Office Standon House 21 Mansell Street London E1 8AA Tel 0845 200 3637 Registered in England with Company Registration number 3699618
hen new rules were introduced last August allowing the inclusion of Alternative Investment Market (Aim) shares in Isas demand for exposure to the junior market
quickly exceeded expectations Another surge in demand is likely in April as the new tax year dawns and investors have a fresh annual allow-ance to play with
Yet while stocks on Aim can boast eye-catching returns and attractive tax perks they can also be very volatile raising concerns that investors may be letting the tax tail wag the investment dog with-out understanding what they are getting into
The Treasuryrsquos decision to allow Aim shares into Isas was driven by a desire to encourage greater investment in small and medium-sized companies The move was immediately popular with investors and brokers reported a sharp rise in Aim-listed purchases Demand for smaller companies funds was up too as investors wary of direct share ownership
bought into funds offering exposure to Aim stocksIt helped that Aim stocks were enjoying a good
run as were smaller companies generally with the amount of money raised on the market over the summer rising sharply Performance is just one aspect of their appeal however
Aim shares already offered inheritance tax effi-ciency most of them qualify for business property relief making them exempt from IHT when held for two years or more However itrsquos worth noting that BPR is subject to change and a company can lose its eligibility and therefore its IHT relief status as a result Therefore investors wanting to continue benefiting from IHT relief have to switch out of such companies and into those still eligible
Wider income and capital gains tax benefits also drove some demand for Aim shares after the
Isa rule change in August The move created a bed- and-Isa opportunity whereby existing Aim share inves-tors sold their holdings and bought them back within an Isa
Among those quick
Alternative Investment Market stocks offer Isa investors a chance to realise heady returns ndash but you need to pick your holdings carefully because of the high risk of losses in an illiquid market says Jeff Salway
AIMSHARES
W
GEMSTO BE UNEARTHED
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
WE WOULD ONLY INCLUDE AIM STOCKS
IN THE PORTFOLIOS OF ADVENTUROUS CLIENTS David Thomson
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
inspired | March 2014 17
THERE ARE
Treatt has built up an immaculate record of delivering profits
to take advantage was Lord Lee of Trafford the UKrsquos first Isa millionaire and author of How to Make a Million ndash Slowly My Guiding Principles from a Lifetime of Successful Investing lsquoI have a
big holding of Christie Group that was originally in my per-sonal equity planrsquo he says lsquoWhen the company moved to Aim [from the main market] I took it out of the Pep but when Aim shares became Isa-eligible I sold it and bought it back again within my Isarsquo
April 2014 will mark the removal of stamp duty from Aim purchases a develop-ment expected to encourage asset managers to launch a new wave of Aim-focused funds The axing of stamp duty makes the junior market more appeal-ing to companies on the main market as well with several recently moving across
Alec Stewart partner at Anderson Strathern Asset Management explains lsquoA company can reduce its regulatory burden by moving to the junior market with lower audit and compliance requirementsrsquo For example the main market
stipulates that any potential listing should have a market capitalisation no lower than pound700000 whereas therersquos no such guideline on the Aim mar-ket Nor do companies need a trading history to list on Aim compared with the three years required for the main market Moreover the cost of listing on Aim is considerably lower
But for many private investors the main appeal of Aim stocks lies largely in the prospect of sky-high returns from the success of small and fledgling companies There are some 1200 stocks on the market from a wide range of sectors ndash albeit with a heavy weighting in technology and especially natural resources and with a gulf in size between the biggest and smallest
The largest are eligible for the FTSE AIM 50 and the FTSE AIM 100 where the likes of Bowleven Majestic Wine Dobbies Asos and MampC Saatchi are listed
Stewart picks out three he favours as part of a diversified portfolio One is Dart Group The owner of Jet2com and Jet2Holidays Dart has had a lsquostrong runrsquo and is focused on becoming more fam-ily friendly in these budget-conscious times says Stewart lsquoIt benefits from good visibility of future bookings and strong cash generationrsquo he adds
Aerospace and defence firm Cohort is another with a lsquoprogressive dividend policyrsquo that has grown at an annualised rate of 20 per cent over
DEWHURST (pound520)Dewhurst is a well-established manu-facturer of lift pushbuttons indicators and controls keypads for ATMs security devices and petrol pumps and traffic management products such as bollards
The company has a long record of profitability under the stewardship of the Dewhurst family and a debt-free balance sheet That suggests it is a strong competitor
Profits fell in 2013 ndash a result of a slowdown in Dewhurstrsquos major markets and customers having stocked up in the previous year Management is quite cagey about the companyrsquos prospects for 2014 but an improved performance is likely as conditions in the UK and the US improve The shares are probably good value at 11 times adjusted 2013 earnings
MS INTERNATIONAL (pound204)MS International manufactures military hardware forks for forklift trucks and petrol station canopies and car washes
The company has been profitable in each of the past 10 years and has a balance sheet flush with cash yet the share price has fallen to a level that val-ues MSI at five times adjusted 2013
earnings MSIrsquos current unpopularity stems from a decline in the profitability of MSI Defence Systems which has the highest turnover of its three businesses
The company expects 2014 to be no easier than 2013 due to continu-ing pressure on defence spending but itrsquos confident it will add to defence work already contracted and scheduled for every year until 2020
Itrsquos quite possible that MSI is having a lull that does not reflect on the qual-ity of its products or businesses If thatrsquos the case itrsquos a bargain
TREATT (pound747)Treatt distills flavourings and frag-rances essential oils and water-soluble essences Its products are used in drinks confectionery sauces and cosmetics worldwide
The companyrsquos expertise and close customer relationships might give it a competitive advantage and it has never suffered a loss However it has ushered out managing director Hugo Bovill and his family has sold its interest
Management with large share-holdings gives companies some independence from the often short-term imperatives of fund managers
However the new team is focused on controlling costs and developing the most profitable products
Profit grew 28 per cent in 2013 and Treattrsquos long-term prospects are prob-ably good but the share price has spiked valuing the shares at 15 times adjusted 2013 earnings
FW THORPE (pound143)FW Thorpe designs and manufactures light fittings known as luminaires They are becoming increasingly complex with the introduction of LED technology that requires printed circuit boards Its main business is Thorlux which supplies lighting to schools hospitals ware-houses and factories Other subsidiaries supply retailers emergency exit signage and cleanroom lighting
Stable family ownership long indus-try experience and a commitment to modernisation and investment are the keys to Thorpersquos prosperity
Although it has to contend with the additional investment required to produce LED lighting Thorpe is manag-ing the transition well The shares cost pound137 which values the company at about 15 times adjusted 2013 earnings Thatrsquos a fair price for a quality company
Richard Beddard picks out four Aim-listed companies worth considering for inclusion in a diversified Isa share portfolio
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
I TRANSFERRED INTO MY ISA A BIG
HOLDING OF CHRISTIE GROUP THAT USEDTO BE IN MY PEPLord Lee of Trafford
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
AIMSHARES
18 March 2014 | inspired
the past three years he adds Among food pro-ducers he likes Wynnstay It has lsquobenefited from strong revenue and pre-tax profitsrsquo increasing its interim dividend by 9 per cent
But therersquos ample cause for caution too because Aim shares are typically far riskier than those listed on the main market Not only is there the vol-atility inherent in shares issued by smaller firms but there remains the potential for liquidity issues even after the surge of money into the market in recent months Haig Bathgate chief investment officer at Turcan Connell says lsquoThey are by impli-cation of their size much less liquid in terms of the shares that trade hands on a daily basis so they are prone to more extreme price movementsrsquo
UK investors may also be averse to Aim stocks that are effectively overseas companies Indeed many Aim fund portfolios specifically exclude both these and natural resources firms as well as stocks that donrsquot offer business property relief
lsquoSignificant numbers of companies have failed to deliver on expectations in this part of the mar-ket and it is also quite heavily weighted towards technology (12 per cent) resources (9 per cent) and oil and gas companies (22 per cent)rsquo says Bathgate There are transparency concerns too due to the less stringent regulatory and company reporting requirements on the Aim market
lsquoWe would only include Aim stocks within the
portfolios of adventurous clients and then only up to a maximum of 10 per centrsquo says David Thomson chief investment officer at VWM Wealth lsquoEven then the bulk of this is likely to be via a venture capital trust where the investor can also enjoy 30 per cent income tax relief providing a further cushion against the volatility of Aim sharesrsquo
Collective investment funds and trusts offer a way into Aim stocks that provides useful diversification and so reduces the risk of heavy losses Investment trusts can offer particular advantages where Aim-listed shares are concerned as their closed-ended status gives them a hedge against the market liquidity issues that can affect Aim stocks Among the growing number of UK smaller companies investment trusts in which Aim shares are prominent are those run by BlackRock Standard Life and Aberforth Unit trusts invest-ing in Aim companies include the LampG UK Alpha Trust and Cazenove UK Smaller Companies
However there is a downside to access-ing Aim through funds and trusts as investors no longer benefit from the IHT-free status that direct holders of Aim stocks enjoy The risk of hefty losses remains the biggest caveat to investing in Aim
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
AIMSHARESAREMUCHLESS
LIQUIDINTERMSOFTHESHARESTHATTRADEHANDSDAILYHaig Bathgate
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
inspired | March 2014 19
Clockwise from top Cohort Wynnstay and Jet2com are Stewartrsquos picks for a diversified portfolio
rewarding such as smaller companies private equity and emerging markets
Trusts can also increase their assets by borrow-ing So long as this gearing is sensibly priced it should accelerate the trustrsquos gains in positive mar-ket conditions However gearing will exacerbate losses in any downturn The possible closing of the discount will also enhance share price returns
SOLID GROWTHBaillie Gifford Global DiscoveryThis fund picked by independent financial adviser Brian Dennehy invests globally in growth stocks especially companies operating in industries with potential for structural change and innova-tion Dennehy says manager Douglas Brodie has had considerable experience and success in iden-tifying growth opportunities particularly among exciting smaller-cap stocks
CF Lindsell Train UK EquityJohn Husselbee head of multi-asset at Liontrust Asset Management prefers investors to traders Renowned investor Warren Buffett takes a similar view and Husselbee says fund manager Nick Train invests like Buffett Train looks to buy great com-panies such as Burberry Heineken and Unilever when they are good value and hold them lsquoforeverrsquo
Cazenove UK Opportunities This fund aims to achieve long-term capital growth from a focused portfolio of large and medium-sized UK companies Gavin Haynes managing
huge variety of investment funds rang-ing from generalist funds to highly specialised versions aim to generate capital growth for investors
Investing in a specific fund entails investors accepting different degrees of risk in return for a range of potential rewards So when we asked financial advisers to predict which funds offer the best prospects for growth in 2014 we also urged them to consider which types of investor the funds would suit best
Solid growth funds will appeal to investors who prefer steady investment while higher-risk growth funds are likely to be more volatile and appeal to those with a higher risk tolerance Speculative funds could produce handsome returns this year but they could also dip sharply in value
Closed-ended status means investment trusts can invest in less liquid asset classes without having to worry about realising their holdings in a market setback This enables them to invest in areas that have historically proved particularly
A
Helen Pridham and Fiona Hamilton have rounded up a collection of investment funds and trusts experts believe will prosper in the year ahead for investors looking to cash in on an improving economic outlook
PERFECT YOUR FUND PORTFOLIOTO SEE IT
GROW
inspired | March 2014 2120 March 2014 | inspired
FUNDSAND
TRUSTS
GROW
inspired | March 2014 2120 March 2014 | inspired
A
RE Y
OU
A
GLO
BAL
INV
ESTO
R Take a global view of investment trusts expertly managed by Henderson
For over 75 years Henderson Global Investors has been at the forefront of investment trust innovation and development Now with a diverse and established range of managed investment trusts and investment companies Henderson has a global view of the market
Whether you are retirement planning investing for your children looking to take advantage of dynamic global markets or want a cautious investment approach our managed companies offer a wide range of investment objectives and strategies professionally managed by regional experts
If your priority is high income long term capital growth or a mixture of both Henderson Global Investors has a range of solutions which aims to meet your investment needs
Please remember that past performance is not a guide to future performance The value of an investment and the income from it can fall as well as rise as a result of market and currency fluctuations and you may not get back the amount originally invested
Call to receive your Investment Trust brochure or visit wwwhendersoninvestmenttrustscom
0800 856 5656
Investment Trusts managed by Henderson
Issued in the UK by Henderson Global Investors Henderson Global Investors is the name under which Henderson Global Investors Limited (reg no 906355) Henderson Fund Management Limited (reg no 2607112) Henderson Investment Funds Limited (reg no 2678531) Henderson Investment Management Limited (reg no 1795354) Henderson Alternative Investment Advisor Limited (reg no 962757) Henderson Equity Partners Limited (reg no2606646) Gartmore Investment Limited (reg no 1508030) (each incorporated and registered in England and Wales with registered office at 201 Bishopsgate London EC2M 3AE) are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority to provide investment products and services Telephone calls may be recorded and monitored H0046521113ad
Itrsquos a global marketplace
HGiTrusts
director at Whitechurch Securities says fund manager Julie Dean has built up an excellent track record
Securities Trust of ScotlandRobin McAdam likes Securities Trust of Scotland which seeks rising income and long-term capi-tal growth from global equities The trust yields 33 per cent so it provides income and growth potential lsquoThe trust has outperformed its bench-mark recently and we expect this to continuersquo says McAdam
Finsbury Growth amp Income TrustPeter Hewitt nominates Finsbury Growth amp Income Trust on the basis of its strong short- and long-term performance Manager Nick Train seeks out the highest-quality companies to hold long term The portfolio is dominated by companies Train expects to have longevity such as Diageo Unilever and Heineken lsquoThe manager looks for strong cash gen-eration and dividend growth which he believes are undervalued by the stock marketrsquo Hewitt says
RIT Capital PartnersThis multi-asset trust selected by John Newlands is the flagship financial vehicle for its chairman Lord Jacob Rothschild and his family lsquoGiven the uncertainty in the world it is no bad thing to be diversified both globally and across a range of asset classes RIT is a global growth trust that offers a combination of these benefitsrsquo Newlands says
His enthusiasm is bolstered by RITrsquos current relatively wide discount which reflects disap-pointment among investors that it was rather too cautious over the past two or three years
Perpetual Income amp Growth Trust This trust is classified as a member of the AIC UK growth and income sector but its yield tends to be below the sector average because manager Mark Barnett is more interested in income growth than immediate income Tim Cockerill classifies it as a total return trust and makes it his solid growth choice Barnett has secured excellent long-term returns dur-ing his 15 years at the helm
HIGHER-RISK GROWTHLazard Emerging MarketsMick Gilligan believes the investment case for emerging market equi-ties remains strong He says lsquoEquity markets in emerging regions are trading at their widest price-to-earnings discount to developed markets since 2006 We believe many well-capitalised businesses that have shown strong financial discipline should gener-ate good profitsrsquo The Lazard Emerging Markets fund focuses on such businesses
Rathbone Global OpportunitiesThis go-almost-anywhere bottom-up thorough stockpicking fund looks for undiscovered gems Rob Burdett fund manager at Thames River believes manager James Thomson strikes the
KEY FACTS ABOUT GROWTH FUND TIPS
Mininv pound
Ongoing Charges
1-yearreturn
Sectorrank
SOLID GROWTHBaillie Gifford Global Discovery 1000 086 5920 2248CF Lindsell Train UK Equity ndash 080 2910 53271Cazenove UK Opportunities 1000 082 3210 40271 HIGHER-RISK GROWTHInvestec Global Energy 1000 087 1420 40206Lazard Emerging Markets 2000 161 320 1668Rathbone Global Opportunities 1000 082 2150 111248 SPECULATIVE GROWTHAllianz BRIC Stars 500 122 -120 134206Liontrust Special Situations 1000 114 1450 251271MampG Recovery 500 096 1330 264271Note Ongoing charges figure refers to the least expensive retail share class Source Financial Express and companies websites as at 3 December 2013
KEY FACTS ABOUT THE TRUSTS TIPPED FOR GROWTH
Shareprice
p
Discprem to NAV
Netyield
Gearing
Net asset valuetotal return after
1 year
3 years
5 years
SOLID GROWTHFinsbury Growth amp Income 5010 (+) 12 21 50 305 767 2038Perpetual Income amp Growth 3686 10 32 120 346 714 1407RIT Capital Partners 12480 105 11 50 210 225 591Securities Trust of Scotland 1469 (+) 31 32 40 192 460 1132 HIGHER-RISK GROWTHBiotech Growth Trust 4335 72 00 70 582 1723 2968Fidelity Chinese Special Sits 1062 65 09 210 433 02 ndashGraphite Enterprise Trust 5690 170 09 -90 167 442 405Schroder Asia Pacific 2730 92 14 -20 08 201 1779 SPECULATIVE GROWTHBaker Steel Resources 470 331 00 10 -57 -137 740Hansa Trust A 8600 243 23 10 142 69 947Impax Environmental Markets 1463 112 06 -20 350 285 921Standard Life Eq Inc subscription 1070 ndash 00 3700 ndash ndash ndashNotes NAV = net asset value Annualised All data as at 1 December Source Numis Securities
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
MARK BARNETT HAS SECURED
EXCELLENT RETURNSTim Cockerill
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
inspired | March 2014 23PB March 2014 | inspired
FUNDSANDTRUSTS
right balance between taking calculated risks for high returns and investing in defensive holdings Burdett says lsquoHe likes companies undertaking gentle innovation ndash moving online for example ndash rather than game changers which have more potential to go wrongrsquo Investec Global EnergyThis fund invests in companies that produce energy and provide services to the energy sector Fund managers Tom Nelson and Charles Whall believe the consensus view on future oil prices anticipates weak demand and growing supply from US shale oil But they demur as does Tony Yarrow at Wise Investment He says lsquoOil is harder to extract from shale than gas is while demand for oil is growing as economies recover A higher oil price feeds straight through to the companiesrsquo profitsrsquo
Biotech Growth TrustPeter Hewitt favours Biotech Growth Trust which has achieved scorching gains recently ndash up 172 per cent over three years to 1 December 2013
It is managed in New York by Orbimed a specialist healthcare and biotechnology investor with $7 bil-lion (pound42 billion) under management It offers exposure to a mix of large and profitable biotech companies along-side emerging businesses Most of its holdings are US-based and they have
benefited from a much more positive approach by the Federal Drug Authority ndash new drug approvals in 2010 were the highest for 10 years
Graphite Enterprise TrustAndrew McHattie contends that just one sector offers great value private equity lsquoThese trusts were hammered in the credit crisis and discounts widened to extreme levelsrsquo he says
His selection is Graphite Enterprise Trust Its discount to net asset value remains at a level that rings alarm bells in most other sectors but it has a strong track record and a relatively mature port-folio of shares he expects to rise in value
Fidelity Chinese Special SituationslsquoWith Chinese equities looking cheap the long-term outlook for investing in China is positiversquo Cockerill says lsquoThis fund invests in medium and small caps where high growth can be achieved New manager Dale Nicholls is well qualified and the combination of Fidelity manager experience and China is compelling in the long termrsquo
Scottish Oriental Smaller Companies Trust This trust is favoured by McAdam The invest-ment team identifies quality companies offering sustainable predictable growth lsquoThe trust may underperform if the market rises strongly but the teamrsquos enviable track record and experience should be respectedrsquo he says
Tim Cockerill is investment director at Rowan Dartington
RowanDartingtonhas20investmentadvisersbasedinsevenofficesacrossthesouthofEnglandIthaspound900millionunderman-
agementInvestmenttrustshavefeaturedinitsdiscretionaryandadvisoryportfoliosformanyyears
Peter Hewittis a member of FampC Asset Managementrsquos global equities team
HehasmanagedtheFampCManagedPortfolioTrustsinceApril2008aswellasitsforerunnerFampCManagedPortfolio
Servicesince2002HewasheadofUKequitiesatMurray
Johnstonefrom1981to1983beforejoiningIvoryampSime
Jean Mattersonis a partner and chief investment officer at Rossie House Investment Management
Shejoinedthefirmin1998after20yearswithassetmanagerStewartIvory
BasedinEdinburghsheisoneoffiveinvestment
professionalsmanagingaroundpound300mil-lionallonadiscretionarybasisAroundhalfisininvestmenttrusts
Robin McAdamjoined Brooks MacDonald Asset Management in 2009 from Adam amp Company Investment Management
Hehas24yearsrsquoexperi-encemanagingprivateclientportfoliosandheadsBMrsquosEdinburghbranch
Thefirmhaspound537billionunderdiscretionarymanagementinbespokeandmanagedportfolios
Andrew McHattieis head of The McHattie Group
McHattieGroupisanauthorisedfirmthatpublishesspecialistinvestmentnewsletters
McHattiehasbeentheeditorofInvestmentTrustNewslettersince1996(wwwtipsheetscouk)andoffersafreeservicecalledthelsquoitlistrsquo(wwwtheitlistcouk)ThecompanyhasaFacebookpage(wwwfacebookcominvestmenttrusts)
John Newlandsis responsible for investment trust research at Brewin Dolphin
Heissupportedbyfouranalystswhocoverspecificsectorsresearchingopen-andclosed-endedfunds
BrewinDolphinhas35officesaroundtheUKandChannelIslandsandmanagespound28billionofwhichpound39billionisininvestmenttrusts
TrusttipstersOursixexpertsrevealtheirtopfundpicks
inspired | March 2014 PB24 March 2014 | inspired
FUNDSAND
TRUSTS
One in twelve goes free on your next golf break plus every golfer receives a free pint
12thmansagimme
Book online at MarriottGolfcouk
Offer is only valid on residential golf bookings booked during the promotional dates For every 11 players booked the 12th player will be free of charge Rates are per person per night based on 2 people sharing a twindouble room and include dinner bed amp breakfast Bookings must be made by one named player and separate bookings will not qualify Each residential player aged 18 and over will receive a voucher entitling them to a complimentary pint
of Beckrsquos or Boddingtons Offer is valid on bookings made via 3rd parties Offer is available on 1 night 2 rounds or 2 night 3 rounds and excludes Sunday Driver Maximum of 2 night stay and 2 people per room Day of week availability may vary based on location Limited number of rooms may be available This offer applies to new bookings only at Marriott Hotel amp Country Clubs and offer courses and tee times are subject to availability Offer cannot
be used in conjunction with any other promotion Course terms and conditions apply Advance reservations required Book between 17th February and 29th June 2014 for stays between 4th April and 29th September 2014
The SIPP thatrsquos
fair and square
We believe in straightforward investing Thatrsquos why we donrsquot nibble at your SIPP with percentage fees For just pound144 per year you can open a SIPP and add an ISA for free After that itrsquos just pound10 to buy or sell a wide range of investments including shares funds bonds and gilts Open an account today and if you transfer your existing SIPP wersquoll give you up to pound240 as a thank you (terms apply) We believe thatrsquos fair and square
The value of investments and any income from them can fall as well as rise so you could get back less than you invest Tax treatment depends on your individual circumstances and may be subject to change If in any doubt please seek advice
iiicouksipp
Interactive Investor Trading Limited trading as ldquoInteractive Investorrdquo is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority Registered Office Standon House 21 Mansell Street London E1 8AA Tel 0845 200 3637 Registered in England with Company Registration number 3699618
SPECULATIVE GROWTHMampG RecoveryDennehy says manager Tom Dobell backs his convictions engages with companies he invests in and has delivered long-term outperformance lsquoDobellrsquos MampG Recovery fund has a clear value-style process and management stability It invests in a wide range of firms that are out of favour or in difficulty or whose prospects are not fully rec-ognised by the marketrsquo he says
Liontrust Special SituationsHusselbee says Liontrustrsquos Anthony Cross and Julian Fosh have their own unique philosophy He adds lsquoThey look for characteristics in a company that its competitors find difficult to replicate such as intellectual property or distribution channelsrsquo
Allianz Bric StarsThis fund aims for capital growth in the long term by investing mainly in Brazil Russia India and China Haynes says investors have shunned these markets recently and valuations fallen He adds lsquoFor investors looking for a recovery story this fund is worth considerationrsquo
Standard Life Equity Income subscription shareMcHattie says warrant and subscription shares are widely ignored creating opportunities for those who understand them He favours the subscrip-tion shares of Standard Life Equity Income which can be exercised at 320p a share up to the end of December 2016 lsquoThey offer gearing of 37 times and if the ordinary shares grow by more than 28 per cent a year between now and the end of 2016 the subscription shares ought to outperformrsquo
Impax Environmental MarketsMcAdam likes this trust It invests in companies seeking to provide cleaner or more-efficient energy as well as water and waste solutions to the growing problems faced by authorities around the world It offers exposure to a rapidly changing marketplace as well as to socially responsible investments
Hansa TrustJohn Newlands sees potential in the A shares of Hansa Trust which languish at a discount of more than 25 per cent He says that whereas the trustrsquos portfolio appears skewed with a third of its assets in Ocean Wilsons there is actually plenty of diversification because Ocean Wilsons has an investment portfolio that stands at a discount to underlying value lsquoOne day an attractive bid [may] be made for Ocean Wilsons that will enhance Hansarsquos NAV and sim-plify its capital structure all to the good of its market ratingrsquo Newlands says
Baker Steel Resources TrustJean Matterson hopes for good returns from this trust shares in which trade on a near 30 per cent discount lsquoIt has not had an easy run of late but we believe the underlying assets are attractive and that the mining projects in the companyrsquos portfo-lio will continue to progressrsquo she says
Prospects have improved for biotechs (left) while growing interest in sustain-able energy has boosted Impax
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
AHIGHEROILPRICEFEEDSSTRAIGHT
THROUGHTOPROFITSTony Yarrow
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
inspired | March 2014 27PB March 2014 | inspired
FUNDSANDTRUSTS
The world of funds and trusts is a confusing place with over 2300 funds and more than 300 investment trusts to choose from
Money Observerrsquos Rated Funds system narrows down the playing field to help you decide which funds and investment trusts might be best for you
Our team of experts constantly monitor the marketplace rating those funds that have delivered consistently good returns However you should be aware that there is no guarantee this performance will be repeated
With our comparison tool you can filter by whatrsquos important to you compare up to four funds and trusts side-by-side as well as view factsheets
COMPAREMONEY OBSERVER RATED FUNDS
VISIT MONEYOBSERVERCOMCOMPAREFUNDS AND LOOK OUT FOR THE RATED FUND STAMP
had spare cash or I were start-ing afresh The companies in the add category are high qual-ity judging by the strategies they follow and their finan-cial strength and are probably undervalued
Irsquom more likely to eject or reduce holdings in companies in the watch and specula-tive categories These shares are more risky either because they have risen greatly in price or because their prospects are more uncertain than usual I may think the risk is worth tak-ing but I am prepared to act should that calculation change
Every decision to increase a portfolio holding must be weighed against the potential of new candidates drawn from all companies listed in the UK and corralled into another live spreadsheet the Share Sleuth watchlist When I add a share to the watchlist or trade a share in the portfolio I explain this in the Share Sleuth blog
ccumulating income and capital gains in an index tracking fund is inexpensive takes little effort and all but guarantees an
average return so it should be the default investment for a lazy equity investor saving for the long term
To justify the work of decid-ing which shares to buy and sell and the effort and cost of placing trades an active investor must do better Consequently the first objective of the active Share Sleuth portfolio is to beat passive investments after costs over the long-term which in practice means any five-year period The second objective is to win this tussle against an unknowing and unthinking opponent transparently
At the heart of the portfolio is an online spreadsheet The first page shows the constitu-ent shares arranged into three categories lsquoaddrsquo lsquowatchrsquo and lsquospeculativersquo The categorisa-tion is updated daily based on live data in subsequent spread-sheets each of which contains a financial model for a particular company
The Share Sleuth portfo-lio shows the holdings I would add to the portfolio today if it
Share Sleuth is a simulation no money changes hands But I use prices quoted by a bro-ker and adjust the accounting to factor in notional broker fees and stamp duty However I lsquoeat my own cookingrsquo by investing my self-invested personal pen-sion in Share Sleuth companies
No doubt you are wonder-ing how the portfolio is doing Share Sleuthrsquos five-year anni-versary judgement day is on 9 September this year and I will not prejudge it now
Short-term performance watching and the knee-jerk trad-ing it encourages is I think one reason why many inves-tors fail My focus is on ensuring the portfolio remains invested in good companies at reasona-ble prices
You can see a live perfor-mance table and learn what I think of every share in the port-folio and which companies I might add to it at wwwiiicoukZkr
SHAREBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIOR
The Share Sleuth portfolio has been carefully devised to show investors how to find good companies at cheap prices and also prove the value of its investment approach says Richard Beddard
Richard Beddard an editor at Interactive Investor since 1999 has managed the Share Sleuth portfolio since 9 September 2009 Hersquos a columnist at Money Observer magazine and a private investor
AMY FOCUS IS ON ENSURING THAT THE PORTFOLIO IS INVESTED IN GOOD FIRMS AT DECENT PRICES
inspired | March 2014 29PB March 2014 | inspired
SHARESLEUTH
iiicoukstraightforward
Interactive Investor Trading Limited trading as ldquoInteractive Investorrdquo is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority Registered Office Standon House 21 Mansell Street London E1 8AA Tel 0845 200 3637 Registered in England with Company Registration number 3699618
We believe in being straightforwardthis is why we donrsquot nibble at your investment by charging percentage fees Find out how this could affect your investment performance at iiicoukstraightforward
If you transfer to us you can even get up to pound240 as a thank you (terms apply)
Donrsquot forget the value of investments and any income from them can fall as well as rise so you could get back less than you invest If in any doubt please seek advice
7784_II_QI_MONEY_OBSERVER_210x297_AWindd 1 16012014 1224
Take a closer look
at your investment
options
Discover a straightforward way to understand everything from ISAs to SIPPs and OEICs to Investment Trusts
Investing for generationsEver feel yoursquod like to know more about investing Wersquove been helping people build their wealth for over 125 years Our guide lsquoMaking sense of the investment universersquo is just one of the resources yoursquoll find on our Investment Focus hub
As well as clear simple guides therersquos a wealth of information and expert opinion all designed to help you take control of your investments Please remember that investments can go down as well as up and investors may get back less than they originally invested
Introducing your free online source of information help and expert opinion
investment-focuscouk
This has been approved as a financial promotion by Alliance Trust Investments Limited for the purpose of Section 21 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 Alliance Trust Investments Limited is a subsidiary of Alliance Trust PLC and is registered in Scotland No SC330862 registered office 8 West Marketgait Dundee DD1 1QN is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority firm reference number 479764 Alliance Trust Investments gives no financial or investment advice
TAX YEAR ENDS APRIL 5TH ndash learn more about
your options now
Investment Focus Smart Insight from Alliance Trust
Yoursquove spoken Wersquove listened Introducing your free online source of information help and expert opinion
Based on real insight we have launched a new website which focuses on investment education
We believe that we are uniquely positioned to provide this hub of information based on the reputation we have built for trust and transparency over the last 125 years
We will be publishing new content over the next few months focusing on specific themes
bull Investing from scratch
bull Products in a portfolio
bull Global diversification
bull Planning for your familyrsquos future
bull Retirement planning
bull Getting more information
There is a generation of future investors out there who have been brought up in an era of economic turmoil and banking crises which has led to disillusionment and a lack of trust in our sector and the services we offer Despite it being more important than ever for investors to take control of their financial situation this new generation of savers lacks the basic knowledge and understanding to make these very important long-term decisions
Our goal is to develop a useful resource with contributions from third-parties as well as the team at Alliance Trust which offers insights into the various life stages and challenges faced and which can be built upon and adapted to meet savers needs in the long term
Katherine Garrett-Cox CBE Chief Executive Alliance Trust PLC
ldquo
rdquo
There are too many products to make an informed decision
I donrsquot know whereto go for reliable
information
investment-focuscouk
Yoursquoll naturally take a keen interest in the performance of your investments But itrsquos just as important to understand the fees you will be paying as they can have a significant impact on the returns you achieve Knowing what the different types of costs mean and exactly what they consist of can prove rewarding
Itrsquos worth remembering that for every fee you pay (whether it is a or flat fee) your investment needs to grow by at least the same amount just to stay ahead of the game It sounds obvious but itrsquos easy to forget Broadly speaking there are three types of fees fund fees platform fees and fees for a financial adviser You can either invest directly into a fund and pay the associated fees or you can invest via a platform provider (some of which are referred to as wrap platforms others as fund supermarkets) This is a service that lets you manage and review all your investments online in one place As a general rule fund fees are lower when
bought through a platform than if you buy direct You can invest through a platform on either an execution only basis where the investor assesses the risks and makes their own investment decisions or on an advised basis
Learn more about fund platform and financial advice fees
What can you expect to seeOver the next two pages we have provided a sneak preview of just some of the information you will find on the Investment Focus hub We will be updating the site regularly so make sure you sign up for our email alerts to be informed when new topics are published
Everything you need to know about fees
Risk informationInvestments can go down as well as up You may get back less than you originally invested
Alliance Trust does not give advice You need to ensure you understand the risks and commitments before investing If you are unsure you should consult a Financial Adviser before investing
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
For the vast majority of investors the simplest cheapest and most pragmatic way to invest is through pooled funds
Sometimes called managed funds unit trusts or even Open-Ended Investment Companies (or OEICs) these are designed to give ordinary savers access to a diverse range of investments
One of the principles of investment is that diversification helps reduce risk But it is expensive and time consuming for ordinary savers to buy shares of 80 to 100 different companies and keep track of how each is performing
But with a managed fund you are pooling your money with other investors enabling the fund manager to buy a wide range of assets
Investors have the option of buying an actively managed or passive fund With an active fund the manager selects and then monitors these stocks for investors in a bid to maximise returns
In contrast a passive fund will simply follow a stock market index such as the FTSE100 up and down
Having a manager at the helm can be beneficial in a market downturn as they can take a more defensive approach buying shares that are better able to hold their value or in some cases switching to bonds or cash instead to help preserve investorsrsquo capital Managers can also research individual companies and markets and have access to forecasts and economic data that isnrsquot always available to individuals
Learn more about investing for growth or income exploring different investment remits how to invest and keeping track of your investments
Understanding funds Written by Emma Simon Personal Finance Journalist
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
What are Investment TrustsInvestment Trusts are investment vehicles that are listed on the London Stock Exchange and which invest in shares and other securities They pool together investorsrsquo money and delegate responsibility to a professional fund manager to invest in a range of companies from different sectors and regions across the world They were designed for ldquothe investor of moderate meansrdquo
A brief historybull The first Investment Trust was launched by Foreign amp
Colonial in 1868
bull Investment Trusts made it possible for individual investors to gain diversified exposure to global stock markets
bull Many Investment Trusts were formed in Scotland including Alliance Trust PLC which was formed over 125 years ago
A guide to Investment Trusts
Learn more about Investment Trusts their main features and why you should consider them for your portfolio
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
Alliance Trust is an investment and savings business with over 125 year history of building investor wealth We offer our shareholders clients and customers a unique portfolio of products and services These range from a renowned global investment trust to an innovative range of investment strategies and funds and a multi-award winning investment platform where investors can host their ISAs SIPPs or investment accounts Our mission is to provide products and services that help to ensure a more sustainable financial future for generations of investors
Alliance Trust PLC is one of the largest generalist investment trusts by market value listed on the London Stock Exchange and is the parent company to two wholly-owned subsidiaries Alliance Trust Savings and Alliance Trust Investments
The fact that many of us make irrational decisions when it comes to our finances is widely debated and is often referred to as behavioural finance In this short video we talk to Professor Phyl Johnson Consultant Psychologist and Visiting Professor of Executive Education at Strathclyde Business School about why this is and more importantly about what we can do as individuals to avoid it
About us Alliance Trust Investments is a specialist fund management business offering a range of products and services focusing on global equities fixed income and sustainable investing with an emphasis on specialist investment solutions
Alliance Trust Savings is one of the UKrsquos leading financial services providers for private investors offering customers the information and services they need to manage their investments in a way that works for them
Risk informationInvestments can go down as well as up You may get back less than you originally invested
Alliance Trust does not give advice You need to ensure you understand the risks and commitments before investing If you are unsure you should consult a Financial Adviser before investing
Unusually for a company of our size around 70 of shares
in Alliance Trust are held by private
individuals
Nobodyrsquos perfect why we all make irrational decisions
Inflation by ageThis monthrsquos official inflation report showed that the headline rate of inflation fell from 20 to 19 Our Economic Research Team analyse this data on a monthly basis to see how inflation rates affect different age groups In February 2014 the summary highlights include
bull The over 75s and the under 30s face the highest rate of inflation in January at 21
bull The over 75s suffered the highest rate of inflation for the whole of 2013 and this trend continues into 2014 as they spend a larger share of their budgets on basic goods such as gas and electricity
bull The 65 to 74 year olds have faced the lowest rate of inflation in 11 out of the last 12 months thanks to lower inflation in food petrol and package holidays
Learn more about how inflation might affect you
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
You can also sign up for our regular email alerts to be informed when new topics are published by clicking here
Wersquove been bringing clarity to investment for over 125 years
Investing for generationsWhen it comes to investing therersquos no substitute for experience And at Alliance Trust wersquove been helping people invest since 1888 Our new Investment Focus hub is full of online information and expert opinion It aims to provide real insight to help you take control of your investments
Over the next few weeks the hub will build to cover everything from taking your first steps to diversifying worldwide Please remember that investments can go down as well as up and investors may get back less than they originally invested For valuable insight from Alliance Trust visit Investment Focus today
Introducing your free online source of information help and expert opinion
investment-focuscouk
This has been approved as a financial promotion by Alliance Trust Investments Limited for the purpose of Section 21 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 Alliance Trust Investments Limited is a subsidiary of Alliance Trust PLC and is registered in Scotland No SC330862 registered office 8 West Marketgait Dundee DD1 1QN is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority firm reference number 479764 Alliance Trust Investments gives no financial or investment advice
TAX YEAR ENDS APRIL 5TH ndash learn more about
your options now
Change the way you think about stocks reap the rewardsBy Edward Page Croft CEO Stockopediacom
I remember so clearly the day when I picked my first stock for clients Managing $2 billion (pound12 billion) in assets across 100 portfolios for high-net-wealth private investors is no easy task As I was to learn when you are green
and straight out of university itrsquos even harder The stock in question was on the Goldman
Sachs US lsquobuyrsquo list It had the potential to be hot Dotcoms were bubbling It was an internet stock in education services and cheap It seemed like it had everything but we needed to get in One day it fell out of bed Down 50 per cent on no news
Irsquod been trained to call the analyst in situations like this He reiterated his buy stance Double buy On my insistence we put almost $20 million of client money into the stock within an hour The next day it fell another 50 per cent on
bad newsThere is nothing more
painful than a loss but you never forget the first
one It immedi-ately forced me to reconsider every-thing I thought I
knew From that day on I vowed to never trust anotherrsquos opin-ion and find a better
way through the market minefieldIrsquove now spent 15 years
reassessing common
wisdom about stock selection No stone has gone unturned in the quest to understand the behav-ioural flaws that lead to poor decision making But there is one finding that crops up again and again in all the research that hurts stock market investors most We as investors are suckers for stories
A 1990rsquos study of 60000 private investor broker-age accounts by Kumar and Goetzmann found that 70 per cent of portfolios held less than four stocks
The stocks held all tended to be in the same sector highly correlated and risky Think internet stocks in the 1990s China in the 2000s or resource stocks more recently The grand theme sucks everyone in The outcome rarely dif-fers Kumar and Goetzmann showed that across these
60000 accounts the average underperformance was of the order of 4 per cent annually
This massive failing across private inves-tor portfolios is repeated in nearly every market cycle and is bound to happen again in this one Benjamin Graham the great father of value invest-ing and tutor of Warren Buffett once wrote
lsquoIn the short run the stock market is a vot-ing machine but in the long run it is a weighing machinersquo
ADVERTISING FEATURE
IN THE SHORT RUN THE STOCK MARKET IS A VOTING MACHINE BUT IN THE LONG RUN IT IS A WEIGHING MACHINEBenjamin Graham
What he meant was that while stories may drive stocks in the short run statistics drive stocks in the long run When statistics reassert them-selves it can cause huge damage to investors punting their portfolios on stories
It doesnrsquot take much to learn how basic statis-tics can guide your portfolio into winning stock selections though very few seem to understand how to do it Benjamin Graham as his life wore on gradually came to the conclusion that building portfolios according to rules-based processes was a far more appropriate methodology for the typi-cal investor
lsquoTry to buy groups of stocks that meet some sim-ple criterion for being undervalued ndash regardless of
the industry and with very little attention to the indi-vidual company It seems too good to be true but all I can tell you after 60 years of experience is it seems to stand up under any of the tests I would make uprsquo
My time is now dedi-cated to helping investors practice exactly what Benjamin Graham and many other investment luminaries have preached rules-based investing For the majority itrsquos a better process and leads to bet-ter outcomes Our work at
Stockopediacom where we crunch fundamental and technical data in order to model and track the investment processes of the great investors bears this out
Portfolios composed with stocks showing the right statistical mix of value quality and momen-tum have significantly outperformed Rules-based investing beats the market But more importantly it helps promote the emotional detachment needed to stop investors from beating themselves
Irsquoll never buy a stock on a punt or an analystrsquos tip again Perhaps neither should you
For a two week free trial and pound50 discount to Stockopedia UK Premium CLICK HERE
TANK MCM A N U F A C T U R E M O V E M E N T 1 9 0 4 M C
SINCE THE CREATION OF THE FIRST TANK WATCH IN 1917 THE TANK COLLECTION HAS CONTINUED
TO BREAK NEW GROUND THE INCREDIBLY REFINED AESTHETICS OF THE NEW TANK MC WATCH ARE FITTED
WITH THE CARTIER MANUFACTURE MOVEMENT 1904 MC ESTABLISHED IN 1847 CARTIER CREATES
EXCEPTIONAL WATCHES THAT COMBINE DARING DESIGN AND WATCHMAKING SAVOIR-FAIRE
EXPLORE AND SHOP WWWCARTIERCOUK - (020) 3147 4850
Conn
oisseur
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Conn
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oisseur
Inside
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oisseur
TO THE CONNOISSEUR section of Inspired a showcase for the finer things in life for those who truly appreciate them
Enjoying the fruits of your labour away from the relentless demands of our age poses its own challenges and quandaries Would a tropical idyll restore your ebbing energy levels Might a break based around hair-raising activities revive them even more effectively Perhaps reawakening a dormant passion for fine wines or luxury cars would be the most enjoyable reward for your industry
A luxury tropical holiday is probably near the top of most peoplersquos wish lists We take a look at some of the most tantalising options
The arrival of BMWrsquos new super coupe is featured on page 50 BMW aficionados and petrolheads alike are certain to be won over by its head-turning looks and mouthwatering specs
Gems come under the microscope on page 53 A rare coloured diamond can be a joy as well an appreciating asset
Wine is on the menu on page 54 where we explore the charms of Argentinian Malbec
Watches are often treasured objects and the best can turn out to be shrewd investments We look at the secondary watch market and the growth of online retailing on page 58 Enjoy
Welcome
40 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
FIVE TOP PRIVATE ISLAND RETREATSIslandFantasy
Top-rated resorts and hotels offer a variety of temptations and services to impress even the most discerning tastes but there is no better way to escape the rigours and
stresses of daily life than cutting off from the outside world while still enjoying lavish service
in the pinnacle of all resorts the private islandThere are thousands of small islands around
the world but only a few have chosen to cater to the most discriminating travellers seeking a rarified yet perfect world of quiet and relaxed luxury We look at five of the worldrsquos top private islands destinations where your holiday is certain to be an exceptional experience
TRAVEL
Necker Island is owned by Sir Richard Branson and guests stay in his home The island has become a popular des-tination for some of the worldrsquos most prominent figures as a hideaway from lifersquos stresses and strains
Because Necker Island is a resi-dence and not a resort guests who rent the island are treated as owners and catered for in a unique way
The74-acre island is fringed with beautiful white beaches and surrounded by turquoise waters and coral reefs It boasts every resort-type amenity guests can spend their days being pampered in the spa explor-ing underwater reefs in a submarine lounging by the pool bar or swimming in one of the worldrsquos most elab-orate private pools
Haute cuisine is a highlight for most guests ndash rates are fully inclusive of all food and drink A team of chefs creates bespoke menus featuring anything from lobster and caviar to a Sunday roast And because Necker is a home first and a resort second guests decide whether dining will be formal or informal inside or outside themed or traditional
The bar is stocked with international wines top-quality spirits and beers and a world renowned house champagne while special orders can be shipped in at no extra charge ndash unless an item is particularly rare Every service and amenity is available around the clock and guests are encouraged to treat Necker as their own home
As youLike it
NECKER ISLAND
42 March 2014 | inspired
Unalloyed luxury and an impressive range of amenities make Necker one of the most desirable island destinations in the world
The Jumby Bay resort which is only accessible by boat from Antigua is a Caribbean hideaway owned by Rosewood Resorts It is perfect for those seeking either relaxation or spirited adventure
You can rent the island resort entirely for your stay or simply take a room Those opt-ing for exclusive use of the island will have the resortrsquos two pools three tennis courts fitness centre croquet field and putting green to themselves
A wide range of water sports are available and guests can indulge in as much adventure or relaxation as they want during their stay The resort is ideal for large family
reunions or corporate retreats ndash 40 guest rooms and suites are available on the island
Executive chef Sylvain Hervochon celebrates gastron-omy ndash and mixology (cocktail making) ndash with casual elegance by creating Caribbean-style dishes inspired by fresh local ingredients and incorporating international influences
Jumby Bayrsquos rates start at pound150000 for four nights based on double occupancy between May and December Visit wwwrosewoodhotelscomenjumby-bay-antigua for further information
Fine BalanceCaribbean ambiance international sophistication and adventurous activities make Jumby Bay a compelling choice
JUMBY BAY
Just laze by the pool or venture beyond to dive in the turquoise waters of the South Pacific among stunning reefs and a dazzling array of marine creatures
Isle of PlentyT
he private island of Laucala in the South Pacific is a 3500-acre site in a picturesque rainforest-laced land-scape Enchanting deserted beaches nestle among coconut plantations organic farms and lush green vol-canic mountains
The resort offers an outstanding level of refined lux-ury as well as a compelling collection of sporting and cultural activities diving among iridescent marine life in the warm turquoise waters guided rainforest tours horse riding surfing and golfing on the 18-hole cham-pionship course The island is a superb choice for an escape from civilization whether you want an adven-ture in the wild or simply to relax in one of Laucalarsquos five restaurants and bars
Rates are available on request Visit wwwlaucalacom for further details
TRAVEL
LAUCALA ISLAND
inspired | March 2014 4544 March 2014 | inspired
Lush green surroundings sensitive development and beautiful beaches help Laucala island conjure up a complete South Seas experience
Isle of Plenty
inspired | March 2014 4544 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
inspired | March 2014 4746 March 2014 | inspired
Slow LaneSlow
Pulau Joyo is a seductively serene environment of pristine beaches surrounded by clear blue sea in Indonesiarsquos Riau Archipelago Accessible from Singapore or Bintan Pulau Joyo is a true castaway island offering every resort luxury
amid untouched natural beauty Pulau Joyo is famous for its remarkable sunsets and
brightly star-lit sky The resort can host 28 guests and 20 staff are on hand to cater to their every need Guests stay in open driftwood lsquopalacesrsquo that lsquoallow the sea inrsquoDespite its desert island appeal Pulau Joyo offers every modern convenience a range of adrenaline boosting activities and more relaxing options such as spa treatments and massages
The resortrsquos cuisine focuses on western and Indonesian dishes Meals are usually served buffet style and feature grilled fish squid prawns beef and chicken as well as many curry dishes Side dishes include fresh garden salads pasta salads boiled or steamed leafy greens and grilled aubergine (an island favourite) Prawn and tofu kebabs appear from time to time as does satay The chef will often provide a selection of freshly picked fruit and homemade cakes for dessert Itrsquos worth noting that the management will not serve pork or shellfish on this private island
Pulau Joyo may not be as refined as some islands but itrsquos an excellent choice for those who want a more casual laidback island experience that replicates the castaway experience like perhaps no other
Rates start at pound1913 a night More information is available at wwwpulau-joyocom
Wannabe castaways may find Pulau Joyorsquos purer simpler take on the luxury island experience more to their taste
PULAU JOYO
inspired | March 2014 4746 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
In the Fijian island paradise of Dolphin Island a small army of staff await to meet guestsrsquo every need On arriving ndash by boat helicopter or float plane ndash visitors are invariably struck by the beauty of the island and the luxuri-ous accommodation that awaits them amid 14-acres of lush tropical gardens
Three traditional palm-thatched bures individually designed by world renowned interior designer Virginia Fisher sit in an elevated position around the resortrsquos infinity pool
Guests are brought fresh tropical fish to choose each day that are cooked to perfec-
tion within hours of leaving the water The culinary focus is on
organic produce and ingredi-ents unique to Fijian cuisine but meals are tailored to guestsrsquo personal tastes Papayas man-goes bananas and pineapples
are plentiful throughout the day When it comes to recreation the
14-acre island is an expansive play-ground offering a diverse range of watersports as well as diving opportunities on Fijirsquos coral reefs
Rates start at pound720 a night More information is avail-able at wwwdolphinislandfijicom
Fijian Paean
Traditional features modern comforts and excellent facilities make for a harmonious whole on this Fijian island
DOLPHIN ISLAND
48 March 2014 | inspired
Pictured slightly larger than actual size
Big Pilotrsquos Watch Ref 5009
Your wrist never felt this big before The
case of the top model in the IWC Pilotrsquos
Watch range is a gigantic 462 mm in diashy
meter And the technology inside it is
even more impressive the largest IWCshy
manufactured automatic movement with
its Pellaton winding system is protected
against strong magnetic fields by a softshy
iron inner case And needless to say enshy
vious glances iwc engineered for men
Mechanical IWCshymanufactured movement Pellaton
automatic winding system 7shyday power reserve
with display (figure) Date display Softshyiron inner
case for protection against magnetic fields
Antireflective sapphire glass Watershyresistant 6 bar
Stainless steel
IWC Schaffhausen Switzerland iwccom The worldrsquos finest timepieces are exclusively available from selected watch specialists
For an illustrated catalogue or list of nationwide concessionaires please contact IWC UK Tel 0845 337 1868 Eshymail infoshyukiwccom
CARS
MunichLegend
50 March 2014 | inspired
BMW fanatics can open their eyes ndash the M4 has arrived
Most BMW aficionados are proba-bly pretty sad to see production of the M3 coupe ndash quite possibly the companyrsquos most noteworthy and celebrated model ndash end after almost 30 years Ever since the first wide-body E30 M3 saw the
light of day in 1985 drivers have loved the sporty coupe for its incredible balance intoxicating power and of course solid build quality
The model never got stale in all that time and always remained the poster child for the M division so itrsquos a lit-tle weird that BMW has apparently decided to axe it In truth though they havenrsquot really dropped the M3 The M3 sedan will continue to be produced in 2014 so all
is not lost Moreover BMW seems to be adopting a pat-tern of giving its sedans odd-numbered titles only and its coupes even-numbered titles only so the 4-Series and especially the M4 concept that debuted at Pebble Beach Monterey California will fill the gap left by the M3 Many people have been awaiting the new super coupe with great expectancy but can it fill in for the M3
The journalists who swarmed over the M4 concept at Pebble Beach were obviously much more interested in it than the somewhat predictable 428i that was also there Finished in an eye-catching colour called Aurum Dust (which actually looks a lot like the old M3rsquos Phoenix Yellow colour) the car presented in California may be a concept but typically BMW M cars donrsquot change much before they finally hit the showroom
MunichLegend
inspired | March 2014 51
CARS
52 March 2014 | inspired
From front to back the bodywork is manifestly differ-ent and much more aggressive looking than a standard 4-Series car It really looks to pretty much pick up where the E92E93 M3 coupe left off especially with its undeniably cool domed hood Wide wheel arches big wheels wrapped in low-profile tyres more than enough M badges and a well-executed double-bubble roof make the already underwhelming existing 4-Series coupe look even more pedestrian
Power for the new M4 is likely to come from a three-litre twin-turbo straight-six engine While the horsepower probably wonrsquot differ much from the M3rsquos old 4-litre V-8 it will generate more than 100lbft more in torque almost 400 in total With the M4 being a lighter 3300lb in weight the M4 promises to be an excit-ing worthy car A proper six-speed manual may be in the mix alongside the now obligatory dual clutch and paddles option
The best way to look at the M4 however it ends up is not as a new car but as a new and improved M3 thatrsquos just getting a new name The decision to rename the coupe is a strange one but thankfully BMW apparently felt the 3-Series coupe had made such an identity for itself that a new model was needed albeit in a slightly different incarnation
With BMW embarking on some new-ageish ideas such as its 1-Series ActiveE and the soon-to-arrive lsquoirsquo range of cars itrsquos nice to see the company also stick to classics such as the heart-stopping sports coupe even if the latest model does come with a new name
Seductive curves and racier performance make the BMW M4 a more than acceptable replacement for the M3 super coupe
SparklingForm Coloured diamonds are making their mark
One of the main factors that deter-mines the value of what we ordinarily think of as diamonds is their purity the degree to which col-our is absent in the gem However with coloured diamonds the extent to which they are saturated with
colour is a principal determinant of their valueColoured diamonds come in 12 basic colours more
than 90 secondary hues and nine intensity levels The depth of their colour is what really differentiates these diamonds from their colourless counterparts
Natural coloured diamonds are 10000 times rarer than typical colourless diamonds one of several rea-sons why they are treasured by the rich and famous yet remain unknown to most other people ndash despite hav-ing been around for centuries
Of course some colours are rarer than others Red violet and purple stones are as rare as the proverbial hensrsquo teeth while green and blue are also rare The most popular colours are pink and yellow (or canary) They also come in white grey orange black and lsquochame-leonrsquo form
A pinkie ring encrusted with a large coloured dia-mond has become a status symbol for men in Asia That little stone is an unregistered asset that could quickly be sold for millions of dollars should the need arise
Coloured diamonds are durable and never lose their sparkle or lustre so they are assets that can be enjoyed every day unlike stocks or bonds And they have proved to be fantastic investments having steadily appreciated in price with relatively little volatility for more than a decade They even held their own during the most recent financial crisis
Coloured diamonds are auctioned by reputable
auction houses such a Sothebyrsquos and Christiersquos where prices for large unique pink red blue or yellow stones can reach in excess of $2 million (pound12 million) a carat and other stones regularly sell for $1 million a carat
They are often bought by high-net-worth individu-als as an insurance policy Instead of stashing cash in undeclared bank accounts and potentially incurring the wrath of the authorities the wealthy can purchase some loose yellow diamonds to secure their future
Clearly coloured diamonds are much more than a magnificent indulgence
GEMS
inspired | March 2014 53PB March 2014 | inspired
WINE
Make the most of the deeply
satisfying Malbec wines emerging from Argentina
and perhaps even enjoy a return on a shrewd
investment says Ewan Lacey
Finding a red wine to enjoy in spring is a delicate balancing act The shock of seeing sunlight after a dark winter fosters in us a desire to drink some-thing refreshing while the still-cool temperatures demand something with comforting depth
Increasingly Malbec wines particularly those from Argentina provide a perfect solution to this quandary And while there are plenty of delicious wines for infor-mal occasions what is most interesting is the emergence of finer Malbec wines Some are so good they may well have ageing potential raising the intriguing possibility that the wine may one day become collectable
Malbec is the most popular wine among those aged 25-34 and is now becoming a fixture on most restaurant wine lists There are several reasons for its success the word Malbec is easy to pronounce the wine goes well with red meat the Malbec grape can be turned into wines that are both relatively easy to drink and packed with flavour and decent wines are available at reason-able prices Malbec is deep fruity and charming and it delivers instant pleasure ndash claret on a motorbike
The Malbec grape originated in France and it remains one of the permitted varieties used to make Bordeaux However it has gained prominence through the work of the post-junta Argentine wine industry
I recently had the pleasure of tasting some very fine Malbecs with Laura Catena managing director at the Catena Zapata winery and president of the International Wine and Spirit Competition She opened my
Mendoza Marvels
inspired | March 2014 55
WINE
eyes to the potential of this grape variety when handled with care
Laurarsquos family business makes a range of wines but the wine that truly astonished me was the Nicasia Vineyard Malbec 2006 The wine is perfumed with floral and fruit notes and it is smooth and soft at first Like all great wines it has many layers of flavour warm bursts of cherry and black-currant cede centre stage to deeper darker caramel and mocha notes and a touch of spice Therersquos an amazing depth of flavour and the finish is long and lingering Whatrsquos more at nearly eight years old it still has a slight purple tinge and tastes extremely fresh There is every indication that it will age beautifully for at least another decade
The winersquos character is heavily influenced by the alti-tude the grapes used to make it are grown at (1180m
above sea level) At this elevation the grapes ripen in bright sun but lsquorelaxrsquo during the cool evenings The fact that the wine is made in tiny quantities (eight barrels only) means every care can be taken during the winemak-ing process to ensure the wine is allowed to show its grown-up side The cost per bot-tle of pound70 is not insubstantial but neither is the wine
We cannot know whether these wines will ever become investments in the way the wines of Bordeaux have Whatrsquos cer-tain is that Malbec wines have a very rare quality a balance of finesse and power that
can delight wine lovers and linger in their memories
Ewan Lacey is a leading wine expert and general manager of the International Wine and Spirit Competition He has appeared on BBC television and radio as well as Channel 4 and written for the national press
Laura Catena is managing director at the Catena Zapata winery (above)
THE INTERNATIONAL WINE AND SPIRIT COMPETITIONThe International Wine and Spirit Competition has been the premier drinks competition in the world for 45 years Each year it receives and reviews thousands of wines and spirits and presents qual-ity awards to producers
More than anything the IWSC exists to help
people make better deci-sions particularly when buying wines and spirits An IWSC award on a bot-tle of wine is a guarantee
of quality backed not only by a rigorous and strin-gent judging process but also by the skill of the judges who are drawn from the ranks of masters of wine master distill-ers industry leaders and commentators
Each year the IWSC honours a leading figure
in the drinks industry with the presidency of the competition The current president is Laura Catena who succeeds a nota-ble line of predecessors including Prince Robert of Luxembourg winemakers Piero Antinori and Warren Winiarski and Baroness Philippine de Rothschild
56 March 2014 | inspired
LUXURY WATCHES
Time is preciousA
t a recent watch auc-tion in Geneva at Antiquorum ndash the worldrsquos premiere auc-tion house for modern and vintage time pieces ndash a Patek Philippe
pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon watch emerged as the auctionrsquos top lot and sold for 12 million Swiss francs (pound807000)
Unlike most of the timepieces sold at auctions outside Asia this particular Patek watch ndash the most complicated wristwatch the Swiss watchmaker has ever produced ndash was not a vintage model
That Geneva auction raised intriguing
1284Clocks with weights gears and regulators start to appear mostly with no dial to strike the important moments of daily life
Around 1410The mainspring is devel-oped Combined with the fusee this innovation makes possible the truly portable domestic clock
1492The mechanical watch appears simultaneously in Italy Germany and France
1675Christian Huygens invents the spiral balance spring
for watches significantly improving their accuracy
1704The first watch with jew-els is produced by French watchmaker de Beaufreacute
1714The British parliament offers pound20000 to who-ever can a find a method to determine longitude
1766Parliament publishes the rating results for John Harrisonrsquos H4 marine timekeeper Harrisonrsquos highly accurate marine clock solution to the problem of determining logitude wins him part of the pound20000 prize
1787Pierre-Freacutedeacuteric Ingold is born an important pio-neer in mechanised timepiece production and the use of interchangea-ble parts
1790Jacquet-Droz and Leschot manufactures a watch attached to a strap
1839Vacheron amp Constantin developes a full set of machine tools for manu-facturing its watches
1875Calcium sulphate is the first luminescent sub-stance to be used for numerals and hands
TIMEKEEPING MILESTONES
questions Are modern luxury timepieces every bit as appealing as the vintage watches that typically command top prices at auc-tion And does that Geneva auction tell us anything about the contemporary watch market as a whole
Julien Schaerer Antiquorumrsquos managing director in Geneva says top-quality vintage watches often appreciate in value over the long term But he urges buyers for whom appreciation is an important consideration to be cautious about purchasing contempo-rary watches
lsquoWatch price depreciation is the cost of ownership just as it is with a luxury carrsquo he says lsquoIf the value goes up then
58 March 2014 | inspired
1880The first water- resistant watch incorpo-rating a screwed case is produced by Genevan watchmaker Franccedilois Borgel
1889The first known patent for a wristwatch is filed in Bern Switzerland
1890Dialmaker A Beyeler invents a transfer press for applying numerals and letters to dials
1892Auguste Verneuil in France produces the first synthetic jewels to be used in watchmaking
1904Wens Wilsdorf launches large-scale production of a womenrsquos wristwatch
1924John Harwood files the
first Swiss patent for a self-winding wristwatch with a central oscillating weight
1925The first known wrist-watch with a perpetual calendar is manufactured using a pendant watch movement
1926Rolex creates the Oyster wristwatch with a water-resistant case and crown
1966The first quartz wrist-watch prototype is produced
1969The first quartz watch
with an LED display appears
1978Quartz watches overtake mechanical watches in popularity
2005Creation of the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie Seiko launches the spring drive Kinetic the first self-winding mechanical watch with an electro-magnetic escapement
A Patek Philippe pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon recently sold for pound807000
inspired | March 2014 59
online retailers from the comfort of your homeSince 2006 DM London has quietly estab-
lished a powerful presence for itself in the UK retail watch market with the acquisition of The Watch Hut and The Watch Gallery DM London chairman David Coleridge says the company has capitalised on the increasing willingness of buy-ers to purchase online
lsquoHaving decided that they would like to buy a watch for themselves or someone elsersquo he says lsquopeople start to do their research More often than not this starts online nowadays where they com-pare brands performance and functions
lsquoAs trust in the online marketplace has devel-oped many want to buy online because it is convenient and saves time Shopping online becomes a habit established sites build trust and awareness with customers which gives custom-ers the confidence to buy more expensive itemsrsquo
He adds lsquoOur challenge is to make the online environment as attractive informative and enjoy-able as a high street store Then customers will decide to spend onlinersquo
Coleridge believes a multi-channel approach is the way forward for retailers He says lsquoWithout doubt the future is multi-channel selling ndash a combination of direct selling on the internet and various forms of click and collect ndash combined with beautiful stores on the high street
Over the past few years demand for luxury watches (particularly contemporary models) has spiked sharply in Asia and according to some specialists emerging affluence in the
of course thatrsquos an added benefit However he adds lsquoPrice appreciation is still quite rare with modern watches There is some poten-tial for appreciation but probably only with ultra-limited editions A purchase has to be
seen as a medium- to long-term invest-ment One should buy a timepiece first out of love for the brand or [the watchrsquos] complicationrsquo
The watch brands that offer the greatest assurance of appreci-
ation include Cartier Patek Philippe Rolex Audemars
Piguet A Lange amp Sohne Breguet and Vacheron Constantin All enjoy views from the top of
the watchmaking hierarchy thanks to their longstand-ing histories and well-established brand identities
Relative new-comers to the industry such as Richard Mille and Roger Dubuis have carved out a niche for
themselves with their revolutionary designs and
space-age technologies but it remains to be seen just how well the values of their timepieces will stand up on the secondary market
According to Nathaniel Borgelt a specialist at auction house Sothebyrsquos
some modern watches have already achieved good prices at auction but these (like the Patek Philippe Sky Moon Tourbillon) were highly exclusive models when new
lsquoSome limited edition pieces currently fetch incredible prices at auctionrsquo he says lsquoAnd there is a select group of modern mod-els that could compete with a certain sector of the vintage market based on their brand innovative features such as materials or com-plications and avant-garde designs
Buying these has now become a whole lot easier The luxury watch retailing land-scape is changing and the traditional pattern of physically walking into a luxury salon to buy a watch is gradually being replaced by a trend towards visiting the websites of the big
LUXURY WATCHES
A Lange amp Sohne (above) is a long-standing high-end watchmaker Comparative new-comer Roger Dubuis (right) is forging a strong reputation
inspired | March 2014 PB60 March 2014 | inspired
helpthewatchgallerycom
Hublot ClassiC FusiontHe WatCH Gallery exClusive
The Watch Gallery and Hublot have joined forces to create two very special limited edition watches Both are limited to just 15 pieces worldwide and have been specifically designed to feature The Watch Gallery blue brand colour on the hands and tinted open case back
SelfridgeS OxfOrd StreetWeStfield lOndOnMancheSter exchange Square
wwwthewatchgallerycomhublot-watches
Far East has kept global values strong while other markets around the world continue to recover from recession
Despite the market boost from growing prosperity in Asia there are signs that the market is becoming saturated and that globally the new watch market isnrsquot as robust as some commentators suggest
It may still be a good time to buy but its important to know what you want and what yoursquore buying Modern watchmakers such as Richard Mille Roger Dubuis and Greubel Forsey are producing beautiful timepieces but because of their limited foothold in the market itrsquos difficult to predict their long-term success and desirability They donrsquot yet have the brand power that might ensure the value of their
watches in the secondhand market remains highSuch producers might one day stand eye to
eye with the most desirable brands such as Patek Philippe and Rolex but achieving that kind of parity wonrsquot be easy Collectors looking to invest in timepieces are advised to keep an open mind about modern producers uncertainty is the one aspect of modern luxury watch market most experts tend to agree on
That said the buoyancy in the watch market suggests that plenty of buyers are unconcerned about future values For them itrsquos all about the appreciation of the watch itself People buy watches because they bring them pleasure ndash and say some-thing about who they are
LUXURY WATCHES
Contemporary watches such as those made by Hublot (left) have yet to show they will have the lasting appeal of watches such as Cartierrsquos Rotonde de Cartier Astrocalendaire (right)
inspired | March 2014 63
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-
spread like some predicted it would and Chinarsquos debt problem could take a while to erupt if it ever does Even if it does Chinarsquos communist gov-ernment can deploy strong economic and social controls
It is interesting that in a recent television pro-gramme on risks in China the BBCrsquos business editor Robert Peston initially sounded as if he was marking the country out for trouble However
he softened his stance a little towards the end of the programme
Oil prices have not capit-ulated ndash as was feared at the start of the year ndash and created revenue problems for Russia and Saudi Arabia possibly showing that Saudi Arabia
can still control prices to a large degree Complacency is a danger given the real risks
associated with the Fed winding down its stimu-lus and doubts over whether corporate revenues can genuinely improve However figures in
February have supported the trend towards muddling through big risks seen during
the eurozone debt crisis two years ago the bailouts for Greece and Cyprus and the political posturing over the US debt ceiling While interest rates remain low shareholders can take heart that their
riskreward profiles look supportive overall and traders can keep their fingers
crossed for more volatility
85 per cent in the fourth quarter of 2013 This has been the missing link in a recovery feared to be overly dependent on rising house prices and consumers resorting to raiding savings to fund spending
There remains a lot to achieve on the export front and interest rates are expected to rise from 2015 although the Bank of England is ada-mant that this will be gradual
A potential Labour gen-eral election victory by May 2015 does not seem to trou-ble investors at the moment The net balance at the end of February appears positive for shares because GDP and corporate profits are the factors that influence it most and the situation in continental Europe (beyond youth unemployment) is not prov-ing as dire as many feared
It is frustrating for long-term inves-tors with fresh money because equity valuations appear to broadly price in prospects so they typically need to take a lsquomomentumrsquo view which is less comfortable for them than when value yardsticks are in their favour But unless company earnings stall the downside looks limited for now
The emerging markets crisis has not
Confidence in the economies of key Asian economic powerhouses such as mainland China Singapore and Hong Kong (pictured) remains high
8 March 2014 | inspired
THE MARKETS
IN 2014
THEEMERGINGMARKETSCRISISHASNOTSPREADANDCHINArsquoSDEBTPROBLEMCOULDTAKETIMETOERUPTIFITEVERDOES
SCOTTISH MORTGAGE INVESTMENT TRUST
For a limited period and new eligible ISA customers only Terms amp Conditions and minimum investment amounts apply Please refer to our website or the application pack that we will send you for full details Your call may be recorded for training or monitoring purposes Baillie Gifford Savings Management Limited (BGSM) is the manager of the Baillie Gifford Investment Trust ISA and is wholly owned by Baillie Gifford amp Co which is the manager and secretary of the Scottish Mortgage Investment Trust PLC Your personal data is held and used by BGSM in accordance with data protection legislation We may use your information to send you information about Baillie Gifford products funds or special offers and to contact you for business research purposes We will only disclose your information to other companies within the Baillie Gifford group and to agents appointed by us for these purposes You can withdraw your consent to receiving further marketing communications from us and to being contacted for business research purposes at any time You also have the right to review and amend your data at any time
Wersquore 100 committed to making sure our fund managers never have a restricted outlook That way the long-term view is a clear one So whatrsquos the secret to their liberated attitude
Well our flagship fund the Scottish Mortgage Investment Trust is a global stock-picking fund that is completely free of asset allocation constraints that ignores index weightings and that selects stocks purely on their merit We feel that this freedom allows us to focus on the long term
The Scottish Mortgage Investment Trust is managed by Baillie Gifford
Please remember that changing stock market conditions and currency exchange rates will affect the value of your investment in the fund and any income from it You may not get back the amount invested
You can purchase Scottish Mortgage from Interactive Investor Alternatively you can invest directly with Baillie Gifford through our ISA Open an ISA with Baillie Gifford before 30 April and you can receive a pound10 Amazon gift card
For more information contact Baillie Gifford on 0800 917 2112 or visit wwwscottishmortgageitcomBaillie Gifford ndash long-term investment partners
Freedom to roam
WE LIVE IN A PERIOD OF EXPONENTIAL CHANGE PROVIDING FANTASTIC OPPORTUNITIES FOR STOCK PICKERS LIKE US
cent over one year and 229 per cent over three
Alastair Mundyrsquos Temple Bar Investment Trust focuses on UK equities including GlaxoSmithKline Vodafone and Royal Dutch Shell
It failed to outperform the UK equity income sector over one year despite its popular-ity posting a return of 18 per cent compared with the sectorrsquos 21 per cent However it per-formed better over three years returning 62 per cent against the sectorrsquos 56 per cent
INCOME AND SMALLER COMPANIES STILL IMPORTANTInvestors retained an interest in income and smaller-companies investment trusts in February ndash extending the same purchasing trend in January And they con-tinued to flock to UK-focused trusts as a safe haven
Although two of the 10 most-bought trusts Murray International Trust and Bankers Investment Trust invest in international equities both counted UK equities among their top holdings with the Bankers trust favouring BP GlaxoSmithKline and Vodafone
The other popular
losed-end fund inves-tors stuck closely to income trusts in February but seemed more willing to accept
risk than those purchasing open-ended funds the latest data from Interactive Investor shows
The three most popular trusts were regular investor favourites Baillie Giffordrsquos Scottish Mortgage Investment Trust Investecrsquos Temple Bar Investment Trust and Frostrow Capitalrsquos Biotech Growth Trust
While open-ended fund investors looked mainly to UK equities for income two of these three top invest-ment trusts have a worldwide focus James Anderson and Tom Slaterrsquos Scottish Mortgage Investment Trust which posted a sector-beating 27 per cent return over one year and 56 per cent over three invests in worldwide large-cap equi-ties such as Google and Apple while the Biotech Growth Trust taps the worldwide biotechnol-ogy industry through US equity investments
This trust managed by Geoffrey Hsu and Richard Klemm also beat its sector the biotechnology and healthcare sector with returns of 49 per
income trust Premier Asset Mangementrsquos Acorn Income fund invests in UK mid- and large-cap equities includ-ing Electrocomponents John Menzies and Cineworld Group It returned 46 per cent over the past year and 144 per cent over the past three It was the seventh most-bought trust by Interactive Investor users in February
The UK focus also character-ised investorsrsquo smaller-company trust choices The UK-favoured Henderson Smaller Companies Investment Trust and BlackRock Smaller Companies Investment Trust in sixth and tenth place respectively
Both benefited from the UK housing boom through invest-ments in Bellway and Ashtead Group and both outperformed the UK smaller-companies sec-tor which recorded returns of 37 per cent over one year and 66 per cent over three
INVESTORS RETAINED AN INTEREST IN INCOME AND SMALLER-COMPANIES TRUSTS IN FEBRUARY
CMARKET
YOUR MONTH IN THE
Julie Fisher reveals Februaryrsquos 10 most popular trusts
Bankers trust favours a mix of shares in UK and multinational companies
TRADING
10 March 2014 | inspired
AN APPETITE FOR RISK BOOSTS TRUSTSInvestors showed a greater appetite for risk by invest-ing more heavily in trusts As a result BlackRock World Mining Trust and Templeton Emerging Market Trust took the final two places on the list fourth and fifth
Unfortunately both have posted negative returns in recent years due to the fact that they are positioned in unfavour-able markets
While the BlackRock trust was slightly above the com-modities and natural resources sector over six months one year and three years the Templeton trust only outperformed the global emerging markets equi-ties sector over the past month However investors appear to be buying in in the hope that there will be some improvement in the next few years
Emerging markets fell back out of favour among fund investors in February while pur-
chases of UK and smaller company funds held firm the latest data from Interactive Investor shows
After a brief revival for emerging markets in January when three EM funds were among the 10 most bought Februaryrsquos most-popular funds were generally UK-focused
Paul Marriagersquos Cazenove UK Smaller Companies fund was knocked off the list after five consecutive months at the top as it closed to new purchases on 22 January allowing Januaryrsquos sec-ond-placed fund AXA Framlington Biotech to take top spot The US biotechnology-focused fund managed by Linden Thompson is popular as it delivered a return of 61 per cent over the past year and 164 per cent over the past three
Although the AXA fund has little in common with the other top purchases there are trends to be spotted in the rest of the list most of which continue from January Income was a focus for investors while UK smaller companies remained popular
lsquoThere were strong flows into funds investing in the UK and Europe whereas Asia excluding Japan and emerging markets suffered outflows following relatively weak per-formance in these regions since May 2013rsquo say Charles Cade and Ewan Lovett-Taylor in their report on fund trades in January lsquoPerhaps the most notable sub-sector is UK smaller company funds which have bene-fited from net inflows every month since August 2012rsquo
SMALLER COMPANIESAccording to Numis January saw the highest number of monthly inflows into smaller com-pany funds on record pound241 million The Interactive
Investor data shows these funds remained popular in February
Three smaller-company funds made it into the top 10 Investec UK Smaller Companies fund the River and Mercantile UK Equity Smaller Companies fund and the CF Miton UK Smaller Companies fund took third fourth and fifth place respectively
All three outperformed the UK smaller-companies sector which delivered returns of 32 per cent over one year and 55 per cent over three Gervais Williamsrsquos CF Miton fund pro-vided the best return over a year at 55 per cent while the River and Mercantile fund managed by Daniel Hanbury delivered 112 per cent over three years
Ken Hsiarsquos Investec fund had the least impressive returns at 47 per cent over one year and 79 per cent over three but still outperformed the sector The fund invests in small-cap UK companies including Quindell Optimal Payments and Utilitywise
INCOME EMPHASISThe other priority for inves-tors in February was income and this too was UK focused Of five income funds appear-ing in the 10 most-bought category only the Artemis Global Income fund had a non-UK focus
Jacob de Tusch-Lecrsquos fund which delivered returns of 14 per cent over one year and 47 over three invests chiefly
in European and US equi-ties The other most-bought income funds were Unicorn UK Income Rathbone Income JOHCM UK Equity and the Invesco Perpetual Income
They all beat the UK equity income sectorrsquos returns of 16 per cent over one year and 36 per cent over three All invested in large-cap UK com-panies with GlaxoSmithKline AstraZeneca and Royal Dutch Shell among the top holdings
Despite its focus on income the Invesco Perpetual High Income fund dropped out of the 10 most-bought funds in February and the Invesco Perpetual
Income fund appeared only at the end of the list This suggests that investors may be get-ting nervous over the
imminent departure of star fund manager Neil Woodford in April
One growth fund also made the list the MFM Slater Growth fund which took ninth place Like the income funds it outperformed its sec-tor UK all companies
and focused on UK-listed companies including
Hutchison China (HCM) and Entertainment One (ETO)
THE 10 TOP MOST-BOUGHT FUNDSANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
THEREWERESTRONGFLOWSINTOFUNDINVESTINGINTHE
UKANDEUROPEWHEREASASIAEXCLUDINGJAPANANDEMERGINGMARKETSSUFFEREDOUTFLOWSFOLLOWINGRELATIVELYWEAKPERFORMANCEINTHESEREGIONSSINCEMAY2013Charles Cade and Ewan Lovett-Taylor
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
inspired | March 2014 11
DONrsquoT DISMISS AIM-BASED INVESTMENTS
Richard Beddard is an editor at Interactive Investor and manager of Money Observerrsquos Share Sleuth portfolio
Now that inves-tors can buy Alternative Investment Market shares
within Isas the universe of potentially profitable invest-ments has grown But therersquos also more room for disappointment
Aimrsquos light-touch regula-tion makes it easier for younger smaller companies to list and while such shares are reputed to be risky that need not frighten
INVEST REGULARLY
Mick Gilligan head of research Killik amp Co
Starting an Isa at the beginning of a new tax year and investing small amounts
regularly out of your income ndash rather than a larger amount in one lump sum at the end of each tax year ndash helps reduce the impact of market volatility and you start earning compound interest sooner When income is reinvested alongside the initial investment it effectively becomes capital so you have a larger sum producing an income which in turn can be reinvested
trsquos very easy to keep on doing the same things with your annual tax-efficient Isa allow-ance However investors can lose out badly if they do
Itrsquos not just the Isa allowances that keep changing the economic environment and the range of investments available do too So itrsquos important that investors con-sider all the Isa opportunities open to them before they make a any big
irrevocable decisionsWersquove asked a number of invest-
ment experts to reveal their top Isa tips We are sure they will give you some useful guidelines and help you refine the choices you make Some suggestions are reminders about long-standing opportunities others draw your attention to new developments in Isa invest-ing and highlight the opportunities they offer
Isa investorswhether using some or all of their annual allowances donrsquot always get the best out of their investments Faith Glasgow asks some financial experts for their most valuable tips
investors from investing in Aim firms Plenty of them have long illustrious track records in worthy businesses and itrsquos easy to find out about them on finan-cial websites More details are available on companiesrsquo own investor relations websites the contents of which are mandated by Aim rule 26 a rule the more heavily regulated main market would do well to emulate
UP YOUR ISA CONTRIBUTIONS
Darius McDermott managing director Chelsea Financial Services
Donrsquot forget to increase your monthly Isa investments each year in line with
inspired | March 2014 1312 March 2014 | inspired
EXPERTSrsquo TOP ISA
TIPS
ISAS SMART STRATEGY FOR
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
INVESTING SMALL AMOUNTS REGULARLY HELPS REDUCE THE IMPACT OF MARKET VOLATILITYMick Gilligan
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
I
and shares in [non-cash] Isas However this isnrsquot the case Indeed some other asset classes ndash in particular those that pro-duce income ndash offer even more tax benefits than equities when held within an Isa
Bond funds for example get (at least) 20 per cent income tax relief on the yield they pro-duce (dividends from equities in contrast are subjected to a 10 per cent tax at source which is not reclaimable even in an Isa)
The new property author-ised investment fund structure for property funds meanwhile means Isa investors no longer incur the 20 per cent tax that would previously have been applied on income received from a property investment
the increase in the contribution limit if you can afford to Itrsquos all too easy for regular investors with their money invested auto-matically every month to overlook those annual allow-ance increases And consider increasing your investment whenever you receive a salary increase
LOOK BEYOND STOCKS AND SHARES
Darius McDermott Chelsea Financial Services Some potential Isa investors think you can only hold stocks
PLOUGH INTO PROPERTYGavin Haynes managing director Whitechurch Securities
Many people donrsquot realise they can gain expo-sure to bricks and mortar through
commercial property funds held in a stocks and shares Isa
The asset class currently offers an attractive yield rela-tive to cash and bonds without the volatility of the stock market investments
Property funds are not with-out risk but an allocation to a commercial property fund (that invests directly in bricks and mortar not property shares) can add diversification to an Isa portfolio With the economic outlook improving the sector looks well placed for recovery
ACCEPT RISK BUT BE SURE TO DIVERSIFY
Rebecca OrsquoKeeffe head of investment Interactive Investor
The primary ben-efits of an Isa are felt over the long term so itrsquos important to rec-
ognise that taking on risk
inspired | March 2014 1312 March 2014 | inspired
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
ITrsquoS ALL TOO EASY TO OVERLOOK THOSE ANNUAL ALLOWANCE INCREASESDariusMcDermott
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
Isa can suddenly become a poorly paying one But never try to transfer an Isa yourself Contact the new provider first and follow its transfer rules
Remember the amount of money you can invest in a cash Isa in each tax year is capped (currently at pound5760) so if you want to switch in the middle of the tax year you will prob-ably be switching the entire amount ndash you cannot switch a portion of an existing Isa into a new one and top it up If your original Isa is due to pay you interest at the end of the year it should pay you the accrued interest up to the date you close the account
Itrsquos possible to transfer your cash Isa into a stocks and shares Isa if you decide this is a better home for you money but you canrsquot switch your money back from a stocks and shares Isa into a cash Isa
You can invest up to pound11520 in a stocks and shares Isa in a single tax year minus anything you may have paid into a cash Isa ndash which is capped at pound5760
over the long term is usually a far more profitable strategy than minimising risk Investors typi-cally take less risk than they should especially if they have suffered a loss in the past
You can mitigate your overall risk by diversifying across differ-ent asset classes and geographic areas Regular investing is also a great risk reduction strategy
Itrsquos also important to rec-ognise the value of dividend reinvestment and understand the benefit this compound-ing effect has on your portfolio And remember to choose a bro-ker that doesnrsquot penalise you for reinvesting
TRANSFER YOUR ISAS TO GET THE BEST DEALS
Mark King editor MoneywiseUnlike a stocks and shares Isa a cash Isa is a sim-ple savings account with a
tax-free Isa lsquowrapperrsquo placed around it so that you donrsquot pay tax on your interest
You can choose to have access to your money or tie it up until a future date just as with typical savings accounts Generally the longer you tie your money up for the better the interest rate you get
While a cash Isa is considered a low-risk investment ndash which sophisticated investors may find returns too little as a result ndash you can transfer a cash Isa should you decide you want to take on more risk or get a bet-ter rate Indeed you may have to transfer a cash Isa regularly Providers offer different rates that can change so a top-paying
From 6 April ndash the beginning of the 201415 tax year ndash however these limits rise to pound11880 and pound5940 respectively
LOOK AT THE LONG- TERM BENEFITS
Philippa Gee managing director Philippa Gee Wealth Management
Some investors look at the return on an Isa or at the limit on how much they can
invest in a single year and fail to see the value
However they would be wise to consider the longer-term view Those who have invested each year for a number of years have been able to build six- figure portfolios that they do not have to pay any further income or capital gains tax on or list on their tax assessment
By securing a significant sum in an Isa wrapper each year as far as yoursquore able you can build up a valuable flexible and tax-efficient investment
inspired | March 2014 PB14 March 2014 | inspired
EXPERTSrsquoTOP ISA
TIPS
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
TAKING ON RISK OVER THE LONG TERM IS USUALLY MORE PROFITABLERebecca OrsquoKeeffe
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
The ISA thatrsquos
fair and square
We believe in straightforward investing Thatrsquos why we donrsquot nibble at your investments with percentage charges Open an account and for pound20 per quarter you get two pound10 trades and an ISA for free After that itrsquos just pound10 per trade across a wide range of UK and international investmentsTransfer to us today and get up to pound240 as a thank you (terms apply) We believe thatrsquos fair and square
The value of investments and any income from them can fall as well as rise so you could get back less than you invest Tax treatment depends on your individual circumstances and may be subject to change If in any doubt please seek advice
iiicoukisa
Interactive Investor Trading Limited trading as ldquoInteractive Investorrdquo is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority Registered Office Standon House 21 Mansell Street London E1 8AA Tel 0845 200 3637 Registered in England with Company Registration number 3699618
hen new rules were introduced last August allowing the inclusion of Alternative Investment Market (Aim) shares in Isas demand for exposure to the junior market
quickly exceeded expectations Another surge in demand is likely in April as the new tax year dawns and investors have a fresh annual allow-ance to play with
Yet while stocks on Aim can boast eye-catching returns and attractive tax perks they can also be very volatile raising concerns that investors may be letting the tax tail wag the investment dog with-out understanding what they are getting into
The Treasuryrsquos decision to allow Aim shares into Isas was driven by a desire to encourage greater investment in small and medium-sized companies The move was immediately popular with investors and brokers reported a sharp rise in Aim-listed purchases Demand for smaller companies funds was up too as investors wary of direct share ownership
bought into funds offering exposure to Aim stocksIt helped that Aim stocks were enjoying a good
run as were smaller companies generally with the amount of money raised on the market over the summer rising sharply Performance is just one aspect of their appeal however
Aim shares already offered inheritance tax effi-ciency most of them qualify for business property relief making them exempt from IHT when held for two years or more However itrsquos worth noting that BPR is subject to change and a company can lose its eligibility and therefore its IHT relief status as a result Therefore investors wanting to continue benefiting from IHT relief have to switch out of such companies and into those still eligible
Wider income and capital gains tax benefits also drove some demand for Aim shares after the
Isa rule change in August The move created a bed- and-Isa opportunity whereby existing Aim share inves-tors sold their holdings and bought them back within an Isa
Among those quick
Alternative Investment Market stocks offer Isa investors a chance to realise heady returns ndash but you need to pick your holdings carefully because of the high risk of losses in an illiquid market says Jeff Salway
AIMSHARES
W
GEMSTO BE UNEARTHED
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
WE WOULD ONLY INCLUDE AIM STOCKS
IN THE PORTFOLIOS OF ADVENTUROUS CLIENTS David Thomson
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
inspired | March 2014 17
THERE ARE
Treatt has built up an immaculate record of delivering profits
to take advantage was Lord Lee of Trafford the UKrsquos first Isa millionaire and author of How to Make a Million ndash Slowly My Guiding Principles from a Lifetime of Successful Investing lsquoI have a
big holding of Christie Group that was originally in my per-sonal equity planrsquo he says lsquoWhen the company moved to Aim [from the main market] I took it out of the Pep but when Aim shares became Isa-eligible I sold it and bought it back again within my Isarsquo
April 2014 will mark the removal of stamp duty from Aim purchases a develop-ment expected to encourage asset managers to launch a new wave of Aim-focused funds The axing of stamp duty makes the junior market more appeal-ing to companies on the main market as well with several recently moving across
Alec Stewart partner at Anderson Strathern Asset Management explains lsquoA company can reduce its regulatory burden by moving to the junior market with lower audit and compliance requirementsrsquo For example the main market
stipulates that any potential listing should have a market capitalisation no lower than pound700000 whereas therersquos no such guideline on the Aim mar-ket Nor do companies need a trading history to list on Aim compared with the three years required for the main market Moreover the cost of listing on Aim is considerably lower
But for many private investors the main appeal of Aim stocks lies largely in the prospect of sky-high returns from the success of small and fledgling companies There are some 1200 stocks on the market from a wide range of sectors ndash albeit with a heavy weighting in technology and especially natural resources and with a gulf in size between the biggest and smallest
The largest are eligible for the FTSE AIM 50 and the FTSE AIM 100 where the likes of Bowleven Majestic Wine Dobbies Asos and MampC Saatchi are listed
Stewart picks out three he favours as part of a diversified portfolio One is Dart Group The owner of Jet2com and Jet2Holidays Dart has had a lsquostrong runrsquo and is focused on becoming more fam-ily friendly in these budget-conscious times says Stewart lsquoIt benefits from good visibility of future bookings and strong cash generationrsquo he adds
Aerospace and defence firm Cohort is another with a lsquoprogressive dividend policyrsquo that has grown at an annualised rate of 20 per cent over
DEWHURST (pound520)Dewhurst is a well-established manu-facturer of lift pushbuttons indicators and controls keypads for ATMs security devices and petrol pumps and traffic management products such as bollards
The company has a long record of profitability under the stewardship of the Dewhurst family and a debt-free balance sheet That suggests it is a strong competitor
Profits fell in 2013 ndash a result of a slowdown in Dewhurstrsquos major markets and customers having stocked up in the previous year Management is quite cagey about the companyrsquos prospects for 2014 but an improved performance is likely as conditions in the UK and the US improve The shares are probably good value at 11 times adjusted 2013 earnings
MS INTERNATIONAL (pound204)MS International manufactures military hardware forks for forklift trucks and petrol station canopies and car washes
The company has been profitable in each of the past 10 years and has a balance sheet flush with cash yet the share price has fallen to a level that val-ues MSI at five times adjusted 2013
earnings MSIrsquos current unpopularity stems from a decline in the profitability of MSI Defence Systems which has the highest turnover of its three businesses
The company expects 2014 to be no easier than 2013 due to continu-ing pressure on defence spending but itrsquos confident it will add to defence work already contracted and scheduled for every year until 2020
Itrsquos quite possible that MSI is having a lull that does not reflect on the qual-ity of its products or businesses If thatrsquos the case itrsquos a bargain
TREATT (pound747)Treatt distills flavourings and frag-rances essential oils and water-soluble essences Its products are used in drinks confectionery sauces and cosmetics worldwide
The companyrsquos expertise and close customer relationships might give it a competitive advantage and it has never suffered a loss However it has ushered out managing director Hugo Bovill and his family has sold its interest
Management with large share-holdings gives companies some independence from the often short-term imperatives of fund managers
However the new team is focused on controlling costs and developing the most profitable products
Profit grew 28 per cent in 2013 and Treattrsquos long-term prospects are prob-ably good but the share price has spiked valuing the shares at 15 times adjusted 2013 earnings
FW THORPE (pound143)FW Thorpe designs and manufactures light fittings known as luminaires They are becoming increasingly complex with the introduction of LED technology that requires printed circuit boards Its main business is Thorlux which supplies lighting to schools hospitals ware-houses and factories Other subsidiaries supply retailers emergency exit signage and cleanroom lighting
Stable family ownership long indus-try experience and a commitment to modernisation and investment are the keys to Thorpersquos prosperity
Although it has to contend with the additional investment required to produce LED lighting Thorpe is manag-ing the transition well The shares cost pound137 which values the company at about 15 times adjusted 2013 earnings Thatrsquos a fair price for a quality company
Richard Beddard picks out four Aim-listed companies worth considering for inclusion in a diversified Isa share portfolio
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
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ISA BLUE
I TRANSFERRED INTO MY ISA A BIG
HOLDING OF CHRISTIE GROUP THAT USEDTO BE IN MY PEPLord Lee of Trafford
ANT ORANGE
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AIMSHARES
18 March 2014 | inspired
the past three years he adds Among food pro-ducers he likes Wynnstay It has lsquobenefited from strong revenue and pre-tax profitsrsquo increasing its interim dividend by 9 per cent
But therersquos ample cause for caution too because Aim shares are typically far riskier than those listed on the main market Not only is there the vol-atility inherent in shares issued by smaller firms but there remains the potential for liquidity issues even after the surge of money into the market in recent months Haig Bathgate chief investment officer at Turcan Connell says lsquoThey are by impli-cation of their size much less liquid in terms of the shares that trade hands on a daily basis so they are prone to more extreme price movementsrsquo
UK investors may also be averse to Aim stocks that are effectively overseas companies Indeed many Aim fund portfolios specifically exclude both these and natural resources firms as well as stocks that donrsquot offer business property relief
lsquoSignificant numbers of companies have failed to deliver on expectations in this part of the mar-ket and it is also quite heavily weighted towards technology (12 per cent) resources (9 per cent) and oil and gas companies (22 per cent)rsquo says Bathgate There are transparency concerns too due to the less stringent regulatory and company reporting requirements on the Aim market
lsquoWe would only include Aim stocks within the
portfolios of adventurous clients and then only up to a maximum of 10 per centrsquo says David Thomson chief investment officer at VWM Wealth lsquoEven then the bulk of this is likely to be via a venture capital trust where the investor can also enjoy 30 per cent income tax relief providing a further cushion against the volatility of Aim sharesrsquo
Collective investment funds and trusts offer a way into Aim stocks that provides useful diversification and so reduces the risk of heavy losses Investment trusts can offer particular advantages where Aim-listed shares are concerned as their closed-ended status gives them a hedge against the market liquidity issues that can affect Aim stocks Among the growing number of UK smaller companies investment trusts in which Aim shares are prominent are those run by BlackRock Standard Life and Aberforth Unit trusts invest-ing in Aim companies include the LampG UK Alpha Trust and Cazenove UK Smaller Companies
However there is a downside to access-ing Aim through funds and trusts as investors no longer benefit from the IHT-free status that direct holders of Aim stocks enjoy The risk of hefty losses remains the biggest caveat to investing in Aim
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
AIMSHARESAREMUCHLESS
LIQUIDINTERMSOFTHESHARESTHATTRADEHANDSDAILYHaig Bathgate
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
inspired | March 2014 19
Clockwise from top Cohort Wynnstay and Jet2com are Stewartrsquos picks for a diversified portfolio
rewarding such as smaller companies private equity and emerging markets
Trusts can also increase their assets by borrow-ing So long as this gearing is sensibly priced it should accelerate the trustrsquos gains in positive mar-ket conditions However gearing will exacerbate losses in any downturn The possible closing of the discount will also enhance share price returns
SOLID GROWTHBaillie Gifford Global DiscoveryThis fund picked by independent financial adviser Brian Dennehy invests globally in growth stocks especially companies operating in industries with potential for structural change and innova-tion Dennehy says manager Douglas Brodie has had considerable experience and success in iden-tifying growth opportunities particularly among exciting smaller-cap stocks
CF Lindsell Train UK EquityJohn Husselbee head of multi-asset at Liontrust Asset Management prefers investors to traders Renowned investor Warren Buffett takes a similar view and Husselbee says fund manager Nick Train invests like Buffett Train looks to buy great com-panies such as Burberry Heineken and Unilever when they are good value and hold them lsquoforeverrsquo
Cazenove UK Opportunities This fund aims to achieve long-term capital growth from a focused portfolio of large and medium-sized UK companies Gavin Haynes managing
huge variety of investment funds rang-ing from generalist funds to highly specialised versions aim to generate capital growth for investors
Investing in a specific fund entails investors accepting different degrees of risk in return for a range of potential rewards So when we asked financial advisers to predict which funds offer the best prospects for growth in 2014 we also urged them to consider which types of investor the funds would suit best
Solid growth funds will appeal to investors who prefer steady investment while higher-risk growth funds are likely to be more volatile and appeal to those with a higher risk tolerance Speculative funds could produce handsome returns this year but they could also dip sharply in value
Closed-ended status means investment trusts can invest in less liquid asset classes without having to worry about realising their holdings in a market setback This enables them to invest in areas that have historically proved particularly
A
Helen Pridham and Fiona Hamilton have rounded up a collection of investment funds and trusts experts believe will prosper in the year ahead for investors looking to cash in on an improving economic outlook
PERFECT YOUR FUND PORTFOLIOTO SEE IT
GROW
inspired | March 2014 2120 March 2014 | inspired
FUNDSAND
TRUSTS
GROW
inspired | March 2014 2120 March 2014 | inspired
A
RE Y
OU
A
GLO
BAL
INV
ESTO
R Take a global view of investment trusts expertly managed by Henderson
For over 75 years Henderson Global Investors has been at the forefront of investment trust innovation and development Now with a diverse and established range of managed investment trusts and investment companies Henderson has a global view of the market
Whether you are retirement planning investing for your children looking to take advantage of dynamic global markets or want a cautious investment approach our managed companies offer a wide range of investment objectives and strategies professionally managed by regional experts
If your priority is high income long term capital growth or a mixture of both Henderson Global Investors has a range of solutions which aims to meet your investment needs
Please remember that past performance is not a guide to future performance The value of an investment and the income from it can fall as well as rise as a result of market and currency fluctuations and you may not get back the amount originally invested
Call to receive your Investment Trust brochure or visit wwwhendersoninvestmenttrustscom
0800 856 5656
Investment Trusts managed by Henderson
Issued in the UK by Henderson Global Investors Henderson Global Investors is the name under which Henderson Global Investors Limited (reg no 906355) Henderson Fund Management Limited (reg no 2607112) Henderson Investment Funds Limited (reg no 2678531) Henderson Investment Management Limited (reg no 1795354) Henderson Alternative Investment Advisor Limited (reg no 962757) Henderson Equity Partners Limited (reg no2606646) Gartmore Investment Limited (reg no 1508030) (each incorporated and registered in England and Wales with registered office at 201 Bishopsgate London EC2M 3AE) are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority to provide investment products and services Telephone calls may be recorded and monitored H0046521113ad
Itrsquos a global marketplace
HGiTrusts
director at Whitechurch Securities says fund manager Julie Dean has built up an excellent track record
Securities Trust of ScotlandRobin McAdam likes Securities Trust of Scotland which seeks rising income and long-term capi-tal growth from global equities The trust yields 33 per cent so it provides income and growth potential lsquoThe trust has outperformed its bench-mark recently and we expect this to continuersquo says McAdam
Finsbury Growth amp Income TrustPeter Hewitt nominates Finsbury Growth amp Income Trust on the basis of its strong short- and long-term performance Manager Nick Train seeks out the highest-quality companies to hold long term The portfolio is dominated by companies Train expects to have longevity such as Diageo Unilever and Heineken lsquoThe manager looks for strong cash gen-eration and dividend growth which he believes are undervalued by the stock marketrsquo Hewitt says
RIT Capital PartnersThis multi-asset trust selected by John Newlands is the flagship financial vehicle for its chairman Lord Jacob Rothschild and his family lsquoGiven the uncertainty in the world it is no bad thing to be diversified both globally and across a range of asset classes RIT is a global growth trust that offers a combination of these benefitsrsquo Newlands says
His enthusiasm is bolstered by RITrsquos current relatively wide discount which reflects disap-pointment among investors that it was rather too cautious over the past two or three years
Perpetual Income amp Growth Trust This trust is classified as a member of the AIC UK growth and income sector but its yield tends to be below the sector average because manager Mark Barnett is more interested in income growth than immediate income Tim Cockerill classifies it as a total return trust and makes it his solid growth choice Barnett has secured excellent long-term returns dur-ing his 15 years at the helm
HIGHER-RISK GROWTHLazard Emerging MarketsMick Gilligan believes the investment case for emerging market equi-ties remains strong He says lsquoEquity markets in emerging regions are trading at their widest price-to-earnings discount to developed markets since 2006 We believe many well-capitalised businesses that have shown strong financial discipline should gener-ate good profitsrsquo The Lazard Emerging Markets fund focuses on such businesses
Rathbone Global OpportunitiesThis go-almost-anywhere bottom-up thorough stockpicking fund looks for undiscovered gems Rob Burdett fund manager at Thames River believes manager James Thomson strikes the
KEY FACTS ABOUT GROWTH FUND TIPS
Mininv pound
Ongoing Charges
1-yearreturn
Sectorrank
SOLID GROWTHBaillie Gifford Global Discovery 1000 086 5920 2248CF Lindsell Train UK Equity ndash 080 2910 53271Cazenove UK Opportunities 1000 082 3210 40271 HIGHER-RISK GROWTHInvestec Global Energy 1000 087 1420 40206Lazard Emerging Markets 2000 161 320 1668Rathbone Global Opportunities 1000 082 2150 111248 SPECULATIVE GROWTHAllianz BRIC Stars 500 122 -120 134206Liontrust Special Situations 1000 114 1450 251271MampG Recovery 500 096 1330 264271Note Ongoing charges figure refers to the least expensive retail share class Source Financial Express and companies websites as at 3 December 2013
KEY FACTS ABOUT THE TRUSTS TIPPED FOR GROWTH
Shareprice
p
Discprem to NAV
Netyield
Gearing
Net asset valuetotal return after
1 year
3 years
5 years
SOLID GROWTHFinsbury Growth amp Income 5010 (+) 12 21 50 305 767 2038Perpetual Income amp Growth 3686 10 32 120 346 714 1407RIT Capital Partners 12480 105 11 50 210 225 591Securities Trust of Scotland 1469 (+) 31 32 40 192 460 1132 HIGHER-RISK GROWTHBiotech Growth Trust 4335 72 00 70 582 1723 2968Fidelity Chinese Special Sits 1062 65 09 210 433 02 ndashGraphite Enterprise Trust 5690 170 09 -90 167 442 405Schroder Asia Pacific 2730 92 14 -20 08 201 1779 SPECULATIVE GROWTHBaker Steel Resources 470 331 00 10 -57 -137 740Hansa Trust A 8600 243 23 10 142 69 947Impax Environmental Markets 1463 112 06 -20 350 285 921Standard Life Eq Inc subscription 1070 ndash 00 3700 ndash ndash ndashNotes NAV = net asset value Annualised All data as at 1 December Source Numis Securities
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
MARK BARNETT HAS SECURED
EXCELLENT RETURNSTim Cockerill
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
inspired | March 2014 23PB March 2014 | inspired
FUNDSANDTRUSTS
right balance between taking calculated risks for high returns and investing in defensive holdings Burdett says lsquoHe likes companies undertaking gentle innovation ndash moving online for example ndash rather than game changers which have more potential to go wrongrsquo Investec Global EnergyThis fund invests in companies that produce energy and provide services to the energy sector Fund managers Tom Nelson and Charles Whall believe the consensus view on future oil prices anticipates weak demand and growing supply from US shale oil But they demur as does Tony Yarrow at Wise Investment He says lsquoOil is harder to extract from shale than gas is while demand for oil is growing as economies recover A higher oil price feeds straight through to the companiesrsquo profitsrsquo
Biotech Growth TrustPeter Hewitt favours Biotech Growth Trust which has achieved scorching gains recently ndash up 172 per cent over three years to 1 December 2013
It is managed in New York by Orbimed a specialist healthcare and biotechnology investor with $7 bil-lion (pound42 billion) under management It offers exposure to a mix of large and profitable biotech companies along-side emerging businesses Most of its holdings are US-based and they have
benefited from a much more positive approach by the Federal Drug Authority ndash new drug approvals in 2010 were the highest for 10 years
Graphite Enterprise TrustAndrew McHattie contends that just one sector offers great value private equity lsquoThese trusts were hammered in the credit crisis and discounts widened to extreme levelsrsquo he says
His selection is Graphite Enterprise Trust Its discount to net asset value remains at a level that rings alarm bells in most other sectors but it has a strong track record and a relatively mature port-folio of shares he expects to rise in value
Fidelity Chinese Special SituationslsquoWith Chinese equities looking cheap the long-term outlook for investing in China is positiversquo Cockerill says lsquoThis fund invests in medium and small caps where high growth can be achieved New manager Dale Nicholls is well qualified and the combination of Fidelity manager experience and China is compelling in the long termrsquo
Scottish Oriental Smaller Companies Trust This trust is favoured by McAdam The invest-ment team identifies quality companies offering sustainable predictable growth lsquoThe trust may underperform if the market rises strongly but the teamrsquos enviable track record and experience should be respectedrsquo he says
Tim Cockerill is investment director at Rowan Dartington
RowanDartingtonhas20investmentadvisersbasedinsevenofficesacrossthesouthofEnglandIthaspound900millionunderman-
agementInvestmenttrustshavefeaturedinitsdiscretionaryandadvisoryportfoliosformanyyears
Peter Hewittis a member of FampC Asset Managementrsquos global equities team
HehasmanagedtheFampCManagedPortfolioTrustsinceApril2008aswellasitsforerunnerFampCManagedPortfolio
Servicesince2002HewasheadofUKequitiesatMurray
Johnstonefrom1981to1983beforejoiningIvoryampSime
Jean Mattersonis a partner and chief investment officer at Rossie House Investment Management
Shejoinedthefirmin1998after20yearswithassetmanagerStewartIvory
BasedinEdinburghsheisoneoffiveinvestment
professionalsmanagingaroundpound300mil-lionallonadiscretionarybasisAroundhalfisininvestmenttrusts
Robin McAdamjoined Brooks MacDonald Asset Management in 2009 from Adam amp Company Investment Management
Hehas24yearsrsquoexperi-encemanagingprivateclientportfoliosandheadsBMrsquosEdinburghbranch
Thefirmhaspound537billionunderdiscretionarymanagementinbespokeandmanagedportfolios
Andrew McHattieis head of The McHattie Group
McHattieGroupisanauthorisedfirmthatpublishesspecialistinvestmentnewsletters
McHattiehasbeentheeditorofInvestmentTrustNewslettersince1996(wwwtipsheetscouk)andoffersafreeservicecalledthelsquoitlistrsquo(wwwtheitlistcouk)ThecompanyhasaFacebookpage(wwwfacebookcominvestmenttrusts)
John Newlandsis responsible for investment trust research at Brewin Dolphin
Heissupportedbyfouranalystswhocoverspecificsectorsresearchingopen-andclosed-endedfunds
BrewinDolphinhas35officesaroundtheUKandChannelIslandsandmanagespound28billionofwhichpound39billionisininvestmenttrusts
TrusttipstersOursixexpertsrevealtheirtopfundpicks
inspired | March 2014 PB24 March 2014 | inspired
FUNDSAND
TRUSTS
One in twelve goes free on your next golf break plus every golfer receives a free pint
12thmansagimme
Book online at MarriottGolfcouk
Offer is only valid on residential golf bookings booked during the promotional dates For every 11 players booked the 12th player will be free of charge Rates are per person per night based on 2 people sharing a twindouble room and include dinner bed amp breakfast Bookings must be made by one named player and separate bookings will not qualify Each residential player aged 18 and over will receive a voucher entitling them to a complimentary pint
of Beckrsquos or Boddingtons Offer is valid on bookings made via 3rd parties Offer is available on 1 night 2 rounds or 2 night 3 rounds and excludes Sunday Driver Maximum of 2 night stay and 2 people per room Day of week availability may vary based on location Limited number of rooms may be available This offer applies to new bookings only at Marriott Hotel amp Country Clubs and offer courses and tee times are subject to availability Offer cannot
be used in conjunction with any other promotion Course terms and conditions apply Advance reservations required Book between 17th February and 29th June 2014 for stays between 4th April and 29th September 2014
The SIPP thatrsquos
fair and square
We believe in straightforward investing Thatrsquos why we donrsquot nibble at your SIPP with percentage fees For just pound144 per year you can open a SIPP and add an ISA for free After that itrsquos just pound10 to buy or sell a wide range of investments including shares funds bonds and gilts Open an account today and if you transfer your existing SIPP wersquoll give you up to pound240 as a thank you (terms apply) We believe thatrsquos fair and square
The value of investments and any income from them can fall as well as rise so you could get back less than you invest Tax treatment depends on your individual circumstances and may be subject to change If in any doubt please seek advice
iiicouksipp
Interactive Investor Trading Limited trading as ldquoInteractive Investorrdquo is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority Registered Office Standon House 21 Mansell Street London E1 8AA Tel 0845 200 3637 Registered in England with Company Registration number 3699618
SPECULATIVE GROWTHMampG RecoveryDennehy says manager Tom Dobell backs his convictions engages with companies he invests in and has delivered long-term outperformance lsquoDobellrsquos MampG Recovery fund has a clear value-style process and management stability It invests in a wide range of firms that are out of favour or in difficulty or whose prospects are not fully rec-ognised by the marketrsquo he says
Liontrust Special SituationsHusselbee says Liontrustrsquos Anthony Cross and Julian Fosh have their own unique philosophy He adds lsquoThey look for characteristics in a company that its competitors find difficult to replicate such as intellectual property or distribution channelsrsquo
Allianz Bric StarsThis fund aims for capital growth in the long term by investing mainly in Brazil Russia India and China Haynes says investors have shunned these markets recently and valuations fallen He adds lsquoFor investors looking for a recovery story this fund is worth considerationrsquo
Standard Life Equity Income subscription shareMcHattie says warrant and subscription shares are widely ignored creating opportunities for those who understand them He favours the subscrip-tion shares of Standard Life Equity Income which can be exercised at 320p a share up to the end of December 2016 lsquoThey offer gearing of 37 times and if the ordinary shares grow by more than 28 per cent a year between now and the end of 2016 the subscription shares ought to outperformrsquo
Impax Environmental MarketsMcAdam likes this trust It invests in companies seeking to provide cleaner or more-efficient energy as well as water and waste solutions to the growing problems faced by authorities around the world It offers exposure to a rapidly changing marketplace as well as to socially responsible investments
Hansa TrustJohn Newlands sees potential in the A shares of Hansa Trust which languish at a discount of more than 25 per cent He says that whereas the trustrsquos portfolio appears skewed with a third of its assets in Ocean Wilsons there is actually plenty of diversification because Ocean Wilsons has an investment portfolio that stands at a discount to underlying value lsquoOne day an attractive bid [may] be made for Ocean Wilsons that will enhance Hansarsquos NAV and sim-plify its capital structure all to the good of its market ratingrsquo Newlands says
Baker Steel Resources TrustJean Matterson hopes for good returns from this trust shares in which trade on a near 30 per cent discount lsquoIt has not had an easy run of late but we believe the underlying assets are attractive and that the mining projects in the companyrsquos portfo-lio will continue to progressrsquo she says
Prospects have improved for biotechs (left) while growing interest in sustain-able energy has boosted Impax
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
AHIGHEROILPRICEFEEDSSTRAIGHT
THROUGHTOPROFITSTony Yarrow
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
inspired | March 2014 27PB March 2014 | inspired
FUNDSANDTRUSTS
The world of funds and trusts is a confusing place with over 2300 funds and more than 300 investment trusts to choose from
Money Observerrsquos Rated Funds system narrows down the playing field to help you decide which funds and investment trusts might be best for you
Our team of experts constantly monitor the marketplace rating those funds that have delivered consistently good returns However you should be aware that there is no guarantee this performance will be repeated
With our comparison tool you can filter by whatrsquos important to you compare up to four funds and trusts side-by-side as well as view factsheets
COMPAREMONEY OBSERVER RATED FUNDS
VISIT MONEYOBSERVERCOMCOMPAREFUNDS AND LOOK OUT FOR THE RATED FUND STAMP
had spare cash or I were start-ing afresh The companies in the add category are high qual-ity judging by the strategies they follow and their finan-cial strength and are probably undervalued
Irsquom more likely to eject or reduce holdings in companies in the watch and specula-tive categories These shares are more risky either because they have risen greatly in price or because their prospects are more uncertain than usual I may think the risk is worth tak-ing but I am prepared to act should that calculation change
Every decision to increase a portfolio holding must be weighed against the potential of new candidates drawn from all companies listed in the UK and corralled into another live spreadsheet the Share Sleuth watchlist When I add a share to the watchlist or trade a share in the portfolio I explain this in the Share Sleuth blog
ccumulating income and capital gains in an index tracking fund is inexpensive takes little effort and all but guarantees an
average return so it should be the default investment for a lazy equity investor saving for the long term
To justify the work of decid-ing which shares to buy and sell and the effort and cost of placing trades an active investor must do better Consequently the first objective of the active Share Sleuth portfolio is to beat passive investments after costs over the long-term which in practice means any five-year period The second objective is to win this tussle against an unknowing and unthinking opponent transparently
At the heart of the portfolio is an online spreadsheet The first page shows the constitu-ent shares arranged into three categories lsquoaddrsquo lsquowatchrsquo and lsquospeculativersquo The categorisa-tion is updated daily based on live data in subsequent spread-sheets each of which contains a financial model for a particular company
The Share Sleuth portfo-lio shows the holdings I would add to the portfolio today if it
Share Sleuth is a simulation no money changes hands But I use prices quoted by a bro-ker and adjust the accounting to factor in notional broker fees and stamp duty However I lsquoeat my own cookingrsquo by investing my self-invested personal pen-sion in Share Sleuth companies
No doubt you are wonder-ing how the portfolio is doing Share Sleuthrsquos five-year anni-versary judgement day is on 9 September this year and I will not prejudge it now
Short-term performance watching and the knee-jerk trad-ing it encourages is I think one reason why many inves-tors fail My focus is on ensuring the portfolio remains invested in good companies at reasona-ble prices
You can see a live perfor-mance table and learn what I think of every share in the port-folio and which companies I might add to it at wwwiiicoukZkr
SHAREBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIOR
The Share Sleuth portfolio has been carefully devised to show investors how to find good companies at cheap prices and also prove the value of its investment approach says Richard Beddard
Richard Beddard an editor at Interactive Investor since 1999 has managed the Share Sleuth portfolio since 9 September 2009 Hersquos a columnist at Money Observer magazine and a private investor
AMY FOCUS IS ON ENSURING THAT THE PORTFOLIO IS INVESTED IN GOOD FIRMS AT DECENT PRICES
inspired | March 2014 29PB March 2014 | inspired
SHARESLEUTH
iiicoukstraightforward
Interactive Investor Trading Limited trading as ldquoInteractive Investorrdquo is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority Registered Office Standon House 21 Mansell Street London E1 8AA Tel 0845 200 3637 Registered in England with Company Registration number 3699618
We believe in being straightforwardthis is why we donrsquot nibble at your investment by charging percentage fees Find out how this could affect your investment performance at iiicoukstraightforward
If you transfer to us you can even get up to pound240 as a thank you (terms apply)
Donrsquot forget the value of investments and any income from them can fall as well as rise so you could get back less than you invest If in any doubt please seek advice
7784_II_QI_MONEY_OBSERVER_210x297_AWindd 1 16012014 1224
Take a closer look
at your investment
options
Discover a straightforward way to understand everything from ISAs to SIPPs and OEICs to Investment Trusts
Investing for generationsEver feel yoursquod like to know more about investing Wersquove been helping people build their wealth for over 125 years Our guide lsquoMaking sense of the investment universersquo is just one of the resources yoursquoll find on our Investment Focus hub
As well as clear simple guides therersquos a wealth of information and expert opinion all designed to help you take control of your investments Please remember that investments can go down as well as up and investors may get back less than they originally invested
Introducing your free online source of information help and expert opinion
investment-focuscouk
This has been approved as a financial promotion by Alliance Trust Investments Limited for the purpose of Section 21 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 Alliance Trust Investments Limited is a subsidiary of Alliance Trust PLC and is registered in Scotland No SC330862 registered office 8 West Marketgait Dundee DD1 1QN is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority firm reference number 479764 Alliance Trust Investments gives no financial or investment advice
TAX YEAR ENDS APRIL 5TH ndash learn more about
your options now
Investment Focus Smart Insight from Alliance Trust
Yoursquove spoken Wersquove listened Introducing your free online source of information help and expert opinion
Based on real insight we have launched a new website which focuses on investment education
We believe that we are uniquely positioned to provide this hub of information based on the reputation we have built for trust and transparency over the last 125 years
We will be publishing new content over the next few months focusing on specific themes
bull Investing from scratch
bull Products in a portfolio
bull Global diversification
bull Planning for your familyrsquos future
bull Retirement planning
bull Getting more information
There is a generation of future investors out there who have been brought up in an era of economic turmoil and banking crises which has led to disillusionment and a lack of trust in our sector and the services we offer Despite it being more important than ever for investors to take control of their financial situation this new generation of savers lacks the basic knowledge and understanding to make these very important long-term decisions
Our goal is to develop a useful resource with contributions from third-parties as well as the team at Alliance Trust which offers insights into the various life stages and challenges faced and which can be built upon and adapted to meet savers needs in the long term
Katherine Garrett-Cox CBE Chief Executive Alliance Trust PLC
ldquo
rdquo
There are too many products to make an informed decision
I donrsquot know whereto go for reliable
information
investment-focuscouk
Yoursquoll naturally take a keen interest in the performance of your investments But itrsquos just as important to understand the fees you will be paying as they can have a significant impact on the returns you achieve Knowing what the different types of costs mean and exactly what they consist of can prove rewarding
Itrsquos worth remembering that for every fee you pay (whether it is a or flat fee) your investment needs to grow by at least the same amount just to stay ahead of the game It sounds obvious but itrsquos easy to forget Broadly speaking there are three types of fees fund fees platform fees and fees for a financial adviser You can either invest directly into a fund and pay the associated fees or you can invest via a platform provider (some of which are referred to as wrap platforms others as fund supermarkets) This is a service that lets you manage and review all your investments online in one place As a general rule fund fees are lower when
bought through a platform than if you buy direct You can invest through a platform on either an execution only basis where the investor assesses the risks and makes their own investment decisions or on an advised basis
Learn more about fund platform and financial advice fees
What can you expect to seeOver the next two pages we have provided a sneak preview of just some of the information you will find on the Investment Focus hub We will be updating the site regularly so make sure you sign up for our email alerts to be informed when new topics are published
Everything you need to know about fees
Risk informationInvestments can go down as well as up You may get back less than you originally invested
Alliance Trust does not give advice You need to ensure you understand the risks and commitments before investing If you are unsure you should consult a Financial Adviser before investing
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
For the vast majority of investors the simplest cheapest and most pragmatic way to invest is through pooled funds
Sometimes called managed funds unit trusts or even Open-Ended Investment Companies (or OEICs) these are designed to give ordinary savers access to a diverse range of investments
One of the principles of investment is that diversification helps reduce risk But it is expensive and time consuming for ordinary savers to buy shares of 80 to 100 different companies and keep track of how each is performing
But with a managed fund you are pooling your money with other investors enabling the fund manager to buy a wide range of assets
Investors have the option of buying an actively managed or passive fund With an active fund the manager selects and then monitors these stocks for investors in a bid to maximise returns
In contrast a passive fund will simply follow a stock market index such as the FTSE100 up and down
Having a manager at the helm can be beneficial in a market downturn as they can take a more defensive approach buying shares that are better able to hold their value or in some cases switching to bonds or cash instead to help preserve investorsrsquo capital Managers can also research individual companies and markets and have access to forecasts and economic data that isnrsquot always available to individuals
Learn more about investing for growth or income exploring different investment remits how to invest and keeping track of your investments
Understanding funds Written by Emma Simon Personal Finance Journalist
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
What are Investment TrustsInvestment Trusts are investment vehicles that are listed on the London Stock Exchange and which invest in shares and other securities They pool together investorsrsquo money and delegate responsibility to a professional fund manager to invest in a range of companies from different sectors and regions across the world They were designed for ldquothe investor of moderate meansrdquo
A brief historybull The first Investment Trust was launched by Foreign amp
Colonial in 1868
bull Investment Trusts made it possible for individual investors to gain diversified exposure to global stock markets
bull Many Investment Trusts were formed in Scotland including Alliance Trust PLC which was formed over 125 years ago
A guide to Investment Trusts
Learn more about Investment Trusts their main features and why you should consider them for your portfolio
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
Alliance Trust is an investment and savings business with over 125 year history of building investor wealth We offer our shareholders clients and customers a unique portfolio of products and services These range from a renowned global investment trust to an innovative range of investment strategies and funds and a multi-award winning investment platform where investors can host their ISAs SIPPs or investment accounts Our mission is to provide products and services that help to ensure a more sustainable financial future for generations of investors
Alliance Trust PLC is one of the largest generalist investment trusts by market value listed on the London Stock Exchange and is the parent company to two wholly-owned subsidiaries Alliance Trust Savings and Alliance Trust Investments
The fact that many of us make irrational decisions when it comes to our finances is widely debated and is often referred to as behavioural finance In this short video we talk to Professor Phyl Johnson Consultant Psychologist and Visiting Professor of Executive Education at Strathclyde Business School about why this is and more importantly about what we can do as individuals to avoid it
About us Alliance Trust Investments is a specialist fund management business offering a range of products and services focusing on global equities fixed income and sustainable investing with an emphasis on specialist investment solutions
Alliance Trust Savings is one of the UKrsquos leading financial services providers for private investors offering customers the information and services they need to manage their investments in a way that works for them
Risk informationInvestments can go down as well as up You may get back less than you originally invested
Alliance Trust does not give advice You need to ensure you understand the risks and commitments before investing If you are unsure you should consult a Financial Adviser before investing
Unusually for a company of our size around 70 of shares
in Alliance Trust are held by private
individuals
Nobodyrsquos perfect why we all make irrational decisions
Inflation by ageThis monthrsquos official inflation report showed that the headline rate of inflation fell from 20 to 19 Our Economic Research Team analyse this data on a monthly basis to see how inflation rates affect different age groups In February 2014 the summary highlights include
bull The over 75s and the under 30s face the highest rate of inflation in January at 21
bull The over 75s suffered the highest rate of inflation for the whole of 2013 and this trend continues into 2014 as they spend a larger share of their budgets on basic goods such as gas and electricity
bull The 65 to 74 year olds have faced the lowest rate of inflation in 11 out of the last 12 months thanks to lower inflation in food petrol and package holidays
Learn more about how inflation might affect you
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
You can also sign up for our regular email alerts to be informed when new topics are published by clicking here
Wersquove been bringing clarity to investment for over 125 years
Investing for generationsWhen it comes to investing therersquos no substitute for experience And at Alliance Trust wersquove been helping people invest since 1888 Our new Investment Focus hub is full of online information and expert opinion It aims to provide real insight to help you take control of your investments
Over the next few weeks the hub will build to cover everything from taking your first steps to diversifying worldwide Please remember that investments can go down as well as up and investors may get back less than they originally invested For valuable insight from Alliance Trust visit Investment Focus today
Introducing your free online source of information help and expert opinion
investment-focuscouk
This has been approved as a financial promotion by Alliance Trust Investments Limited for the purpose of Section 21 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 Alliance Trust Investments Limited is a subsidiary of Alliance Trust PLC and is registered in Scotland No SC330862 registered office 8 West Marketgait Dundee DD1 1QN is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority firm reference number 479764 Alliance Trust Investments gives no financial or investment advice
TAX YEAR ENDS APRIL 5TH ndash learn more about
your options now
Change the way you think about stocks reap the rewardsBy Edward Page Croft CEO Stockopediacom
I remember so clearly the day when I picked my first stock for clients Managing $2 billion (pound12 billion) in assets across 100 portfolios for high-net-wealth private investors is no easy task As I was to learn when you are green
and straight out of university itrsquos even harder The stock in question was on the Goldman
Sachs US lsquobuyrsquo list It had the potential to be hot Dotcoms were bubbling It was an internet stock in education services and cheap It seemed like it had everything but we needed to get in One day it fell out of bed Down 50 per cent on no news
Irsquod been trained to call the analyst in situations like this He reiterated his buy stance Double buy On my insistence we put almost $20 million of client money into the stock within an hour The next day it fell another 50 per cent on
bad newsThere is nothing more
painful than a loss but you never forget the first
one It immedi-ately forced me to reconsider every-thing I thought I
knew From that day on I vowed to never trust anotherrsquos opin-ion and find a better
way through the market minefieldIrsquove now spent 15 years
reassessing common
wisdom about stock selection No stone has gone unturned in the quest to understand the behav-ioural flaws that lead to poor decision making But there is one finding that crops up again and again in all the research that hurts stock market investors most We as investors are suckers for stories
A 1990rsquos study of 60000 private investor broker-age accounts by Kumar and Goetzmann found that 70 per cent of portfolios held less than four stocks
The stocks held all tended to be in the same sector highly correlated and risky Think internet stocks in the 1990s China in the 2000s or resource stocks more recently The grand theme sucks everyone in The outcome rarely dif-fers Kumar and Goetzmann showed that across these
60000 accounts the average underperformance was of the order of 4 per cent annually
This massive failing across private inves-tor portfolios is repeated in nearly every market cycle and is bound to happen again in this one Benjamin Graham the great father of value invest-ing and tutor of Warren Buffett once wrote
lsquoIn the short run the stock market is a vot-ing machine but in the long run it is a weighing machinersquo
ADVERTISING FEATURE
IN THE SHORT RUN THE STOCK MARKET IS A VOTING MACHINE BUT IN THE LONG RUN IT IS A WEIGHING MACHINEBenjamin Graham
What he meant was that while stories may drive stocks in the short run statistics drive stocks in the long run When statistics reassert them-selves it can cause huge damage to investors punting their portfolios on stories
It doesnrsquot take much to learn how basic statis-tics can guide your portfolio into winning stock selections though very few seem to understand how to do it Benjamin Graham as his life wore on gradually came to the conclusion that building portfolios according to rules-based processes was a far more appropriate methodology for the typi-cal investor
lsquoTry to buy groups of stocks that meet some sim-ple criterion for being undervalued ndash regardless of
the industry and with very little attention to the indi-vidual company It seems too good to be true but all I can tell you after 60 years of experience is it seems to stand up under any of the tests I would make uprsquo
My time is now dedi-cated to helping investors practice exactly what Benjamin Graham and many other investment luminaries have preached rules-based investing For the majority itrsquos a better process and leads to bet-ter outcomes Our work at
Stockopediacom where we crunch fundamental and technical data in order to model and track the investment processes of the great investors bears this out
Portfolios composed with stocks showing the right statistical mix of value quality and momen-tum have significantly outperformed Rules-based investing beats the market But more importantly it helps promote the emotional detachment needed to stop investors from beating themselves
Irsquoll never buy a stock on a punt or an analystrsquos tip again Perhaps neither should you
For a two week free trial and pound50 discount to Stockopedia UK Premium CLICK HERE
TANK MCM A N U F A C T U R E M O V E M E N T 1 9 0 4 M C
SINCE THE CREATION OF THE FIRST TANK WATCH IN 1917 THE TANK COLLECTION HAS CONTINUED
TO BREAK NEW GROUND THE INCREDIBLY REFINED AESTHETICS OF THE NEW TANK MC WATCH ARE FITTED
WITH THE CARTIER MANUFACTURE MOVEMENT 1904 MC ESTABLISHED IN 1847 CARTIER CREATES
EXCEPTIONAL WATCHES THAT COMBINE DARING DESIGN AND WATCHMAKING SAVOIR-FAIRE
EXPLORE AND SHOP WWWCARTIERCOUK - (020) 3147 4850
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oisseur
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oisseur
Inside
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TO THE CONNOISSEUR section of Inspired a showcase for the finer things in life for those who truly appreciate them
Enjoying the fruits of your labour away from the relentless demands of our age poses its own challenges and quandaries Would a tropical idyll restore your ebbing energy levels Might a break based around hair-raising activities revive them even more effectively Perhaps reawakening a dormant passion for fine wines or luxury cars would be the most enjoyable reward for your industry
A luxury tropical holiday is probably near the top of most peoplersquos wish lists We take a look at some of the most tantalising options
The arrival of BMWrsquos new super coupe is featured on page 50 BMW aficionados and petrolheads alike are certain to be won over by its head-turning looks and mouthwatering specs
Gems come under the microscope on page 53 A rare coloured diamond can be a joy as well an appreciating asset
Wine is on the menu on page 54 where we explore the charms of Argentinian Malbec
Watches are often treasured objects and the best can turn out to be shrewd investments We look at the secondary watch market and the growth of online retailing on page 58 Enjoy
Welcome
40 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
FIVE TOP PRIVATE ISLAND RETREATSIslandFantasy
Top-rated resorts and hotels offer a variety of temptations and services to impress even the most discerning tastes but there is no better way to escape the rigours and
stresses of daily life than cutting off from the outside world while still enjoying lavish service
in the pinnacle of all resorts the private islandThere are thousands of small islands around
the world but only a few have chosen to cater to the most discriminating travellers seeking a rarified yet perfect world of quiet and relaxed luxury We look at five of the worldrsquos top private islands destinations where your holiday is certain to be an exceptional experience
TRAVEL
Necker Island is owned by Sir Richard Branson and guests stay in his home The island has become a popular des-tination for some of the worldrsquos most prominent figures as a hideaway from lifersquos stresses and strains
Because Necker Island is a resi-dence and not a resort guests who rent the island are treated as owners and catered for in a unique way
The74-acre island is fringed with beautiful white beaches and surrounded by turquoise waters and coral reefs It boasts every resort-type amenity guests can spend their days being pampered in the spa explor-ing underwater reefs in a submarine lounging by the pool bar or swimming in one of the worldrsquos most elab-orate private pools
Haute cuisine is a highlight for most guests ndash rates are fully inclusive of all food and drink A team of chefs creates bespoke menus featuring anything from lobster and caviar to a Sunday roast And because Necker is a home first and a resort second guests decide whether dining will be formal or informal inside or outside themed or traditional
The bar is stocked with international wines top-quality spirits and beers and a world renowned house champagne while special orders can be shipped in at no extra charge ndash unless an item is particularly rare Every service and amenity is available around the clock and guests are encouraged to treat Necker as their own home
As youLike it
NECKER ISLAND
42 March 2014 | inspired
Unalloyed luxury and an impressive range of amenities make Necker one of the most desirable island destinations in the world
The Jumby Bay resort which is only accessible by boat from Antigua is a Caribbean hideaway owned by Rosewood Resorts It is perfect for those seeking either relaxation or spirited adventure
You can rent the island resort entirely for your stay or simply take a room Those opt-ing for exclusive use of the island will have the resortrsquos two pools three tennis courts fitness centre croquet field and putting green to themselves
A wide range of water sports are available and guests can indulge in as much adventure or relaxation as they want during their stay The resort is ideal for large family
reunions or corporate retreats ndash 40 guest rooms and suites are available on the island
Executive chef Sylvain Hervochon celebrates gastron-omy ndash and mixology (cocktail making) ndash with casual elegance by creating Caribbean-style dishes inspired by fresh local ingredients and incorporating international influences
Jumby Bayrsquos rates start at pound150000 for four nights based on double occupancy between May and December Visit wwwrosewoodhotelscomenjumby-bay-antigua for further information
Fine BalanceCaribbean ambiance international sophistication and adventurous activities make Jumby Bay a compelling choice
JUMBY BAY
Just laze by the pool or venture beyond to dive in the turquoise waters of the South Pacific among stunning reefs and a dazzling array of marine creatures
Isle of PlentyT
he private island of Laucala in the South Pacific is a 3500-acre site in a picturesque rainforest-laced land-scape Enchanting deserted beaches nestle among coconut plantations organic farms and lush green vol-canic mountains
The resort offers an outstanding level of refined lux-ury as well as a compelling collection of sporting and cultural activities diving among iridescent marine life in the warm turquoise waters guided rainforest tours horse riding surfing and golfing on the 18-hole cham-pionship course The island is a superb choice for an escape from civilization whether you want an adven-ture in the wild or simply to relax in one of Laucalarsquos five restaurants and bars
Rates are available on request Visit wwwlaucalacom for further details
TRAVEL
LAUCALA ISLAND
inspired | March 2014 4544 March 2014 | inspired
Lush green surroundings sensitive development and beautiful beaches help Laucala island conjure up a complete South Seas experience
Isle of Plenty
inspired | March 2014 4544 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
inspired | March 2014 4746 March 2014 | inspired
Slow LaneSlow
Pulau Joyo is a seductively serene environment of pristine beaches surrounded by clear blue sea in Indonesiarsquos Riau Archipelago Accessible from Singapore or Bintan Pulau Joyo is a true castaway island offering every resort luxury
amid untouched natural beauty Pulau Joyo is famous for its remarkable sunsets and
brightly star-lit sky The resort can host 28 guests and 20 staff are on hand to cater to their every need Guests stay in open driftwood lsquopalacesrsquo that lsquoallow the sea inrsquoDespite its desert island appeal Pulau Joyo offers every modern convenience a range of adrenaline boosting activities and more relaxing options such as spa treatments and massages
The resortrsquos cuisine focuses on western and Indonesian dishes Meals are usually served buffet style and feature grilled fish squid prawns beef and chicken as well as many curry dishes Side dishes include fresh garden salads pasta salads boiled or steamed leafy greens and grilled aubergine (an island favourite) Prawn and tofu kebabs appear from time to time as does satay The chef will often provide a selection of freshly picked fruit and homemade cakes for dessert Itrsquos worth noting that the management will not serve pork or shellfish on this private island
Pulau Joyo may not be as refined as some islands but itrsquos an excellent choice for those who want a more casual laidback island experience that replicates the castaway experience like perhaps no other
Rates start at pound1913 a night More information is available at wwwpulau-joyocom
Wannabe castaways may find Pulau Joyorsquos purer simpler take on the luxury island experience more to their taste
PULAU JOYO
inspired | March 2014 4746 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
In the Fijian island paradise of Dolphin Island a small army of staff await to meet guestsrsquo every need On arriving ndash by boat helicopter or float plane ndash visitors are invariably struck by the beauty of the island and the luxuri-ous accommodation that awaits them amid 14-acres of lush tropical gardens
Three traditional palm-thatched bures individually designed by world renowned interior designer Virginia Fisher sit in an elevated position around the resortrsquos infinity pool
Guests are brought fresh tropical fish to choose each day that are cooked to perfec-
tion within hours of leaving the water The culinary focus is on
organic produce and ingredi-ents unique to Fijian cuisine but meals are tailored to guestsrsquo personal tastes Papayas man-goes bananas and pineapples
are plentiful throughout the day When it comes to recreation the
14-acre island is an expansive play-ground offering a diverse range of watersports as well as diving opportunities on Fijirsquos coral reefs
Rates start at pound720 a night More information is avail-able at wwwdolphinislandfijicom
Fijian Paean
Traditional features modern comforts and excellent facilities make for a harmonious whole on this Fijian island
DOLPHIN ISLAND
48 March 2014 | inspired
Pictured slightly larger than actual size
Big Pilotrsquos Watch Ref 5009
Your wrist never felt this big before The
case of the top model in the IWC Pilotrsquos
Watch range is a gigantic 462 mm in diashy
meter And the technology inside it is
even more impressive the largest IWCshy
manufactured automatic movement with
its Pellaton winding system is protected
against strong magnetic fields by a softshy
iron inner case And needless to say enshy
vious glances iwc engineered for men
Mechanical IWCshymanufactured movement Pellaton
automatic winding system 7shyday power reserve
with display (figure) Date display Softshyiron inner
case for protection against magnetic fields
Antireflective sapphire glass Watershyresistant 6 bar
Stainless steel
IWC Schaffhausen Switzerland iwccom The worldrsquos finest timepieces are exclusively available from selected watch specialists
For an illustrated catalogue or list of nationwide concessionaires please contact IWC UK Tel 0845 337 1868 Eshymail infoshyukiwccom
CARS
MunichLegend
50 March 2014 | inspired
BMW fanatics can open their eyes ndash the M4 has arrived
Most BMW aficionados are proba-bly pretty sad to see production of the M3 coupe ndash quite possibly the companyrsquos most noteworthy and celebrated model ndash end after almost 30 years Ever since the first wide-body E30 M3 saw the
light of day in 1985 drivers have loved the sporty coupe for its incredible balance intoxicating power and of course solid build quality
The model never got stale in all that time and always remained the poster child for the M division so itrsquos a lit-tle weird that BMW has apparently decided to axe it In truth though they havenrsquot really dropped the M3 The M3 sedan will continue to be produced in 2014 so all
is not lost Moreover BMW seems to be adopting a pat-tern of giving its sedans odd-numbered titles only and its coupes even-numbered titles only so the 4-Series and especially the M4 concept that debuted at Pebble Beach Monterey California will fill the gap left by the M3 Many people have been awaiting the new super coupe with great expectancy but can it fill in for the M3
The journalists who swarmed over the M4 concept at Pebble Beach were obviously much more interested in it than the somewhat predictable 428i that was also there Finished in an eye-catching colour called Aurum Dust (which actually looks a lot like the old M3rsquos Phoenix Yellow colour) the car presented in California may be a concept but typically BMW M cars donrsquot change much before they finally hit the showroom
MunichLegend
inspired | March 2014 51
CARS
52 March 2014 | inspired
From front to back the bodywork is manifestly differ-ent and much more aggressive looking than a standard 4-Series car It really looks to pretty much pick up where the E92E93 M3 coupe left off especially with its undeniably cool domed hood Wide wheel arches big wheels wrapped in low-profile tyres more than enough M badges and a well-executed double-bubble roof make the already underwhelming existing 4-Series coupe look even more pedestrian
Power for the new M4 is likely to come from a three-litre twin-turbo straight-six engine While the horsepower probably wonrsquot differ much from the M3rsquos old 4-litre V-8 it will generate more than 100lbft more in torque almost 400 in total With the M4 being a lighter 3300lb in weight the M4 promises to be an excit-ing worthy car A proper six-speed manual may be in the mix alongside the now obligatory dual clutch and paddles option
The best way to look at the M4 however it ends up is not as a new car but as a new and improved M3 thatrsquos just getting a new name The decision to rename the coupe is a strange one but thankfully BMW apparently felt the 3-Series coupe had made such an identity for itself that a new model was needed albeit in a slightly different incarnation
With BMW embarking on some new-ageish ideas such as its 1-Series ActiveE and the soon-to-arrive lsquoirsquo range of cars itrsquos nice to see the company also stick to classics such as the heart-stopping sports coupe even if the latest model does come with a new name
Seductive curves and racier performance make the BMW M4 a more than acceptable replacement for the M3 super coupe
SparklingForm Coloured diamonds are making their mark
One of the main factors that deter-mines the value of what we ordinarily think of as diamonds is their purity the degree to which col-our is absent in the gem However with coloured diamonds the extent to which they are saturated with
colour is a principal determinant of their valueColoured diamonds come in 12 basic colours more
than 90 secondary hues and nine intensity levels The depth of their colour is what really differentiates these diamonds from their colourless counterparts
Natural coloured diamonds are 10000 times rarer than typical colourless diamonds one of several rea-sons why they are treasured by the rich and famous yet remain unknown to most other people ndash despite hav-ing been around for centuries
Of course some colours are rarer than others Red violet and purple stones are as rare as the proverbial hensrsquo teeth while green and blue are also rare The most popular colours are pink and yellow (or canary) They also come in white grey orange black and lsquochame-leonrsquo form
A pinkie ring encrusted with a large coloured dia-mond has become a status symbol for men in Asia That little stone is an unregistered asset that could quickly be sold for millions of dollars should the need arise
Coloured diamonds are durable and never lose their sparkle or lustre so they are assets that can be enjoyed every day unlike stocks or bonds And they have proved to be fantastic investments having steadily appreciated in price with relatively little volatility for more than a decade They even held their own during the most recent financial crisis
Coloured diamonds are auctioned by reputable
auction houses such a Sothebyrsquos and Christiersquos where prices for large unique pink red blue or yellow stones can reach in excess of $2 million (pound12 million) a carat and other stones regularly sell for $1 million a carat
They are often bought by high-net-worth individu-als as an insurance policy Instead of stashing cash in undeclared bank accounts and potentially incurring the wrath of the authorities the wealthy can purchase some loose yellow diamonds to secure their future
Clearly coloured diamonds are much more than a magnificent indulgence
GEMS
inspired | March 2014 53PB March 2014 | inspired
WINE
Make the most of the deeply
satisfying Malbec wines emerging from Argentina
and perhaps even enjoy a return on a shrewd
investment says Ewan Lacey
Finding a red wine to enjoy in spring is a delicate balancing act The shock of seeing sunlight after a dark winter fosters in us a desire to drink some-thing refreshing while the still-cool temperatures demand something with comforting depth
Increasingly Malbec wines particularly those from Argentina provide a perfect solution to this quandary And while there are plenty of delicious wines for infor-mal occasions what is most interesting is the emergence of finer Malbec wines Some are so good they may well have ageing potential raising the intriguing possibility that the wine may one day become collectable
Malbec is the most popular wine among those aged 25-34 and is now becoming a fixture on most restaurant wine lists There are several reasons for its success the word Malbec is easy to pronounce the wine goes well with red meat the Malbec grape can be turned into wines that are both relatively easy to drink and packed with flavour and decent wines are available at reason-able prices Malbec is deep fruity and charming and it delivers instant pleasure ndash claret on a motorbike
The Malbec grape originated in France and it remains one of the permitted varieties used to make Bordeaux However it has gained prominence through the work of the post-junta Argentine wine industry
I recently had the pleasure of tasting some very fine Malbecs with Laura Catena managing director at the Catena Zapata winery and president of the International Wine and Spirit Competition She opened my
Mendoza Marvels
inspired | March 2014 55
WINE
eyes to the potential of this grape variety when handled with care
Laurarsquos family business makes a range of wines but the wine that truly astonished me was the Nicasia Vineyard Malbec 2006 The wine is perfumed with floral and fruit notes and it is smooth and soft at first Like all great wines it has many layers of flavour warm bursts of cherry and black-currant cede centre stage to deeper darker caramel and mocha notes and a touch of spice Therersquos an amazing depth of flavour and the finish is long and lingering Whatrsquos more at nearly eight years old it still has a slight purple tinge and tastes extremely fresh There is every indication that it will age beautifully for at least another decade
The winersquos character is heavily influenced by the alti-tude the grapes used to make it are grown at (1180m
above sea level) At this elevation the grapes ripen in bright sun but lsquorelaxrsquo during the cool evenings The fact that the wine is made in tiny quantities (eight barrels only) means every care can be taken during the winemak-ing process to ensure the wine is allowed to show its grown-up side The cost per bot-tle of pound70 is not insubstantial but neither is the wine
We cannot know whether these wines will ever become investments in the way the wines of Bordeaux have Whatrsquos cer-tain is that Malbec wines have a very rare quality a balance of finesse and power that
can delight wine lovers and linger in their memories
Ewan Lacey is a leading wine expert and general manager of the International Wine and Spirit Competition He has appeared on BBC television and radio as well as Channel 4 and written for the national press
Laura Catena is managing director at the Catena Zapata winery (above)
THE INTERNATIONAL WINE AND SPIRIT COMPETITIONThe International Wine and Spirit Competition has been the premier drinks competition in the world for 45 years Each year it receives and reviews thousands of wines and spirits and presents qual-ity awards to producers
More than anything the IWSC exists to help
people make better deci-sions particularly when buying wines and spirits An IWSC award on a bot-tle of wine is a guarantee
of quality backed not only by a rigorous and strin-gent judging process but also by the skill of the judges who are drawn from the ranks of masters of wine master distill-ers industry leaders and commentators
Each year the IWSC honours a leading figure
in the drinks industry with the presidency of the competition The current president is Laura Catena who succeeds a nota-ble line of predecessors including Prince Robert of Luxembourg winemakers Piero Antinori and Warren Winiarski and Baroness Philippine de Rothschild
56 March 2014 | inspired
LUXURY WATCHES
Time is preciousA
t a recent watch auc-tion in Geneva at Antiquorum ndash the worldrsquos premiere auc-tion house for modern and vintage time pieces ndash a Patek Philippe
pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon watch emerged as the auctionrsquos top lot and sold for 12 million Swiss francs (pound807000)
Unlike most of the timepieces sold at auctions outside Asia this particular Patek watch ndash the most complicated wristwatch the Swiss watchmaker has ever produced ndash was not a vintage model
That Geneva auction raised intriguing
1284Clocks with weights gears and regulators start to appear mostly with no dial to strike the important moments of daily life
Around 1410The mainspring is devel-oped Combined with the fusee this innovation makes possible the truly portable domestic clock
1492The mechanical watch appears simultaneously in Italy Germany and France
1675Christian Huygens invents the spiral balance spring
for watches significantly improving their accuracy
1704The first watch with jew-els is produced by French watchmaker de Beaufreacute
1714The British parliament offers pound20000 to who-ever can a find a method to determine longitude
1766Parliament publishes the rating results for John Harrisonrsquos H4 marine timekeeper Harrisonrsquos highly accurate marine clock solution to the problem of determining logitude wins him part of the pound20000 prize
1787Pierre-Freacutedeacuteric Ingold is born an important pio-neer in mechanised timepiece production and the use of interchangea-ble parts
1790Jacquet-Droz and Leschot manufactures a watch attached to a strap
1839Vacheron amp Constantin developes a full set of machine tools for manu-facturing its watches
1875Calcium sulphate is the first luminescent sub-stance to be used for numerals and hands
TIMEKEEPING MILESTONES
questions Are modern luxury timepieces every bit as appealing as the vintage watches that typically command top prices at auc-tion And does that Geneva auction tell us anything about the contemporary watch market as a whole
Julien Schaerer Antiquorumrsquos managing director in Geneva says top-quality vintage watches often appreciate in value over the long term But he urges buyers for whom appreciation is an important consideration to be cautious about purchasing contempo-rary watches
lsquoWatch price depreciation is the cost of ownership just as it is with a luxury carrsquo he says lsquoIf the value goes up then
58 March 2014 | inspired
1880The first water- resistant watch incorpo-rating a screwed case is produced by Genevan watchmaker Franccedilois Borgel
1889The first known patent for a wristwatch is filed in Bern Switzerland
1890Dialmaker A Beyeler invents a transfer press for applying numerals and letters to dials
1892Auguste Verneuil in France produces the first synthetic jewels to be used in watchmaking
1904Wens Wilsdorf launches large-scale production of a womenrsquos wristwatch
1924John Harwood files the
first Swiss patent for a self-winding wristwatch with a central oscillating weight
1925The first known wrist-watch with a perpetual calendar is manufactured using a pendant watch movement
1926Rolex creates the Oyster wristwatch with a water-resistant case and crown
1966The first quartz wrist-watch prototype is produced
1969The first quartz watch
with an LED display appears
1978Quartz watches overtake mechanical watches in popularity
2005Creation of the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie Seiko launches the spring drive Kinetic the first self-winding mechanical watch with an electro-magnetic escapement
A Patek Philippe pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon recently sold for pound807000
inspired | March 2014 59
online retailers from the comfort of your homeSince 2006 DM London has quietly estab-
lished a powerful presence for itself in the UK retail watch market with the acquisition of The Watch Hut and The Watch Gallery DM London chairman David Coleridge says the company has capitalised on the increasing willingness of buy-ers to purchase online
lsquoHaving decided that they would like to buy a watch for themselves or someone elsersquo he says lsquopeople start to do their research More often than not this starts online nowadays where they com-pare brands performance and functions
lsquoAs trust in the online marketplace has devel-oped many want to buy online because it is convenient and saves time Shopping online becomes a habit established sites build trust and awareness with customers which gives custom-ers the confidence to buy more expensive itemsrsquo
He adds lsquoOur challenge is to make the online environment as attractive informative and enjoy-able as a high street store Then customers will decide to spend onlinersquo
Coleridge believes a multi-channel approach is the way forward for retailers He says lsquoWithout doubt the future is multi-channel selling ndash a combination of direct selling on the internet and various forms of click and collect ndash combined with beautiful stores on the high street
Over the past few years demand for luxury watches (particularly contemporary models) has spiked sharply in Asia and according to some specialists emerging affluence in the
of course thatrsquos an added benefit However he adds lsquoPrice appreciation is still quite rare with modern watches There is some poten-tial for appreciation but probably only with ultra-limited editions A purchase has to be
seen as a medium- to long-term invest-ment One should buy a timepiece first out of love for the brand or [the watchrsquos] complicationrsquo
The watch brands that offer the greatest assurance of appreci-
ation include Cartier Patek Philippe Rolex Audemars
Piguet A Lange amp Sohne Breguet and Vacheron Constantin All enjoy views from the top of
the watchmaking hierarchy thanks to their longstand-ing histories and well-established brand identities
Relative new-comers to the industry such as Richard Mille and Roger Dubuis have carved out a niche for
themselves with their revolutionary designs and
space-age technologies but it remains to be seen just how well the values of their timepieces will stand up on the secondary market
According to Nathaniel Borgelt a specialist at auction house Sothebyrsquos
some modern watches have already achieved good prices at auction but these (like the Patek Philippe Sky Moon Tourbillon) were highly exclusive models when new
lsquoSome limited edition pieces currently fetch incredible prices at auctionrsquo he says lsquoAnd there is a select group of modern mod-els that could compete with a certain sector of the vintage market based on their brand innovative features such as materials or com-plications and avant-garde designs
Buying these has now become a whole lot easier The luxury watch retailing land-scape is changing and the traditional pattern of physically walking into a luxury salon to buy a watch is gradually being replaced by a trend towards visiting the websites of the big
LUXURY WATCHES
A Lange amp Sohne (above) is a long-standing high-end watchmaker Comparative new-comer Roger Dubuis (right) is forging a strong reputation
inspired | March 2014 PB60 March 2014 | inspired
helpthewatchgallerycom
Hublot ClassiC FusiontHe WatCH Gallery exClusive
The Watch Gallery and Hublot have joined forces to create two very special limited edition watches Both are limited to just 15 pieces worldwide and have been specifically designed to feature The Watch Gallery blue brand colour on the hands and tinted open case back
SelfridgeS OxfOrd StreetWeStfield lOndOnMancheSter exchange Square
wwwthewatchgallerycomhublot-watches
Far East has kept global values strong while other markets around the world continue to recover from recession
Despite the market boost from growing prosperity in Asia there are signs that the market is becoming saturated and that globally the new watch market isnrsquot as robust as some commentators suggest
It may still be a good time to buy but its important to know what you want and what yoursquore buying Modern watchmakers such as Richard Mille Roger Dubuis and Greubel Forsey are producing beautiful timepieces but because of their limited foothold in the market itrsquos difficult to predict their long-term success and desirability They donrsquot yet have the brand power that might ensure the value of their
watches in the secondhand market remains highSuch producers might one day stand eye to
eye with the most desirable brands such as Patek Philippe and Rolex but achieving that kind of parity wonrsquot be easy Collectors looking to invest in timepieces are advised to keep an open mind about modern producers uncertainty is the one aspect of modern luxury watch market most experts tend to agree on
That said the buoyancy in the watch market suggests that plenty of buyers are unconcerned about future values For them itrsquos all about the appreciation of the watch itself People buy watches because they bring them pleasure ndash and say some-thing about who they are
LUXURY WATCHES
Contemporary watches such as those made by Hublot (left) have yet to show they will have the lasting appeal of watches such as Cartierrsquos Rotonde de Cartier Astrocalendaire (right)
inspired | March 2014 63
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-
SCOTTISH MORTGAGE INVESTMENT TRUST
For a limited period and new eligible ISA customers only Terms amp Conditions and minimum investment amounts apply Please refer to our website or the application pack that we will send you for full details Your call may be recorded for training or monitoring purposes Baillie Gifford Savings Management Limited (BGSM) is the manager of the Baillie Gifford Investment Trust ISA and is wholly owned by Baillie Gifford amp Co which is the manager and secretary of the Scottish Mortgage Investment Trust PLC Your personal data is held and used by BGSM in accordance with data protection legislation We may use your information to send you information about Baillie Gifford products funds or special offers and to contact you for business research purposes We will only disclose your information to other companies within the Baillie Gifford group and to agents appointed by us for these purposes You can withdraw your consent to receiving further marketing communications from us and to being contacted for business research purposes at any time You also have the right to review and amend your data at any time
Wersquore 100 committed to making sure our fund managers never have a restricted outlook That way the long-term view is a clear one So whatrsquos the secret to their liberated attitude
Well our flagship fund the Scottish Mortgage Investment Trust is a global stock-picking fund that is completely free of asset allocation constraints that ignores index weightings and that selects stocks purely on their merit We feel that this freedom allows us to focus on the long term
The Scottish Mortgage Investment Trust is managed by Baillie Gifford
Please remember that changing stock market conditions and currency exchange rates will affect the value of your investment in the fund and any income from it You may not get back the amount invested
You can purchase Scottish Mortgage from Interactive Investor Alternatively you can invest directly with Baillie Gifford through our ISA Open an ISA with Baillie Gifford before 30 April and you can receive a pound10 Amazon gift card
For more information contact Baillie Gifford on 0800 917 2112 or visit wwwscottishmortgageitcomBaillie Gifford ndash long-term investment partners
Freedom to roam
WE LIVE IN A PERIOD OF EXPONENTIAL CHANGE PROVIDING FANTASTIC OPPORTUNITIES FOR STOCK PICKERS LIKE US
cent over one year and 229 per cent over three
Alastair Mundyrsquos Temple Bar Investment Trust focuses on UK equities including GlaxoSmithKline Vodafone and Royal Dutch Shell
It failed to outperform the UK equity income sector over one year despite its popular-ity posting a return of 18 per cent compared with the sectorrsquos 21 per cent However it per-formed better over three years returning 62 per cent against the sectorrsquos 56 per cent
INCOME AND SMALLER COMPANIES STILL IMPORTANTInvestors retained an interest in income and smaller-companies investment trusts in February ndash extending the same purchasing trend in January And they con-tinued to flock to UK-focused trusts as a safe haven
Although two of the 10 most-bought trusts Murray International Trust and Bankers Investment Trust invest in international equities both counted UK equities among their top holdings with the Bankers trust favouring BP GlaxoSmithKline and Vodafone
The other popular
losed-end fund inves-tors stuck closely to income trusts in February but seemed more willing to accept
risk than those purchasing open-ended funds the latest data from Interactive Investor shows
The three most popular trusts were regular investor favourites Baillie Giffordrsquos Scottish Mortgage Investment Trust Investecrsquos Temple Bar Investment Trust and Frostrow Capitalrsquos Biotech Growth Trust
While open-ended fund investors looked mainly to UK equities for income two of these three top invest-ment trusts have a worldwide focus James Anderson and Tom Slaterrsquos Scottish Mortgage Investment Trust which posted a sector-beating 27 per cent return over one year and 56 per cent over three invests in worldwide large-cap equi-ties such as Google and Apple while the Biotech Growth Trust taps the worldwide biotechnol-ogy industry through US equity investments
This trust managed by Geoffrey Hsu and Richard Klemm also beat its sector the biotechnology and healthcare sector with returns of 49 per
income trust Premier Asset Mangementrsquos Acorn Income fund invests in UK mid- and large-cap equities includ-ing Electrocomponents John Menzies and Cineworld Group It returned 46 per cent over the past year and 144 per cent over the past three It was the seventh most-bought trust by Interactive Investor users in February
The UK focus also character-ised investorsrsquo smaller-company trust choices The UK-favoured Henderson Smaller Companies Investment Trust and BlackRock Smaller Companies Investment Trust in sixth and tenth place respectively
Both benefited from the UK housing boom through invest-ments in Bellway and Ashtead Group and both outperformed the UK smaller-companies sec-tor which recorded returns of 37 per cent over one year and 66 per cent over three
INVESTORS RETAINED AN INTEREST IN INCOME AND SMALLER-COMPANIES TRUSTS IN FEBRUARY
CMARKET
YOUR MONTH IN THE
Julie Fisher reveals Februaryrsquos 10 most popular trusts
Bankers trust favours a mix of shares in UK and multinational companies
TRADING
10 March 2014 | inspired
AN APPETITE FOR RISK BOOSTS TRUSTSInvestors showed a greater appetite for risk by invest-ing more heavily in trusts As a result BlackRock World Mining Trust and Templeton Emerging Market Trust took the final two places on the list fourth and fifth
Unfortunately both have posted negative returns in recent years due to the fact that they are positioned in unfavour-able markets
While the BlackRock trust was slightly above the com-modities and natural resources sector over six months one year and three years the Templeton trust only outperformed the global emerging markets equi-ties sector over the past month However investors appear to be buying in in the hope that there will be some improvement in the next few years
Emerging markets fell back out of favour among fund investors in February while pur-
chases of UK and smaller company funds held firm the latest data from Interactive Investor shows
After a brief revival for emerging markets in January when three EM funds were among the 10 most bought Februaryrsquos most-popular funds were generally UK-focused
Paul Marriagersquos Cazenove UK Smaller Companies fund was knocked off the list after five consecutive months at the top as it closed to new purchases on 22 January allowing Januaryrsquos sec-ond-placed fund AXA Framlington Biotech to take top spot The US biotechnology-focused fund managed by Linden Thompson is popular as it delivered a return of 61 per cent over the past year and 164 per cent over the past three
Although the AXA fund has little in common with the other top purchases there are trends to be spotted in the rest of the list most of which continue from January Income was a focus for investors while UK smaller companies remained popular
lsquoThere were strong flows into funds investing in the UK and Europe whereas Asia excluding Japan and emerging markets suffered outflows following relatively weak per-formance in these regions since May 2013rsquo say Charles Cade and Ewan Lovett-Taylor in their report on fund trades in January lsquoPerhaps the most notable sub-sector is UK smaller company funds which have bene-fited from net inflows every month since August 2012rsquo
SMALLER COMPANIESAccording to Numis January saw the highest number of monthly inflows into smaller com-pany funds on record pound241 million The Interactive
Investor data shows these funds remained popular in February
Three smaller-company funds made it into the top 10 Investec UK Smaller Companies fund the River and Mercantile UK Equity Smaller Companies fund and the CF Miton UK Smaller Companies fund took third fourth and fifth place respectively
All three outperformed the UK smaller-companies sector which delivered returns of 32 per cent over one year and 55 per cent over three Gervais Williamsrsquos CF Miton fund pro-vided the best return over a year at 55 per cent while the River and Mercantile fund managed by Daniel Hanbury delivered 112 per cent over three years
Ken Hsiarsquos Investec fund had the least impressive returns at 47 per cent over one year and 79 per cent over three but still outperformed the sector The fund invests in small-cap UK companies including Quindell Optimal Payments and Utilitywise
INCOME EMPHASISThe other priority for inves-tors in February was income and this too was UK focused Of five income funds appear-ing in the 10 most-bought category only the Artemis Global Income fund had a non-UK focus
Jacob de Tusch-Lecrsquos fund which delivered returns of 14 per cent over one year and 47 over three invests chiefly
in European and US equi-ties The other most-bought income funds were Unicorn UK Income Rathbone Income JOHCM UK Equity and the Invesco Perpetual Income
They all beat the UK equity income sectorrsquos returns of 16 per cent over one year and 36 per cent over three All invested in large-cap UK com-panies with GlaxoSmithKline AstraZeneca and Royal Dutch Shell among the top holdings
Despite its focus on income the Invesco Perpetual High Income fund dropped out of the 10 most-bought funds in February and the Invesco Perpetual
Income fund appeared only at the end of the list This suggests that investors may be get-ting nervous over the
imminent departure of star fund manager Neil Woodford in April
One growth fund also made the list the MFM Slater Growth fund which took ninth place Like the income funds it outperformed its sec-tor UK all companies
and focused on UK-listed companies including
Hutchison China (HCM) and Entertainment One (ETO)
THE 10 TOP MOST-BOUGHT FUNDSANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
THEREWERESTRONGFLOWSINTOFUNDINVESTINGINTHE
UKANDEUROPEWHEREASASIAEXCLUDINGJAPANANDEMERGINGMARKETSSUFFEREDOUTFLOWSFOLLOWINGRELATIVELYWEAKPERFORMANCEINTHESEREGIONSSINCEMAY2013Charles Cade and Ewan Lovett-Taylor
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
inspired | March 2014 11
DONrsquoT DISMISS AIM-BASED INVESTMENTS
Richard Beddard is an editor at Interactive Investor and manager of Money Observerrsquos Share Sleuth portfolio
Now that inves-tors can buy Alternative Investment Market shares
within Isas the universe of potentially profitable invest-ments has grown But therersquos also more room for disappointment
Aimrsquos light-touch regula-tion makes it easier for younger smaller companies to list and while such shares are reputed to be risky that need not frighten
INVEST REGULARLY
Mick Gilligan head of research Killik amp Co
Starting an Isa at the beginning of a new tax year and investing small amounts
regularly out of your income ndash rather than a larger amount in one lump sum at the end of each tax year ndash helps reduce the impact of market volatility and you start earning compound interest sooner When income is reinvested alongside the initial investment it effectively becomes capital so you have a larger sum producing an income which in turn can be reinvested
trsquos very easy to keep on doing the same things with your annual tax-efficient Isa allow-ance However investors can lose out badly if they do
Itrsquos not just the Isa allowances that keep changing the economic environment and the range of investments available do too So itrsquos important that investors con-sider all the Isa opportunities open to them before they make a any big
irrevocable decisionsWersquove asked a number of invest-
ment experts to reveal their top Isa tips We are sure they will give you some useful guidelines and help you refine the choices you make Some suggestions are reminders about long-standing opportunities others draw your attention to new developments in Isa invest-ing and highlight the opportunities they offer
Isa investorswhether using some or all of their annual allowances donrsquot always get the best out of their investments Faith Glasgow asks some financial experts for their most valuable tips
investors from investing in Aim firms Plenty of them have long illustrious track records in worthy businesses and itrsquos easy to find out about them on finan-cial websites More details are available on companiesrsquo own investor relations websites the contents of which are mandated by Aim rule 26 a rule the more heavily regulated main market would do well to emulate
UP YOUR ISA CONTRIBUTIONS
Darius McDermott managing director Chelsea Financial Services
Donrsquot forget to increase your monthly Isa investments each year in line with
inspired | March 2014 1312 March 2014 | inspired
EXPERTSrsquo TOP ISA
TIPS
ISAS SMART STRATEGY FOR
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
INVESTING SMALL AMOUNTS REGULARLY HELPS REDUCE THE IMPACT OF MARKET VOLATILITYMick Gilligan
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
I
and shares in [non-cash] Isas However this isnrsquot the case Indeed some other asset classes ndash in particular those that pro-duce income ndash offer even more tax benefits than equities when held within an Isa
Bond funds for example get (at least) 20 per cent income tax relief on the yield they pro-duce (dividends from equities in contrast are subjected to a 10 per cent tax at source which is not reclaimable even in an Isa)
The new property author-ised investment fund structure for property funds meanwhile means Isa investors no longer incur the 20 per cent tax that would previously have been applied on income received from a property investment
the increase in the contribution limit if you can afford to Itrsquos all too easy for regular investors with their money invested auto-matically every month to overlook those annual allow-ance increases And consider increasing your investment whenever you receive a salary increase
LOOK BEYOND STOCKS AND SHARES
Darius McDermott Chelsea Financial Services Some potential Isa investors think you can only hold stocks
PLOUGH INTO PROPERTYGavin Haynes managing director Whitechurch Securities
Many people donrsquot realise they can gain expo-sure to bricks and mortar through
commercial property funds held in a stocks and shares Isa
The asset class currently offers an attractive yield rela-tive to cash and bonds without the volatility of the stock market investments
Property funds are not with-out risk but an allocation to a commercial property fund (that invests directly in bricks and mortar not property shares) can add diversification to an Isa portfolio With the economic outlook improving the sector looks well placed for recovery
ACCEPT RISK BUT BE SURE TO DIVERSIFY
Rebecca OrsquoKeeffe head of investment Interactive Investor
The primary ben-efits of an Isa are felt over the long term so itrsquos important to rec-
ognise that taking on risk
inspired | March 2014 1312 March 2014 | inspired
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
ITrsquoS ALL TOO EASY TO OVERLOOK THOSE ANNUAL ALLOWANCE INCREASESDariusMcDermott
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
Isa can suddenly become a poorly paying one But never try to transfer an Isa yourself Contact the new provider first and follow its transfer rules
Remember the amount of money you can invest in a cash Isa in each tax year is capped (currently at pound5760) so if you want to switch in the middle of the tax year you will prob-ably be switching the entire amount ndash you cannot switch a portion of an existing Isa into a new one and top it up If your original Isa is due to pay you interest at the end of the year it should pay you the accrued interest up to the date you close the account
Itrsquos possible to transfer your cash Isa into a stocks and shares Isa if you decide this is a better home for you money but you canrsquot switch your money back from a stocks and shares Isa into a cash Isa
You can invest up to pound11520 in a stocks and shares Isa in a single tax year minus anything you may have paid into a cash Isa ndash which is capped at pound5760
over the long term is usually a far more profitable strategy than minimising risk Investors typi-cally take less risk than they should especially if they have suffered a loss in the past
You can mitigate your overall risk by diversifying across differ-ent asset classes and geographic areas Regular investing is also a great risk reduction strategy
Itrsquos also important to rec-ognise the value of dividend reinvestment and understand the benefit this compound-ing effect has on your portfolio And remember to choose a bro-ker that doesnrsquot penalise you for reinvesting
TRANSFER YOUR ISAS TO GET THE BEST DEALS
Mark King editor MoneywiseUnlike a stocks and shares Isa a cash Isa is a sim-ple savings account with a
tax-free Isa lsquowrapperrsquo placed around it so that you donrsquot pay tax on your interest
You can choose to have access to your money or tie it up until a future date just as with typical savings accounts Generally the longer you tie your money up for the better the interest rate you get
While a cash Isa is considered a low-risk investment ndash which sophisticated investors may find returns too little as a result ndash you can transfer a cash Isa should you decide you want to take on more risk or get a bet-ter rate Indeed you may have to transfer a cash Isa regularly Providers offer different rates that can change so a top-paying
From 6 April ndash the beginning of the 201415 tax year ndash however these limits rise to pound11880 and pound5940 respectively
LOOK AT THE LONG- TERM BENEFITS
Philippa Gee managing director Philippa Gee Wealth Management
Some investors look at the return on an Isa or at the limit on how much they can
invest in a single year and fail to see the value
However they would be wise to consider the longer-term view Those who have invested each year for a number of years have been able to build six- figure portfolios that they do not have to pay any further income or capital gains tax on or list on their tax assessment
By securing a significant sum in an Isa wrapper each year as far as yoursquore able you can build up a valuable flexible and tax-efficient investment
inspired | March 2014 PB14 March 2014 | inspired
EXPERTSrsquoTOP ISA
TIPS
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
TAKING ON RISK OVER THE LONG TERM IS USUALLY MORE PROFITABLERebecca OrsquoKeeffe
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
The ISA thatrsquos
fair and square
We believe in straightforward investing Thatrsquos why we donrsquot nibble at your investments with percentage charges Open an account and for pound20 per quarter you get two pound10 trades and an ISA for free After that itrsquos just pound10 per trade across a wide range of UK and international investmentsTransfer to us today and get up to pound240 as a thank you (terms apply) We believe thatrsquos fair and square
The value of investments and any income from them can fall as well as rise so you could get back less than you invest Tax treatment depends on your individual circumstances and may be subject to change If in any doubt please seek advice
iiicoukisa
Interactive Investor Trading Limited trading as ldquoInteractive Investorrdquo is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority Registered Office Standon House 21 Mansell Street London E1 8AA Tel 0845 200 3637 Registered in England with Company Registration number 3699618
hen new rules were introduced last August allowing the inclusion of Alternative Investment Market (Aim) shares in Isas demand for exposure to the junior market
quickly exceeded expectations Another surge in demand is likely in April as the new tax year dawns and investors have a fresh annual allow-ance to play with
Yet while stocks on Aim can boast eye-catching returns and attractive tax perks they can also be very volatile raising concerns that investors may be letting the tax tail wag the investment dog with-out understanding what they are getting into
The Treasuryrsquos decision to allow Aim shares into Isas was driven by a desire to encourage greater investment in small and medium-sized companies The move was immediately popular with investors and brokers reported a sharp rise in Aim-listed purchases Demand for smaller companies funds was up too as investors wary of direct share ownership
bought into funds offering exposure to Aim stocksIt helped that Aim stocks were enjoying a good
run as were smaller companies generally with the amount of money raised on the market over the summer rising sharply Performance is just one aspect of their appeal however
Aim shares already offered inheritance tax effi-ciency most of them qualify for business property relief making them exempt from IHT when held for two years or more However itrsquos worth noting that BPR is subject to change and a company can lose its eligibility and therefore its IHT relief status as a result Therefore investors wanting to continue benefiting from IHT relief have to switch out of such companies and into those still eligible
Wider income and capital gains tax benefits also drove some demand for Aim shares after the
Isa rule change in August The move created a bed- and-Isa opportunity whereby existing Aim share inves-tors sold their holdings and bought them back within an Isa
Among those quick
Alternative Investment Market stocks offer Isa investors a chance to realise heady returns ndash but you need to pick your holdings carefully because of the high risk of losses in an illiquid market says Jeff Salway
AIMSHARES
W
GEMSTO BE UNEARTHED
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
WE WOULD ONLY INCLUDE AIM STOCKS
IN THE PORTFOLIOS OF ADVENTUROUS CLIENTS David Thomson
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
inspired | March 2014 17
THERE ARE
Treatt has built up an immaculate record of delivering profits
to take advantage was Lord Lee of Trafford the UKrsquos first Isa millionaire and author of How to Make a Million ndash Slowly My Guiding Principles from a Lifetime of Successful Investing lsquoI have a
big holding of Christie Group that was originally in my per-sonal equity planrsquo he says lsquoWhen the company moved to Aim [from the main market] I took it out of the Pep but when Aim shares became Isa-eligible I sold it and bought it back again within my Isarsquo
April 2014 will mark the removal of stamp duty from Aim purchases a develop-ment expected to encourage asset managers to launch a new wave of Aim-focused funds The axing of stamp duty makes the junior market more appeal-ing to companies on the main market as well with several recently moving across
Alec Stewart partner at Anderson Strathern Asset Management explains lsquoA company can reduce its regulatory burden by moving to the junior market with lower audit and compliance requirementsrsquo For example the main market
stipulates that any potential listing should have a market capitalisation no lower than pound700000 whereas therersquos no such guideline on the Aim mar-ket Nor do companies need a trading history to list on Aim compared with the three years required for the main market Moreover the cost of listing on Aim is considerably lower
But for many private investors the main appeal of Aim stocks lies largely in the prospect of sky-high returns from the success of small and fledgling companies There are some 1200 stocks on the market from a wide range of sectors ndash albeit with a heavy weighting in technology and especially natural resources and with a gulf in size between the biggest and smallest
The largest are eligible for the FTSE AIM 50 and the FTSE AIM 100 where the likes of Bowleven Majestic Wine Dobbies Asos and MampC Saatchi are listed
Stewart picks out three he favours as part of a diversified portfolio One is Dart Group The owner of Jet2com and Jet2Holidays Dart has had a lsquostrong runrsquo and is focused on becoming more fam-ily friendly in these budget-conscious times says Stewart lsquoIt benefits from good visibility of future bookings and strong cash generationrsquo he adds
Aerospace and defence firm Cohort is another with a lsquoprogressive dividend policyrsquo that has grown at an annualised rate of 20 per cent over
DEWHURST (pound520)Dewhurst is a well-established manu-facturer of lift pushbuttons indicators and controls keypads for ATMs security devices and petrol pumps and traffic management products such as bollards
The company has a long record of profitability under the stewardship of the Dewhurst family and a debt-free balance sheet That suggests it is a strong competitor
Profits fell in 2013 ndash a result of a slowdown in Dewhurstrsquos major markets and customers having stocked up in the previous year Management is quite cagey about the companyrsquos prospects for 2014 but an improved performance is likely as conditions in the UK and the US improve The shares are probably good value at 11 times adjusted 2013 earnings
MS INTERNATIONAL (pound204)MS International manufactures military hardware forks for forklift trucks and petrol station canopies and car washes
The company has been profitable in each of the past 10 years and has a balance sheet flush with cash yet the share price has fallen to a level that val-ues MSI at five times adjusted 2013
earnings MSIrsquos current unpopularity stems from a decline in the profitability of MSI Defence Systems which has the highest turnover of its three businesses
The company expects 2014 to be no easier than 2013 due to continu-ing pressure on defence spending but itrsquos confident it will add to defence work already contracted and scheduled for every year until 2020
Itrsquos quite possible that MSI is having a lull that does not reflect on the qual-ity of its products or businesses If thatrsquos the case itrsquos a bargain
TREATT (pound747)Treatt distills flavourings and frag-rances essential oils and water-soluble essences Its products are used in drinks confectionery sauces and cosmetics worldwide
The companyrsquos expertise and close customer relationships might give it a competitive advantage and it has never suffered a loss However it has ushered out managing director Hugo Bovill and his family has sold its interest
Management with large share-holdings gives companies some independence from the often short-term imperatives of fund managers
However the new team is focused on controlling costs and developing the most profitable products
Profit grew 28 per cent in 2013 and Treattrsquos long-term prospects are prob-ably good but the share price has spiked valuing the shares at 15 times adjusted 2013 earnings
FW THORPE (pound143)FW Thorpe designs and manufactures light fittings known as luminaires They are becoming increasingly complex with the introduction of LED technology that requires printed circuit boards Its main business is Thorlux which supplies lighting to schools hospitals ware-houses and factories Other subsidiaries supply retailers emergency exit signage and cleanroom lighting
Stable family ownership long indus-try experience and a commitment to modernisation and investment are the keys to Thorpersquos prosperity
Although it has to contend with the additional investment required to produce LED lighting Thorpe is manag-ing the transition well The shares cost pound137 which values the company at about 15 times adjusted 2013 earnings Thatrsquos a fair price for a quality company
Richard Beddard picks out four Aim-listed companies worth considering for inclusion in a diversified Isa share portfolio
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
I TRANSFERRED INTO MY ISA A BIG
HOLDING OF CHRISTIE GROUP THAT USEDTO BE IN MY PEPLord Lee of Trafford
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
AIMSHARES
18 March 2014 | inspired
the past three years he adds Among food pro-ducers he likes Wynnstay It has lsquobenefited from strong revenue and pre-tax profitsrsquo increasing its interim dividend by 9 per cent
But therersquos ample cause for caution too because Aim shares are typically far riskier than those listed on the main market Not only is there the vol-atility inherent in shares issued by smaller firms but there remains the potential for liquidity issues even after the surge of money into the market in recent months Haig Bathgate chief investment officer at Turcan Connell says lsquoThey are by impli-cation of their size much less liquid in terms of the shares that trade hands on a daily basis so they are prone to more extreme price movementsrsquo
UK investors may also be averse to Aim stocks that are effectively overseas companies Indeed many Aim fund portfolios specifically exclude both these and natural resources firms as well as stocks that donrsquot offer business property relief
lsquoSignificant numbers of companies have failed to deliver on expectations in this part of the mar-ket and it is also quite heavily weighted towards technology (12 per cent) resources (9 per cent) and oil and gas companies (22 per cent)rsquo says Bathgate There are transparency concerns too due to the less stringent regulatory and company reporting requirements on the Aim market
lsquoWe would only include Aim stocks within the
portfolios of adventurous clients and then only up to a maximum of 10 per centrsquo says David Thomson chief investment officer at VWM Wealth lsquoEven then the bulk of this is likely to be via a venture capital trust where the investor can also enjoy 30 per cent income tax relief providing a further cushion against the volatility of Aim sharesrsquo
Collective investment funds and trusts offer a way into Aim stocks that provides useful diversification and so reduces the risk of heavy losses Investment trusts can offer particular advantages where Aim-listed shares are concerned as their closed-ended status gives them a hedge against the market liquidity issues that can affect Aim stocks Among the growing number of UK smaller companies investment trusts in which Aim shares are prominent are those run by BlackRock Standard Life and Aberforth Unit trusts invest-ing in Aim companies include the LampG UK Alpha Trust and Cazenove UK Smaller Companies
However there is a downside to access-ing Aim through funds and trusts as investors no longer benefit from the IHT-free status that direct holders of Aim stocks enjoy The risk of hefty losses remains the biggest caveat to investing in Aim
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
AIMSHARESAREMUCHLESS
LIQUIDINTERMSOFTHESHARESTHATTRADEHANDSDAILYHaig Bathgate
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
inspired | March 2014 19
Clockwise from top Cohort Wynnstay and Jet2com are Stewartrsquos picks for a diversified portfolio
rewarding such as smaller companies private equity and emerging markets
Trusts can also increase their assets by borrow-ing So long as this gearing is sensibly priced it should accelerate the trustrsquos gains in positive mar-ket conditions However gearing will exacerbate losses in any downturn The possible closing of the discount will also enhance share price returns
SOLID GROWTHBaillie Gifford Global DiscoveryThis fund picked by independent financial adviser Brian Dennehy invests globally in growth stocks especially companies operating in industries with potential for structural change and innova-tion Dennehy says manager Douglas Brodie has had considerable experience and success in iden-tifying growth opportunities particularly among exciting smaller-cap stocks
CF Lindsell Train UK EquityJohn Husselbee head of multi-asset at Liontrust Asset Management prefers investors to traders Renowned investor Warren Buffett takes a similar view and Husselbee says fund manager Nick Train invests like Buffett Train looks to buy great com-panies such as Burberry Heineken and Unilever when they are good value and hold them lsquoforeverrsquo
Cazenove UK Opportunities This fund aims to achieve long-term capital growth from a focused portfolio of large and medium-sized UK companies Gavin Haynes managing
huge variety of investment funds rang-ing from generalist funds to highly specialised versions aim to generate capital growth for investors
Investing in a specific fund entails investors accepting different degrees of risk in return for a range of potential rewards So when we asked financial advisers to predict which funds offer the best prospects for growth in 2014 we also urged them to consider which types of investor the funds would suit best
Solid growth funds will appeal to investors who prefer steady investment while higher-risk growth funds are likely to be more volatile and appeal to those with a higher risk tolerance Speculative funds could produce handsome returns this year but they could also dip sharply in value
Closed-ended status means investment trusts can invest in less liquid asset classes without having to worry about realising their holdings in a market setback This enables them to invest in areas that have historically proved particularly
A
Helen Pridham and Fiona Hamilton have rounded up a collection of investment funds and trusts experts believe will prosper in the year ahead for investors looking to cash in on an improving economic outlook
PERFECT YOUR FUND PORTFOLIOTO SEE IT
GROW
inspired | March 2014 2120 March 2014 | inspired
FUNDSAND
TRUSTS
GROW
inspired | March 2014 2120 March 2014 | inspired
A
RE Y
OU
A
GLO
BAL
INV
ESTO
R Take a global view of investment trusts expertly managed by Henderson
For over 75 years Henderson Global Investors has been at the forefront of investment trust innovation and development Now with a diverse and established range of managed investment trusts and investment companies Henderson has a global view of the market
Whether you are retirement planning investing for your children looking to take advantage of dynamic global markets or want a cautious investment approach our managed companies offer a wide range of investment objectives and strategies professionally managed by regional experts
If your priority is high income long term capital growth or a mixture of both Henderson Global Investors has a range of solutions which aims to meet your investment needs
Please remember that past performance is not a guide to future performance The value of an investment and the income from it can fall as well as rise as a result of market and currency fluctuations and you may not get back the amount originally invested
Call to receive your Investment Trust brochure or visit wwwhendersoninvestmenttrustscom
0800 856 5656
Investment Trusts managed by Henderson
Issued in the UK by Henderson Global Investors Henderson Global Investors is the name under which Henderson Global Investors Limited (reg no 906355) Henderson Fund Management Limited (reg no 2607112) Henderson Investment Funds Limited (reg no 2678531) Henderson Investment Management Limited (reg no 1795354) Henderson Alternative Investment Advisor Limited (reg no 962757) Henderson Equity Partners Limited (reg no2606646) Gartmore Investment Limited (reg no 1508030) (each incorporated and registered in England and Wales with registered office at 201 Bishopsgate London EC2M 3AE) are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority to provide investment products and services Telephone calls may be recorded and monitored H0046521113ad
Itrsquos a global marketplace
HGiTrusts
director at Whitechurch Securities says fund manager Julie Dean has built up an excellent track record
Securities Trust of ScotlandRobin McAdam likes Securities Trust of Scotland which seeks rising income and long-term capi-tal growth from global equities The trust yields 33 per cent so it provides income and growth potential lsquoThe trust has outperformed its bench-mark recently and we expect this to continuersquo says McAdam
Finsbury Growth amp Income TrustPeter Hewitt nominates Finsbury Growth amp Income Trust on the basis of its strong short- and long-term performance Manager Nick Train seeks out the highest-quality companies to hold long term The portfolio is dominated by companies Train expects to have longevity such as Diageo Unilever and Heineken lsquoThe manager looks for strong cash gen-eration and dividend growth which he believes are undervalued by the stock marketrsquo Hewitt says
RIT Capital PartnersThis multi-asset trust selected by John Newlands is the flagship financial vehicle for its chairman Lord Jacob Rothschild and his family lsquoGiven the uncertainty in the world it is no bad thing to be diversified both globally and across a range of asset classes RIT is a global growth trust that offers a combination of these benefitsrsquo Newlands says
His enthusiasm is bolstered by RITrsquos current relatively wide discount which reflects disap-pointment among investors that it was rather too cautious over the past two or three years
Perpetual Income amp Growth Trust This trust is classified as a member of the AIC UK growth and income sector but its yield tends to be below the sector average because manager Mark Barnett is more interested in income growth than immediate income Tim Cockerill classifies it as a total return trust and makes it his solid growth choice Barnett has secured excellent long-term returns dur-ing his 15 years at the helm
HIGHER-RISK GROWTHLazard Emerging MarketsMick Gilligan believes the investment case for emerging market equi-ties remains strong He says lsquoEquity markets in emerging regions are trading at their widest price-to-earnings discount to developed markets since 2006 We believe many well-capitalised businesses that have shown strong financial discipline should gener-ate good profitsrsquo The Lazard Emerging Markets fund focuses on such businesses
Rathbone Global OpportunitiesThis go-almost-anywhere bottom-up thorough stockpicking fund looks for undiscovered gems Rob Burdett fund manager at Thames River believes manager James Thomson strikes the
KEY FACTS ABOUT GROWTH FUND TIPS
Mininv pound
Ongoing Charges
1-yearreturn
Sectorrank
SOLID GROWTHBaillie Gifford Global Discovery 1000 086 5920 2248CF Lindsell Train UK Equity ndash 080 2910 53271Cazenove UK Opportunities 1000 082 3210 40271 HIGHER-RISK GROWTHInvestec Global Energy 1000 087 1420 40206Lazard Emerging Markets 2000 161 320 1668Rathbone Global Opportunities 1000 082 2150 111248 SPECULATIVE GROWTHAllianz BRIC Stars 500 122 -120 134206Liontrust Special Situations 1000 114 1450 251271MampG Recovery 500 096 1330 264271Note Ongoing charges figure refers to the least expensive retail share class Source Financial Express and companies websites as at 3 December 2013
KEY FACTS ABOUT THE TRUSTS TIPPED FOR GROWTH
Shareprice
p
Discprem to NAV
Netyield
Gearing
Net asset valuetotal return after
1 year
3 years
5 years
SOLID GROWTHFinsbury Growth amp Income 5010 (+) 12 21 50 305 767 2038Perpetual Income amp Growth 3686 10 32 120 346 714 1407RIT Capital Partners 12480 105 11 50 210 225 591Securities Trust of Scotland 1469 (+) 31 32 40 192 460 1132 HIGHER-RISK GROWTHBiotech Growth Trust 4335 72 00 70 582 1723 2968Fidelity Chinese Special Sits 1062 65 09 210 433 02 ndashGraphite Enterprise Trust 5690 170 09 -90 167 442 405Schroder Asia Pacific 2730 92 14 -20 08 201 1779 SPECULATIVE GROWTHBaker Steel Resources 470 331 00 10 -57 -137 740Hansa Trust A 8600 243 23 10 142 69 947Impax Environmental Markets 1463 112 06 -20 350 285 921Standard Life Eq Inc subscription 1070 ndash 00 3700 ndash ndash ndashNotes NAV = net asset value Annualised All data as at 1 December Source Numis Securities
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
MARK BARNETT HAS SECURED
EXCELLENT RETURNSTim Cockerill
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
inspired | March 2014 23PB March 2014 | inspired
FUNDSANDTRUSTS
right balance between taking calculated risks for high returns and investing in defensive holdings Burdett says lsquoHe likes companies undertaking gentle innovation ndash moving online for example ndash rather than game changers which have more potential to go wrongrsquo Investec Global EnergyThis fund invests in companies that produce energy and provide services to the energy sector Fund managers Tom Nelson and Charles Whall believe the consensus view on future oil prices anticipates weak demand and growing supply from US shale oil But they demur as does Tony Yarrow at Wise Investment He says lsquoOil is harder to extract from shale than gas is while demand for oil is growing as economies recover A higher oil price feeds straight through to the companiesrsquo profitsrsquo
Biotech Growth TrustPeter Hewitt favours Biotech Growth Trust which has achieved scorching gains recently ndash up 172 per cent over three years to 1 December 2013
It is managed in New York by Orbimed a specialist healthcare and biotechnology investor with $7 bil-lion (pound42 billion) under management It offers exposure to a mix of large and profitable biotech companies along-side emerging businesses Most of its holdings are US-based and they have
benefited from a much more positive approach by the Federal Drug Authority ndash new drug approvals in 2010 were the highest for 10 years
Graphite Enterprise TrustAndrew McHattie contends that just one sector offers great value private equity lsquoThese trusts were hammered in the credit crisis and discounts widened to extreme levelsrsquo he says
His selection is Graphite Enterprise Trust Its discount to net asset value remains at a level that rings alarm bells in most other sectors but it has a strong track record and a relatively mature port-folio of shares he expects to rise in value
Fidelity Chinese Special SituationslsquoWith Chinese equities looking cheap the long-term outlook for investing in China is positiversquo Cockerill says lsquoThis fund invests in medium and small caps where high growth can be achieved New manager Dale Nicholls is well qualified and the combination of Fidelity manager experience and China is compelling in the long termrsquo
Scottish Oriental Smaller Companies Trust This trust is favoured by McAdam The invest-ment team identifies quality companies offering sustainable predictable growth lsquoThe trust may underperform if the market rises strongly but the teamrsquos enviable track record and experience should be respectedrsquo he says
Tim Cockerill is investment director at Rowan Dartington
RowanDartingtonhas20investmentadvisersbasedinsevenofficesacrossthesouthofEnglandIthaspound900millionunderman-
agementInvestmenttrustshavefeaturedinitsdiscretionaryandadvisoryportfoliosformanyyears
Peter Hewittis a member of FampC Asset Managementrsquos global equities team
HehasmanagedtheFampCManagedPortfolioTrustsinceApril2008aswellasitsforerunnerFampCManagedPortfolio
Servicesince2002HewasheadofUKequitiesatMurray
Johnstonefrom1981to1983beforejoiningIvoryampSime
Jean Mattersonis a partner and chief investment officer at Rossie House Investment Management
Shejoinedthefirmin1998after20yearswithassetmanagerStewartIvory
BasedinEdinburghsheisoneoffiveinvestment
professionalsmanagingaroundpound300mil-lionallonadiscretionarybasisAroundhalfisininvestmenttrusts
Robin McAdamjoined Brooks MacDonald Asset Management in 2009 from Adam amp Company Investment Management
Hehas24yearsrsquoexperi-encemanagingprivateclientportfoliosandheadsBMrsquosEdinburghbranch
Thefirmhaspound537billionunderdiscretionarymanagementinbespokeandmanagedportfolios
Andrew McHattieis head of The McHattie Group
McHattieGroupisanauthorisedfirmthatpublishesspecialistinvestmentnewsletters
McHattiehasbeentheeditorofInvestmentTrustNewslettersince1996(wwwtipsheetscouk)andoffersafreeservicecalledthelsquoitlistrsquo(wwwtheitlistcouk)ThecompanyhasaFacebookpage(wwwfacebookcominvestmenttrusts)
John Newlandsis responsible for investment trust research at Brewin Dolphin
Heissupportedbyfouranalystswhocoverspecificsectorsresearchingopen-andclosed-endedfunds
BrewinDolphinhas35officesaroundtheUKandChannelIslandsandmanagespound28billionofwhichpound39billionisininvestmenttrusts
TrusttipstersOursixexpertsrevealtheirtopfundpicks
inspired | March 2014 PB24 March 2014 | inspired
FUNDSAND
TRUSTS
One in twelve goes free on your next golf break plus every golfer receives a free pint
12thmansagimme
Book online at MarriottGolfcouk
Offer is only valid on residential golf bookings booked during the promotional dates For every 11 players booked the 12th player will be free of charge Rates are per person per night based on 2 people sharing a twindouble room and include dinner bed amp breakfast Bookings must be made by one named player and separate bookings will not qualify Each residential player aged 18 and over will receive a voucher entitling them to a complimentary pint
of Beckrsquos or Boddingtons Offer is valid on bookings made via 3rd parties Offer is available on 1 night 2 rounds or 2 night 3 rounds and excludes Sunday Driver Maximum of 2 night stay and 2 people per room Day of week availability may vary based on location Limited number of rooms may be available This offer applies to new bookings only at Marriott Hotel amp Country Clubs and offer courses and tee times are subject to availability Offer cannot
be used in conjunction with any other promotion Course terms and conditions apply Advance reservations required Book between 17th February and 29th June 2014 for stays between 4th April and 29th September 2014
The SIPP thatrsquos
fair and square
We believe in straightforward investing Thatrsquos why we donrsquot nibble at your SIPP with percentage fees For just pound144 per year you can open a SIPP and add an ISA for free After that itrsquos just pound10 to buy or sell a wide range of investments including shares funds bonds and gilts Open an account today and if you transfer your existing SIPP wersquoll give you up to pound240 as a thank you (terms apply) We believe thatrsquos fair and square
The value of investments and any income from them can fall as well as rise so you could get back less than you invest Tax treatment depends on your individual circumstances and may be subject to change If in any doubt please seek advice
iiicouksipp
Interactive Investor Trading Limited trading as ldquoInteractive Investorrdquo is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority Registered Office Standon House 21 Mansell Street London E1 8AA Tel 0845 200 3637 Registered in England with Company Registration number 3699618
SPECULATIVE GROWTHMampG RecoveryDennehy says manager Tom Dobell backs his convictions engages with companies he invests in and has delivered long-term outperformance lsquoDobellrsquos MampG Recovery fund has a clear value-style process and management stability It invests in a wide range of firms that are out of favour or in difficulty or whose prospects are not fully rec-ognised by the marketrsquo he says
Liontrust Special SituationsHusselbee says Liontrustrsquos Anthony Cross and Julian Fosh have their own unique philosophy He adds lsquoThey look for characteristics in a company that its competitors find difficult to replicate such as intellectual property or distribution channelsrsquo
Allianz Bric StarsThis fund aims for capital growth in the long term by investing mainly in Brazil Russia India and China Haynes says investors have shunned these markets recently and valuations fallen He adds lsquoFor investors looking for a recovery story this fund is worth considerationrsquo
Standard Life Equity Income subscription shareMcHattie says warrant and subscription shares are widely ignored creating opportunities for those who understand them He favours the subscrip-tion shares of Standard Life Equity Income which can be exercised at 320p a share up to the end of December 2016 lsquoThey offer gearing of 37 times and if the ordinary shares grow by more than 28 per cent a year between now and the end of 2016 the subscription shares ought to outperformrsquo
Impax Environmental MarketsMcAdam likes this trust It invests in companies seeking to provide cleaner or more-efficient energy as well as water and waste solutions to the growing problems faced by authorities around the world It offers exposure to a rapidly changing marketplace as well as to socially responsible investments
Hansa TrustJohn Newlands sees potential in the A shares of Hansa Trust which languish at a discount of more than 25 per cent He says that whereas the trustrsquos portfolio appears skewed with a third of its assets in Ocean Wilsons there is actually plenty of diversification because Ocean Wilsons has an investment portfolio that stands at a discount to underlying value lsquoOne day an attractive bid [may] be made for Ocean Wilsons that will enhance Hansarsquos NAV and sim-plify its capital structure all to the good of its market ratingrsquo Newlands says
Baker Steel Resources TrustJean Matterson hopes for good returns from this trust shares in which trade on a near 30 per cent discount lsquoIt has not had an easy run of late but we believe the underlying assets are attractive and that the mining projects in the companyrsquos portfo-lio will continue to progressrsquo she says
Prospects have improved for biotechs (left) while growing interest in sustain-able energy has boosted Impax
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
AHIGHEROILPRICEFEEDSSTRAIGHT
THROUGHTOPROFITSTony Yarrow
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
inspired | March 2014 27PB March 2014 | inspired
FUNDSANDTRUSTS
The world of funds and trusts is a confusing place with over 2300 funds and more than 300 investment trusts to choose from
Money Observerrsquos Rated Funds system narrows down the playing field to help you decide which funds and investment trusts might be best for you
Our team of experts constantly monitor the marketplace rating those funds that have delivered consistently good returns However you should be aware that there is no guarantee this performance will be repeated
With our comparison tool you can filter by whatrsquos important to you compare up to four funds and trusts side-by-side as well as view factsheets
COMPAREMONEY OBSERVER RATED FUNDS
VISIT MONEYOBSERVERCOMCOMPAREFUNDS AND LOOK OUT FOR THE RATED FUND STAMP
had spare cash or I were start-ing afresh The companies in the add category are high qual-ity judging by the strategies they follow and their finan-cial strength and are probably undervalued
Irsquom more likely to eject or reduce holdings in companies in the watch and specula-tive categories These shares are more risky either because they have risen greatly in price or because their prospects are more uncertain than usual I may think the risk is worth tak-ing but I am prepared to act should that calculation change
Every decision to increase a portfolio holding must be weighed against the potential of new candidates drawn from all companies listed in the UK and corralled into another live spreadsheet the Share Sleuth watchlist When I add a share to the watchlist or trade a share in the portfolio I explain this in the Share Sleuth blog
ccumulating income and capital gains in an index tracking fund is inexpensive takes little effort and all but guarantees an
average return so it should be the default investment for a lazy equity investor saving for the long term
To justify the work of decid-ing which shares to buy and sell and the effort and cost of placing trades an active investor must do better Consequently the first objective of the active Share Sleuth portfolio is to beat passive investments after costs over the long-term which in practice means any five-year period The second objective is to win this tussle against an unknowing and unthinking opponent transparently
At the heart of the portfolio is an online spreadsheet The first page shows the constitu-ent shares arranged into three categories lsquoaddrsquo lsquowatchrsquo and lsquospeculativersquo The categorisa-tion is updated daily based on live data in subsequent spread-sheets each of which contains a financial model for a particular company
The Share Sleuth portfo-lio shows the holdings I would add to the portfolio today if it
Share Sleuth is a simulation no money changes hands But I use prices quoted by a bro-ker and adjust the accounting to factor in notional broker fees and stamp duty However I lsquoeat my own cookingrsquo by investing my self-invested personal pen-sion in Share Sleuth companies
No doubt you are wonder-ing how the portfolio is doing Share Sleuthrsquos five-year anni-versary judgement day is on 9 September this year and I will not prejudge it now
Short-term performance watching and the knee-jerk trad-ing it encourages is I think one reason why many inves-tors fail My focus is on ensuring the portfolio remains invested in good companies at reasona-ble prices
You can see a live perfor-mance table and learn what I think of every share in the port-folio and which companies I might add to it at wwwiiicoukZkr
SHAREBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIOR
The Share Sleuth portfolio has been carefully devised to show investors how to find good companies at cheap prices and also prove the value of its investment approach says Richard Beddard
Richard Beddard an editor at Interactive Investor since 1999 has managed the Share Sleuth portfolio since 9 September 2009 Hersquos a columnist at Money Observer magazine and a private investor
AMY FOCUS IS ON ENSURING THAT THE PORTFOLIO IS INVESTED IN GOOD FIRMS AT DECENT PRICES
inspired | March 2014 29PB March 2014 | inspired
SHARESLEUTH
iiicoukstraightforward
Interactive Investor Trading Limited trading as ldquoInteractive Investorrdquo is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority Registered Office Standon House 21 Mansell Street London E1 8AA Tel 0845 200 3637 Registered in England with Company Registration number 3699618
We believe in being straightforwardthis is why we donrsquot nibble at your investment by charging percentage fees Find out how this could affect your investment performance at iiicoukstraightforward
If you transfer to us you can even get up to pound240 as a thank you (terms apply)
Donrsquot forget the value of investments and any income from them can fall as well as rise so you could get back less than you invest If in any doubt please seek advice
7784_II_QI_MONEY_OBSERVER_210x297_AWindd 1 16012014 1224
Take a closer look
at your investment
options
Discover a straightforward way to understand everything from ISAs to SIPPs and OEICs to Investment Trusts
Investing for generationsEver feel yoursquod like to know more about investing Wersquove been helping people build their wealth for over 125 years Our guide lsquoMaking sense of the investment universersquo is just one of the resources yoursquoll find on our Investment Focus hub
As well as clear simple guides therersquos a wealth of information and expert opinion all designed to help you take control of your investments Please remember that investments can go down as well as up and investors may get back less than they originally invested
Introducing your free online source of information help and expert opinion
investment-focuscouk
This has been approved as a financial promotion by Alliance Trust Investments Limited for the purpose of Section 21 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 Alliance Trust Investments Limited is a subsidiary of Alliance Trust PLC and is registered in Scotland No SC330862 registered office 8 West Marketgait Dundee DD1 1QN is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority firm reference number 479764 Alliance Trust Investments gives no financial or investment advice
TAX YEAR ENDS APRIL 5TH ndash learn more about
your options now
Investment Focus Smart Insight from Alliance Trust
Yoursquove spoken Wersquove listened Introducing your free online source of information help and expert opinion
Based on real insight we have launched a new website which focuses on investment education
We believe that we are uniquely positioned to provide this hub of information based on the reputation we have built for trust and transparency over the last 125 years
We will be publishing new content over the next few months focusing on specific themes
bull Investing from scratch
bull Products in a portfolio
bull Global diversification
bull Planning for your familyrsquos future
bull Retirement planning
bull Getting more information
There is a generation of future investors out there who have been brought up in an era of economic turmoil and banking crises which has led to disillusionment and a lack of trust in our sector and the services we offer Despite it being more important than ever for investors to take control of their financial situation this new generation of savers lacks the basic knowledge and understanding to make these very important long-term decisions
Our goal is to develop a useful resource with contributions from third-parties as well as the team at Alliance Trust which offers insights into the various life stages and challenges faced and which can be built upon and adapted to meet savers needs in the long term
Katherine Garrett-Cox CBE Chief Executive Alliance Trust PLC
ldquo
rdquo
There are too many products to make an informed decision
I donrsquot know whereto go for reliable
information
investment-focuscouk
Yoursquoll naturally take a keen interest in the performance of your investments But itrsquos just as important to understand the fees you will be paying as they can have a significant impact on the returns you achieve Knowing what the different types of costs mean and exactly what they consist of can prove rewarding
Itrsquos worth remembering that for every fee you pay (whether it is a or flat fee) your investment needs to grow by at least the same amount just to stay ahead of the game It sounds obvious but itrsquos easy to forget Broadly speaking there are three types of fees fund fees platform fees and fees for a financial adviser You can either invest directly into a fund and pay the associated fees or you can invest via a platform provider (some of which are referred to as wrap platforms others as fund supermarkets) This is a service that lets you manage and review all your investments online in one place As a general rule fund fees are lower when
bought through a platform than if you buy direct You can invest through a platform on either an execution only basis where the investor assesses the risks and makes their own investment decisions or on an advised basis
Learn more about fund platform and financial advice fees
What can you expect to seeOver the next two pages we have provided a sneak preview of just some of the information you will find on the Investment Focus hub We will be updating the site regularly so make sure you sign up for our email alerts to be informed when new topics are published
Everything you need to know about fees
Risk informationInvestments can go down as well as up You may get back less than you originally invested
Alliance Trust does not give advice You need to ensure you understand the risks and commitments before investing If you are unsure you should consult a Financial Adviser before investing
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
For the vast majority of investors the simplest cheapest and most pragmatic way to invest is through pooled funds
Sometimes called managed funds unit trusts or even Open-Ended Investment Companies (or OEICs) these are designed to give ordinary savers access to a diverse range of investments
One of the principles of investment is that diversification helps reduce risk But it is expensive and time consuming for ordinary savers to buy shares of 80 to 100 different companies and keep track of how each is performing
But with a managed fund you are pooling your money with other investors enabling the fund manager to buy a wide range of assets
Investors have the option of buying an actively managed or passive fund With an active fund the manager selects and then monitors these stocks for investors in a bid to maximise returns
In contrast a passive fund will simply follow a stock market index such as the FTSE100 up and down
Having a manager at the helm can be beneficial in a market downturn as they can take a more defensive approach buying shares that are better able to hold their value or in some cases switching to bonds or cash instead to help preserve investorsrsquo capital Managers can also research individual companies and markets and have access to forecasts and economic data that isnrsquot always available to individuals
Learn more about investing for growth or income exploring different investment remits how to invest and keeping track of your investments
Understanding funds Written by Emma Simon Personal Finance Journalist
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
What are Investment TrustsInvestment Trusts are investment vehicles that are listed on the London Stock Exchange and which invest in shares and other securities They pool together investorsrsquo money and delegate responsibility to a professional fund manager to invest in a range of companies from different sectors and regions across the world They were designed for ldquothe investor of moderate meansrdquo
A brief historybull The first Investment Trust was launched by Foreign amp
Colonial in 1868
bull Investment Trusts made it possible for individual investors to gain diversified exposure to global stock markets
bull Many Investment Trusts were formed in Scotland including Alliance Trust PLC which was formed over 125 years ago
A guide to Investment Trusts
Learn more about Investment Trusts their main features and why you should consider them for your portfolio
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
Alliance Trust is an investment and savings business with over 125 year history of building investor wealth We offer our shareholders clients and customers a unique portfolio of products and services These range from a renowned global investment trust to an innovative range of investment strategies and funds and a multi-award winning investment platform where investors can host their ISAs SIPPs or investment accounts Our mission is to provide products and services that help to ensure a more sustainable financial future for generations of investors
Alliance Trust PLC is one of the largest generalist investment trusts by market value listed on the London Stock Exchange and is the parent company to two wholly-owned subsidiaries Alliance Trust Savings and Alliance Trust Investments
The fact that many of us make irrational decisions when it comes to our finances is widely debated and is often referred to as behavioural finance In this short video we talk to Professor Phyl Johnson Consultant Psychologist and Visiting Professor of Executive Education at Strathclyde Business School about why this is and more importantly about what we can do as individuals to avoid it
About us Alliance Trust Investments is a specialist fund management business offering a range of products and services focusing on global equities fixed income and sustainable investing with an emphasis on specialist investment solutions
Alliance Trust Savings is one of the UKrsquos leading financial services providers for private investors offering customers the information and services they need to manage their investments in a way that works for them
Risk informationInvestments can go down as well as up You may get back less than you originally invested
Alliance Trust does not give advice You need to ensure you understand the risks and commitments before investing If you are unsure you should consult a Financial Adviser before investing
Unusually for a company of our size around 70 of shares
in Alliance Trust are held by private
individuals
Nobodyrsquos perfect why we all make irrational decisions
Inflation by ageThis monthrsquos official inflation report showed that the headline rate of inflation fell from 20 to 19 Our Economic Research Team analyse this data on a monthly basis to see how inflation rates affect different age groups In February 2014 the summary highlights include
bull The over 75s and the under 30s face the highest rate of inflation in January at 21
bull The over 75s suffered the highest rate of inflation for the whole of 2013 and this trend continues into 2014 as they spend a larger share of their budgets on basic goods such as gas and electricity
bull The 65 to 74 year olds have faced the lowest rate of inflation in 11 out of the last 12 months thanks to lower inflation in food petrol and package holidays
Learn more about how inflation might affect you
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
You can also sign up for our regular email alerts to be informed when new topics are published by clicking here
Wersquove been bringing clarity to investment for over 125 years
Investing for generationsWhen it comes to investing therersquos no substitute for experience And at Alliance Trust wersquove been helping people invest since 1888 Our new Investment Focus hub is full of online information and expert opinion It aims to provide real insight to help you take control of your investments
Over the next few weeks the hub will build to cover everything from taking your first steps to diversifying worldwide Please remember that investments can go down as well as up and investors may get back less than they originally invested For valuable insight from Alliance Trust visit Investment Focus today
Introducing your free online source of information help and expert opinion
investment-focuscouk
This has been approved as a financial promotion by Alliance Trust Investments Limited for the purpose of Section 21 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 Alliance Trust Investments Limited is a subsidiary of Alliance Trust PLC and is registered in Scotland No SC330862 registered office 8 West Marketgait Dundee DD1 1QN is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority firm reference number 479764 Alliance Trust Investments gives no financial or investment advice
TAX YEAR ENDS APRIL 5TH ndash learn more about
your options now
Change the way you think about stocks reap the rewardsBy Edward Page Croft CEO Stockopediacom
I remember so clearly the day when I picked my first stock for clients Managing $2 billion (pound12 billion) in assets across 100 portfolios for high-net-wealth private investors is no easy task As I was to learn when you are green
and straight out of university itrsquos even harder The stock in question was on the Goldman
Sachs US lsquobuyrsquo list It had the potential to be hot Dotcoms were bubbling It was an internet stock in education services and cheap It seemed like it had everything but we needed to get in One day it fell out of bed Down 50 per cent on no news
Irsquod been trained to call the analyst in situations like this He reiterated his buy stance Double buy On my insistence we put almost $20 million of client money into the stock within an hour The next day it fell another 50 per cent on
bad newsThere is nothing more
painful than a loss but you never forget the first
one It immedi-ately forced me to reconsider every-thing I thought I
knew From that day on I vowed to never trust anotherrsquos opin-ion and find a better
way through the market minefieldIrsquove now spent 15 years
reassessing common
wisdom about stock selection No stone has gone unturned in the quest to understand the behav-ioural flaws that lead to poor decision making But there is one finding that crops up again and again in all the research that hurts stock market investors most We as investors are suckers for stories
A 1990rsquos study of 60000 private investor broker-age accounts by Kumar and Goetzmann found that 70 per cent of portfolios held less than four stocks
The stocks held all tended to be in the same sector highly correlated and risky Think internet stocks in the 1990s China in the 2000s or resource stocks more recently The grand theme sucks everyone in The outcome rarely dif-fers Kumar and Goetzmann showed that across these
60000 accounts the average underperformance was of the order of 4 per cent annually
This massive failing across private inves-tor portfolios is repeated in nearly every market cycle and is bound to happen again in this one Benjamin Graham the great father of value invest-ing and tutor of Warren Buffett once wrote
lsquoIn the short run the stock market is a vot-ing machine but in the long run it is a weighing machinersquo
ADVERTISING FEATURE
IN THE SHORT RUN THE STOCK MARKET IS A VOTING MACHINE BUT IN THE LONG RUN IT IS A WEIGHING MACHINEBenjamin Graham
What he meant was that while stories may drive stocks in the short run statistics drive stocks in the long run When statistics reassert them-selves it can cause huge damage to investors punting their portfolios on stories
It doesnrsquot take much to learn how basic statis-tics can guide your portfolio into winning stock selections though very few seem to understand how to do it Benjamin Graham as his life wore on gradually came to the conclusion that building portfolios according to rules-based processes was a far more appropriate methodology for the typi-cal investor
lsquoTry to buy groups of stocks that meet some sim-ple criterion for being undervalued ndash regardless of
the industry and with very little attention to the indi-vidual company It seems too good to be true but all I can tell you after 60 years of experience is it seems to stand up under any of the tests I would make uprsquo
My time is now dedi-cated to helping investors practice exactly what Benjamin Graham and many other investment luminaries have preached rules-based investing For the majority itrsquos a better process and leads to bet-ter outcomes Our work at
Stockopediacom where we crunch fundamental and technical data in order to model and track the investment processes of the great investors bears this out
Portfolios composed with stocks showing the right statistical mix of value quality and momen-tum have significantly outperformed Rules-based investing beats the market But more importantly it helps promote the emotional detachment needed to stop investors from beating themselves
Irsquoll never buy a stock on a punt or an analystrsquos tip again Perhaps neither should you
For a two week free trial and pound50 discount to Stockopedia UK Premium CLICK HERE
TANK MCM A N U F A C T U R E M O V E M E N T 1 9 0 4 M C
SINCE THE CREATION OF THE FIRST TANK WATCH IN 1917 THE TANK COLLECTION HAS CONTINUED
TO BREAK NEW GROUND THE INCREDIBLY REFINED AESTHETICS OF THE NEW TANK MC WATCH ARE FITTED
WITH THE CARTIER MANUFACTURE MOVEMENT 1904 MC ESTABLISHED IN 1847 CARTIER CREATES
EXCEPTIONAL WATCHES THAT COMBINE DARING DESIGN AND WATCHMAKING SAVOIR-FAIRE
EXPLORE AND SHOP WWWCARTIERCOUK - (020) 3147 4850
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Inside
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TO THE CONNOISSEUR section of Inspired a showcase for the finer things in life for those who truly appreciate them
Enjoying the fruits of your labour away from the relentless demands of our age poses its own challenges and quandaries Would a tropical idyll restore your ebbing energy levels Might a break based around hair-raising activities revive them even more effectively Perhaps reawakening a dormant passion for fine wines or luxury cars would be the most enjoyable reward for your industry
A luxury tropical holiday is probably near the top of most peoplersquos wish lists We take a look at some of the most tantalising options
The arrival of BMWrsquos new super coupe is featured on page 50 BMW aficionados and petrolheads alike are certain to be won over by its head-turning looks and mouthwatering specs
Gems come under the microscope on page 53 A rare coloured diamond can be a joy as well an appreciating asset
Wine is on the menu on page 54 where we explore the charms of Argentinian Malbec
Watches are often treasured objects and the best can turn out to be shrewd investments We look at the secondary watch market and the growth of online retailing on page 58 Enjoy
Welcome
40 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
FIVE TOP PRIVATE ISLAND RETREATSIslandFantasy
Top-rated resorts and hotels offer a variety of temptations and services to impress even the most discerning tastes but there is no better way to escape the rigours and
stresses of daily life than cutting off from the outside world while still enjoying lavish service
in the pinnacle of all resorts the private islandThere are thousands of small islands around
the world but only a few have chosen to cater to the most discriminating travellers seeking a rarified yet perfect world of quiet and relaxed luxury We look at five of the worldrsquos top private islands destinations where your holiday is certain to be an exceptional experience
TRAVEL
Necker Island is owned by Sir Richard Branson and guests stay in his home The island has become a popular des-tination for some of the worldrsquos most prominent figures as a hideaway from lifersquos stresses and strains
Because Necker Island is a resi-dence and not a resort guests who rent the island are treated as owners and catered for in a unique way
The74-acre island is fringed with beautiful white beaches and surrounded by turquoise waters and coral reefs It boasts every resort-type amenity guests can spend their days being pampered in the spa explor-ing underwater reefs in a submarine lounging by the pool bar or swimming in one of the worldrsquos most elab-orate private pools
Haute cuisine is a highlight for most guests ndash rates are fully inclusive of all food and drink A team of chefs creates bespoke menus featuring anything from lobster and caviar to a Sunday roast And because Necker is a home first and a resort second guests decide whether dining will be formal or informal inside or outside themed or traditional
The bar is stocked with international wines top-quality spirits and beers and a world renowned house champagne while special orders can be shipped in at no extra charge ndash unless an item is particularly rare Every service and amenity is available around the clock and guests are encouraged to treat Necker as their own home
As youLike it
NECKER ISLAND
42 March 2014 | inspired
Unalloyed luxury and an impressive range of amenities make Necker one of the most desirable island destinations in the world
The Jumby Bay resort which is only accessible by boat from Antigua is a Caribbean hideaway owned by Rosewood Resorts It is perfect for those seeking either relaxation or spirited adventure
You can rent the island resort entirely for your stay or simply take a room Those opt-ing for exclusive use of the island will have the resortrsquos two pools three tennis courts fitness centre croquet field and putting green to themselves
A wide range of water sports are available and guests can indulge in as much adventure or relaxation as they want during their stay The resort is ideal for large family
reunions or corporate retreats ndash 40 guest rooms and suites are available on the island
Executive chef Sylvain Hervochon celebrates gastron-omy ndash and mixology (cocktail making) ndash with casual elegance by creating Caribbean-style dishes inspired by fresh local ingredients and incorporating international influences
Jumby Bayrsquos rates start at pound150000 for four nights based on double occupancy between May and December Visit wwwrosewoodhotelscomenjumby-bay-antigua for further information
Fine BalanceCaribbean ambiance international sophistication and adventurous activities make Jumby Bay a compelling choice
JUMBY BAY
Just laze by the pool or venture beyond to dive in the turquoise waters of the South Pacific among stunning reefs and a dazzling array of marine creatures
Isle of PlentyT
he private island of Laucala in the South Pacific is a 3500-acre site in a picturesque rainforest-laced land-scape Enchanting deserted beaches nestle among coconut plantations organic farms and lush green vol-canic mountains
The resort offers an outstanding level of refined lux-ury as well as a compelling collection of sporting and cultural activities diving among iridescent marine life in the warm turquoise waters guided rainforest tours horse riding surfing and golfing on the 18-hole cham-pionship course The island is a superb choice for an escape from civilization whether you want an adven-ture in the wild or simply to relax in one of Laucalarsquos five restaurants and bars
Rates are available on request Visit wwwlaucalacom for further details
TRAVEL
LAUCALA ISLAND
inspired | March 2014 4544 March 2014 | inspired
Lush green surroundings sensitive development and beautiful beaches help Laucala island conjure up a complete South Seas experience
Isle of Plenty
inspired | March 2014 4544 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
inspired | March 2014 4746 March 2014 | inspired
Slow LaneSlow
Pulau Joyo is a seductively serene environment of pristine beaches surrounded by clear blue sea in Indonesiarsquos Riau Archipelago Accessible from Singapore or Bintan Pulau Joyo is a true castaway island offering every resort luxury
amid untouched natural beauty Pulau Joyo is famous for its remarkable sunsets and
brightly star-lit sky The resort can host 28 guests and 20 staff are on hand to cater to their every need Guests stay in open driftwood lsquopalacesrsquo that lsquoallow the sea inrsquoDespite its desert island appeal Pulau Joyo offers every modern convenience a range of adrenaline boosting activities and more relaxing options such as spa treatments and massages
The resortrsquos cuisine focuses on western and Indonesian dishes Meals are usually served buffet style and feature grilled fish squid prawns beef and chicken as well as many curry dishes Side dishes include fresh garden salads pasta salads boiled or steamed leafy greens and grilled aubergine (an island favourite) Prawn and tofu kebabs appear from time to time as does satay The chef will often provide a selection of freshly picked fruit and homemade cakes for dessert Itrsquos worth noting that the management will not serve pork or shellfish on this private island
Pulau Joyo may not be as refined as some islands but itrsquos an excellent choice for those who want a more casual laidback island experience that replicates the castaway experience like perhaps no other
Rates start at pound1913 a night More information is available at wwwpulau-joyocom
Wannabe castaways may find Pulau Joyorsquos purer simpler take on the luxury island experience more to their taste
PULAU JOYO
inspired | March 2014 4746 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
In the Fijian island paradise of Dolphin Island a small army of staff await to meet guestsrsquo every need On arriving ndash by boat helicopter or float plane ndash visitors are invariably struck by the beauty of the island and the luxuri-ous accommodation that awaits them amid 14-acres of lush tropical gardens
Three traditional palm-thatched bures individually designed by world renowned interior designer Virginia Fisher sit in an elevated position around the resortrsquos infinity pool
Guests are brought fresh tropical fish to choose each day that are cooked to perfec-
tion within hours of leaving the water The culinary focus is on
organic produce and ingredi-ents unique to Fijian cuisine but meals are tailored to guestsrsquo personal tastes Papayas man-goes bananas and pineapples
are plentiful throughout the day When it comes to recreation the
14-acre island is an expansive play-ground offering a diverse range of watersports as well as diving opportunities on Fijirsquos coral reefs
Rates start at pound720 a night More information is avail-able at wwwdolphinislandfijicom
Fijian Paean
Traditional features modern comforts and excellent facilities make for a harmonious whole on this Fijian island
DOLPHIN ISLAND
48 March 2014 | inspired
Pictured slightly larger than actual size
Big Pilotrsquos Watch Ref 5009
Your wrist never felt this big before The
case of the top model in the IWC Pilotrsquos
Watch range is a gigantic 462 mm in diashy
meter And the technology inside it is
even more impressive the largest IWCshy
manufactured automatic movement with
its Pellaton winding system is protected
against strong magnetic fields by a softshy
iron inner case And needless to say enshy
vious glances iwc engineered for men
Mechanical IWCshymanufactured movement Pellaton
automatic winding system 7shyday power reserve
with display (figure) Date display Softshyiron inner
case for protection against magnetic fields
Antireflective sapphire glass Watershyresistant 6 bar
Stainless steel
IWC Schaffhausen Switzerland iwccom The worldrsquos finest timepieces are exclusively available from selected watch specialists
For an illustrated catalogue or list of nationwide concessionaires please contact IWC UK Tel 0845 337 1868 Eshymail infoshyukiwccom
CARS
MunichLegend
50 March 2014 | inspired
BMW fanatics can open their eyes ndash the M4 has arrived
Most BMW aficionados are proba-bly pretty sad to see production of the M3 coupe ndash quite possibly the companyrsquos most noteworthy and celebrated model ndash end after almost 30 years Ever since the first wide-body E30 M3 saw the
light of day in 1985 drivers have loved the sporty coupe for its incredible balance intoxicating power and of course solid build quality
The model never got stale in all that time and always remained the poster child for the M division so itrsquos a lit-tle weird that BMW has apparently decided to axe it In truth though they havenrsquot really dropped the M3 The M3 sedan will continue to be produced in 2014 so all
is not lost Moreover BMW seems to be adopting a pat-tern of giving its sedans odd-numbered titles only and its coupes even-numbered titles only so the 4-Series and especially the M4 concept that debuted at Pebble Beach Monterey California will fill the gap left by the M3 Many people have been awaiting the new super coupe with great expectancy but can it fill in for the M3
The journalists who swarmed over the M4 concept at Pebble Beach were obviously much more interested in it than the somewhat predictable 428i that was also there Finished in an eye-catching colour called Aurum Dust (which actually looks a lot like the old M3rsquos Phoenix Yellow colour) the car presented in California may be a concept but typically BMW M cars donrsquot change much before they finally hit the showroom
MunichLegend
inspired | March 2014 51
CARS
52 March 2014 | inspired
From front to back the bodywork is manifestly differ-ent and much more aggressive looking than a standard 4-Series car It really looks to pretty much pick up where the E92E93 M3 coupe left off especially with its undeniably cool domed hood Wide wheel arches big wheels wrapped in low-profile tyres more than enough M badges and a well-executed double-bubble roof make the already underwhelming existing 4-Series coupe look even more pedestrian
Power for the new M4 is likely to come from a three-litre twin-turbo straight-six engine While the horsepower probably wonrsquot differ much from the M3rsquos old 4-litre V-8 it will generate more than 100lbft more in torque almost 400 in total With the M4 being a lighter 3300lb in weight the M4 promises to be an excit-ing worthy car A proper six-speed manual may be in the mix alongside the now obligatory dual clutch and paddles option
The best way to look at the M4 however it ends up is not as a new car but as a new and improved M3 thatrsquos just getting a new name The decision to rename the coupe is a strange one but thankfully BMW apparently felt the 3-Series coupe had made such an identity for itself that a new model was needed albeit in a slightly different incarnation
With BMW embarking on some new-ageish ideas such as its 1-Series ActiveE and the soon-to-arrive lsquoirsquo range of cars itrsquos nice to see the company also stick to classics such as the heart-stopping sports coupe even if the latest model does come with a new name
Seductive curves and racier performance make the BMW M4 a more than acceptable replacement for the M3 super coupe
SparklingForm Coloured diamonds are making their mark
One of the main factors that deter-mines the value of what we ordinarily think of as diamonds is their purity the degree to which col-our is absent in the gem However with coloured diamonds the extent to which they are saturated with
colour is a principal determinant of their valueColoured diamonds come in 12 basic colours more
than 90 secondary hues and nine intensity levels The depth of their colour is what really differentiates these diamonds from their colourless counterparts
Natural coloured diamonds are 10000 times rarer than typical colourless diamonds one of several rea-sons why they are treasured by the rich and famous yet remain unknown to most other people ndash despite hav-ing been around for centuries
Of course some colours are rarer than others Red violet and purple stones are as rare as the proverbial hensrsquo teeth while green and blue are also rare The most popular colours are pink and yellow (or canary) They also come in white grey orange black and lsquochame-leonrsquo form
A pinkie ring encrusted with a large coloured dia-mond has become a status symbol for men in Asia That little stone is an unregistered asset that could quickly be sold for millions of dollars should the need arise
Coloured diamonds are durable and never lose their sparkle or lustre so they are assets that can be enjoyed every day unlike stocks or bonds And they have proved to be fantastic investments having steadily appreciated in price with relatively little volatility for more than a decade They even held their own during the most recent financial crisis
Coloured diamonds are auctioned by reputable
auction houses such a Sothebyrsquos and Christiersquos where prices for large unique pink red blue or yellow stones can reach in excess of $2 million (pound12 million) a carat and other stones regularly sell for $1 million a carat
They are often bought by high-net-worth individu-als as an insurance policy Instead of stashing cash in undeclared bank accounts and potentially incurring the wrath of the authorities the wealthy can purchase some loose yellow diamonds to secure their future
Clearly coloured diamonds are much more than a magnificent indulgence
GEMS
inspired | March 2014 53PB March 2014 | inspired
WINE
Make the most of the deeply
satisfying Malbec wines emerging from Argentina
and perhaps even enjoy a return on a shrewd
investment says Ewan Lacey
Finding a red wine to enjoy in spring is a delicate balancing act The shock of seeing sunlight after a dark winter fosters in us a desire to drink some-thing refreshing while the still-cool temperatures demand something with comforting depth
Increasingly Malbec wines particularly those from Argentina provide a perfect solution to this quandary And while there are plenty of delicious wines for infor-mal occasions what is most interesting is the emergence of finer Malbec wines Some are so good they may well have ageing potential raising the intriguing possibility that the wine may one day become collectable
Malbec is the most popular wine among those aged 25-34 and is now becoming a fixture on most restaurant wine lists There are several reasons for its success the word Malbec is easy to pronounce the wine goes well with red meat the Malbec grape can be turned into wines that are both relatively easy to drink and packed with flavour and decent wines are available at reason-able prices Malbec is deep fruity and charming and it delivers instant pleasure ndash claret on a motorbike
The Malbec grape originated in France and it remains one of the permitted varieties used to make Bordeaux However it has gained prominence through the work of the post-junta Argentine wine industry
I recently had the pleasure of tasting some very fine Malbecs with Laura Catena managing director at the Catena Zapata winery and president of the International Wine and Spirit Competition She opened my
Mendoza Marvels
inspired | March 2014 55
WINE
eyes to the potential of this grape variety when handled with care
Laurarsquos family business makes a range of wines but the wine that truly astonished me was the Nicasia Vineyard Malbec 2006 The wine is perfumed with floral and fruit notes and it is smooth and soft at first Like all great wines it has many layers of flavour warm bursts of cherry and black-currant cede centre stage to deeper darker caramel and mocha notes and a touch of spice Therersquos an amazing depth of flavour and the finish is long and lingering Whatrsquos more at nearly eight years old it still has a slight purple tinge and tastes extremely fresh There is every indication that it will age beautifully for at least another decade
The winersquos character is heavily influenced by the alti-tude the grapes used to make it are grown at (1180m
above sea level) At this elevation the grapes ripen in bright sun but lsquorelaxrsquo during the cool evenings The fact that the wine is made in tiny quantities (eight barrels only) means every care can be taken during the winemak-ing process to ensure the wine is allowed to show its grown-up side The cost per bot-tle of pound70 is not insubstantial but neither is the wine
We cannot know whether these wines will ever become investments in the way the wines of Bordeaux have Whatrsquos cer-tain is that Malbec wines have a very rare quality a balance of finesse and power that
can delight wine lovers and linger in their memories
Ewan Lacey is a leading wine expert and general manager of the International Wine and Spirit Competition He has appeared on BBC television and radio as well as Channel 4 and written for the national press
Laura Catena is managing director at the Catena Zapata winery (above)
THE INTERNATIONAL WINE AND SPIRIT COMPETITIONThe International Wine and Spirit Competition has been the premier drinks competition in the world for 45 years Each year it receives and reviews thousands of wines and spirits and presents qual-ity awards to producers
More than anything the IWSC exists to help
people make better deci-sions particularly when buying wines and spirits An IWSC award on a bot-tle of wine is a guarantee
of quality backed not only by a rigorous and strin-gent judging process but also by the skill of the judges who are drawn from the ranks of masters of wine master distill-ers industry leaders and commentators
Each year the IWSC honours a leading figure
in the drinks industry with the presidency of the competition The current president is Laura Catena who succeeds a nota-ble line of predecessors including Prince Robert of Luxembourg winemakers Piero Antinori and Warren Winiarski and Baroness Philippine de Rothschild
56 March 2014 | inspired
LUXURY WATCHES
Time is preciousA
t a recent watch auc-tion in Geneva at Antiquorum ndash the worldrsquos premiere auc-tion house for modern and vintage time pieces ndash a Patek Philippe
pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon watch emerged as the auctionrsquos top lot and sold for 12 million Swiss francs (pound807000)
Unlike most of the timepieces sold at auctions outside Asia this particular Patek watch ndash the most complicated wristwatch the Swiss watchmaker has ever produced ndash was not a vintage model
That Geneva auction raised intriguing
1284Clocks with weights gears and regulators start to appear mostly with no dial to strike the important moments of daily life
Around 1410The mainspring is devel-oped Combined with the fusee this innovation makes possible the truly portable domestic clock
1492The mechanical watch appears simultaneously in Italy Germany and France
1675Christian Huygens invents the spiral balance spring
for watches significantly improving their accuracy
1704The first watch with jew-els is produced by French watchmaker de Beaufreacute
1714The British parliament offers pound20000 to who-ever can a find a method to determine longitude
1766Parliament publishes the rating results for John Harrisonrsquos H4 marine timekeeper Harrisonrsquos highly accurate marine clock solution to the problem of determining logitude wins him part of the pound20000 prize
1787Pierre-Freacutedeacuteric Ingold is born an important pio-neer in mechanised timepiece production and the use of interchangea-ble parts
1790Jacquet-Droz and Leschot manufactures a watch attached to a strap
1839Vacheron amp Constantin developes a full set of machine tools for manu-facturing its watches
1875Calcium sulphate is the first luminescent sub-stance to be used for numerals and hands
TIMEKEEPING MILESTONES
questions Are modern luxury timepieces every bit as appealing as the vintage watches that typically command top prices at auc-tion And does that Geneva auction tell us anything about the contemporary watch market as a whole
Julien Schaerer Antiquorumrsquos managing director in Geneva says top-quality vintage watches often appreciate in value over the long term But he urges buyers for whom appreciation is an important consideration to be cautious about purchasing contempo-rary watches
lsquoWatch price depreciation is the cost of ownership just as it is with a luxury carrsquo he says lsquoIf the value goes up then
58 March 2014 | inspired
1880The first water- resistant watch incorpo-rating a screwed case is produced by Genevan watchmaker Franccedilois Borgel
1889The first known patent for a wristwatch is filed in Bern Switzerland
1890Dialmaker A Beyeler invents a transfer press for applying numerals and letters to dials
1892Auguste Verneuil in France produces the first synthetic jewels to be used in watchmaking
1904Wens Wilsdorf launches large-scale production of a womenrsquos wristwatch
1924John Harwood files the
first Swiss patent for a self-winding wristwatch with a central oscillating weight
1925The first known wrist-watch with a perpetual calendar is manufactured using a pendant watch movement
1926Rolex creates the Oyster wristwatch with a water-resistant case and crown
1966The first quartz wrist-watch prototype is produced
1969The first quartz watch
with an LED display appears
1978Quartz watches overtake mechanical watches in popularity
2005Creation of the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie Seiko launches the spring drive Kinetic the first self-winding mechanical watch with an electro-magnetic escapement
A Patek Philippe pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon recently sold for pound807000
inspired | March 2014 59
online retailers from the comfort of your homeSince 2006 DM London has quietly estab-
lished a powerful presence for itself in the UK retail watch market with the acquisition of The Watch Hut and The Watch Gallery DM London chairman David Coleridge says the company has capitalised on the increasing willingness of buy-ers to purchase online
lsquoHaving decided that they would like to buy a watch for themselves or someone elsersquo he says lsquopeople start to do their research More often than not this starts online nowadays where they com-pare brands performance and functions
lsquoAs trust in the online marketplace has devel-oped many want to buy online because it is convenient and saves time Shopping online becomes a habit established sites build trust and awareness with customers which gives custom-ers the confidence to buy more expensive itemsrsquo
He adds lsquoOur challenge is to make the online environment as attractive informative and enjoy-able as a high street store Then customers will decide to spend onlinersquo
Coleridge believes a multi-channel approach is the way forward for retailers He says lsquoWithout doubt the future is multi-channel selling ndash a combination of direct selling on the internet and various forms of click and collect ndash combined with beautiful stores on the high street
Over the past few years demand for luxury watches (particularly contemporary models) has spiked sharply in Asia and according to some specialists emerging affluence in the
of course thatrsquos an added benefit However he adds lsquoPrice appreciation is still quite rare with modern watches There is some poten-tial for appreciation but probably only with ultra-limited editions A purchase has to be
seen as a medium- to long-term invest-ment One should buy a timepiece first out of love for the brand or [the watchrsquos] complicationrsquo
The watch brands that offer the greatest assurance of appreci-
ation include Cartier Patek Philippe Rolex Audemars
Piguet A Lange amp Sohne Breguet and Vacheron Constantin All enjoy views from the top of
the watchmaking hierarchy thanks to their longstand-ing histories and well-established brand identities
Relative new-comers to the industry such as Richard Mille and Roger Dubuis have carved out a niche for
themselves with their revolutionary designs and
space-age technologies but it remains to be seen just how well the values of their timepieces will stand up on the secondary market
According to Nathaniel Borgelt a specialist at auction house Sothebyrsquos
some modern watches have already achieved good prices at auction but these (like the Patek Philippe Sky Moon Tourbillon) were highly exclusive models when new
lsquoSome limited edition pieces currently fetch incredible prices at auctionrsquo he says lsquoAnd there is a select group of modern mod-els that could compete with a certain sector of the vintage market based on their brand innovative features such as materials or com-plications and avant-garde designs
Buying these has now become a whole lot easier The luxury watch retailing land-scape is changing and the traditional pattern of physically walking into a luxury salon to buy a watch is gradually being replaced by a trend towards visiting the websites of the big
LUXURY WATCHES
A Lange amp Sohne (above) is a long-standing high-end watchmaker Comparative new-comer Roger Dubuis (right) is forging a strong reputation
inspired | March 2014 PB60 March 2014 | inspired
helpthewatchgallerycom
Hublot ClassiC FusiontHe WatCH Gallery exClusive
The Watch Gallery and Hublot have joined forces to create two very special limited edition watches Both are limited to just 15 pieces worldwide and have been specifically designed to feature The Watch Gallery blue brand colour on the hands and tinted open case back
SelfridgeS OxfOrd StreetWeStfield lOndOnMancheSter exchange Square
wwwthewatchgallerycomhublot-watches
Far East has kept global values strong while other markets around the world continue to recover from recession
Despite the market boost from growing prosperity in Asia there are signs that the market is becoming saturated and that globally the new watch market isnrsquot as robust as some commentators suggest
It may still be a good time to buy but its important to know what you want and what yoursquore buying Modern watchmakers such as Richard Mille Roger Dubuis and Greubel Forsey are producing beautiful timepieces but because of their limited foothold in the market itrsquos difficult to predict their long-term success and desirability They donrsquot yet have the brand power that might ensure the value of their
watches in the secondhand market remains highSuch producers might one day stand eye to
eye with the most desirable brands such as Patek Philippe and Rolex but achieving that kind of parity wonrsquot be easy Collectors looking to invest in timepieces are advised to keep an open mind about modern producers uncertainty is the one aspect of modern luxury watch market most experts tend to agree on
That said the buoyancy in the watch market suggests that plenty of buyers are unconcerned about future values For them itrsquos all about the appreciation of the watch itself People buy watches because they bring them pleasure ndash and say some-thing about who they are
LUXURY WATCHES
Contemporary watches such as those made by Hublot (left) have yet to show they will have the lasting appeal of watches such as Cartierrsquos Rotonde de Cartier Astrocalendaire (right)
inspired | March 2014 63
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-
cent over one year and 229 per cent over three
Alastair Mundyrsquos Temple Bar Investment Trust focuses on UK equities including GlaxoSmithKline Vodafone and Royal Dutch Shell
It failed to outperform the UK equity income sector over one year despite its popular-ity posting a return of 18 per cent compared with the sectorrsquos 21 per cent However it per-formed better over three years returning 62 per cent against the sectorrsquos 56 per cent
INCOME AND SMALLER COMPANIES STILL IMPORTANTInvestors retained an interest in income and smaller-companies investment trusts in February ndash extending the same purchasing trend in January And they con-tinued to flock to UK-focused trusts as a safe haven
Although two of the 10 most-bought trusts Murray International Trust and Bankers Investment Trust invest in international equities both counted UK equities among their top holdings with the Bankers trust favouring BP GlaxoSmithKline and Vodafone
The other popular
losed-end fund inves-tors stuck closely to income trusts in February but seemed more willing to accept
risk than those purchasing open-ended funds the latest data from Interactive Investor shows
The three most popular trusts were regular investor favourites Baillie Giffordrsquos Scottish Mortgage Investment Trust Investecrsquos Temple Bar Investment Trust and Frostrow Capitalrsquos Biotech Growth Trust
While open-ended fund investors looked mainly to UK equities for income two of these three top invest-ment trusts have a worldwide focus James Anderson and Tom Slaterrsquos Scottish Mortgage Investment Trust which posted a sector-beating 27 per cent return over one year and 56 per cent over three invests in worldwide large-cap equi-ties such as Google and Apple while the Biotech Growth Trust taps the worldwide biotechnol-ogy industry through US equity investments
This trust managed by Geoffrey Hsu and Richard Klemm also beat its sector the biotechnology and healthcare sector with returns of 49 per
income trust Premier Asset Mangementrsquos Acorn Income fund invests in UK mid- and large-cap equities includ-ing Electrocomponents John Menzies and Cineworld Group It returned 46 per cent over the past year and 144 per cent over the past three It was the seventh most-bought trust by Interactive Investor users in February
The UK focus also character-ised investorsrsquo smaller-company trust choices The UK-favoured Henderson Smaller Companies Investment Trust and BlackRock Smaller Companies Investment Trust in sixth and tenth place respectively
Both benefited from the UK housing boom through invest-ments in Bellway and Ashtead Group and both outperformed the UK smaller-companies sec-tor which recorded returns of 37 per cent over one year and 66 per cent over three
INVESTORS RETAINED AN INTEREST IN INCOME AND SMALLER-COMPANIES TRUSTS IN FEBRUARY
CMARKET
YOUR MONTH IN THE
Julie Fisher reveals Februaryrsquos 10 most popular trusts
Bankers trust favours a mix of shares in UK and multinational companies
TRADING
10 March 2014 | inspired
AN APPETITE FOR RISK BOOSTS TRUSTSInvestors showed a greater appetite for risk by invest-ing more heavily in trusts As a result BlackRock World Mining Trust and Templeton Emerging Market Trust took the final two places on the list fourth and fifth
Unfortunately both have posted negative returns in recent years due to the fact that they are positioned in unfavour-able markets
While the BlackRock trust was slightly above the com-modities and natural resources sector over six months one year and three years the Templeton trust only outperformed the global emerging markets equi-ties sector over the past month However investors appear to be buying in in the hope that there will be some improvement in the next few years
Emerging markets fell back out of favour among fund investors in February while pur-
chases of UK and smaller company funds held firm the latest data from Interactive Investor shows
After a brief revival for emerging markets in January when three EM funds were among the 10 most bought Februaryrsquos most-popular funds were generally UK-focused
Paul Marriagersquos Cazenove UK Smaller Companies fund was knocked off the list after five consecutive months at the top as it closed to new purchases on 22 January allowing Januaryrsquos sec-ond-placed fund AXA Framlington Biotech to take top spot The US biotechnology-focused fund managed by Linden Thompson is popular as it delivered a return of 61 per cent over the past year and 164 per cent over the past three
Although the AXA fund has little in common with the other top purchases there are trends to be spotted in the rest of the list most of which continue from January Income was a focus for investors while UK smaller companies remained popular
lsquoThere were strong flows into funds investing in the UK and Europe whereas Asia excluding Japan and emerging markets suffered outflows following relatively weak per-formance in these regions since May 2013rsquo say Charles Cade and Ewan Lovett-Taylor in their report on fund trades in January lsquoPerhaps the most notable sub-sector is UK smaller company funds which have bene-fited from net inflows every month since August 2012rsquo
SMALLER COMPANIESAccording to Numis January saw the highest number of monthly inflows into smaller com-pany funds on record pound241 million The Interactive
Investor data shows these funds remained popular in February
Three smaller-company funds made it into the top 10 Investec UK Smaller Companies fund the River and Mercantile UK Equity Smaller Companies fund and the CF Miton UK Smaller Companies fund took third fourth and fifth place respectively
All three outperformed the UK smaller-companies sector which delivered returns of 32 per cent over one year and 55 per cent over three Gervais Williamsrsquos CF Miton fund pro-vided the best return over a year at 55 per cent while the River and Mercantile fund managed by Daniel Hanbury delivered 112 per cent over three years
Ken Hsiarsquos Investec fund had the least impressive returns at 47 per cent over one year and 79 per cent over three but still outperformed the sector The fund invests in small-cap UK companies including Quindell Optimal Payments and Utilitywise
INCOME EMPHASISThe other priority for inves-tors in February was income and this too was UK focused Of five income funds appear-ing in the 10 most-bought category only the Artemis Global Income fund had a non-UK focus
Jacob de Tusch-Lecrsquos fund which delivered returns of 14 per cent over one year and 47 over three invests chiefly
in European and US equi-ties The other most-bought income funds were Unicorn UK Income Rathbone Income JOHCM UK Equity and the Invesco Perpetual Income
They all beat the UK equity income sectorrsquos returns of 16 per cent over one year and 36 per cent over three All invested in large-cap UK com-panies with GlaxoSmithKline AstraZeneca and Royal Dutch Shell among the top holdings
Despite its focus on income the Invesco Perpetual High Income fund dropped out of the 10 most-bought funds in February and the Invesco Perpetual
Income fund appeared only at the end of the list This suggests that investors may be get-ting nervous over the
imminent departure of star fund manager Neil Woodford in April
One growth fund also made the list the MFM Slater Growth fund which took ninth place Like the income funds it outperformed its sec-tor UK all companies
and focused on UK-listed companies including
Hutchison China (HCM) and Entertainment One (ETO)
THE 10 TOP MOST-BOUGHT FUNDSANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
THEREWERESTRONGFLOWSINTOFUNDINVESTINGINTHE
UKANDEUROPEWHEREASASIAEXCLUDINGJAPANANDEMERGINGMARKETSSUFFEREDOUTFLOWSFOLLOWINGRELATIVELYWEAKPERFORMANCEINTHESEREGIONSSINCEMAY2013Charles Cade and Ewan Lovett-Taylor
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
inspired | March 2014 11
DONrsquoT DISMISS AIM-BASED INVESTMENTS
Richard Beddard is an editor at Interactive Investor and manager of Money Observerrsquos Share Sleuth portfolio
Now that inves-tors can buy Alternative Investment Market shares
within Isas the universe of potentially profitable invest-ments has grown But therersquos also more room for disappointment
Aimrsquos light-touch regula-tion makes it easier for younger smaller companies to list and while such shares are reputed to be risky that need not frighten
INVEST REGULARLY
Mick Gilligan head of research Killik amp Co
Starting an Isa at the beginning of a new tax year and investing small amounts
regularly out of your income ndash rather than a larger amount in one lump sum at the end of each tax year ndash helps reduce the impact of market volatility and you start earning compound interest sooner When income is reinvested alongside the initial investment it effectively becomes capital so you have a larger sum producing an income which in turn can be reinvested
trsquos very easy to keep on doing the same things with your annual tax-efficient Isa allow-ance However investors can lose out badly if they do
Itrsquos not just the Isa allowances that keep changing the economic environment and the range of investments available do too So itrsquos important that investors con-sider all the Isa opportunities open to them before they make a any big
irrevocable decisionsWersquove asked a number of invest-
ment experts to reveal their top Isa tips We are sure they will give you some useful guidelines and help you refine the choices you make Some suggestions are reminders about long-standing opportunities others draw your attention to new developments in Isa invest-ing and highlight the opportunities they offer
Isa investorswhether using some or all of their annual allowances donrsquot always get the best out of their investments Faith Glasgow asks some financial experts for their most valuable tips
investors from investing in Aim firms Plenty of them have long illustrious track records in worthy businesses and itrsquos easy to find out about them on finan-cial websites More details are available on companiesrsquo own investor relations websites the contents of which are mandated by Aim rule 26 a rule the more heavily regulated main market would do well to emulate
UP YOUR ISA CONTRIBUTIONS
Darius McDermott managing director Chelsea Financial Services
Donrsquot forget to increase your monthly Isa investments each year in line with
inspired | March 2014 1312 March 2014 | inspired
EXPERTSrsquo TOP ISA
TIPS
ISAS SMART STRATEGY FOR
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
INVESTING SMALL AMOUNTS REGULARLY HELPS REDUCE THE IMPACT OF MARKET VOLATILITYMick Gilligan
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
I
and shares in [non-cash] Isas However this isnrsquot the case Indeed some other asset classes ndash in particular those that pro-duce income ndash offer even more tax benefits than equities when held within an Isa
Bond funds for example get (at least) 20 per cent income tax relief on the yield they pro-duce (dividends from equities in contrast are subjected to a 10 per cent tax at source which is not reclaimable even in an Isa)
The new property author-ised investment fund structure for property funds meanwhile means Isa investors no longer incur the 20 per cent tax that would previously have been applied on income received from a property investment
the increase in the contribution limit if you can afford to Itrsquos all too easy for regular investors with their money invested auto-matically every month to overlook those annual allow-ance increases And consider increasing your investment whenever you receive a salary increase
LOOK BEYOND STOCKS AND SHARES
Darius McDermott Chelsea Financial Services Some potential Isa investors think you can only hold stocks
PLOUGH INTO PROPERTYGavin Haynes managing director Whitechurch Securities
Many people donrsquot realise they can gain expo-sure to bricks and mortar through
commercial property funds held in a stocks and shares Isa
The asset class currently offers an attractive yield rela-tive to cash and bonds without the volatility of the stock market investments
Property funds are not with-out risk but an allocation to a commercial property fund (that invests directly in bricks and mortar not property shares) can add diversification to an Isa portfolio With the economic outlook improving the sector looks well placed for recovery
ACCEPT RISK BUT BE SURE TO DIVERSIFY
Rebecca OrsquoKeeffe head of investment Interactive Investor
The primary ben-efits of an Isa are felt over the long term so itrsquos important to rec-
ognise that taking on risk
inspired | March 2014 1312 March 2014 | inspired
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
ITrsquoS ALL TOO EASY TO OVERLOOK THOSE ANNUAL ALLOWANCE INCREASESDariusMcDermott
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
Isa can suddenly become a poorly paying one But never try to transfer an Isa yourself Contact the new provider first and follow its transfer rules
Remember the amount of money you can invest in a cash Isa in each tax year is capped (currently at pound5760) so if you want to switch in the middle of the tax year you will prob-ably be switching the entire amount ndash you cannot switch a portion of an existing Isa into a new one and top it up If your original Isa is due to pay you interest at the end of the year it should pay you the accrued interest up to the date you close the account
Itrsquos possible to transfer your cash Isa into a stocks and shares Isa if you decide this is a better home for you money but you canrsquot switch your money back from a stocks and shares Isa into a cash Isa
You can invest up to pound11520 in a stocks and shares Isa in a single tax year minus anything you may have paid into a cash Isa ndash which is capped at pound5760
over the long term is usually a far more profitable strategy than minimising risk Investors typi-cally take less risk than they should especially if they have suffered a loss in the past
You can mitigate your overall risk by diversifying across differ-ent asset classes and geographic areas Regular investing is also a great risk reduction strategy
Itrsquos also important to rec-ognise the value of dividend reinvestment and understand the benefit this compound-ing effect has on your portfolio And remember to choose a bro-ker that doesnrsquot penalise you for reinvesting
TRANSFER YOUR ISAS TO GET THE BEST DEALS
Mark King editor MoneywiseUnlike a stocks and shares Isa a cash Isa is a sim-ple savings account with a
tax-free Isa lsquowrapperrsquo placed around it so that you donrsquot pay tax on your interest
You can choose to have access to your money or tie it up until a future date just as with typical savings accounts Generally the longer you tie your money up for the better the interest rate you get
While a cash Isa is considered a low-risk investment ndash which sophisticated investors may find returns too little as a result ndash you can transfer a cash Isa should you decide you want to take on more risk or get a bet-ter rate Indeed you may have to transfer a cash Isa regularly Providers offer different rates that can change so a top-paying
From 6 April ndash the beginning of the 201415 tax year ndash however these limits rise to pound11880 and pound5940 respectively
LOOK AT THE LONG- TERM BENEFITS
Philippa Gee managing director Philippa Gee Wealth Management
Some investors look at the return on an Isa or at the limit on how much they can
invest in a single year and fail to see the value
However they would be wise to consider the longer-term view Those who have invested each year for a number of years have been able to build six- figure portfolios that they do not have to pay any further income or capital gains tax on or list on their tax assessment
By securing a significant sum in an Isa wrapper each year as far as yoursquore able you can build up a valuable flexible and tax-efficient investment
inspired | March 2014 PB14 March 2014 | inspired
EXPERTSrsquoTOP ISA
TIPS
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
TAKING ON RISK OVER THE LONG TERM IS USUALLY MORE PROFITABLERebecca OrsquoKeeffe
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
The ISA thatrsquos
fair and square
We believe in straightforward investing Thatrsquos why we donrsquot nibble at your investments with percentage charges Open an account and for pound20 per quarter you get two pound10 trades and an ISA for free After that itrsquos just pound10 per trade across a wide range of UK and international investmentsTransfer to us today and get up to pound240 as a thank you (terms apply) We believe thatrsquos fair and square
The value of investments and any income from them can fall as well as rise so you could get back less than you invest Tax treatment depends on your individual circumstances and may be subject to change If in any doubt please seek advice
iiicoukisa
Interactive Investor Trading Limited trading as ldquoInteractive Investorrdquo is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority Registered Office Standon House 21 Mansell Street London E1 8AA Tel 0845 200 3637 Registered in England with Company Registration number 3699618
hen new rules were introduced last August allowing the inclusion of Alternative Investment Market (Aim) shares in Isas demand for exposure to the junior market
quickly exceeded expectations Another surge in demand is likely in April as the new tax year dawns and investors have a fresh annual allow-ance to play with
Yet while stocks on Aim can boast eye-catching returns and attractive tax perks they can also be very volatile raising concerns that investors may be letting the tax tail wag the investment dog with-out understanding what they are getting into
The Treasuryrsquos decision to allow Aim shares into Isas was driven by a desire to encourage greater investment in small and medium-sized companies The move was immediately popular with investors and brokers reported a sharp rise in Aim-listed purchases Demand for smaller companies funds was up too as investors wary of direct share ownership
bought into funds offering exposure to Aim stocksIt helped that Aim stocks were enjoying a good
run as were smaller companies generally with the amount of money raised on the market over the summer rising sharply Performance is just one aspect of their appeal however
Aim shares already offered inheritance tax effi-ciency most of them qualify for business property relief making them exempt from IHT when held for two years or more However itrsquos worth noting that BPR is subject to change and a company can lose its eligibility and therefore its IHT relief status as a result Therefore investors wanting to continue benefiting from IHT relief have to switch out of such companies and into those still eligible
Wider income and capital gains tax benefits also drove some demand for Aim shares after the
Isa rule change in August The move created a bed- and-Isa opportunity whereby existing Aim share inves-tors sold their holdings and bought them back within an Isa
Among those quick
Alternative Investment Market stocks offer Isa investors a chance to realise heady returns ndash but you need to pick your holdings carefully because of the high risk of losses in an illiquid market says Jeff Salway
AIMSHARES
W
GEMSTO BE UNEARTHED
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
WE WOULD ONLY INCLUDE AIM STOCKS
IN THE PORTFOLIOS OF ADVENTUROUS CLIENTS David Thomson
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
inspired | March 2014 17
THERE ARE
Treatt has built up an immaculate record of delivering profits
to take advantage was Lord Lee of Trafford the UKrsquos first Isa millionaire and author of How to Make a Million ndash Slowly My Guiding Principles from a Lifetime of Successful Investing lsquoI have a
big holding of Christie Group that was originally in my per-sonal equity planrsquo he says lsquoWhen the company moved to Aim [from the main market] I took it out of the Pep but when Aim shares became Isa-eligible I sold it and bought it back again within my Isarsquo
April 2014 will mark the removal of stamp duty from Aim purchases a develop-ment expected to encourage asset managers to launch a new wave of Aim-focused funds The axing of stamp duty makes the junior market more appeal-ing to companies on the main market as well with several recently moving across
Alec Stewart partner at Anderson Strathern Asset Management explains lsquoA company can reduce its regulatory burden by moving to the junior market with lower audit and compliance requirementsrsquo For example the main market
stipulates that any potential listing should have a market capitalisation no lower than pound700000 whereas therersquos no such guideline on the Aim mar-ket Nor do companies need a trading history to list on Aim compared with the three years required for the main market Moreover the cost of listing on Aim is considerably lower
But for many private investors the main appeal of Aim stocks lies largely in the prospect of sky-high returns from the success of small and fledgling companies There are some 1200 stocks on the market from a wide range of sectors ndash albeit with a heavy weighting in technology and especially natural resources and with a gulf in size between the biggest and smallest
The largest are eligible for the FTSE AIM 50 and the FTSE AIM 100 where the likes of Bowleven Majestic Wine Dobbies Asos and MampC Saatchi are listed
Stewart picks out three he favours as part of a diversified portfolio One is Dart Group The owner of Jet2com and Jet2Holidays Dart has had a lsquostrong runrsquo and is focused on becoming more fam-ily friendly in these budget-conscious times says Stewart lsquoIt benefits from good visibility of future bookings and strong cash generationrsquo he adds
Aerospace and defence firm Cohort is another with a lsquoprogressive dividend policyrsquo that has grown at an annualised rate of 20 per cent over
DEWHURST (pound520)Dewhurst is a well-established manu-facturer of lift pushbuttons indicators and controls keypads for ATMs security devices and petrol pumps and traffic management products such as bollards
The company has a long record of profitability under the stewardship of the Dewhurst family and a debt-free balance sheet That suggests it is a strong competitor
Profits fell in 2013 ndash a result of a slowdown in Dewhurstrsquos major markets and customers having stocked up in the previous year Management is quite cagey about the companyrsquos prospects for 2014 but an improved performance is likely as conditions in the UK and the US improve The shares are probably good value at 11 times adjusted 2013 earnings
MS INTERNATIONAL (pound204)MS International manufactures military hardware forks for forklift trucks and petrol station canopies and car washes
The company has been profitable in each of the past 10 years and has a balance sheet flush with cash yet the share price has fallen to a level that val-ues MSI at five times adjusted 2013
earnings MSIrsquos current unpopularity stems from a decline in the profitability of MSI Defence Systems which has the highest turnover of its three businesses
The company expects 2014 to be no easier than 2013 due to continu-ing pressure on defence spending but itrsquos confident it will add to defence work already contracted and scheduled for every year until 2020
Itrsquos quite possible that MSI is having a lull that does not reflect on the qual-ity of its products or businesses If thatrsquos the case itrsquos a bargain
TREATT (pound747)Treatt distills flavourings and frag-rances essential oils and water-soluble essences Its products are used in drinks confectionery sauces and cosmetics worldwide
The companyrsquos expertise and close customer relationships might give it a competitive advantage and it has never suffered a loss However it has ushered out managing director Hugo Bovill and his family has sold its interest
Management with large share-holdings gives companies some independence from the often short-term imperatives of fund managers
However the new team is focused on controlling costs and developing the most profitable products
Profit grew 28 per cent in 2013 and Treattrsquos long-term prospects are prob-ably good but the share price has spiked valuing the shares at 15 times adjusted 2013 earnings
FW THORPE (pound143)FW Thorpe designs and manufactures light fittings known as luminaires They are becoming increasingly complex with the introduction of LED technology that requires printed circuit boards Its main business is Thorlux which supplies lighting to schools hospitals ware-houses and factories Other subsidiaries supply retailers emergency exit signage and cleanroom lighting
Stable family ownership long indus-try experience and a commitment to modernisation and investment are the keys to Thorpersquos prosperity
Although it has to contend with the additional investment required to produce LED lighting Thorpe is manag-ing the transition well The shares cost pound137 which values the company at about 15 times adjusted 2013 earnings Thatrsquos a fair price for a quality company
Richard Beddard picks out four Aim-listed companies worth considering for inclusion in a diversified Isa share portfolio
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
I TRANSFERRED INTO MY ISA A BIG
HOLDING OF CHRISTIE GROUP THAT USEDTO BE IN MY PEPLord Lee of Trafford
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
AIMSHARES
18 March 2014 | inspired
the past three years he adds Among food pro-ducers he likes Wynnstay It has lsquobenefited from strong revenue and pre-tax profitsrsquo increasing its interim dividend by 9 per cent
But therersquos ample cause for caution too because Aim shares are typically far riskier than those listed on the main market Not only is there the vol-atility inherent in shares issued by smaller firms but there remains the potential for liquidity issues even after the surge of money into the market in recent months Haig Bathgate chief investment officer at Turcan Connell says lsquoThey are by impli-cation of their size much less liquid in terms of the shares that trade hands on a daily basis so they are prone to more extreme price movementsrsquo
UK investors may also be averse to Aim stocks that are effectively overseas companies Indeed many Aim fund portfolios specifically exclude both these and natural resources firms as well as stocks that donrsquot offer business property relief
lsquoSignificant numbers of companies have failed to deliver on expectations in this part of the mar-ket and it is also quite heavily weighted towards technology (12 per cent) resources (9 per cent) and oil and gas companies (22 per cent)rsquo says Bathgate There are transparency concerns too due to the less stringent regulatory and company reporting requirements on the Aim market
lsquoWe would only include Aim stocks within the
portfolios of adventurous clients and then only up to a maximum of 10 per centrsquo says David Thomson chief investment officer at VWM Wealth lsquoEven then the bulk of this is likely to be via a venture capital trust where the investor can also enjoy 30 per cent income tax relief providing a further cushion against the volatility of Aim sharesrsquo
Collective investment funds and trusts offer a way into Aim stocks that provides useful diversification and so reduces the risk of heavy losses Investment trusts can offer particular advantages where Aim-listed shares are concerned as their closed-ended status gives them a hedge against the market liquidity issues that can affect Aim stocks Among the growing number of UK smaller companies investment trusts in which Aim shares are prominent are those run by BlackRock Standard Life and Aberforth Unit trusts invest-ing in Aim companies include the LampG UK Alpha Trust and Cazenove UK Smaller Companies
However there is a downside to access-ing Aim through funds and trusts as investors no longer benefit from the IHT-free status that direct holders of Aim stocks enjoy The risk of hefty losses remains the biggest caveat to investing in Aim
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
AIMSHARESAREMUCHLESS
LIQUIDINTERMSOFTHESHARESTHATTRADEHANDSDAILYHaig Bathgate
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
inspired | March 2014 19
Clockwise from top Cohort Wynnstay and Jet2com are Stewartrsquos picks for a diversified portfolio
rewarding such as smaller companies private equity and emerging markets
Trusts can also increase their assets by borrow-ing So long as this gearing is sensibly priced it should accelerate the trustrsquos gains in positive mar-ket conditions However gearing will exacerbate losses in any downturn The possible closing of the discount will also enhance share price returns
SOLID GROWTHBaillie Gifford Global DiscoveryThis fund picked by independent financial adviser Brian Dennehy invests globally in growth stocks especially companies operating in industries with potential for structural change and innova-tion Dennehy says manager Douglas Brodie has had considerable experience and success in iden-tifying growth opportunities particularly among exciting smaller-cap stocks
CF Lindsell Train UK EquityJohn Husselbee head of multi-asset at Liontrust Asset Management prefers investors to traders Renowned investor Warren Buffett takes a similar view and Husselbee says fund manager Nick Train invests like Buffett Train looks to buy great com-panies such as Burberry Heineken and Unilever when they are good value and hold them lsquoforeverrsquo
Cazenove UK Opportunities This fund aims to achieve long-term capital growth from a focused portfolio of large and medium-sized UK companies Gavin Haynes managing
huge variety of investment funds rang-ing from generalist funds to highly specialised versions aim to generate capital growth for investors
Investing in a specific fund entails investors accepting different degrees of risk in return for a range of potential rewards So when we asked financial advisers to predict which funds offer the best prospects for growth in 2014 we also urged them to consider which types of investor the funds would suit best
Solid growth funds will appeal to investors who prefer steady investment while higher-risk growth funds are likely to be more volatile and appeal to those with a higher risk tolerance Speculative funds could produce handsome returns this year but they could also dip sharply in value
Closed-ended status means investment trusts can invest in less liquid asset classes without having to worry about realising their holdings in a market setback This enables them to invest in areas that have historically proved particularly
A
Helen Pridham and Fiona Hamilton have rounded up a collection of investment funds and trusts experts believe will prosper in the year ahead for investors looking to cash in on an improving economic outlook
PERFECT YOUR FUND PORTFOLIOTO SEE IT
GROW
inspired | March 2014 2120 March 2014 | inspired
FUNDSAND
TRUSTS
GROW
inspired | March 2014 2120 March 2014 | inspired
A
RE Y
OU
A
GLO
BAL
INV
ESTO
R Take a global view of investment trusts expertly managed by Henderson
For over 75 years Henderson Global Investors has been at the forefront of investment trust innovation and development Now with a diverse and established range of managed investment trusts and investment companies Henderson has a global view of the market
Whether you are retirement planning investing for your children looking to take advantage of dynamic global markets or want a cautious investment approach our managed companies offer a wide range of investment objectives and strategies professionally managed by regional experts
If your priority is high income long term capital growth or a mixture of both Henderson Global Investors has a range of solutions which aims to meet your investment needs
Please remember that past performance is not a guide to future performance The value of an investment and the income from it can fall as well as rise as a result of market and currency fluctuations and you may not get back the amount originally invested
Call to receive your Investment Trust brochure or visit wwwhendersoninvestmenttrustscom
0800 856 5656
Investment Trusts managed by Henderson
Issued in the UK by Henderson Global Investors Henderson Global Investors is the name under which Henderson Global Investors Limited (reg no 906355) Henderson Fund Management Limited (reg no 2607112) Henderson Investment Funds Limited (reg no 2678531) Henderson Investment Management Limited (reg no 1795354) Henderson Alternative Investment Advisor Limited (reg no 962757) Henderson Equity Partners Limited (reg no2606646) Gartmore Investment Limited (reg no 1508030) (each incorporated and registered in England and Wales with registered office at 201 Bishopsgate London EC2M 3AE) are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority to provide investment products and services Telephone calls may be recorded and monitored H0046521113ad
Itrsquos a global marketplace
HGiTrusts
director at Whitechurch Securities says fund manager Julie Dean has built up an excellent track record
Securities Trust of ScotlandRobin McAdam likes Securities Trust of Scotland which seeks rising income and long-term capi-tal growth from global equities The trust yields 33 per cent so it provides income and growth potential lsquoThe trust has outperformed its bench-mark recently and we expect this to continuersquo says McAdam
Finsbury Growth amp Income TrustPeter Hewitt nominates Finsbury Growth amp Income Trust on the basis of its strong short- and long-term performance Manager Nick Train seeks out the highest-quality companies to hold long term The portfolio is dominated by companies Train expects to have longevity such as Diageo Unilever and Heineken lsquoThe manager looks for strong cash gen-eration and dividend growth which he believes are undervalued by the stock marketrsquo Hewitt says
RIT Capital PartnersThis multi-asset trust selected by John Newlands is the flagship financial vehicle for its chairman Lord Jacob Rothschild and his family lsquoGiven the uncertainty in the world it is no bad thing to be diversified both globally and across a range of asset classes RIT is a global growth trust that offers a combination of these benefitsrsquo Newlands says
His enthusiasm is bolstered by RITrsquos current relatively wide discount which reflects disap-pointment among investors that it was rather too cautious over the past two or three years
Perpetual Income amp Growth Trust This trust is classified as a member of the AIC UK growth and income sector but its yield tends to be below the sector average because manager Mark Barnett is more interested in income growth than immediate income Tim Cockerill classifies it as a total return trust and makes it his solid growth choice Barnett has secured excellent long-term returns dur-ing his 15 years at the helm
HIGHER-RISK GROWTHLazard Emerging MarketsMick Gilligan believes the investment case for emerging market equi-ties remains strong He says lsquoEquity markets in emerging regions are trading at their widest price-to-earnings discount to developed markets since 2006 We believe many well-capitalised businesses that have shown strong financial discipline should gener-ate good profitsrsquo The Lazard Emerging Markets fund focuses on such businesses
Rathbone Global OpportunitiesThis go-almost-anywhere bottom-up thorough stockpicking fund looks for undiscovered gems Rob Burdett fund manager at Thames River believes manager James Thomson strikes the
KEY FACTS ABOUT GROWTH FUND TIPS
Mininv pound
Ongoing Charges
1-yearreturn
Sectorrank
SOLID GROWTHBaillie Gifford Global Discovery 1000 086 5920 2248CF Lindsell Train UK Equity ndash 080 2910 53271Cazenove UK Opportunities 1000 082 3210 40271 HIGHER-RISK GROWTHInvestec Global Energy 1000 087 1420 40206Lazard Emerging Markets 2000 161 320 1668Rathbone Global Opportunities 1000 082 2150 111248 SPECULATIVE GROWTHAllianz BRIC Stars 500 122 -120 134206Liontrust Special Situations 1000 114 1450 251271MampG Recovery 500 096 1330 264271Note Ongoing charges figure refers to the least expensive retail share class Source Financial Express and companies websites as at 3 December 2013
KEY FACTS ABOUT THE TRUSTS TIPPED FOR GROWTH
Shareprice
p
Discprem to NAV
Netyield
Gearing
Net asset valuetotal return after
1 year
3 years
5 years
SOLID GROWTHFinsbury Growth amp Income 5010 (+) 12 21 50 305 767 2038Perpetual Income amp Growth 3686 10 32 120 346 714 1407RIT Capital Partners 12480 105 11 50 210 225 591Securities Trust of Scotland 1469 (+) 31 32 40 192 460 1132 HIGHER-RISK GROWTHBiotech Growth Trust 4335 72 00 70 582 1723 2968Fidelity Chinese Special Sits 1062 65 09 210 433 02 ndashGraphite Enterprise Trust 5690 170 09 -90 167 442 405Schroder Asia Pacific 2730 92 14 -20 08 201 1779 SPECULATIVE GROWTHBaker Steel Resources 470 331 00 10 -57 -137 740Hansa Trust A 8600 243 23 10 142 69 947Impax Environmental Markets 1463 112 06 -20 350 285 921Standard Life Eq Inc subscription 1070 ndash 00 3700 ndash ndash ndashNotes NAV = net asset value Annualised All data as at 1 December Source Numis Securities
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
MARK BARNETT HAS SECURED
EXCELLENT RETURNSTim Cockerill
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
inspired | March 2014 23PB March 2014 | inspired
FUNDSANDTRUSTS
right balance between taking calculated risks for high returns and investing in defensive holdings Burdett says lsquoHe likes companies undertaking gentle innovation ndash moving online for example ndash rather than game changers which have more potential to go wrongrsquo Investec Global EnergyThis fund invests in companies that produce energy and provide services to the energy sector Fund managers Tom Nelson and Charles Whall believe the consensus view on future oil prices anticipates weak demand and growing supply from US shale oil But they demur as does Tony Yarrow at Wise Investment He says lsquoOil is harder to extract from shale than gas is while demand for oil is growing as economies recover A higher oil price feeds straight through to the companiesrsquo profitsrsquo
Biotech Growth TrustPeter Hewitt favours Biotech Growth Trust which has achieved scorching gains recently ndash up 172 per cent over three years to 1 December 2013
It is managed in New York by Orbimed a specialist healthcare and biotechnology investor with $7 bil-lion (pound42 billion) under management It offers exposure to a mix of large and profitable biotech companies along-side emerging businesses Most of its holdings are US-based and they have
benefited from a much more positive approach by the Federal Drug Authority ndash new drug approvals in 2010 were the highest for 10 years
Graphite Enterprise TrustAndrew McHattie contends that just one sector offers great value private equity lsquoThese trusts were hammered in the credit crisis and discounts widened to extreme levelsrsquo he says
His selection is Graphite Enterprise Trust Its discount to net asset value remains at a level that rings alarm bells in most other sectors but it has a strong track record and a relatively mature port-folio of shares he expects to rise in value
Fidelity Chinese Special SituationslsquoWith Chinese equities looking cheap the long-term outlook for investing in China is positiversquo Cockerill says lsquoThis fund invests in medium and small caps where high growth can be achieved New manager Dale Nicholls is well qualified and the combination of Fidelity manager experience and China is compelling in the long termrsquo
Scottish Oriental Smaller Companies Trust This trust is favoured by McAdam The invest-ment team identifies quality companies offering sustainable predictable growth lsquoThe trust may underperform if the market rises strongly but the teamrsquos enviable track record and experience should be respectedrsquo he says
Tim Cockerill is investment director at Rowan Dartington
RowanDartingtonhas20investmentadvisersbasedinsevenofficesacrossthesouthofEnglandIthaspound900millionunderman-
agementInvestmenttrustshavefeaturedinitsdiscretionaryandadvisoryportfoliosformanyyears
Peter Hewittis a member of FampC Asset Managementrsquos global equities team
HehasmanagedtheFampCManagedPortfolioTrustsinceApril2008aswellasitsforerunnerFampCManagedPortfolio
Servicesince2002HewasheadofUKequitiesatMurray
Johnstonefrom1981to1983beforejoiningIvoryampSime
Jean Mattersonis a partner and chief investment officer at Rossie House Investment Management
Shejoinedthefirmin1998after20yearswithassetmanagerStewartIvory
BasedinEdinburghsheisoneoffiveinvestment
professionalsmanagingaroundpound300mil-lionallonadiscretionarybasisAroundhalfisininvestmenttrusts
Robin McAdamjoined Brooks MacDonald Asset Management in 2009 from Adam amp Company Investment Management
Hehas24yearsrsquoexperi-encemanagingprivateclientportfoliosandheadsBMrsquosEdinburghbranch
Thefirmhaspound537billionunderdiscretionarymanagementinbespokeandmanagedportfolios
Andrew McHattieis head of The McHattie Group
McHattieGroupisanauthorisedfirmthatpublishesspecialistinvestmentnewsletters
McHattiehasbeentheeditorofInvestmentTrustNewslettersince1996(wwwtipsheetscouk)andoffersafreeservicecalledthelsquoitlistrsquo(wwwtheitlistcouk)ThecompanyhasaFacebookpage(wwwfacebookcominvestmenttrusts)
John Newlandsis responsible for investment trust research at Brewin Dolphin
Heissupportedbyfouranalystswhocoverspecificsectorsresearchingopen-andclosed-endedfunds
BrewinDolphinhas35officesaroundtheUKandChannelIslandsandmanagespound28billionofwhichpound39billionisininvestmenttrusts
TrusttipstersOursixexpertsrevealtheirtopfundpicks
inspired | March 2014 PB24 March 2014 | inspired
FUNDSAND
TRUSTS
One in twelve goes free on your next golf break plus every golfer receives a free pint
12thmansagimme
Book online at MarriottGolfcouk
Offer is only valid on residential golf bookings booked during the promotional dates For every 11 players booked the 12th player will be free of charge Rates are per person per night based on 2 people sharing a twindouble room and include dinner bed amp breakfast Bookings must be made by one named player and separate bookings will not qualify Each residential player aged 18 and over will receive a voucher entitling them to a complimentary pint
of Beckrsquos or Boddingtons Offer is valid on bookings made via 3rd parties Offer is available on 1 night 2 rounds or 2 night 3 rounds and excludes Sunday Driver Maximum of 2 night stay and 2 people per room Day of week availability may vary based on location Limited number of rooms may be available This offer applies to new bookings only at Marriott Hotel amp Country Clubs and offer courses and tee times are subject to availability Offer cannot
be used in conjunction with any other promotion Course terms and conditions apply Advance reservations required Book between 17th February and 29th June 2014 for stays between 4th April and 29th September 2014
The SIPP thatrsquos
fair and square
We believe in straightforward investing Thatrsquos why we donrsquot nibble at your SIPP with percentage fees For just pound144 per year you can open a SIPP and add an ISA for free After that itrsquos just pound10 to buy or sell a wide range of investments including shares funds bonds and gilts Open an account today and if you transfer your existing SIPP wersquoll give you up to pound240 as a thank you (terms apply) We believe thatrsquos fair and square
The value of investments and any income from them can fall as well as rise so you could get back less than you invest Tax treatment depends on your individual circumstances and may be subject to change If in any doubt please seek advice
iiicouksipp
Interactive Investor Trading Limited trading as ldquoInteractive Investorrdquo is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority Registered Office Standon House 21 Mansell Street London E1 8AA Tel 0845 200 3637 Registered in England with Company Registration number 3699618
SPECULATIVE GROWTHMampG RecoveryDennehy says manager Tom Dobell backs his convictions engages with companies he invests in and has delivered long-term outperformance lsquoDobellrsquos MampG Recovery fund has a clear value-style process and management stability It invests in a wide range of firms that are out of favour or in difficulty or whose prospects are not fully rec-ognised by the marketrsquo he says
Liontrust Special SituationsHusselbee says Liontrustrsquos Anthony Cross and Julian Fosh have their own unique philosophy He adds lsquoThey look for characteristics in a company that its competitors find difficult to replicate such as intellectual property or distribution channelsrsquo
Allianz Bric StarsThis fund aims for capital growth in the long term by investing mainly in Brazil Russia India and China Haynes says investors have shunned these markets recently and valuations fallen He adds lsquoFor investors looking for a recovery story this fund is worth considerationrsquo
Standard Life Equity Income subscription shareMcHattie says warrant and subscription shares are widely ignored creating opportunities for those who understand them He favours the subscrip-tion shares of Standard Life Equity Income which can be exercised at 320p a share up to the end of December 2016 lsquoThey offer gearing of 37 times and if the ordinary shares grow by more than 28 per cent a year between now and the end of 2016 the subscription shares ought to outperformrsquo
Impax Environmental MarketsMcAdam likes this trust It invests in companies seeking to provide cleaner or more-efficient energy as well as water and waste solutions to the growing problems faced by authorities around the world It offers exposure to a rapidly changing marketplace as well as to socially responsible investments
Hansa TrustJohn Newlands sees potential in the A shares of Hansa Trust which languish at a discount of more than 25 per cent He says that whereas the trustrsquos portfolio appears skewed with a third of its assets in Ocean Wilsons there is actually plenty of diversification because Ocean Wilsons has an investment portfolio that stands at a discount to underlying value lsquoOne day an attractive bid [may] be made for Ocean Wilsons that will enhance Hansarsquos NAV and sim-plify its capital structure all to the good of its market ratingrsquo Newlands says
Baker Steel Resources TrustJean Matterson hopes for good returns from this trust shares in which trade on a near 30 per cent discount lsquoIt has not had an easy run of late but we believe the underlying assets are attractive and that the mining projects in the companyrsquos portfo-lio will continue to progressrsquo she says
Prospects have improved for biotechs (left) while growing interest in sustain-able energy has boosted Impax
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
AHIGHEROILPRICEFEEDSSTRAIGHT
THROUGHTOPROFITSTony Yarrow
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
inspired | March 2014 27PB March 2014 | inspired
FUNDSANDTRUSTS
The world of funds and trusts is a confusing place with over 2300 funds and more than 300 investment trusts to choose from
Money Observerrsquos Rated Funds system narrows down the playing field to help you decide which funds and investment trusts might be best for you
Our team of experts constantly monitor the marketplace rating those funds that have delivered consistently good returns However you should be aware that there is no guarantee this performance will be repeated
With our comparison tool you can filter by whatrsquos important to you compare up to four funds and trusts side-by-side as well as view factsheets
COMPAREMONEY OBSERVER RATED FUNDS
VISIT MONEYOBSERVERCOMCOMPAREFUNDS AND LOOK OUT FOR THE RATED FUND STAMP
had spare cash or I were start-ing afresh The companies in the add category are high qual-ity judging by the strategies they follow and their finan-cial strength and are probably undervalued
Irsquom more likely to eject or reduce holdings in companies in the watch and specula-tive categories These shares are more risky either because they have risen greatly in price or because their prospects are more uncertain than usual I may think the risk is worth tak-ing but I am prepared to act should that calculation change
Every decision to increase a portfolio holding must be weighed against the potential of new candidates drawn from all companies listed in the UK and corralled into another live spreadsheet the Share Sleuth watchlist When I add a share to the watchlist or trade a share in the portfolio I explain this in the Share Sleuth blog
ccumulating income and capital gains in an index tracking fund is inexpensive takes little effort and all but guarantees an
average return so it should be the default investment for a lazy equity investor saving for the long term
To justify the work of decid-ing which shares to buy and sell and the effort and cost of placing trades an active investor must do better Consequently the first objective of the active Share Sleuth portfolio is to beat passive investments after costs over the long-term which in practice means any five-year period The second objective is to win this tussle against an unknowing and unthinking opponent transparently
At the heart of the portfolio is an online spreadsheet The first page shows the constitu-ent shares arranged into three categories lsquoaddrsquo lsquowatchrsquo and lsquospeculativersquo The categorisa-tion is updated daily based on live data in subsequent spread-sheets each of which contains a financial model for a particular company
The Share Sleuth portfo-lio shows the holdings I would add to the portfolio today if it
Share Sleuth is a simulation no money changes hands But I use prices quoted by a bro-ker and adjust the accounting to factor in notional broker fees and stamp duty However I lsquoeat my own cookingrsquo by investing my self-invested personal pen-sion in Share Sleuth companies
No doubt you are wonder-ing how the portfolio is doing Share Sleuthrsquos five-year anni-versary judgement day is on 9 September this year and I will not prejudge it now
Short-term performance watching and the knee-jerk trad-ing it encourages is I think one reason why many inves-tors fail My focus is on ensuring the portfolio remains invested in good companies at reasona-ble prices
You can see a live perfor-mance table and learn what I think of every share in the port-folio and which companies I might add to it at wwwiiicoukZkr
SHAREBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIOR
The Share Sleuth portfolio has been carefully devised to show investors how to find good companies at cheap prices and also prove the value of its investment approach says Richard Beddard
Richard Beddard an editor at Interactive Investor since 1999 has managed the Share Sleuth portfolio since 9 September 2009 Hersquos a columnist at Money Observer magazine and a private investor
AMY FOCUS IS ON ENSURING THAT THE PORTFOLIO IS INVESTED IN GOOD FIRMS AT DECENT PRICES
inspired | March 2014 29PB March 2014 | inspired
SHARESLEUTH
iiicoukstraightforward
Interactive Investor Trading Limited trading as ldquoInteractive Investorrdquo is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority Registered Office Standon House 21 Mansell Street London E1 8AA Tel 0845 200 3637 Registered in England with Company Registration number 3699618
We believe in being straightforwardthis is why we donrsquot nibble at your investment by charging percentage fees Find out how this could affect your investment performance at iiicoukstraightforward
If you transfer to us you can even get up to pound240 as a thank you (terms apply)
Donrsquot forget the value of investments and any income from them can fall as well as rise so you could get back less than you invest If in any doubt please seek advice
7784_II_QI_MONEY_OBSERVER_210x297_AWindd 1 16012014 1224
Take a closer look
at your investment
options
Discover a straightforward way to understand everything from ISAs to SIPPs and OEICs to Investment Trusts
Investing for generationsEver feel yoursquod like to know more about investing Wersquove been helping people build their wealth for over 125 years Our guide lsquoMaking sense of the investment universersquo is just one of the resources yoursquoll find on our Investment Focus hub
As well as clear simple guides therersquos a wealth of information and expert opinion all designed to help you take control of your investments Please remember that investments can go down as well as up and investors may get back less than they originally invested
Introducing your free online source of information help and expert opinion
investment-focuscouk
This has been approved as a financial promotion by Alliance Trust Investments Limited for the purpose of Section 21 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 Alliance Trust Investments Limited is a subsidiary of Alliance Trust PLC and is registered in Scotland No SC330862 registered office 8 West Marketgait Dundee DD1 1QN is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority firm reference number 479764 Alliance Trust Investments gives no financial or investment advice
TAX YEAR ENDS APRIL 5TH ndash learn more about
your options now
Investment Focus Smart Insight from Alliance Trust
Yoursquove spoken Wersquove listened Introducing your free online source of information help and expert opinion
Based on real insight we have launched a new website which focuses on investment education
We believe that we are uniquely positioned to provide this hub of information based on the reputation we have built for trust and transparency over the last 125 years
We will be publishing new content over the next few months focusing on specific themes
bull Investing from scratch
bull Products in a portfolio
bull Global diversification
bull Planning for your familyrsquos future
bull Retirement planning
bull Getting more information
There is a generation of future investors out there who have been brought up in an era of economic turmoil and banking crises which has led to disillusionment and a lack of trust in our sector and the services we offer Despite it being more important than ever for investors to take control of their financial situation this new generation of savers lacks the basic knowledge and understanding to make these very important long-term decisions
Our goal is to develop a useful resource with contributions from third-parties as well as the team at Alliance Trust which offers insights into the various life stages and challenges faced and which can be built upon and adapted to meet savers needs in the long term
Katherine Garrett-Cox CBE Chief Executive Alliance Trust PLC
ldquo
rdquo
There are too many products to make an informed decision
I donrsquot know whereto go for reliable
information
investment-focuscouk
Yoursquoll naturally take a keen interest in the performance of your investments But itrsquos just as important to understand the fees you will be paying as they can have a significant impact on the returns you achieve Knowing what the different types of costs mean and exactly what they consist of can prove rewarding
Itrsquos worth remembering that for every fee you pay (whether it is a or flat fee) your investment needs to grow by at least the same amount just to stay ahead of the game It sounds obvious but itrsquos easy to forget Broadly speaking there are three types of fees fund fees platform fees and fees for a financial adviser You can either invest directly into a fund and pay the associated fees or you can invest via a platform provider (some of which are referred to as wrap platforms others as fund supermarkets) This is a service that lets you manage and review all your investments online in one place As a general rule fund fees are lower when
bought through a platform than if you buy direct You can invest through a platform on either an execution only basis where the investor assesses the risks and makes their own investment decisions or on an advised basis
Learn more about fund platform and financial advice fees
What can you expect to seeOver the next two pages we have provided a sneak preview of just some of the information you will find on the Investment Focus hub We will be updating the site regularly so make sure you sign up for our email alerts to be informed when new topics are published
Everything you need to know about fees
Risk informationInvestments can go down as well as up You may get back less than you originally invested
Alliance Trust does not give advice You need to ensure you understand the risks and commitments before investing If you are unsure you should consult a Financial Adviser before investing
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
For the vast majority of investors the simplest cheapest and most pragmatic way to invest is through pooled funds
Sometimes called managed funds unit trusts or even Open-Ended Investment Companies (or OEICs) these are designed to give ordinary savers access to a diverse range of investments
One of the principles of investment is that diversification helps reduce risk But it is expensive and time consuming for ordinary savers to buy shares of 80 to 100 different companies and keep track of how each is performing
But with a managed fund you are pooling your money with other investors enabling the fund manager to buy a wide range of assets
Investors have the option of buying an actively managed or passive fund With an active fund the manager selects and then monitors these stocks for investors in a bid to maximise returns
In contrast a passive fund will simply follow a stock market index such as the FTSE100 up and down
Having a manager at the helm can be beneficial in a market downturn as they can take a more defensive approach buying shares that are better able to hold their value or in some cases switching to bonds or cash instead to help preserve investorsrsquo capital Managers can also research individual companies and markets and have access to forecasts and economic data that isnrsquot always available to individuals
Learn more about investing for growth or income exploring different investment remits how to invest and keeping track of your investments
Understanding funds Written by Emma Simon Personal Finance Journalist
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
What are Investment TrustsInvestment Trusts are investment vehicles that are listed on the London Stock Exchange and which invest in shares and other securities They pool together investorsrsquo money and delegate responsibility to a professional fund manager to invest in a range of companies from different sectors and regions across the world They were designed for ldquothe investor of moderate meansrdquo
A brief historybull The first Investment Trust was launched by Foreign amp
Colonial in 1868
bull Investment Trusts made it possible for individual investors to gain diversified exposure to global stock markets
bull Many Investment Trusts were formed in Scotland including Alliance Trust PLC which was formed over 125 years ago
A guide to Investment Trusts
Learn more about Investment Trusts their main features and why you should consider them for your portfolio
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
Alliance Trust is an investment and savings business with over 125 year history of building investor wealth We offer our shareholders clients and customers a unique portfolio of products and services These range from a renowned global investment trust to an innovative range of investment strategies and funds and a multi-award winning investment platform where investors can host their ISAs SIPPs or investment accounts Our mission is to provide products and services that help to ensure a more sustainable financial future for generations of investors
Alliance Trust PLC is one of the largest generalist investment trusts by market value listed on the London Stock Exchange and is the parent company to two wholly-owned subsidiaries Alliance Trust Savings and Alliance Trust Investments
The fact that many of us make irrational decisions when it comes to our finances is widely debated and is often referred to as behavioural finance In this short video we talk to Professor Phyl Johnson Consultant Psychologist and Visiting Professor of Executive Education at Strathclyde Business School about why this is and more importantly about what we can do as individuals to avoid it
About us Alliance Trust Investments is a specialist fund management business offering a range of products and services focusing on global equities fixed income and sustainable investing with an emphasis on specialist investment solutions
Alliance Trust Savings is one of the UKrsquos leading financial services providers for private investors offering customers the information and services they need to manage their investments in a way that works for them
Risk informationInvestments can go down as well as up You may get back less than you originally invested
Alliance Trust does not give advice You need to ensure you understand the risks and commitments before investing If you are unsure you should consult a Financial Adviser before investing
Unusually for a company of our size around 70 of shares
in Alliance Trust are held by private
individuals
Nobodyrsquos perfect why we all make irrational decisions
Inflation by ageThis monthrsquos official inflation report showed that the headline rate of inflation fell from 20 to 19 Our Economic Research Team analyse this data on a monthly basis to see how inflation rates affect different age groups In February 2014 the summary highlights include
bull The over 75s and the under 30s face the highest rate of inflation in January at 21
bull The over 75s suffered the highest rate of inflation for the whole of 2013 and this trend continues into 2014 as they spend a larger share of their budgets on basic goods such as gas and electricity
bull The 65 to 74 year olds have faced the lowest rate of inflation in 11 out of the last 12 months thanks to lower inflation in food petrol and package holidays
Learn more about how inflation might affect you
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
You can also sign up for our regular email alerts to be informed when new topics are published by clicking here
Wersquove been bringing clarity to investment for over 125 years
Investing for generationsWhen it comes to investing therersquos no substitute for experience And at Alliance Trust wersquove been helping people invest since 1888 Our new Investment Focus hub is full of online information and expert opinion It aims to provide real insight to help you take control of your investments
Over the next few weeks the hub will build to cover everything from taking your first steps to diversifying worldwide Please remember that investments can go down as well as up and investors may get back less than they originally invested For valuable insight from Alliance Trust visit Investment Focus today
Introducing your free online source of information help and expert opinion
investment-focuscouk
This has been approved as a financial promotion by Alliance Trust Investments Limited for the purpose of Section 21 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 Alliance Trust Investments Limited is a subsidiary of Alliance Trust PLC and is registered in Scotland No SC330862 registered office 8 West Marketgait Dundee DD1 1QN is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority firm reference number 479764 Alliance Trust Investments gives no financial or investment advice
TAX YEAR ENDS APRIL 5TH ndash learn more about
your options now
Change the way you think about stocks reap the rewardsBy Edward Page Croft CEO Stockopediacom
I remember so clearly the day when I picked my first stock for clients Managing $2 billion (pound12 billion) in assets across 100 portfolios for high-net-wealth private investors is no easy task As I was to learn when you are green
and straight out of university itrsquos even harder The stock in question was on the Goldman
Sachs US lsquobuyrsquo list It had the potential to be hot Dotcoms were bubbling It was an internet stock in education services and cheap It seemed like it had everything but we needed to get in One day it fell out of bed Down 50 per cent on no news
Irsquod been trained to call the analyst in situations like this He reiterated his buy stance Double buy On my insistence we put almost $20 million of client money into the stock within an hour The next day it fell another 50 per cent on
bad newsThere is nothing more
painful than a loss but you never forget the first
one It immedi-ately forced me to reconsider every-thing I thought I
knew From that day on I vowed to never trust anotherrsquos opin-ion and find a better
way through the market minefieldIrsquove now spent 15 years
reassessing common
wisdom about stock selection No stone has gone unturned in the quest to understand the behav-ioural flaws that lead to poor decision making But there is one finding that crops up again and again in all the research that hurts stock market investors most We as investors are suckers for stories
A 1990rsquos study of 60000 private investor broker-age accounts by Kumar and Goetzmann found that 70 per cent of portfolios held less than four stocks
The stocks held all tended to be in the same sector highly correlated and risky Think internet stocks in the 1990s China in the 2000s or resource stocks more recently The grand theme sucks everyone in The outcome rarely dif-fers Kumar and Goetzmann showed that across these
60000 accounts the average underperformance was of the order of 4 per cent annually
This massive failing across private inves-tor portfolios is repeated in nearly every market cycle and is bound to happen again in this one Benjamin Graham the great father of value invest-ing and tutor of Warren Buffett once wrote
lsquoIn the short run the stock market is a vot-ing machine but in the long run it is a weighing machinersquo
ADVERTISING FEATURE
IN THE SHORT RUN THE STOCK MARKET IS A VOTING MACHINE BUT IN THE LONG RUN IT IS A WEIGHING MACHINEBenjamin Graham
What he meant was that while stories may drive stocks in the short run statistics drive stocks in the long run When statistics reassert them-selves it can cause huge damage to investors punting their portfolios on stories
It doesnrsquot take much to learn how basic statis-tics can guide your portfolio into winning stock selections though very few seem to understand how to do it Benjamin Graham as his life wore on gradually came to the conclusion that building portfolios according to rules-based processes was a far more appropriate methodology for the typi-cal investor
lsquoTry to buy groups of stocks that meet some sim-ple criterion for being undervalued ndash regardless of
the industry and with very little attention to the indi-vidual company It seems too good to be true but all I can tell you after 60 years of experience is it seems to stand up under any of the tests I would make uprsquo
My time is now dedi-cated to helping investors practice exactly what Benjamin Graham and many other investment luminaries have preached rules-based investing For the majority itrsquos a better process and leads to bet-ter outcomes Our work at
Stockopediacom where we crunch fundamental and technical data in order to model and track the investment processes of the great investors bears this out
Portfolios composed with stocks showing the right statistical mix of value quality and momen-tum have significantly outperformed Rules-based investing beats the market But more importantly it helps promote the emotional detachment needed to stop investors from beating themselves
Irsquoll never buy a stock on a punt or an analystrsquos tip again Perhaps neither should you
For a two week free trial and pound50 discount to Stockopedia UK Premium CLICK HERE
TANK MCM A N U F A C T U R E M O V E M E N T 1 9 0 4 M C
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WITH THE CARTIER MANUFACTURE MOVEMENT 1904 MC ESTABLISHED IN 1847 CARTIER CREATES
EXCEPTIONAL WATCHES THAT COMBINE DARING DESIGN AND WATCHMAKING SAVOIR-FAIRE
EXPLORE AND SHOP WWWCARTIERCOUK - (020) 3147 4850
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TO THE CONNOISSEUR section of Inspired a showcase for the finer things in life for those who truly appreciate them
Enjoying the fruits of your labour away from the relentless demands of our age poses its own challenges and quandaries Would a tropical idyll restore your ebbing energy levels Might a break based around hair-raising activities revive them even more effectively Perhaps reawakening a dormant passion for fine wines or luxury cars would be the most enjoyable reward for your industry
A luxury tropical holiday is probably near the top of most peoplersquos wish lists We take a look at some of the most tantalising options
The arrival of BMWrsquos new super coupe is featured on page 50 BMW aficionados and petrolheads alike are certain to be won over by its head-turning looks and mouthwatering specs
Gems come under the microscope on page 53 A rare coloured diamond can be a joy as well an appreciating asset
Wine is on the menu on page 54 where we explore the charms of Argentinian Malbec
Watches are often treasured objects and the best can turn out to be shrewd investments We look at the secondary watch market and the growth of online retailing on page 58 Enjoy
Welcome
40 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
FIVE TOP PRIVATE ISLAND RETREATSIslandFantasy
Top-rated resorts and hotels offer a variety of temptations and services to impress even the most discerning tastes but there is no better way to escape the rigours and
stresses of daily life than cutting off from the outside world while still enjoying lavish service
in the pinnacle of all resorts the private islandThere are thousands of small islands around
the world but only a few have chosen to cater to the most discriminating travellers seeking a rarified yet perfect world of quiet and relaxed luxury We look at five of the worldrsquos top private islands destinations where your holiday is certain to be an exceptional experience
TRAVEL
Necker Island is owned by Sir Richard Branson and guests stay in his home The island has become a popular des-tination for some of the worldrsquos most prominent figures as a hideaway from lifersquos stresses and strains
Because Necker Island is a resi-dence and not a resort guests who rent the island are treated as owners and catered for in a unique way
The74-acre island is fringed with beautiful white beaches and surrounded by turquoise waters and coral reefs It boasts every resort-type amenity guests can spend their days being pampered in the spa explor-ing underwater reefs in a submarine lounging by the pool bar or swimming in one of the worldrsquos most elab-orate private pools
Haute cuisine is a highlight for most guests ndash rates are fully inclusive of all food and drink A team of chefs creates bespoke menus featuring anything from lobster and caviar to a Sunday roast And because Necker is a home first and a resort second guests decide whether dining will be formal or informal inside or outside themed or traditional
The bar is stocked with international wines top-quality spirits and beers and a world renowned house champagne while special orders can be shipped in at no extra charge ndash unless an item is particularly rare Every service and amenity is available around the clock and guests are encouraged to treat Necker as their own home
As youLike it
NECKER ISLAND
42 March 2014 | inspired
Unalloyed luxury and an impressive range of amenities make Necker one of the most desirable island destinations in the world
The Jumby Bay resort which is only accessible by boat from Antigua is a Caribbean hideaway owned by Rosewood Resorts It is perfect for those seeking either relaxation or spirited adventure
You can rent the island resort entirely for your stay or simply take a room Those opt-ing for exclusive use of the island will have the resortrsquos two pools three tennis courts fitness centre croquet field and putting green to themselves
A wide range of water sports are available and guests can indulge in as much adventure or relaxation as they want during their stay The resort is ideal for large family
reunions or corporate retreats ndash 40 guest rooms and suites are available on the island
Executive chef Sylvain Hervochon celebrates gastron-omy ndash and mixology (cocktail making) ndash with casual elegance by creating Caribbean-style dishes inspired by fresh local ingredients and incorporating international influences
Jumby Bayrsquos rates start at pound150000 for four nights based on double occupancy between May and December Visit wwwrosewoodhotelscomenjumby-bay-antigua for further information
Fine BalanceCaribbean ambiance international sophistication and adventurous activities make Jumby Bay a compelling choice
JUMBY BAY
Just laze by the pool or venture beyond to dive in the turquoise waters of the South Pacific among stunning reefs and a dazzling array of marine creatures
Isle of PlentyT
he private island of Laucala in the South Pacific is a 3500-acre site in a picturesque rainforest-laced land-scape Enchanting deserted beaches nestle among coconut plantations organic farms and lush green vol-canic mountains
The resort offers an outstanding level of refined lux-ury as well as a compelling collection of sporting and cultural activities diving among iridescent marine life in the warm turquoise waters guided rainforest tours horse riding surfing and golfing on the 18-hole cham-pionship course The island is a superb choice for an escape from civilization whether you want an adven-ture in the wild or simply to relax in one of Laucalarsquos five restaurants and bars
Rates are available on request Visit wwwlaucalacom for further details
TRAVEL
LAUCALA ISLAND
inspired | March 2014 4544 March 2014 | inspired
Lush green surroundings sensitive development and beautiful beaches help Laucala island conjure up a complete South Seas experience
Isle of Plenty
inspired | March 2014 4544 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
inspired | March 2014 4746 March 2014 | inspired
Slow LaneSlow
Pulau Joyo is a seductively serene environment of pristine beaches surrounded by clear blue sea in Indonesiarsquos Riau Archipelago Accessible from Singapore or Bintan Pulau Joyo is a true castaway island offering every resort luxury
amid untouched natural beauty Pulau Joyo is famous for its remarkable sunsets and
brightly star-lit sky The resort can host 28 guests and 20 staff are on hand to cater to their every need Guests stay in open driftwood lsquopalacesrsquo that lsquoallow the sea inrsquoDespite its desert island appeal Pulau Joyo offers every modern convenience a range of adrenaline boosting activities and more relaxing options such as spa treatments and massages
The resortrsquos cuisine focuses on western and Indonesian dishes Meals are usually served buffet style and feature grilled fish squid prawns beef and chicken as well as many curry dishes Side dishes include fresh garden salads pasta salads boiled or steamed leafy greens and grilled aubergine (an island favourite) Prawn and tofu kebabs appear from time to time as does satay The chef will often provide a selection of freshly picked fruit and homemade cakes for dessert Itrsquos worth noting that the management will not serve pork or shellfish on this private island
Pulau Joyo may not be as refined as some islands but itrsquos an excellent choice for those who want a more casual laidback island experience that replicates the castaway experience like perhaps no other
Rates start at pound1913 a night More information is available at wwwpulau-joyocom
Wannabe castaways may find Pulau Joyorsquos purer simpler take on the luxury island experience more to their taste
PULAU JOYO
inspired | March 2014 4746 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
In the Fijian island paradise of Dolphin Island a small army of staff await to meet guestsrsquo every need On arriving ndash by boat helicopter or float plane ndash visitors are invariably struck by the beauty of the island and the luxuri-ous accommodation that awaits them amid 14-acres of lush tropical gardens
Three traditional palm-thatched bures individually designed by world renowned interior designer Virginia Fisher sit in an elevated position around the resortrsquos infinity pool
Guests are brought fresh tropical fish to choose each day that are cooked to perfec-
tion within hours of leaving the water The culinary focus is on
organic produce and ingredi-ents unique to Fijian cuisine but meals are tailored to guestsrsquo personal tastes Papayas man-goes bananas and pineapples
are plentiful throughout the day When it comes to recreation the
14-acre island is an expansive play-ground offering a diverse range of watersports as well as diving opportunities on Fijirsquos coral reefs
Rates start at pound720 a night More information is avail-able at wwwdolphinislandfijicom
Fijian Paean
Traditional features modern comforts and excellent facilities make for a harmonious whole on this Fijian island
DOLPHIN ISLAND
48 March 2014 | inspired
Pictured slightly larger than actual size
Big Pilotrsquos Watch Ref 5009
Your wrist never felt this big before The
case of the top model in the IWC Pilotrsquos
Watch range is a gigantic 462 mm in diashy
meter And the technology inside it is
even more impressive the largest IWCshy
manufactured automatic movement with
its Pellaton winding system is protected
against strong magnetic fields by a softshy
iron inner case And needless to say enshy
vious glances iwc engineered for men
Mechanical IWCshymanufactured movement Pellaton
automatic winding system 7shyday power reserve
with display (figure) Date display Softshyiron inner
case for protection against magnetic fields
Antireflective sapphire glass Watershyresistant 6 bar
Stainless steel
IWC Schaffhausen Switzerland iwccom The worldrsquos finest timepieces are exclusively available from selected watch specialists
For an illustrated catalogue or list of nationwide concessionaires please contact IWC UK Tel 0845 337 1868 Eshymail infoshyukiwccom
CARS
MunichLegend
50 March 2014 | inspired
BMW fanatics can open their eyes ndash the M4 has arrived
Most BMW aficionados are proba-bly pretty sad to see production of the M3 coupe ndash quite possibly the companyrsquos most noteworthy and celebrated model ndash end after almost 30 years Ever since the first wide-body E30 M3 saw the
light of day in 1985 drivers have loved the sporty coupe for its incredible balance intoxicating power and of course solid build quality
The model never got stale in all that time and always remained the poster child for the M division so itrsquos a lit-tle weird that BMW has apparently decided to axe it In truth though they havenrsquot really dropped the M3 The M3 sedan will continue to be produced in 2014 so all
is not lost Moreover BMW seems to be adopting a pat-tern of giving its sedans odd-numbered titles only and its coupes even-numbered titles only so the 4-Series and especially the M4 concept that debuted at Pebble Beach Monterey California will fill the gap left by the M3 Many people have been awaiting the new super coupe with great expectancy but can it fill in for the M3
The journalists who swarmed over the M4 concept at Pebble Beach were obviously much more interested in it than the somewhat predictable 428i that was also there Finished in an eye-catching colour called Aurum Dust (which actually looks a lot like the old M3rsquos Phoenix Yellow colour) the car presented in California may be a concept but typically BMW M cars donrsquot change much before they finally hit the showroom
MunichLegend
inspired | March 2014 51
CARS
52 March 2014 | inspired
From front to back the bodywork is manifestly differ-ent and much more aggressive looking than a standard 4-Series car It really looks to pretty much pick up where the E92E93 M3 coupe left off especially with its undeniably cool domed hood Wide wheel arches big wheels wrapped in low-profile tyres more than enough M badges and a well-executed double-bubble roof make the already underwhelming existing 4-Series coupe look even more pedestrian
Power for the new M4 is likely to come from a three-litre twin-turbo straight-six engine While the horsepower probably wonrsquot differ much from the M3rsquos old 4-litre V-8 it will generate more than 100lbft more in torque almost 400 in total With the M4 being a lighter 3300lb in weight the M4 promises to be an excit-ing worthy car A proper six-speed manual may be in the mix alongside the now obligatory dual clutch and paddles option
The best way to look at the M4 however it ends up is not as a new car but as a new and improved M3 thatrsquos just getting a new name The decision to rename the coupe is a strange one but thankfully BMW apparently felt the 3-Series coupe had made such an identity for itself that a new model was needed albeit in a slightly different incarnation
With BMW embarking on some new-ageish ideas such as its 1-Series ActiveE and the soon-to-arrive lsquoirsquo range of cars itrsquos nice to see the company also stick to classics such as the heart-stopping sports coupe even if the latest model does come with a new name
Seductive curves and racier performance make the BMW M4 a more than acceptable replacement for the M3 super coupe
SparklingForm Coloured diamonds are making their mark
One of the main factors that deter-mines the value of what we ordinarily think of as diamonds is their purity the degree to which col-our is absent in the gem However with coloured diamonds the extent to which they are saturated with
colour is a principal determinant of their valueColoured diamonds come in 12 basic colours more
than 90 secondary hues and nine intensity levels The depth of their colour is what really differentiates these diamonds from their colourless counterparts
Natural coloured diamonds are 10000 times rarer than typical colourless diamonds one of several rea-sons why they are treasured by the rich and famous yet remain unknown to most other people ndash despite hav-ing been around for centuries
Of course some colours are rarer than others Red violet and purple stones are as rare as the proverbial hensrsquo teeth while green and blue are also rare The most popular colours are pink and yellow (or canary) They also come in white grey orange black and lsquochame-leonrsquo form
A pinkie ring encrusted with a large coloured dia-mond has become a status symbol for men in Asia That little stone is an unregistered asset that could quickly be sold for millions of dollars should the need arise
Coloured diamonds are durable and never lose their sparkle or lustre so they are assets that can be enjoyed every day unlike stocks or bonds And they have proved to be fantastic investments having steadily appreciated in price with relatively little volatility for more than a decade They even held their own during the most recent financial crisis
Coloured diamonds are auctioned by reputable
auction houses such a Sothebyrsquos and Christiersquos where prices for large unique pink red blue or yellow stones can reach in excess of $2 million (pound12 million) a carat and other stones regularly sell for $1 million a carat
They are often bought by high-net-worth individu-als as an insurance policy Instead of stashing cash in undeclared bank accounts and potentially incurring the wrath of the authorities the wealthy can purchase some loose yellow diamonds to secure their future
Clearly coloured diamonds are much more than a magnificent indulgence
GEMS
inspired | March 2014 53PB March 2014 | inspired
WINE
Make the most of the deeply
satisfying Malbec wines emerging from Argentina
and perhaps even enjoy a return on a shrewd
investment says Ewan Lacey
Finding a red wine to enjoy in spring is a delicate balancing act The shock of seeing sunlight after a dark winter fosters in us a desire to drink some-thing refreshing while the still-cool temperatures demand something with comforting depth
Increasingly Malbec wines particularly those from Argentina provide a perfect solution to this quandary And while there are plenty of delicious wines for infor-mal occasions what is most interesting is the emergence of finer Malbec wines Some are so good they may well have ageing potential raising the intriguing possibility that the wine may one day become collectable
Malbec is the most popular wine among those aged 25-34 and is now becoming a fixture on most restaurant wine lists There are several reasons for its success the word Malbec is easy to pronounce the wine goes well with red meat the Malbec grape can be turned into wines that are both relatively easy to drink and packed with flavour and decent wines are available at reason-able prices Malbec is deep fruity and charming and it delivers instant pleasure ndash claret on a motorbike
The Malbec grape originated in France and it remains one of the permitted varieties used to make Bordeaux However it has gained prominence through the work of the post-junta Argentine wine industry
I recently had the pleasure of tasting some very fine Malbecs with Laura Catena managing director at the Catena Zapata winery and president of the International Wine and Spirit Competition She opened my
Mendoza Marvels
inspired | March 2014 55
WINE
eyes to the potential of this grape variety when handled with care
Laurarsquos family business makes a range of wines but the wine that truly astonished me was the Nicasia Vineyard Malbec 2006 The wine is perfumed with floral and fruit notes and it is smooth and soft at first Like all great wines it has many layers of flavour warm bursts of cherry and black-currant cede centre stage to deeper darker caramel and mocha notes and a touch of spice Therersquos an amazing depth of flavour and the finish is long and lingering Whatrsquos more at nearly eight years old it still has a slight purple tinge and tastes extremely fresh There is every indication that it will age beautifully for at least another decade
The winersquos character is heavily influenced by the alti-tude the grapes used to make it are grown at (1180m
above sea level) At this elevation the grapes ripen in bright sun but lsquorelaxrsquo during the cool evenings The fact that the wine is made in tiny quantities (eight barrels only) means every care can be taken during the winemak-ing process to ensure the wine is allowed to show its grown-up side The cost per bot-tle of pound70 is not insubstantial but neither is the wine
We cannot know whether these wines will ever become investments in the way the wines of Bordeaux have Whatrsquos cer-tain is that Malbec wines have a very rare quality a balance of finesse and power that
can delight wine lovers and linger in their memories
Ewan Lacey is a leading wine expert and general manager of the International Wine and Spirit Competition He has appeared on BBC television and radio as well as Channel 4 and written for the national press
Laura Catena is managing director at the Catena Zapata winery (above)
THE INTERNATIONAL WINE AND SPIRIT COMPETITIONThe International Wine and Spirit Competition has been the premier drinks competition in the world for 45 years Each year it receives and reviews thousands of wines and spirits and presents qual-ity awards to producers
More than anything the IWSC exists to help
people make better deci-sions particularly when buying wines and spirits An IWSC award on a bot-tle of wine is a guarantee
of quality backed not only by a rigorous and strin-gent judging process but also by the skill of the judges who are drawn from the ranks of masters of wine master distill-ers industry leaders and commentators
Each year the IWSC honours a leading figure
in the drinks industry with the presidency of the competition The current president is Laura Catena who succeeds a nota-ble line of predecessors including Prince Robert of Luxembourg winemakers Piero Antinori and Warren Winiarski and Baroness Philippine de Rothschild
56 March 2014 | inspired
LUXURY WATCHES
Time is preciousA
t a recent watch auc-tion in Geneva at Antiquorum ndash the worldrsquos premiere auc-tion house for modern and vintage time pieces ndash a Patek Philippe
pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon watch emerged as the auctionrsquos top lot and sold for 12 million Swiss francs (pound807000)
Unlike most of the timepieces sold at auctions outside Asia this particular Patek watch ndash the most complicated wristwatch the Swiss watchmaker has ever produced ndash was not a vintage model
That Geneva auction raised intriguing
1284Clocks with weights gears and regulators start to appear mostly with no dial to strike the important moments of daily life
Around 1410The mainspring is devel-oped Combined with the fusee this innovation makes possible the truly portable domestic clock
1492The mechanical watch appears simultaneously in Italy Germany and France
1675Christian Huygens invents the spiral balance spring
for watches significantly improving their accuracy
1704The first watch with jew-els is produced by French watchmaker de Beaufreacute
1714The British parliament offers pound20000 to who-ever can a find a method to determine longitude
1766Parliament publishes the rating results for John Harrisonrsquos H4 marine timekeeper Harrisonrsquos highly accurate marine clock solution to the problem of determining logitude wins him part of the pound20000 prize
1787Pierre-Freacutedeacuteric Ingold is born an important pio-neer in mechanised timepiece production and the use of interchangea-ble parts
1790Jacquet-Droz and Leschot manufactures a watch attached to a strap
1839Vacheron amp Constantin developes a full set of machine tools for manu-facturing its watches
1875Calcium sulphate is the first luminescent sub-stance to be used for numerals and hands
TIMEKEEPING MILESTONES
questions Are modern luxury timepieces every bit as appealing as the vintage watches that typically command top prices at auc-tion And does that Geneva auction tell us anything about the contemporary watch market as a whole
Julien Schaerer Antiquorumrsquos managing director in Geneva says top-quality vintage watches often appreciate in value over the long term But he urges buyers for whom appreciation is an important consideration to be cautious about purchasing contempo-rary watches
lsquoWatch price depreciation is the cost of ownership just as it is with a luxury carrsquo he says lsquoIf the value goes up then
58 March 2014 | inspired
1880The first water- resistant watch incorpo-rating a screwed case is produced by Genevan watchmaker Franccedilois Borgel
1889The first known patent for a wristwatch is filed in Bern Switzerland
1890Dialmaker A Beyeler invents a transfer press for applying numerals and letters to dials
1892Auguste Verneuil in France produces the first synthetic jewels to be used in watchmaking
1904Wens Wilsdorf launches large-scale production of a womenrsquos wristwatch
1924John Harwood files the
first Swiss patent for a self-winding wristwatch with a central oscillating weight
1925The first known wrist-watch with a perpetual calendar is manufactured using a pendant watch movement
1926Rolex creates the Oyster wristwatch with a water-resistant case and crown
1966The first quartz wrist-watch prototype is produced
1969The first quartz watch
with an LED display appears
1978Quartz watches overtake mechanical watches in popularity
2005Creation of the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie Seiko launches the spring drive Kinetic the first self-winding mechanical watch with an electro-magnetic escapement
A Patek Philippe pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon recently sold for pound807000
inspired | March 2014 59
online retailers from the comfort of your homeSince 2006 DM London has quietly estab-
lished a powerful presence for itself in the UK retail watch market with the acquisition of The Watch Hut and The Watch Gallery DM London chairman David Coleridge says the company has capitalised on the increasing willingness of buy-ers to purchase online
lsquoHaving decided that they would like to buy a watch for themselves or someone elsersquo he says lsquopeople start to do their research More often than not this starts online nowadays where they com-pare brands performance and functions
lsquoAs trust in the online marketplace has devel-oped many want to buy online because it is convenient and saves time Shopping online becomes a habit established sites build trust and awareness with customers which gives custom-ers the confidence to buy more expensive itemsrsquo
He adds lsquoOur challenge is to make the online environment as attractive informative and enjoy-able as a high street store Then customers will decide to spend onlinersquo
Coleridge believes a multi-channel approach is the way forward for retailers He says lsquoWithout doubt the future is multi-channel selling ndash a combination of direct selling on the internet and various forms of click and collect ndash combined with beautiful stores on the high street
Over the past few years demand for luxury watches (particularly contemporary models) has spiked sharply in Asia and according to some specialists emerging affluence in the
of course thatrsquos an added benefit However he adds lsquoPrice appreciation is still quite rare with modern watches There is some poten-tial for appreciation but probably only with ultra-limited editions A purchase has to be
seen as a medium- to long-term invest-ment One should buy a timepiece first out of love for the brand or [the watchrsquos] complicationrsquo
The watch brands that offer the greatest assurance of appreci-
ation include Cartier Patek Philippe Rolex Audemars
Piguet A Lange amp Sohne Breguet and Vacheron Constantin All enjoy views from the top of
the watchmaking hierarchy thanks to their longstand-ing histories and well-established brand identities
Relative new-comers to the industry such as Richard Mille and Roger Dubuis have carved out a niche for
themselves with their revolutionary designs and
space-age technologies but it remains to be seen just how well the values of their timepieces will stand up on the secondary market
According to Nathaniel Borgelt a specialist at auction house Sothebyrsquos
some modern watches have already achieved good prices at auction but these (like the Patek Philippe Sky Moon Tourbillon) were highly exclusive models when new
lsquoSome limited edition pieces currently fetch incredible prices at auctionrsquo he says lsquoAnd there is a select group of modern mod-els that could compete with a certain sector of the vintage market based on their brand innovative features such as materials or com-plications and avant-garde designs
Buying these has now become a whole lot easier The luxury watch retailing land-scape is changing and the traditional pattern of physically walking into a luxury salon to buy a watch is gradually being replaced by a trend towards visiting the websites of the big
LUXURY WATCHES
A Lange amp Sohne (above) is a long-standing high-end watchmaker Comparative new-comer Roger Dubuis (right) is forging a strong reputation
inspired | March 2014 PB60 March 2014 | inspired
helpthewatchgallerycom
Hublot ClassiC FusiontHe WatCH Gallery exClusive
The Watch Gallery and Hublot have joined forces to create two very special limited edition watches Both are limited to just 15 pieces worldwide and have been specifically designed to feature The Watch Gallery blue brand colour on the hands and tinted open case back
SelfridgeS OxfOrd StreetWeStfield lOndOnMancheSter exchange Square
wwwthewatchgallerycomhublot-watches
Far East has kept global values strong while other markets around the world continue to recover from recession
Despite the market boost from growing prosperity in Asia there are signs that the market is becoming saturated and that globally the new watch market isnrsquot as robust as some commentators suggest
It may still be a good time to buy but its important to know what you want and what yoursquore buying Modern watchmakers such as Richard Mille Roger Dubuis and Greubel Forsey are producing beautiful timepieces but because of their limited foothold in the market itrsquos difficult to predict their long-term success and desirability They donrsquot yet have the brand power that might ensure the value of their
watches in the secondhand market remains highSuch producers might one day stand eye to
eye with the most desirable brands such as Patek Philippe and Rolex but achieving that kind of parity wonrsquot be easy Collectors looking to invest in timepieces are advised to keep an open mind about modern producers uncertainty is the one aspect of modern luxury watch market most experts tend to agree on
That said the buoyancy in the watch market suggests that plenty of buyers are unconcerned about future values For them itrsquos all about the appreciation of the watch itself People buy watches because they bring them pleasure ndash and say some-thing about who they are
LUXURY WATCHES
Contemporary watches such as those made by Hublot (left) have yet to show they will have the lasting appeal of watches such as Cartierrsquos Rotonde de Cartier Astrocalendaire (right)
inspired | March 2014 63
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- inspirep63
-
AN APPETITE FOR RISK BOOSTS TRUSTSInvestors showed a greater appetite for risk by invest-ing more heavily in trusts As a result BlackRock World Mining Trust and Templeton Emerging Market Trust took the final two places on the list fourth and fifth
Unfortunately both have posted negative returns in recent years due to the fact that they are positioned in unfavour-able markets
While the BlackRock trust was slightly above the com-modities and natural resources sector over six months one year and three years the Templeton trust only outperformed the global emerging markets equi-ties sector over the past month However investors appear to be buying in in the hope that there will be some improvement in the next few years
Emerging markets fell back out of favour among fund investors in February while pur-
chases of UK and smaller company funds held firm the latest data from Interactive Investor shows
After a brief revival for emerging markets in January when three EM funds were among the 10 most bought Februaryrsquos most-popular funds were generally UK-focused
Paul Marriagersquos Cazenove UK Smaller Companies fund was knocked off the list after five consecutive months at the top as it closed to new purchases on 22 January allowing Januaryrsquos sec-ond-placed fund AXA Framlington Biotech to take top spot The US biotechnology-focused fund managed by Linden Thompson is popular as it delivered a return of 61 per cent over the past year and 164 per cent over the past three
Although the AXA fund has little in common with the other top purchases there are trends to be spotted in the rest of the list most of which continue from January Income was a focus for investors while UK smaller companies remained popular
lsquoThere were strong flows into funds investing in the UK and Europe whereas Asia excluding Japan and emerging markets suffered outflows following relatively weak per-formance in these regions since May 2013rsquo say Charles Cade and Ewan Lovett-Taylor in their report on fund trades in January lsquoPerhaps the most notable sub-sector is UK smaller company funds which have bene-fited from net inflows every month since August 2012rsquo
SMALLER COMPANIESAccording to Numis January saw the highest number of monthly inflows into smaller com-pany funds on record pound241 million The Interactive
Investor data shows these funds remained popular in February
Three smaller-company funds made it into the top 10 Investec UK Smaller Companies fund the River and Mercantile UK Equity Smaller Companies fund and the CF Miton UK Smaller Companies fund took third fourth and fifth place respectively
All three outperformed the UK smaller-companies sector which delivered returns of 32 per cent over one year and 55 per cent over three Gervais Williamsrsquos CF Miton fund pro-vided the best return over a year at 55 per cent while the River and Mercantile fund managed by Daniel Hanbury delivered 112 per cent over three years
Ken Hsiarsquos Investec fund had the least impressive returns at 47 per cent over one year and 79 per cent over three but still outperformed the sector The fund invests in small-cap UK companies including Quindell Optimal Payments and Utilitywise
INCOME EMPHASISThe other priority for inves-tors in February was income and this too was UK focused Of five income funds appear-ing in the 10 most-bought category only the Artemis Global Income fund had a non-UK focus
Jacob de Tusch-Lecrsquos fund which delivered returns of 14 per cent over one year and 47 over three invests chiefly
in European and US equi-ties The other most-bought income funds were Unicorn UK Income Rathbone Income JOHCM UK Equity and the Invesco Perpetual Income
They all beat the UK equity income sectorrsquos returns of 16 per cent over one year and 36 per cent over three All invested in large-cap UK com-panies with GlaxoSmithKline AstraZeneca and Royal Dutch Shell among the top holdings
Despite its focus on income the Invesco Perpetual High Income fund dropped out of the 10 most-bought funds in February and the Invesco Perpetual
Income fund appeared only at the end of the list This suggests that investors may be get-ting nervous over the
imminent departure of star fund manager Neil Woodford in April
One growth fund also made the list the MFM Slater Growth fund which took ninth place Like the income funds it outperformed its sec-tor UK all companies
and focused on UK-listed companies including
Hutchison China (HCM) and Entertainment One (ETO)
THE 10 TOP MOST-BOUGHT FUNDSANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
THEREWERESTRONGFLOWSINTOFUNDINVESTINGINTHE
UKANDEUROPEWHEREASASIAEXCLUDINGJAPANANDEMERGINGMARKETSSUFFEREDOUTFLOWSFOLLOWINGRELATIVELYWEAKPERFORMANCEINTHESEREGIONSSINCEMAY2013Charles Cade and Ewan Lovett-Taylor
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
inspired | March 2014 11
DONrsquoT DISMISS AIM-BASED INVESTMENTS
Richard Beddard is an editor at Interactive Investor and manager of Money Observerrsquos Share Sleuth portfolio
Now that inves-tors can buy Alternative Investment Market shares
within Isas the universe of potentially profitable invest-ments has grown But therersquos also more room for disappointment
Aimrsquos light-touch regula-tion makes it easier for younger smaller companies to list and while such shares are reputed to be risky that need not frighten
INVEST REGULARLY
Mick Gilligan head of research Killik amp Co
Starting an Isa at the beginning of a new tax year and investing small amounts
regularly out of your income ndash rather than a larger amount in one lump sum at the end of each tax year ndash helps reduce the impact of market volatility and you start earning compound interest sooner When income is reinvested alongside the initial investment it effectively becomes capital so you have a larger sum producing an income which in turn can be reinvested
trsquos very easy to keep on doing the same things with your annual tax-efficient Isa allow-ance However investors can lose out badly if they do
Itrsquos not just the Isa allowances that keep changing the economic environment and the range of investments available do too So itrsquos important that investors con-sider all the Isa opportunities open to them before they make a any big
irrevocable decisionsWersquove asked a number of invest-
ment experts to reveal their top Isa tips We are sure they will give you some useful guidelines and help you refine the choices you make Some suggestions are reminders about long-standing opportunities others draw your attention to new developments in Isa invest-ing and highlight the opportunities they offer
Isa investorswhether using some or all of their annual allowances donrsquot always get the best out of their investments Faith Glasgow asks some financial experts for their most valuable tips
investors from investing in Aim firms Plenty of them have long illustrious track records in worthy businesses and itrsquos easy to find out about them on finan-cial websites More details are available on companiesrsquo own investor relations websites the contents of which are mandated by Aim rule 26 a rule the more heavily regulated main market would do well to emulate
UP YOUR ISA CONTRIBUTIONS
Darius McDermott managing director Chelsea Financial Services
Donrsquot forget to increase your monthly Isa investments each year in line with
inspired | March 2014 1312 March 2014 | inspired
EXPERTSrsquo TOP ISA
TIPS
ISAS SMART STRATEGY FOR
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
INVESTING SMALL AMOUNTS REGULARLY HELPS REDUCE THE IMPACT OF MARKET VOLATILITYMick Gilligan
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
I
and shares in [non-cash] Isas However this isnrsquot the case Indeed some other asset classes ndash in particular those that pro-duce income ndash offer even more tax benefits than equities when held within an Isa
Bond funds for example get (at least) 20 per cent income tax relief on the yield they pro-duce (dividends from equities in contrast are subjected to a 10 per cent tax at source which is not reclaimable even in an Isa)
The new property author-ised investment fund structure for property funds meanwhile means Isa investors no longer incur the 20 per cent tax that would previously have been applied on income received from a property investment
the increase in the contribution limit if you can afford to Itrsquos all too easy for regular investors with their money invested auto-matically every month to overlook those annual allow-ance increases And consider increasing your investment whenever you receive a salary increase
LOOK BEYOND STOCKS AND SHARES
Darius McDermott Chelsea Financial Services Some potential Isa investors think you can only hold stocks
PLOUGH INTO PROPERTYGavin Haynes managing director Whitechurch Securities
Many people donrsquot realise they can gain expo-sure to bricks and mortar through
commercial property funds held in a stocks and shares Isa
The asset class currently offers an attractive yield rela-tive to cash and bonds without the volatility of the stock market investments
Property funds are not with-out risk but an allocation to a commercial property fund (that invests directly in bricks and mortar not property shares) can add diversification to an Isa portfolio With the economic outlook improving the sector looks well placed for recovery
ACCEPT RISK BUT BE SURE TO DIVERSIFY
Rebecca OrsquoKeeffe head of investment Interactive Investor
The primary ben-efits of an Isa are felt over the long term so itrsquos important to rec-
ognise that taking on risk
inspired | March 2014 1312 March 2014 | inspired
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
ITrsquoS ALL TOO EASY TO OVERLOOK THOSE ANNUAL ALLOWANCE INCREASESDariusMcDermott
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
Isa can suddenly become a poorly paying one But never try to transfer an Isa yourself Contact the new provider first and follow its transfer rules
Remember the amount of money you can invest in a cash Isa in each tax year is capped (currently at pound5760) so if you want to switch in the middle of the tax year you will prob-ably be switching the entire amount ndash you cannot switch a portion of an existing Isa into a new one and top it up If your original Isa is due to pay you interest at the end of the year it should pay you the accrued interest up to the date you close the account
Itrsquos possible to transfer your cash Isa into a stocks and shares Isa if you decide this is a better home for you money but you canrsquot switch your money back from a stocks and shares Isa into a cash Isa
You can invest up to pound11520 in a stocks and shares Isa in a single tax year minus anything you may have paid into a cash Isa ndash which is capped at pound5760
over the long term is usually a far more profitable strategy than minimising risk Investors typi-cally take less risk than they should especially if they have suffered a loss in the past
You can mitigate your overall risk by diversifying across differ-ent asset classes and geographic areas Regular investing is also a great risk reduction strategy
Itrsquos also important to rec-ognise the value of dividend reinvestment and understand the benefit this compound-ing effect has on your portfolio And remember to choose a bro-ker that doesnrsquot penalise you for reinvesting
TRANSFER YOUR ISAS TO GET THE BEST DEALS
Mark King editor MoneywiseUnlike a stocks and shares Isa a cash Isa is a sim-ple savings account with a
tax-free Isa lsquowrapperrsquo placed around it so that you donrsquot pay tax on your interest
You can choose to have access to your money or tie it up until a future date just as with typical savings accounts Generally the longer you tie your money up for the better the interest rate you get
While a cash Isa is considered a low-risk investment ndash which sophisticated investors may find returns too little as a result ndash you can transfer a cash Isa should you decide you want to take on more risk or get a bet-ter rate Indeed you may have to transfer a cash Isa regularly Providers offer different rates that can change so a top-paying
From 6 April ndash the beginning of the 201415 tax year ndash however these limits rise to pound11880 and pound5940 respectively
LOOK AT THE LONG- TERM BENEFITS
Philippa Gee managing director Philippa Gee Wealth Management
Some investors look at the return on an Isa or at the limit on how much they can
invest in a single year and fail to see the value
However they would be wise to consider the longer-term view Those who have invested each year for a number of years have been able to build six- figure portfolios that they do not have to pay any further income or capital gains tax on or list on their tax assessment
By securing a significant sum in an Isa wrapper each year as far as yoursquore able you can build up a valuable flexible and tax-efficient investment
inspired | March 2014 PB14 March 2014 | inspired
EXPERTSrsquoTOP ISA
TIPS
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
TAKING ON RISK OVER THE LONG TERM IS USUALLY MORE PROFITABLERebecca OrsquoKeeffe
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
The ISA thatrsquos
fair and square
We believe in straightforward investing Thatrsquos why we donrsquot nibble at your investments with percentage charges Open an account and for pound20 per quarter you get two pound10 trades and an ISA for free After that itrsquos just pound10 per trade across a wide range of UK and international investmentsTransfer to us today and get up to pound240 as a thank you (terms apply) We believe thatrsquos fair and square
The value of investments and any income from them can fall as well as rise so you could get back less than you invest Tax treatment depends on your individual circumstances and may be subject to change If in any doubt please seek advice
iiicoukisa
Interactive Investor Trading Limited trading as ldquoInteractive Investorrdquo is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority Registered Office Standon House 21 Mansell Street London E1 8AA Tel 0845 200 3637 Registered in England with Company Registration number 3699618
hen new rules were introduced last August allowing the inclusion of Alternative Investment Market (Aim) shares in Isas demand for exposure to the junior market
quickly exceeded expectations Another surge in demand is likely in April as the new tax year dawns and investors have a fresh annual allow-ance to play with
Yet while stocks on Aim can boast eye-catching returns and attractive tax perks they can also be very volatile raising concerns that investors may be letting the tax tail wag the investment dog with-out understanding what they are getting into
The Treasuryrsquos decision to allow Aim shares into Isas was driven by a desire to encourage greater investment in small and medium-sized companies The move was immediately popular with investors and brokers reported a sharp rise in Aim-listed purchases Demand for smaller companies funds was up too as investors wary of direct share ownership
bought into funds offering exposure to Aim stocksIt helped that Aim stocks were enjoying a good
run as were smaller companies generally with the amount of money raised on the market over the summer rising sharply Performance is just one aspect of their appeal however
Aim shares already offered inheritance tax effi-ciency most of them qualify for business property relief making them exempt from IHT when held for two years or more However itrsquos worth noting that BPR is subject to change and a company can lose its eligibility and therefore its IHT relief status as a result Therefore investors wanting to continue benefiting from IHT relief have to switch out of such companies and into those still eligible
Wider income and capital gains tax benefits also drove some demand for Aim shares after the
Isa rule change in August The move created a bed- and-Isa opportunity whereby existing Aim share inves-tors sold their holdings and bought them back within an Isa
Among those quick
Alternative Investment Market stocks offer Isa investors a chance to realise heady returns ndash but you need to pick your holdings carefully because of the high risk of losses in an illiquid market says Jeff Salway
AIMSHARES
W
GEMSTO BE UNEARTHED
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
WE WOULD ONLY INCLUDE AIM STOCKS
IN THE PORTFOLIOS OF ADVENTUROUS CLIENTS David Thomson
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
inspired | March 2014 17
THERE ARE
Treatt has built up an immaculate record of delivering profits
to take advantage was Lord Lee of Trafford the UKrsquos first Isa millionaire and author of How to Make a Million ndash Slowly My Guiding Principles from a Lifetime of Successful Investing lsquoI have a
big holding of Christie Group that was originally in my per-sonal equity planrsquo he says lsquoWhen the company moved to Aim [from the main market] I took it out of the Pep but when Aim shares became Isa-eligible I sold it and bought it back again within my Isarsquo
April 2014 will mark the removal of stamp duty from Aim purchases a develop-ment expected to encourage asset managers to launch a new wave of Aim-focused funds The axing of stamp duty makes the junior market more appeal-ing to companies on the main market as well with several recently moving across
Alec Stewart partner at Anderson Strathern Asset Management explains lsquoA company can reduce its regulatory burden by moving to the junior market with lower audit and compliance requirementsrsquo For example the main market
stipulates that any potential listing should have a market capitalisation no lower than pound700000 whereas therersquos no such guideline on the Aim mar-ket Nor do companies need a trading history to list on Aim compared with the three years required for the main market Moreover the cost of listing on Aim is considerably lower
But for many private investors the main appeal of Aim stocks lies largely in the prospect of sky-high returns from the success of small and fledgling companies There are some 1200 stocks on the market from a wide range of sectors ndash albeit with a heavy weighting in technology and especially natural resources and with a gulf in size between the biggest and smallest
The largest are eligible for the FTSE AIM 50 and the FTSE AIM 100 where the likes of Bowleven Majestic Wine Dobbies Asos and MampC Saatchi are listed
Stewart picks out three he favours as part of a diversified portfolio One is Dart Group The owner of Jet2com and Jet2Holidays Dart has had a lsquostrong runrsquo and is focused on becoming more fam-ily friendly in these budget-conscious times says Stewart lsquoIt benefits from good visibility of future bookings and strong cash generationrsquo he adds
Aerospace and defence firm Cohort is another with a lsquoprogressive dividend policyrsquo that has grown at an annualised rate of 20 per cent over
DEWHURST (pound520)Dewhurst is a well-established manu-facturer of lift pushbuttons indicators and controls keypads for ATMs security devices and petrol pumps and traffic management products such as bollards
The company has a long record of profitability under the stewardship of the Dewhurst family and a debt-free balance sheet That suggests it is a strong competitor
Profits fell in 2013 ndash a result of a slowdown in Dewhurstrsquos major markets and customers having stocked up in the previous year Management is quite cagey about the companyrsquos prospects for 2014 but an improved performance is likely as conditions in the UK and the US improve The shares are probably good value at 11 times adjusted 2013 earnings
MS INTERNATIONAL (pound204)MS International manufactures military hardware forks for forklift trucks and petrol station canopies and car washes
The company has been profitable in each of the past 10 years and has a balance sheet flush with cash yet the share price has fallen to a level that val-ues MSI at five times adjusted 2013
earnings MSIrsquos current unpopularity stems from a decline in the profitability of MSI Defence Systems which has the highest turnover of its three businesses
The company expects 2014 to be no easier than 2013 due to continu-ing pressure on defence spending but itrsquos confident it will add to defence work already contracted and scheduled for every year until 2020
Itrsquos quite possible that MSI is having a lull that does not reflect on the qual-ity of its products or businesses If thatrsquos the case itrsquos a bargain
TREATT (pound747)Treatt distills flavourings and frag-rances essential oils and water-soluble essences Its products are used in drinks confectionery sauces and cosmetics worldwide
The companyrsquos expertise and close customer relationships might give it a competitive advantage and it has never suffered a loss However it has ushered out managing director Hugo Bovill and his family has sold its interest
Management with large share-holdings gives companies some independence from the often short-term imperatives of fund managers
However the new team is focused on controlling costs and developing the most profitable products
Profit grew 28 per cent in 2013 and Treattrsquos long-term prospects are prob-ably good but the share price has spiked valuing the shares at 15 times adjusted 2013 earnings
FW THORPE (pound143)FW Thorpe designs and manufactures light fittings known as luminaires They are becoming increasingly complex with the introduction of LED technology that requires printed circuit boards Its main business is Thorlux which supplies lighting to schools hospitals ware-houses and factories Other subsidiaries supply retailers emergency exit signage and cleanroom lighting
Stable family ownership long indus-try experience and a commitment to modernisation and investment are the keys to Thorpersquos prosperity
Although it has to contend with the additional investment required to produce LED lighting Thorpe is manag-ing the transition well The shares cost pound137 which values the company at about 15 times adjusted 2013 earnings Thatrsquos a fair price for a quality company
Richard Beddard picks out four Aim-listed companies worth considering for inclusion in a diversified Isa share portfolio
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
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ISA BLUE
I TRANSFERRED INTO MY ISA A BIG
HOLDING OF CHRISTIE GROUP THAT USEDTO BE IN MY PEPLord Lee of Trafford
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
AIMSHARES
18 March 2014 | inspired
the past three years he adds Among food pro-ducers he likes Wynnstay It has lsquobenefited from strong revenue and pre-tax profitsrsquo increasing its interim dividend by 9 per cent
But therersquos ample cause for caution too because Aim shares are typically far riskier than those listed on the main market Not only is there the vol-atility inherent in shares issued by smaller firms but there remains the potential for liquidity issues even after the surge of money into the market in recent months Haig Bathgate chief investment officer at Turcan Connell says lsquoThey are by impli-cation of their size much less liquid in terms of the shares that trade hands on a daily basis so they are prone to more extreme price movementsrsquo
UK investors may also be averse to Aim stocks that are effectively overseas companies Indeed many Aim fund portfolios specifically exclude both these and natural resources firms as well as stocks that donrsquot offer business property relief
lsquoSignificant numbers of companies have failed to deliver on expectations in this part of the mar-ket and it is also quite heavily weighted towards technology (12 per cent) resources (9 per cent) and oil and gas companies (22 per cent)rsquo says Bathgate There are transparency concerns too due to the less stringent regulatory and company reporting requirements on the Aim market
lsquoWe would only include Aim stocks within the
portfolios of adventurous clients and then only up to a maximum of 10 per centrsquo says David Thomson chief investment officer at VWM Wealth lsquoEven then the bulk of this is likely to be via a venture capital trust where the investor can also enjoy 30 per cent income tax relief providing a further cushion against the volatility of Aim sharesrsquo
Collective investment funds and trusts offer a way into Aim stocks that provides useful diversification and so reduces the risk of heavy losses Investment trusts can offer particular advantages where Aim-listed shares are concerned as their closed-ended status gives them a hedge against the market liquidity issues that can affect Aim stocks Among the growing number of UK smaller companies investment trusts in which Aim shares are prominent are those run by BlackRock Standard Life and Aberforth Unit trusts invest-ing in Aim companies include the LampG UK Alpha Trust and Cazenove UK Smaller Companies
However there is a downside to access-ing Aim through funds and trusts as investors no longer benefit from the IHT-free status that direct holders of Aim stocks enjoy The risk of hefty losses remains the biggest caveat to investing in Aim
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
AIMSHARESAREMUCHLESS
LIQUIDINTERMSOFTHESHARESTHATTRADEHANDSDAILYHaig Bathgate
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
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ISA BLUE
inspired | March 2014 19
Clockwise from top Cohort Wynnstay and Jet2com are Stewartrsquos picks for a diversified portfolio
rewarding such as smaller companies private equity and emerging markets
Trusts can also increase their assets by borrow-ing So long as this gearing is sensibly priced it should accelerate the trustrsquos gains in positive mar-ket conditions However gearing will exacerbate losses in any downturn The possible closing of the discount will also enhance share price returns
SOLID GROWTHBaillie Gifford Global DiscoveryThis fund picked by independent financial adviser Brian Dennehy invests globally in growth stocks especially companies operating in industries with potential for structural change and innova-tion Dennehy says manager Douglas Brodie has had considerable experience and success in iden-tifying growth opportunities particularly among exciting smaller-cap stocks
CF Lindsell Train UK EquityJohn Husselbee head of multi-asset at Liontrust Asset Management prefers investors to traders Renowned investor Warren Buffett takes a similar view and Husselbee says fund manager Nick Train invests like Buffett Train looks to buy great com-panies such as Burberry Heineken and Unilever when they are good value and hold them lsquoforeverrsquo
Cazenove UK Opportunities This fund aims to achieve long-term capital growth from a focused portfolio of large and medium-sized UK companies Gavin Haynes managing
huge variety of investment funds rang-ing from generalist funds to highly specialised versions aim to generate capital growth for investors
Investing in a specific fund entails investors accepting different degrees of risk in return for a range of potential rewards So when we asked financial advisers to predict which funds offer the best prospects for growth in 2014 we also urged them to consider which types of investor the funds would suit best
Solid growth funds will appeal to investors who prefer steady investment while higher-risk growth funds are likely to be more volatile and appeal to those with a higher risk tolerance Speculative funds could produce handsome returns this year but they could also dip sharply in value
Closed-ended status means investment trusts can invest in less liquid asset classes without having to worry about realising their holdings in a market setback This enables them to invest in areas that have historically proved particularly
A
Helen Pridham and Fiona Hamilton have rounded up a collection of investment funds and trusts experts believe will prosper in the year ahead for investors looking to cash in on an improving economic outlook
PERFECT YOUR FUND PORTFOLIOTO SEE IT
GROW
inspired | March 2014 2120 March 2014 | inspired
FUNDSAND
TRUSTS
GROW
inspired | March 2014 2120 March 2014 | inspired
A
RE Y
OU
A
GLO
BAL
INV
ESTO
R Take a global view of investment trusts expertly managed by Henderson
For over 75 years Henderson Global Investors has been at the forefront of investment trust innovation and development Now with a diverse and established range of managed investment trusts and investment companies Henderson has a global view of the market
Whether you are retirement planning investing for your children looking to take advantage of dynamic global markets or want a cautious investment approach our managed companies offer a wide range of investment objectives and strategies professionally managed by regional experts
If your priority is high income long term capital growth or a mixture of both Henderson Global Investors has a range of solutions which aims to meet your investment needs
Please remember that past performance is not a guide to future performance The value of an investment and the income from it can fall as well as rise as a result of market and currency fluctuations and you may not get back the amount originally invested
Call to receive your Investment Trust brochure or visit wwwhendersoninvestmenttrustscom
0800 856 5656
Investment Trusts managed by Henderson
Issued in the UK by Henderson Global Investors Henderson Global Investors is the name under which Henderson Global Investors Limited (reg no 906355) Henderson Fund Management Limited (reg no 2607112) Henderson Investment Funds Limited (reg no 2678531) Henderson Investment Management Limited (reg no 1795354) Henderson Alternative Investment Advisor Limited (reg no 962757) Henderson Equity Partners Limited (reg no2606646) Gartmore Investment Limited (reg no 1508030) (each incorporated and registered in England and Wales with registered office at 201 Bishopsgate London EC2M 3AE) are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority to provide investment products and services Telephone calls may be recorded and monitored H0046521113ad
Itrsquos a global marketplace
HGiTrusts
director at Whitechurch Securities says fund manager Julie Dean has built up an excellent track record
Securities Trust of ScotlandRobin McAdam likes Securities Trust of Scotland which seeks rising income and long-term capi-tal growth from global equities The trust yields 33 per cent so it provides income and growth potential lsquoThe trust has outperformed its bench-mark recently and we expect this to continuersquo says McAdam
Finsbury Growth amp Income TrustPeter Hewitt nominates Finsbury Growth amp Income Trust on the basis of its strong short- and long-term performance Manager Nick Train seeks out the highest-quality companies to hold long term The portfolio is dominated by companies Train expects to have longevity such as Diageo Unilever and Heineken lsquoThe manager looks for strong cash gen-eration and dividend growth which he believes are undervalued by the stock marketrsquo Hewitt says
RIT Capital PartnersThis multi-asset trust selected by John Newlands is the flagship financial vehicle for its chairman Lord Jacob Rothschild and his family lsquoGiven the uncertainty in the world it is no bad thing to be diversified both globally and across a range of asset classes RIT is a global growth trust that offers a combination of these benefitsrsquo Newlands says
His enthusiasm is bolstered by RITrsquos current relatively wide discount which reflects disap-pointment among investors that it was rather too cautious over the past two or three years
Perpetual Income amp Growth Trust This trust is classified as a member of the AIC UK growth and income sector but its yield tends to be below the sector average because manager Mark Barnett is more interested in income growth than immediate income Tim Cockerill classifies it as a total return trust and makes it his solid growth choice Barnett has secured excellent long-term returns dur-ing his 15 years at the helm
HIGHER-RISK GROWTHLazard Emerging MarketsMick Gilligan believes the investment case for emerging market equi-ties remains strong He says lsquoEquity markets in emerging regions are trading at their widest price-to-earnings discount to developed markets since 2006 We believe many well-capitalised businesses that have shown strong financial discipline should gener-ate good profitsrsquo The Lazard Emerging Markets fund focuses on such businesses
Rathbone Global OpportunitiesThis go-almost-anywhere bottom-up thorough stockpicking fund looks for undiscovered gems Rob Burdett fund manager at Thames River believes manager James Thomson strikes the
KEY FACTS ABOUT GROWTH FUND TIPS
Mininv pound
Ongoing Charges
1-yearreturn
Sectorrank
SOLID GROWTHBaillie Gifford Global Discovery 1000 086 5920 2248CF Lindsell Train UK Equity ndash 080 2910 53271Cazenove UK Opportunities 1000 082 3210 40271 HIGHER-RISK GROWTHInvestec Global Energy 1000 087 1420 40206Lazard Emerging Markets 2000 161 320 1668Rathbone Global Opportunities 1000 082 2150 111248 SPECULATIVE GROWTHAllianz BRIC Stars 500 122 -120 134206Liontrust Special Situations 1000 114 1450 251271MampG Recovery 500 096 1330 264271Note Ongoing charges figure refers to the least expensive retail share class Source Financial Express and companies websites as at 3 December 2013
KEY FACTS ABOUT THE TRUSTS TIPPED FOR GROWTH
Shareprice
p
Discprem to NAV
Netyield
Gearing
Net asset valuetotal return after
1 year
3 years
5 years
SOLID GROWTHFinsbury Growth amp Income 5010 (+) 12 21 50 305 767 2038Perpetual Income amp Growth 3686 10 32 120 346 714 1407RIT Capital Partners 12480 105 11 50 210 225 591Securities Trust of Scotland 1469 (+) 31 32 40 192 460 1132 HIGHER-RISK GROWTHBiotech Growth Trust 4335 72 00 70 582 1723 2968Fidelity Chinese Special Sits 1062 65 09 210 433 02 ndashGraphite Enterprise Trust 5690 170 09 -90 167 442 405Schroder Asia Pacific 2730 92 14 -20 08 201 1779 SPECULATIVE GROWTHBaker Steel Resources 470 331 00 10 -57 -137 740Hansa Trust A 8600 243 23 10 142 69 947Impax Environmental Markets 1463 112 06 -20 350 285 921Standard Life Eq Inc subscription 1070 ndash 00 3700 ndash ndash ndashNotes NAV = net asset value Annualised All data as at 1 December Source Numis Securities
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
MARK BARNETT HAS SECURED
EXCELLENT RETURNSTim Cockerill
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
inspired | March 2014 23PB March 2014 | inspired
FUNDSANDTRUSTS
right balance between taking calculated risks for high returns and investing in defensive holdings Burdett says lsquoHe likes companies undertaking gentle innovation ndash moving online for example ndash rather than game changers which have more potential to go wrongrsquo Investec Global EnergyThis fund invests in companies that produce energy and provide services to the energy sector Fund managers Tom Nelson and Charles Whall believe the consensus view on future oil prices anticipates weak demand and growing supply from US shale oil But they demur as does Tony Yarrow at Wise Investment He says lsquoOil is harder to extract from shale than gas is while demand for oil is growing as economies recover A higher oil price feeds straight through to the companiesrsquo profitsrsquo
Biotech Growth TrustPeter Hewitt favours Biotech Growth Trust which has achieved scorching gains recently ndash up 172 per cent over three years to 1 December 2013
It is managed in New York by Orbimed a specialist healthcare and biotechnology investor with $7 bil-lion (pound42 billion) under management It offers exposure to a mix of large and profitable biotech companies along-side emerging businesses Most of its holdings are US-based and they have
benefited from a much more positive approach by the Federal Drug Authority ndash new drug approvals in 2010 were the highest for 10 years
Graphite Enterprise TrustAndrew McHattie contends that just one sector offers great value private equity lsquoThese trusts were hammered in the credit crisis and discounts widened to extreme levelsrsquo he says
His selection is Graphite Enterprise Trust Its discount to net asset value remains at a level that rings alarm bells in most other sectors but it has a strong track record and a relatively mature port-folio of shares he expects to rise in value
Fidelity Chinese Special SituationslsquoWith Chinese equities looking cheap the long-term outlook for investing in China is positiversquo Cockerill says lsquoThis fund invests in medium and small caps where high growth can be achieved New manager Dale Nicholls is well qualified and the combination of Fidelity manager experience and China is compelling in the long termrsquo
Scottish Oriental Smaller Companies Trust This trust is favoured by McAdam The invest-ment team identifies quality companies offering sustainable predictable growth lsquoThe trust may underperform if the market rises strongly but the teamrsquos enviable track record and experience should be respectedrsquo he says
Tim Cockerill is investment director at Rowan Dartington
RowanDartingtonhas20investmentadvisersbasedinsevenofficesacrossthesouthofEnglandIthaspound900millionunderman-
agementInvestmenttrustshavefeaturedinitsdiscretionaryandadvisoryportfoliosformanyyears
Peter Hewittis a member of FampC Asset Managementrsquos global equities team
HehasmanagedtheFampCManagedPortfolioTrustsinceApril2008aswellasitsforerunnerFampCManagedPortfolio
Servicesince2002HewasheadofUKequitiesatMurray
Johnstonefrom1981to1983beforejoiningIvoryampSime
Jean Mattersonis a partner and chief investment officer at Rossie House Investment Management
Shejoinedthefirmin1998after20yearswithassetmanagerStewartIvory
BasedinEdinburghsheisoneoffiveinvestment
professionalsmanagingaroundpound300mil-lionallonadiscretionarybasisAroundhalfisininvestmenttrusts
Robin McAdamjoined Brooks MacDonald Asset Management in 2009 from Adam amp Company Investment Management
Hehas24yearsrsquoexperi-encemanagingprivateclientportfoliosandheadsBMrsquosEdinburghbranch
Thefirmhaspound537billionunderdiscretionarymanagementinbespokeandmanagedportfolios
Andrew McHattieis head of The McHattie Group
McHattieGroupisanauthorisedfirmthatpublishesspecialistinvestmentnewsletters
McHattiehasbeentheeditorofInvestmentTrustNewslettersince1996(wwwtipsheetscouk)andoffersafreeservicecalledthelsquoitlistrsquo(wwwtheitlistcouk)ThecompanyhasaFacebookpage(wwwfacebookcominvestmenttrusts)
John Newlandsis responsible for investment trust research at Brewin Dolphin
Heissupportedbyfouranalystswhocoverspecificsectorsresearchingopen-andclosed-endedfunds
BrewinDolphinhas35officesaroundtheUKandChannelIslandsandmanagespound28billionofwhichpound39billionisininvestmenttrusts
TrusttipstersOursixexpertsrevealtheirtopfundpicks
inspired | March 2014 PB24 March 2014 | inspired
FUNDSAND
TRUSTS
One in twelve goes free on your next golf break plus every golfer receives a free pint
12thmansagimme
Book online at MarriottGolfcouk
Offer is only valid on residential golf bookings booked during the promotional dates For every 11 players booked the 12th player will be free of charge Rates are per person per night based on 2 people sharing a twindouble room and include dinner bed amp breakfast Bookings must be made by one named player and separate bookings will not qualify Each residential player aged 18 and over will receive a voucher entitling them to a complimentary pint
of Beckrsquos or Boddingtons Offer is valid on bookings made via 3rd parties Offer is available on 1 night 2 rounds or 2 night 3 rounds and excludes Sunday Driver Maximum of 2 night stay and 2 people per room Day of week availability may vary based on location Limited number of rooms may be available This offer applies to new bookings only at Marriott Hotel amp Country Clubs and offer courses and tee times are subject to availability Offer cannot
be used in conjunction with any other promotion Course terms and conditions apply Advance reservations required Book between 17th February and 29th June 2014 for stays between 4th April and 29th September 2014
The SIPP thatrsquos
fair and square
We believe in straightforward investing Thatrsquos why we donrsquot nibble at your SIPP with percentage fees For just pound144 per year you can open a SIPP and add an ISA for free After that itrsquos just pound10 to buy or sell a wide range of investments including shares funds bonds and gilts Open an account today and if you transfer your existing SIPP wersquoll give you up to pound240 as a thank you (terms apply) We believe thatrsquos fair and square
The value of investments and any income from them can fall as well as rise so you could get back less than you invest Tax treatment depends on your individual circumstances and may be subject to change If in any doubt please seek advice
iiicouksipp
Interactive Investor Trading Limited trading as ldquoInteractive Investorrdquo is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority Registered Office Standon House 21 Mansell Street London E1 8AA Tel 0845 200 3637 Registered in England with Company Registration number 3699618
SPECULATIVE GROWTHMampG RecoveryDennehy says manager Tom Dobell backs his convictions engages with companies he invests in and has delivered long-term outperformance lsquoDobellrsquos MampG Recovery fund has a clear value-style process and management stability It invests in a wide range of firms that are out of favour or in difficulty or whose prospects are not fully rec-ognised by the marketrsquo he says
Liontrust Special SituationsHusselbee says Liontrustrsquos Anthony Cross and Julian Fosh have their own unique philosophy He adds lsquoThey look for characteristics in a company that its competitors find difficult to replicate such as intellectual property or distribution channelsrsquo
Allianz Bric StarsThis fund aims for capital growth in the long term by investing mainly in Brazil Russia India and China Haynes says investors have shunned these markets recently and valuations fallen He adds lsquoFor investors looking for a recovery story this fund is worth considerationrsquo
Standard Life Equity Income subscription shareMcHattie says warrant and subscription shares are widely ignored creating opportunities for those who understand them He favours the subscrip-tion shares of Standard Life Equity Income which can be exercised at 320p a share up to the end of December 2016 lsquoThey offer gearing of 37 times and if the ordinary shares grow by more than 28 per cent a year between now and the end of 2016 the subscription shares ought to outperformrsquo
Impax Environmental MarketsMcAdam likes this trust It invests in companies seeking to provide cleaner or more-efficient energy as well as water and waste solutions to the growing problems faced by authorities around the world It offers exposure to a rapidly changing marketplace as well as to socially responsible investments
Hansa TrustJohn Newlands sees potential in the A shares of Hansa Trust which languish at a discount of more than 25 per cent He says that whereas the trustrsquos portfolio appears skewed with a third of its assets in Ocean Wilsons there is actually plenty of diversification because Ocean Wilsons has an investment portfolio that stands at a discount to underlying value lsquoOne day an attractive bid [may] be made for Ocean Wilsons that will enhance Hansarsquos NAV and sim-plify its capital structure all to the good of its market ratingrsquo Newlands says
Baker Steel Resources TrustJean Matterson hopes for good returns from this trust shares in which trade on a near 30 per cent discount lsquoIt has not had an easy run of late but we believe the underlying assets are attractive and that the mining projects in the companyrsquos portfo-lio will continue to progressrsquo she says
Prospects have improved for biotechs (left) while growing interest in sustain-able energy has boosted Impax
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
AHIGHEROILPRICEFEEDSSTRAIGHT
THROUGHTOPROFITSTony Yarrow
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
inspired | March 2014 27PB March 2014 | inspired
FUNDSANDTRUSTS
The world of funds and trusts is a confusing place with over 2300 funds and more than 300 investment trusts to choose from
Money Observerrsquos Rated Funds system narrows down the playing field to help you decide which funds and investment trusts might be best for you
Our team of experts constantly monitor the marketplace rating those funds that have delivered consistently good returns However you should be aware that there is no guarantee this performance will be repeated
With our comparison tool you can filter by whatrsquos important to you compare up to four funds and trusts side-by-side as well as view factsheets
COMPAREMONEY OBSERVER RATED FUNDS
VISIT MONEYOBSERVERCOMCOMPAREFUNDS AND LOOK OUT FOR THE RATED FUND STAMP
had spare cash or I were start-ing afresh The companies in the add category are high qual-ity judging by the strategies they follow and their finan-cial strength and are probably undervalued
Irsquom more likely to eject or reduce holdings in companies in the watch and specula-tive categories These shares are more risky either because they have risen greatly in price or because their prospects are more uncertain than usual I may think the risk is worth tak-ing but I am prepared to act should that calculation change
Every decision to increase a portfolio holding must be weighed against the potential of new candidates drawn from all companies listed in the UK and corralled into another live spreadsheet the Share Sleuth watchlist When I add a share to the watchlist or trade a share in the portfolio I explain this in the Share Sleuth blog
ccumulating income and capital gains in an index tracking fund is inexpensive takes little effort and all but guarantees an
average return so it should be the default investment for a lazy equity investor saving for the long term
To justify the work of decid-ing which shares to buy and sell and the effort and cost of placing trades an active investor must do better Consequently the first objective of the active Share Sleuth portfolio is to beat passive investments after costs over the long-term which in practice means any five-year period The second objective is to win this tussle against an unknowing and unthinking opponent transparently
At the heart of the portfolio is an online spreadsheet The first page shows the constitu-ent shares arranged into three categories lsquoaddrsquo lsquowatchrsquo and lsquospeculativersquo The categorisa-tion is updated daily based on live data in subsequent spread-sheets each of which contains a financial model for a particular company
The Share Sleuth portfo-lio shows the holdings I would add to the portfolio today if it
Share Sleuth is a simulation no money changes hands But I use prices quoted by a bro-ker and adjust the accounting to factor in notional broker fees and stamp duty However I lsquoeat my own cookingrsquo by investing my self-invested personal pen-sion in Share Sleuth companies
No doubt you are wonder-ing how the portfolio is doing Share Sleuthrsquos five-year anni-versary judgement day is on 9 September this year and I will not prejudge it now
Short-term performance watching and the knee-jerk trad-ing it encourages is I think one reason why many inves-tors fail My focus is on ensuring the portfolio remains invested in good companies at reasona-ble prices
You can see a live perfor-mance table and learn what I think of every share in the port-folio and which companies I might add to it at wwwiiicoukZkr
SHAREBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIOR
The Share Sleuth portfolio has been carefully devised to show investors how to find good companies at cheap prices and also prove the value of its investment approach says Richard Beddard
Richard Beddard an editor at Interactive Investor since 1999 has managed the Share Sleuth portfolio since 9 September 2009 Hersquos a columnist at Money Observer magazine and a private investor
AMY FOCUS IS ON ENSURING THAT THE PORTFOLIO IS INVESTED IN GOOD FIRMS AT DECENT PRICES
inspired | March 2014 29PB March 2014 | inspired
SHARESLEUTH
iiicoukstraightforward
Interactive Investor Trading Limited trading as ldquoInteractive Investorrdquo is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority Registered Office Standon House 21 Mansell Street London E1 8AA Tel 0845 200 3637 Registered in England with Company Registration number 3699618
We believe in being straightforwardthis is why we donrsquot nibble at your investment by charging percentage fees Find out how this could affect your investment performance at iiicoukstraightforward
If you transfer to us you can even get up to pound240 as a thank you (terms apply)
Donrsquot forget the value of investments and any income from them can fall as well as rise so you could get back less than you invest If in any doubt please seek advice
7784_II_QI_MONEY_OBSERVER_210x297_AWindd 1 16012014 1224
Take a closer look
at your investment
options
Discover a straightforward way to understand everything from ISAs to SIPPs and OEICs to Investment Trusts
Investing for generationsEver feel yoursquod like to know more about investing Wersquove been helping people build their wealth for over 125 years Our guide lsquoMaking sense of the investment universersquo is just one of the resources yoursquoll find on our Investment Focus hub
As well as clear simple guides therersquos a wealth of information and expert opinion all designed to help you take control of your investments Please remember that investments can go down as well as up and investors may get back less than they originally invested
Introducing your free online source of information help and expert opinion
investment-focuscouk
This has been approved as a financial promotion by Alliance Trust Investments Limited for the purpose of Section 21 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 Alliance Trust Investments Limited is a subsidiary of Alliance Trust PLC and is registered in Scotland No SC330862 registered office 8 West Marketgait Dundee DD1 1QN is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority firm reference number 479764 Alliance Trust Investments gives no financial or investment advice
TAX YEAR ENDS APRIL 5TH ndash learn more about
your options now
Investment Focus Smart Insight from Alliance Trust
Yoursquove spoken Wersquove listened Introducing your free online source of information help and expert opinion
Based on real insight we have launched a new website which focuses on investment education
We believe that we are uniquely positioned to provide this hub of information based on the reputation we have built for trust and transparency over the last 125 years
We will be publishing new content over the next few months focusing on specific themes
bull Investing from scratch
bull Products in a portfolio
bull Global diversification
bull Planning for your familyrsquos future
bull Retirement planning
bull Getting more information
There is a generation of future investors out there who have been brought up in an era of economic turmoil and banking crises which has led to disillusionment and a lack of trust in our sector and the services we offer Despite it being more important than ever for investors to take control of their financial situation this new generation of savers lacks the basic knowledge and understanding to make these very important long-term decisions
Our goal is to develop a useful resource with contributions from third-parties as well as the team at Alliance Trust which offers insights into the various life stages and challenges faced and which can be built upon and adapted to meet savers needs in the long term
Katherine Garrett-Cox CBE Chief Executive Alliance Trust PLC
ldquo
rdquo
There are too many products to make an informed decision
I donrsquot know whereto go for reliable
information
investment-focuscouk
Yoursquoll naturally take a keen interest in the performance of your investments But itrsquos just as important to understand the fees you will be paying as they can have a significant impact on the returns you achieve Knowing what the different types of costs mean and exactly what they consist of can prove rewarding
Itrsquos worth remembering that for every fee you pay (whether it is a or flat fee) your investment needs to grow by at least the same amount just to stay ahead of the game It sounds obvious but itrsquos easy to forget Broadly speaking there are three types of fees fund fees platform fees and fees for a financial adviser You can either invest directly into a fund and pay the associated fees or you can invest via a platform provider (some of which are referred to as wrap platforms others as fund supermarkets) This is a service that lets you manage and review all your investments online in one place As a general rule fund fees are lower when
bought through a platform than if you buy direct You can invest through a platform on either an execution only basis where the investor assesses the risks and makes their own investment decisions or on an advised basis
Learn more about fund platform and financial advice fees
What can you expect to seeOver the next two pages we have provided a sneak preview of just some of the information you will find on the Investment Focus hub We will be updating the site regularly so make sure you sign up for our email alerts to be informed when new topics are published
Everything you need to know about fees
Risk informationInvestments can go down as well as up You may get back less than you originally invested
Alliance Trust does not give advice You need to ensure you understand the risks and commitments before investing If you are unsure you should consult a Financial Adviser before investing
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
For the vast majority of investors the simplest cheapest and most pragmatic way to invest is through pooled funds
Sometimes called managed funds unit trusts or even Open-Ended Investment Companies (or OEICs) these are designed to give ordinary savers access to a diverse range of investments
One of the principles of investment is that diversification helps reduce risk But it is expensive and time consuming for ordinary savers to buy shares of 80 to 100 different companies and keep track of how each is performing
But with a managed fund you are pooling your money with other investors enabling the fund manager to buy a wide range of assets
Investors have the option of buying an actively managed or passive fund With an active fund the manager selects and then monitors these stocks for investors in a bid to maximise returns
In contrast a passive fund will simply follow a stock market index such as the FTSE100 up and down
Having a manager at the helm can be beneficial in a market downturn as they can take a more defensive approach buying shares that are better able to hold their value or in some cases switching to bonds or cash instead to help preserve investorsrsquo capital Managers can also research individual companies and markets and have access to forecasts and economic data that isnrsquot always available to individuals
Learn more about investing for growth or income exploring different investment remits how to invest and keeping track of your investments
Understanding funds Written by Emma Simon Personal Finance Journalist
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
What are Investment TrustsInvestment Trusts are investment vehicles that are listed on the London Stock Exchange and which invest in shares and other securities They pool together investorsrsquo money and delegate responsibility to a professional fund manager to invest in a range of companies from different sectors and regions across the world They were designed for ldquothe investor of moderate meansrdquo
A brief historybull The first Investment Trust was launched by Foreign amp
Colonial in 1868
bull Investment Trusts made it possible for individual investors to gain diversified exposure to global stock markets
bull Many Investment Trusts were formed in Scotland including Alliance Trust PLC which was formed over 125 years ago
A guide to Investment Trusts
Learn more about Investment Trusts their main features and why you should consider them for your portfolio
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
Alliance Trust is an investment and savings business with over 125 year history of building investor wealth We offer our shareholders clients and customers a unique portfolio of products and services These range from a renowned global investment trust to an innovative range of investment strategies and funds and a multi-award winning investment platform where investors can host their ISAs SIPPs or investment accounts Our mission is to provide products and services that help to ensure a more sustainable financial future for generations of investors
Alliance Trust PLC is one of the largest generalist investment trusts by market value listed on the London Stock Exchange and is the parent company to two wholly-owned subsidiaries Alliance Trust Savings and Alliance Trust Investments
The fact that many of us make irrational decisions when it comes to our finances is widely debated and is often referred to as behavioural finance In this short video we talk to Professor Phyl Johnson Consultant Psychologist and Visiting Professor of Executive Education at Strathclyde Business School about why this is and more importantly about what we can do as individuals to avoid it
About us Alliance Trust Investments is a specialist fund management business offering a range of products and services focusing on global equities fixed income and sustainable investing with an emphasis on specialist investment solutions
Alliance Trust Savings is one of the UKrsquos leading financial services providers for private investors offering customers the information and services they need to manage their investments in a way that works for them
Risk informationInvestments can go down as well as up You may get back less than you originally invested
Alliance Trust does not give advice You need to ensure you understand the risks and commitments before investing If you are unsure you should consult a Financial Adviser before investing
Unusually for a company of our size around 70 of shares
in Alliance Trust are held by private
individuals
Nobodyrsquos perfect why we all make irrational decisions
Inflation by ageThis monthrsquos official inflation report showed that the headline rate of inflation fell from 20 to 19 Our Economic Research Team analyse this data on a monthly basis to see how inflation rates affect different age groups In February 2014 the summary highlights include
bull The over 75s and the under 30s face the highest rate of inflation in January at 21
bull The over 75s suffered the highest rate of inflation for the whole of 2013 and this trend continues into 2014 as they spend a larger share of their budgets on basic goods such as gas and electricity
bull The 65 to 74 year olds have faced the lowest rate of inflation in 11 out of the last 12 months thanks to lower inflation in food petrol and package holidays
Learn more about how inflation might affect you
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
You can also sign up for our regular email alerts to be informed when new topics are published by clicking here
Wersquove been bringing clarity to investment for over 125 years
Investing for generationsWhen it comes to investing therersquos no substitute for experience And at Alliance Trust wersquove been helping people invest since 1888 Our new Investment Focus hub is full of online information and expert opinion It aims to provide real insight to help you take control of your investments
Over the next few weeks the hub will build to cover everything from taking your first steps to diversifying worldwide Please remember that investments can go down as well as up and investors may get back less than they originally invested For valuable insight from Alliance Trust visit Investment Focus today
Introducing your free online source of information help and expert opinion
investment-focuscouk
This has been approved as a financial promotion by Alliance Trust Investments Limited for the purpose of Section 21 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 Alliance Trust Investments Limited is a subsidiary of Alliance Trust PLC and is registered in Scotland No SC330862 registered office 8 West Marketgait Dundee DD1 1QN is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority firm reference number 479764 Alliance Trust Investments gives no financial or investment advice
TAX YEAR ENDS APRIL 5TH ndash learn more about
your options now
Change the way you think about stocks reap the rewardsBy Edward Page Croft CEO Stockopediacom
I remember so clearly the day when I picked my first stock for clients Managing $2 billion (pound12 billion) in assets across 100 portfolios for high-net-wealth private investors is no easy task As I was to learn when you are green
and straight out of university itrsquos even harder The stock in question was on the Goldman
Sachs US lsquobuyrsquo list It had the potential to be hot Dotcoms were bubbling It was an internet stock in education services and cheap It seemed like it had everything but we needed to get in One day it fell out of bed Down 50 per cent on no news
Irsquod been trained to call the analyst in situations like this He reiterated his buy stance Double buy On my insistence we put almost $20 million of client money into the stock within an hour The next day it fell another 50 per cent on
bad newsThere is nothing more
painful than a loss but you never forget the first
one It immedi-ately forced me to reconsider every-thing I thought I
knew From that day on I vowed to never trust anotherrsquos opin-ion and find a better
way through the market minefieldIrsquove now spent 15 years
reassessing common
wisdom about stock selection No stone has gone unturned in the quest to understand the behav-ioural flaws that lead to poor decision making But there is one finding that crops up again and again in all the research that hurts stock market investors most We as investors are suckers for stories
A 1990rsquos study of 60000 private investor broker-age accounts by Kumar and Goetzmann found that 70 per cent of portfolios held less than four stocks
The stocks held all tended to be in the same sector highly correlated and risky Think internet stocks in the 1990s China in the 2000s or resource stocks more recently The grand theme sucks everyone in The outcome rarely dif-fers Kumar and Goetzmann showed that across these
60000 accounts the average underperformance was of the order of 4 per cent annually
This massive failing across private inves-tor portfolios is repeated in nearly every market cycle and is bound to happen again in this one Benjamin Graham the great father of value invest-ing and tutor of Warren Buffett once wrote
lsquoIn the short run the stock market is a vot-ing machine but in the long run it is a weighing machinersquo
ADVERTISING FEATURE
IN THE SHORT RUN THE STOCK MARKET IS A VOTING MACHINE BUT IN THE LONG RUN IT IS A WEIGHING MACHINEBenjamin Graham
What he meant was that while stories may drive stocks in the short run statistics drive stocks in the long run When statistics reassert them-selves it can cause huge damage to investors punting their portfolios on stories
It doesnrsquot take much to learn how basic statis-tics can guide your portfolio into winning stock selections though very few seem to understand how to do it Benjamin Graham as his life wore on gradually came to the conclusion that building portfolios according to rules-based processes was a far more appropriate methodology for the typi-cal investor
lsquoTry to buy groups of stocks that meet some sim-ple criterion for being undervalued ndash regardless of
the industry and with very little attention to the indi-vidual company It seems too good to be true but all I can tell you after 60 years of experience is it seems to stand up under any of the tests I would make uprsquo
My time is now dedi-cated to helping investors practice exactly what Benjamin Graham and many other investment luminaries have preached rules-based investing For the majority itrsquos a better process and leads to bet-ter outcomes Our work at
Stockopediacom where we crunch fundamental and technical data in order to model and track the investment processes of the great investors bears this out
Portfolios composed with stocks showing the right statistical mix of value quality and momen-tum have significantly outperformed Rules-based investing beats the market But more importantly it helps promote the emotional detachment needed to stop investors from beating themselves
Irsquoll never buy a stock on a punt or an analystrsquos tip again Perhaps neither should you
For a two week free trial and pound50 discount to Stockopedia UK Premium CLICK HERE
TANK MCM A N U F A C T U R E M O V E M E N T 1 9 0 4 M C
SINCE THE CREATION OF THE FIRST TANK WATCH IN 1917 THE TANK COLLECTION HAS CONTINUED
TO BREAK NEW GROUND THE INCREDIBLY REFINED AESTHETICS OF THE NEW TANK MC WATCH ARE FITTED
WITH THE CARTIER MANUFACTURE MOVEMENT 1904 MC ESTABLISHED IN 1847 CARTIER CREATES
EXCEPTIONAL WATCHES THAT COMBINE DARING DESIGN AND WATCHMAKING SAVOIR-FAIRE
EXPLORE AND SHOP WWWCARTIERCOUK - (020) 3147 4850
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oisseur
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Inside
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TO THE CONNOISSEUR section of Inspired a showcase for the finer things in life for those who truly appreciate them
Enjoying the fruits of your labour away from the relentless demands of our age poses its own challenges and quandaries Would a tropical idyll restore your ebbing energy levels Might a break based around hair-raising activities revive them even more effectively Perhaps reawakening a dormant passion for fine wines or luxury cars would be the most enjoyable reward for your industry
A luxury tropical holiday is probably near the top of most peoplersquos wish lists We take a look at some of the most tantalising options
The arrival of BMWrsquos new super coupe is featured on page 50 BMW aficionados and petrolheads alike are certain to be won over by its head-turning looks and mouthwatering specs
Gems come under the microscope on page 53 A rare coloured diamond can be a joy as well an appreciating asset
Wine is on the menu on page 54 where we explore the charms of Argentinian Malbec
Watches are often treasured objects and the best can turn out to be shrewd investments We look at the secondary watch market and the growth of online retailing on page 58 Enjoy
Welcome
40 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
FIVE TOP PRIVATE ISLAND RETREATSIslandFantasy
Top-rated resorts and hotels offer a variety of temptations and services to impress even the most discerning tastes but there is no better way to escape the rigours and
stresses of daily life than cutting off from the outside world while still enjoying lavish service
in the pinnacle of all resorts the private islandThere are thousands of small islands around
the world but only a few have chosen to cater to the most discriminating travellers seeking a rarified yet perfect world of quiet and relaxed luxury We look at five of the worldrsquos top private islands destinations where your holiday is certain to be an exceptional experience
TRAVEL
Necker Island is owned by Sir Richard Branson and guests stay in his home The island has become a popular des-tination for some of the worldrsquos most prominent figures as a hideaway from lifersquos stresses and strains
Because Necker Island is a resi-dence and not a resort guests who rent the island are treated as owners and catered for in a unique way
The74-acre island is fringed with beautiful white beaches and surrounded by turquoise waters and coral reefs It boasts every resort-type amenity guests can spend their days being pampered in the spa explor-ing underwater reefs in a submarine lounging by the pool bar or swimming in one of the worldrsquos most elab-orate private pools
Haute cuisine is a highlight for most guests ndash rates are fully inclusive of all food and drink A team of chefs creates bespoke menus featuring anything from lobster and caviar to a Sunday roast And because Necker is a home first and a resort second guests decide whether dining will be formal or informal inside or outside themed or traditional
The bar is stocked with international wines top-quality spirits and beers and a world renowned house champagne while special orders can be shipped in at no extra charge ndash unless an item is particularly rare Every service and amenity is available around the clock and guests are encouraged to treat Necker as their own home
As youLike it
NECKER ISLAND
42 March 2014 | inspired
Unalloyed luxury and an impressive range of amenities make Necker one of the most desirable island destinations in the world
The Jumby Bay resort which is only accessible by boat from Antigua is a Caribbean hideaway owned by Rosewood Resorts It is perfect for those seeking either relaxation or spirited adventure
You can rent the island resort entirely for your stay or simply take a room Those opt-ing for exclusive use of the island will have the resortrsquos two pools three tennis courts fitness centre croquet field and putting green to themselves
A wide range of water sports are available and guests can indulge in as much adventure or relaxation as they want during their stay The resort is ideal for large family
reunions or corporate retreats ndash 40 guest rooms and suites are available on the island
Executive chef Sylvain Hervochon celebrates gastron-omy ndash and mixology (cocktail making) ndash with casual elegance by creating Caribbean-style dishes inspired by fresh local ingredients and incorporating international influences
Jumby Bayrsquos rates start at pound150000 for four nights based on double occupancy between May and December Visit wwwrosewoodhotelscomenjumby-bay-antigua for further information
Fine BalanceCaribbean ambiance international sophistication and adventurous activities make Jumby Bay a compelling choice
JUMBY BAY
Just laze by the pool or venture beyond to dive in the turquoise waters of the South Pacific among stunning reefs and a dazzling array of marine creatures
Isle of PlentyT
he private island of Laucala in the South Pacific is a 3500-acre site in a picturesque rainforest-laced land-scape Enchanting deserted beaches nestle among coconut plantations organic farms and lush green vol-canic mountains
The resort offers an outstanding level of refined lux-ury as well as a compelling collection of sporting and cultural activities diving among iridescent marine life in the warm turquoise waters guided rainforest tours horse riding surfing and golfing on the 18-hole cham-pionship course The island is a superb choice for an escape from civilization whether you want an adven-ture in the wild or simply to relax in one of Laucalarsquos five restaurants and bars
Rates are available on request Visit wwwlaucalacom for further details
TRAVEL
LAUCALA ISLAND
inspired | March 2014 4544 March 2014 | inspired
Lush green surroundings sensitive development and beautiful beaches help Laucala island conjure up a complete South Seas experience
Isle of Plenty
inspired | March 2014 4544 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
inspired | March 2014 4746 March 2014 | inspired
Slow LaneSlow
Pulau Joyo is a seductively serene environment of pristine beaches surrounded by clear blue sea in Indonesiarsquos Riau Archipelago Accessible from Singapore or Bintan Pulau Joyo is a true castaway island offering every resort luxury
amid untouched natural beauty Pulau Joyo is famous for its remarkable sunsets and
brightly star-lit sky The resort can host 28 guests and 20 staff are on hand to cater to their every need Guests stay in open driftwood lsquopalacesrsquo that lsquoallow the sea inrsquoDespite its desert island appeal Pulau Joyo offers every modern convenience a range of adrenaline boosting activities and more relaxing options such as spa treatments and massages
The resortrsquos cuisine focuses on western and Indonesian dishes Meals are usually served buffet style and feature grilled fish squid prawns beef and chicken as well as many curry dishes Side dishes include fresh garden salads pasta salads boiled or steamed leafy greens and grilled aubergine (an island favourite) Prawn and tofu kebabs appear from time to time as does satay The chef will often provide a selection of freshly picked fruit and homemade cakes for dessert Itrsquos worth noting that the management will not serve pork or shellfish on this private island
Pulau Joyo may not be as refined as some islands but itrsquos an excellent choice for those who want a more casual laidback island experience that replicates the castaway experience like perhaps no other
Rates start at pound1913 a night More information is available at wwwpulau-joyocom
Wannabe castaways may find Pulau Joyorsquos purer simpler take on the luxury island experience more to their taste
PULAU JOYO
inspired | March 2014 4746 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
In the Fijian island paradise of Dolphin Island a small army of staff await to meet guestsrsquo every need On arriving ndash by boat helicopter or float plane ndash visitors are invariably struck by the beauty of the island and the luxuri-ous accommodation that awaits them amid 14-acres of lush tropical gardens
Three traditional palm-thatched bures individually designed by world renowned interior designer Virginia Fisher sit in an elevated position around the resortrsquos infinity pool
Guests are brought fresh tropical fish to choose each day that are cooked to perfec-
tion within hours of leaving the water The culinary focus is on
organic produce and ingredi-ents unique to Fijian cuisine but meals are tailored to guestsrsquo personal tastes Papayas man-goes bananas and pineapples
are plentiful throughout the day When it comes to recreation the
14-acre island is an expansive play-ground offering a diverse range of watersports as well as diving opportunities on Fijirsquos coral reefs
Rates start at pound720 a night More information is avail-able at wwwdolphinislandfijicom
Fijian Paean
Traditional features modern comforts and excellent facilities make for a harmonious whole on this Fijian island
DOLPHIN ISLAND
48 March 2014 | inspired
Pictured slightly larger than actual size
Big Pilotrsquos Watch Ref 5009
Your wrist never felt this big before The
case of the top model in the IWC Pilotrsquos
Watch range is a gigantic 462 mm in diashy
meter And the technology inside it is
even more impressive the largest IWCshy
manufactured automatic movement with
its Pellaton winding system is protected
against strong magnetic fields by a softshy
iron inner case And needless to say enshy
vious glances iwc engineered for men
Mechanical IWCshymanufactured movement Pellaton
automatic winding system 7shyday power reserve
with display (figure) Date display Softshyiron inner
case for protection against magnetic fields
Antireflective sapphire glass Watershyresistant 6 bar
Stainless steel
IWC Schaffhausen Switzerland iwccom The worldrsquos finest timepieces are exclusively available from selected watch specialists
For an illustrated catalogue or list of nationwide concessionaires please contact IWC UK Tel 0845 337 1868 Eshymail infoshyukiwccom
CARS
MunichLegend
50 March 2014 | inspired
BMW fanatics can open their eyes ndash the M4 has arrived
Most BMW aficionados are proba-bly pretty sad to see production of the M3 coupe ndash quite possibly the companyrsquos most noteworthy and celebrated model ndash end after almost 30 years Ever since the first wide-body E30 M3 saw the
light of day in 1985 drivers have loved the sporty coupe for its incredible balance intoxicating power and of course solid build quality
The model never got stale in all that time and always remained the poster child for the M division so itrsquos a lit-tle weird that BMW has apparently decided to axe it In truth though they havenrsquot really dropped the M3 The M3 sedan will continue to be produced in 2014 so all
is not lost Moreover BMW seems to be adopting a pat-tern of giving its sedans odd-numbered titles only and its coupes even-numbered titles only so the 4-Series and especially the M4 concept that debuted at Pebble Beach Monterey California will fill the gap left by the M3 Many people have been awaiting the new super coupe with great expectancy but can it fill in for the M3
The journalists who swarmed over the M4 concept at Pebble Beach were obviously much more interested in it than the somewhat predictable 428i that was also there Finished in an eye-catching colour called Aurum Dust (which actually looks a lot like the old M3rsquos Phoenix Yellow colour) the car presented in California may be a concept but typically BMW M cars donrsquot change much before they finally hit the showroom
MunichLegend
inspired | March 2014 51
CARS
52 March 2014 | inspired
From front to back the bodywork is manifestly differ-ent and much more aggressive looking than a standard 4-Series car It really looks to pretty much pick up where the E92E93 M3 coupe left off especially with its undeniably cool domed hood Wide wheel arches big wheels wrapped in low-profile tyres more than enough M badges and a well-executed double-bubble roof make the already underwhelming existing 4-Series coupe look even more pedestrian
Power for the new M4 is likely to come from a three-litre twin-turbo straight-six engine While the horsepower probably wonrsquot differ much from the M3rsquos old 4-litre V-8 it will generate more than 100lbft more in torque almost 400 in total With the M4 being a lighter 3300lb in weight the M4 promises to be an excit-ing worthy car A proper six-speed manual may be in the mix alongside the now obligatory dual clutch and paddles option
The best way to look at the M4 however it ends up is not as a new car but as a new and improved M3 thatrsquos just getting a new name The decision to rename the coupe is a strange one but thankfully BMW apparently felt the 3-Series coupe had made such an identity for itself that a new model was needed albeit in a slightly different incarnation
With BMW embarking on some new-ageish ideas such as its 1-Series ActiveE and the soon-to-arrive lsquoirsquo range of cars itrsquos nice to see the company also stick to classics such as the heart-stopping sports coupe even if the latest model does come with a new name
Seductive curves and racier performance make the BMW M4 a more than acceptable replacement for the M3 super coupe
SparklingForm Coloured diamonds are making their mark
One of the main factors that deter-mines the value of what we ordinarily think of as diamonds is their purity the degree to which col-our is absent in the gem However with coloured diamonds the extent to which they are saturated with
colour is a principal determinant of their valueColoured diamonds come in 12 basic colours more
than 90 secondary hues and nine intensity levels The depth of their colour is what really differentiates these diamonds from their colourless counterparts
Natural coloured diamonds are 10000 times rarer than typical colourless diamonds one of several rea-sons why they are treasured by the rich and famous yet remain unknown to most other people ndash despite hav-ing been around for centuries
Of course some colours are rarer than others Red violet and purple stones are as rare as the proverbial hensrsquo teeth while green and blue are also rare The most popular colours are pink and yellow (or canary) They also come in white grey orange black and lsquochame-leonrsquo form
A pinkie ring encrusted with a large coloured dia-mond has become a status symbol for men in Asia That little stone is an unregistered asset that could quickly be sold for millions of dollars should the need arise
Coloured diamonds are durable and never lose their sparkle or lustre so they are assets that can be enjoyed every day unlike stocks or bonds And they have proved to be fantastic investments having steadily appreciated in price with relatively little volatility for more than a decade They even held their own during the most recent financial crisis
Coloured diamonds are auctioned by reputable
auction houses such a Sothebyrsquos and Christiersquos where prices for large unique pink red blue or yellow stones can reach in excess of $2 million (pound12 million) a carat and other stones regularly sell for $1 million a carat
They are often bought by high-net-worth individu-als as an insurance policy Instead of stashing cash in undeclared bank accounts and potentially incurring the wrath of the authorities the wealthy can purchase some loose yellow diamonds to secure their future
Clearly coloured diamonds are much more than a magnificent indulgence
GEMS
inspired | March 2014 53PB March 2014 | inspired
WINE
Make the most of the deeply
satisfying Malbec wines emerging from Argentina
and perhaps even enjoy a return on a shrewd
investment says Ewan Lacey
Finding a red wine to enjoy in spring is a delicate balancing act The shock of seeing sunlight after a dark winter fosters in us a desire to drink some-thing refreshing while the still-cool temperatures demand something with comforting depth
Increasingly Malbec wines particularly those from Argentina provide a perfect solution to this quandary And while there are plenty of delicious wines for infor-mal occasions what is most interesting is the emergence of finer Malbec wines Some are so good they may well have ageing potential raising the intriguing possibility that the wine may one day become collectable
Malbec is the most popular wine among those aged 25-34 and is now becoming a fixture on most restaurant wine lists There are several reasons for its success the word Malbec is easy to pronounce the wine goes well with red meat the Malbec grape can be turned into wines that are both relatively easy to drink and packed with flavour and decent wines are available at reason-able prices Malbec is deep fruity and charming and it delivers instant pleasure ndash claret on a motorbike
The Malbec grape originated in France and it remains one of the permitted varieties used to make Bordeaux However it has gained prominence through the work of the post-junta Argentine wine industry
I recently had the pleasure of tasting some very fine Malbecs with Laura Catena managing director at the Catena Zapata winery and president of the International Wine and Spirit Competition She opened my
Mendoza Marvels
inspired | March 2014 55
WINE
eyes to the potential of this grape variety when handled with care
Laurarsquos family business makes a range of wines but the wine that truly astonished me was the Nicasia Vineyard Malbec 2006 The wine is perfumed with floral and fruit notes and it is smooth and soft at first Like all great wines it has many layers of flavour warm bursts of cherry and black-currant cede centre stage to deeper darker caramel and mocha notes and a touch of spice Therersquos an amazing depth of flavour and the finish is long and lingering Whatrsquos more at nearly eight years old it still has a slight purple tinge and tastes extremely fresh There is every indication that it will age beautifully for at least another decade
The winersquos character is heavily influenced by the alti-tude the grapes used to make it are grown at (1180m
above sea level) At this elevation the grapes ripen in bright sun but lsquorelaxrsquo during the cool evenings The fact that the wine is made in tiny quantities (eight barrels only) means every care can be taken during the winemak-ing process to ensure the wine is allowed to show its grown-up side The cost per bot-tle of pound70 is not insubstantial but neither is the wine
We cannot know whether these wines will ever become investments in the way the wines of Bordeaux have Whatrsquos cer-tain is that Malbec wines have a very rare quality a balance of finesse and power that
can delight wine lovers and linger in their memories
Ewan Lacey is a leading wine expert and general manager of the International Wine and Spirit Competition He has appeared on BBC television and radio as well as Channel 4 and written for the national press
Laura Catena is managing director at the Catena Zapata winery (above)
THE INTERNATIONAL WINE AND SPIRIT COMPETITIONThe International Wine and Spirit Competition has been the premier drinks competition in the world for 45 years Each year it receives and reviews thousands of wines and spirits and presents qual-ity awards to producers
More than anything the IWSC exists to help
people make better deci-sions particularly when buying wines and spirits An IWSC award on a bot-tle of wine is a guarantee
of quality backed not only by a rigorous and strin-gent judging process but also by the skill of the judges who are drawn from the ranks of masters of wine master distill-ers industry leaders and commentators
Each year the IWSC honours a leading figure
in the drinks industry with the presidency of the competition The current president is Laura Catena who succeeds a nota-ble line of predecessors including Prince Robert of Luxembourg winemakers Piero Antinori and Warren Winiarski and Baroness Philippine de Rothschild
56 March 2014 | inspired
LUXURY WATCHES
Time is preciousA
t a recent watch auc-tion in Geneva at Antiquorum ndash the worldrsquos premiere auc-tion house for modern and vintage time pieces ndash a Patek Philippe
pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon watch emerged as the auctionrsquos top lot and sold for 12 million Swiss francs (pound807000)
Unlike most of the timepieces sold at auctions outside Asia this particular Patek watch ndash the most complicated wristwatch the Swiss watchmaker has ever produced ndash was not a vintage model
That Geneva auction raised intriguing
1284Clocks with weights gears and regulators start to appear mostly with no dial to strike the important moments of daily life
Around 1410The mainspring is devel-oped Combined with the fusee this innovation makes possible the truly portable domestic clock
1492The mechanical watch appears simultaneously in Italy Germany and France
1675Christian Huygens invents the spiral balance spring
for watches significantly improving their accuracy
1704The first watch with jew-els is produced by French watchmaker de Beaufreacute
1714The British parliament offers pound20000 to who-ever can a find a method to determine longitude
1766Parliament publishes the rating results for John Harrisonrsquos H4 marine timekeeper Harrisonrsquos highly accurate marine clock solution to the problem of determining logitude wins him part of the pound20000 prize
1787Pierre-Freacutedeacuteric Ingold is born an important pio-neer in mechanised timepiece production and the use of interchangea-ble parts
1790Jacquet-Droz and Leschot manufactures a watch attached to a strap
1839Vacheron amp Constantin developes a full set of machine tools for manu-facturing its watches
1875Calcium sulphate is the first luminescent sub-stance to be used for numerals and hands
TIMEKEEPING MILESTONES
questions Are modern luxury timepieces every bit as appealing as the vintage watches that typically command top prices at auc-tion And does that Geneva auction tell us anything about the contemporary watch market as a whole
Julien Schaerer Antiquorumrsquos managing director in Geneva says top-quality vintage watches often appreciate in value over the long term But he urges buyers for whom appreciation is an important consideration to be cautious about purchasing contempo-rary watches
lsquoWatch price depreciation is the cost of ownership just as it is with a luxury carrsquo he says lsquoIf the value goes up then
58 March 2014 | inspired
1880The first water- resistant watch incorpo-rating a screwed case is produced by Genevan watchmaker Franccedilois Borgel
1889The first known patent for a wristwatch is filed in Bern Switzerland
1890Dialmaker A Beyeler invents a transfer press for applying numerals and letters to dials
1892Auguste Verneuil in France produces the first synthetic jewels to be used in watchmaking
1904Wens Wilsdorf launches large-scale production of a womenrsquos wristwatch
1924John Harwood files the
first Swiss patent for a self-winding wristwatch with a central oscillating weight
1925The first known wrist-watch with a perpetual calendar is manufactured using a pendant watch movement
1926Rolex creates the Oyster wristwatch with a water-resistant case and crown
1966The first quartz wrist-watch prototype is produced
1969The first quartz watch
with an LED display appears
1978Quartz watches overtake mechanical watches in popularity
2005Creation of the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie Seiko launches the spring drive Kinetic the first self-winding mechanical watch with an electro-magnetic escapement
A Patek Philippe pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon recently sold for pound807000
inspired | March 2014 59
online retailers from the comfort of your homeSince 2006 DM London has quietly estab-
lished a powerful presence for itself in the UK retail watch market with the acquisition of The Watch Hut and The Watch Gallery DM London chairman David Coleridge says the company has capitalised on the increasing willingness of buy-ers to purchase online
lsquoHaving decided that they would like to buy a watch for themselves or someone elsersquo he says lsquopeople start to do their research More often than not this starts online nowadays where they com-pare brands performance and functions
lsquoAs trust in the online marketplace has devel-oped many want to buy online because it is convenient and saves time Shopping online becomes a habit established sites build trust and awareness with customers which gives custom-ers the confidence to buy more expensive itemsrsquo
He adds lsquoOur challenge is to make the online environment as attractive informative and enjoy-able as a high street store Then customers will decide to spend onlinersquo
Coleridge believes a multi-channel approach is the way forward for retailers He says lsquoWithout doubt the future is multi-channel selling ndash a combination of direct selling on the internet and various forms of click and collect ndash combined with beautiful stores on the high street
Over the past few years demand for luxury watches (particularly contemporary models) has spiked sharply in Asia and according to some specialists emerging affluence in the
of course thatrsquos an added benefit However he adds lsquoPrice appreciation is still quite rare with modern watches There is some poten-tial for appreciation but probably only with ultra-limited editions A purchase has to be
seen as a medium- to long-term invest-ment One should buy a timepiece first out of love for the brand or [the watchrsquos] complicationrsquo
The watch brands that offer the greatest assurance of appreci-
ation include Cartier Patek Philippe Rolex Audemars
Piguet A Lange amp Sohne Breguet and Vacheron Constantin All enjoy views from the top of
the watchmaking hierarchy thanks to their longstand-ing histories and well-established brand identities
Relative new-comers to the industry such as Richard Mille and Roger Dubuis have carved out a niche for
themselves with their revolutionary designs and
space-age technologies but it remains to be seen just how well the values of their timepieces will stand up on the secondary market
According to Nathaniel Borgelt a specialist at auction house Sothebyrsquos
some modern watches have already achieved good prices at auction but these (like the Patek Philippe Sky Moon Tourbillon) were highly exclusive models when new
lsquoSome limited edition pieces currently fetch incredible prices at auctionrsquo he says lsquoAnd there is a select group of modern mod-els that could compete with a certain sector of the vintage market based on their brand innovative features such as materials or com-plications and avant-garde designs
Buying these has now become a whole lot easier The luxury watch retailing land-scape is changing and the traditional pattern of physically walking into a luxury salon to buy a watch is gradually being replaced by a trend towards visiting the websites of the big
LUXURY WATCHES
A Lange amp Sohne (above) is a long-standing high-end watchmaker Comparative new-comer Roger Dubuis (right) is forging a strong reputation
inspired | March 2014 PB60 March 2014 | inspired
helpthewatchgallerycom
Hublot ClassiC FusiontHe WatCH Gallery exClusive
The Watch Gallery and Hublot have joined forces to create two very special limited edition watches Both are limited to just 15 pieces worldwide and have been specifically designed to feature The Watch Gallery blue brand colour on the hands and tinted open case back
SelfridgeS OxfOrd StreetWeStfield lOndOnMancheSter exchange Square
wwwthewatchgallerycomhublot-watches
Far East has kept global values strong while other markets around the world continue to recover from recession
Despite the market boost from growing prosperity in Asia there are signs that the market is becoming saturated and that globally the new watch market isnrsquot as robust as some commentators suggest
It may still be a good time to buy but its important to know what you want and what yoursquore buying Modern watchmakers such as Richard Mille Roger Dubuis and Greubel Forsey are producing beautiful timepieces but because of their limited foothold in the market itrsquos difficult to predict their long-term success and desirability They donrsquot yet have the brand power that might ensure the value of their
watches in the secondhand market remains highSuch producers might one day stand eye to
eye with the most desirable brands such as Patek Philippe and Rolex but achieving that kind of parity wonrsquot be easy Collectors looking to invest in timepieces are advised to keep an open mind about modern producers uncertainty is the one aspect of modern luxury watch market most experts tend to agree on
That said the buoyancy in the watch market suggests that plenty of buyers are unconcerned about future values For them itrsquos all about the appreciation of the watch itself People buy watches because they bring them pleasure ndash and say some-thing about who they are
LUXURY WATCHES
Contemporary watches such as those made by Hublot (left) have yet to show they will have the lasting appeal of watches such as Cartierrsquos Rotonde de Cartier Astrocalendaire (right)
inspired | March 2014 63
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-
DONrsquoT DISMISS AIM-BASED INVESTMENTS
Richard Beddard is an editor at Interactive Investor and manager of Money Observerrsquos Share Sleuth portfolio
Now that inves-tors can buy Alternative Investment Market shares
within Isas the universe of potentially profitable invest-ments has grown But therersquos also more room for disappointment
Aimrsquos light-touch regula-tion makes it easier for younger smaller companies to list and while such shares are reputed to be risky that need not frighten
INVEST REGULARLY
Mick Gilligan head of research Killik amp Co
Starting an Isa at the beginning of a new tax year and investing small amounts
regularly out of your income ndash rather than a larger amount in one lump sum at the end of each tax year ndash helps reduce the impact of market volatility and you start earning compound interest sooner When income is reinvested alongside the initial investment it effectively becomes capital so you have a larger sum producing an income which in turn can be reinvested
trsquos very easy to keep on doing the same things with your annual tax-efficient Isa allow-ance However investors can lose out badly if they do
Itrsquos not just the Isa allowances that keep changing the economic environment and the range of investments available do too So itrsquos important that investors con-sider all the Isa opportunities open to them before they make a any big
irrevocable decisionsWersquove asked a number of invest-
ment experts to reveal their top Isa tips We are sure they will give you some useful guidelines and help you refine the choices you make Some suggestions are reminders about long-standing opportunities others draw your attention to new developments in Isa invest-ing and highlight the opportunities they offer
Isa investorswhether using some or all of their annual allowances donrsquot always get the best out of their investments Faith Glasgow asks some financial experts for their most valuable tips
investors from investing in Aim firms Plenty of them have long illustrious track records in worthy businesses and itrsquos easy to find out about them on finan-cial websites More details are available on companiesrsquo own investor relations websites the contents of which are mandated by Aim rule 26 a rule the more heavily regulated main market would do well to emulate
UP YOUR ISA CONTRIBUTIONS
Darius McDermott managing director Chelsea Financial Services
Donrsquot forget to increase your monthly Isa investments each year in line with
inspired | March 2014 1312 March 2014 | inspired
EXPERTSrsquo TOP ISA
TIPS
ISAS SMART STRATEGY FOR
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
INVESTING SMALL AMOUNTS REGULARLY HELPS REDUCE THE IMPACT OF MARKET VOLATILITYMick Gilligan
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
I
and shares in [non-cash] Isas However this isnrsquot the case Indeed some other asset classes ndash in particular those that pro-duce income ndash offer even more tax benefits than equities when held within an Isa
Bond funds for example get (at least) 20 per cent income tax relief on the yield they pro-duce (dividends from equities in contrast are subjected to a 10 per cent tax at source which is not reclaimable even in an Isa)
The new property author-ised investment fund structure for property funds meanwhile means Isa investors no longer incur the 20 per cent tax that would previously have been applied on income received from a property investment
the increase in the contribution limit if you can afford to Itrsquos all too easy for regular investors with their money invested auto-matically every month to overlook those annual allow-ance increases And consider increasing your investment whenever you receive a salary increase
LOOK BEYOND STOCKS AND SHARES
Darius McDermott Chelsea Financial Services Some potential Isa investors think you can only hold stocks
PLOUGH INTO PROPERTYGavin Haynes managing director Whitechurch Securities
Many people donrsquot realise they can gain expo-sure to bricks and mortar through
commercial property funds held in a stocks and shares Isa
The asset class currently offers an attractive yield rela-tive to cash and bonds without the volatility of the stock market investments
Property funds are not with-out risk but an allocation to a commercial property fund (that invests directly in bricks and mortar not property shares) can add diversification to an Isa portfolio With the economic outlook improving the sector looks well placed for recovery
ACCEPT RISK BUT BE SURE TO DIVERSIFY
Rebecca OrsquoKeeffe head of investment Interactive Investor
The primary ben-efits of an Isa are felt over the long term so itrsquos important to rec-
ognise that taking on risk
inspired | March 2014 1312 March 2014 | inspired
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
ITrsquoS ALL TOO EASY TO OVERLOOK THOSE ANNUAL ALLOWANCE INCREASESDariusMcDermott
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
Isa can suddenly become a poorly paying one But never try to transfer an Isa yourself Contact the new provider first and follow its transfer rules
Remember the amount of money you can invest in a cash Isa in each tax year is capped (currently at pound5760) so if you want to switch in the middle of the tax year you will prob-ably be switching the entire amount ndash you cannot switch a portion of an existing Isa into a new one and top it up If your original Isa is due to pay you interest at the end of the year it should pay you the accrued interest up to the date you close the account
Itrsquos possible to transfer your cash Isa into a stocks and shares Isa if you decide this is a better home for you money but you canrsquot switch your money back from a stocks and shares Isa into a cash Isa
You can invest up to pound11520 in a stocks and shares Isa in a single tax year minus anything you may have paid into a cash Isa ndash which is capped at pound5760
over the long term is usually a far more profitable strategy than minimising risk Investors typi-cally take less risk than they should especially if they have suffered a loss in the past
You can mitigate your overall risk by diversifying across differ-ent asset classes and geographic areas Regular investing is also a great risk reduction strategy
Itrsquos also important to rec-ognise the value of dividend reinvestment and understand the benefit this compound-ing effect has on your portfolio And remember to choose a bro-ker that doesnrsquot penalise you for reinvesting
TRANSFER YOUR ISAS TO GET THE BEST DEALS
Mark King editor MoneywiseUnlike a stocks and shares Isa a cash Isa is a sim-ple savings account with a
tax-free Isa lsquowrapperrsquo placed around it so that you donrsquot pay tax on your interest
You can choose to have access to your money or tie it up until a future date just as with typical savings accounts Generally the longer you tie your money up for the better the interest rate you get
While a cash Isa is considered a low-risk investment ndash which sophisticated investors may find returns too little as a result ndash you can transfer a cash Isa should you decide you want to take on more risk or get a bet-ter rate Indeed you may have to transfer a cash Isa regularly Providers offer different rates that can change so a top-paying
From 6 April ndash the beginning of the 201415 tax year ndash however these limits rise to pound11880 and pound5940 respectively
LOOK AT THE LONG- TERM BENEFITS
Philippa Gee managing director Philippa Gee Wealth Management
Some investors look at the return on an Isa or at the limit on how much they can
invest in a single year and fail to see the value
However they would be wise to consider the longer-term view Those who have invested each year for a number of years have been able to build six- figure portfolios that they do not have to pay any further income or capital gains tax on or list on their tax assessment
By securing a significant sum in an Isa wrapper each year as far as yoursquore able you can build up a valuable flexible and tax-efficient investment
inspired | March 2014 PB14 March 2014 | inspired
EXPERTSrsquoTOP ISA
TIPS
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
TAKING ON RISK OVER THE LONG TERM IS USUALLY MORE PROFITABLERebecca OrsquoKeeffe
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
The ISA thatrsquos
fair and square
We believe in straightforward investing Thatrsquos why we donrsquot nibble at your investments with percentage charges Open an account and for pound20 per quarter you get two pound10 trades and an ISA for free After that itrsquos just pound10 per trade across a wide range of UK and international investmentsTransfer to us today and get up to pound240 as a thank you (terms apply) We believe thatrsquos fair and square
The value of investments and any income from them can fall as well as rise so you could get back less than you invest Tax treatment depends on your individual circumstances and may be subject to change If in any doubt please seek advice
iiicoukisa
Interactive Investor Trading Limited trading as ldquoInteractive Investorrdquo is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority Registered Office Standon House 21 Mansell Street London E1 8AA Tel 0845 200 3637 Registered in England with Company Registration number 3699618
hen new rules were introduced last August allowing the inclusion of Alternative Investment Market (Aim) shares in Isas demand for exposure to the junior market
quickly exceeded expectations Another surge in demand is likely in April as the new tax year dawns and investors have a fresh annual allow-ance to play with
Yet while stocks on Aim can boast eye-catching returns and attractive tax perks they can also be very volatile raising concerns that investors may be letting the tax tail wag the investment dog with-out understanding what they are getting into
The Treasuryrsquos decision to allow Aim shares into Isas was driven by a desire to encourage greater investment in small and medium-sized companies The move was immediately popular with investors and brokers reported a sharp rise in Aim-listed purchases Demand for smaller companies funds was up too as investors wary of direct share ownership
bought into funds offering exposure to Aim stocksIt helped that Aim stocks were enjoying a good
run as were smaller companies generally with the amount of money raised on the market over the summer rising sharply Performance is just one aspect of their appeal however
Aim shares already offered inheritance tax effi-ciency most of them qualify for business property relief making them exempt from IHT when held for two years or more However itrsquos worth noting that BPR is subject to change and a company can lose its eligibility and therefore its IHT relief status as a result Therefore investors wanting to continue benefiting from IHT relief have to switch out of such companies and into those still eligible
Wider income and capital gains tax benefits also drove some demand for Aim shares after the
Isa rule change in August The move created a bed- and-Isa opportunity whereby existing Aim share inves-tors sold their holdings and bought them back within an Isa
Among those quick
Alternative Investment Market stocks offer Isa investors a chance to realise heady returns ndash but you need to pick your holdings carefully because of the high risk of losses in an illiquid market says Jeff Salway
AIMSHARES
W
GEMSTO BE UNEARTHED
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
WE WOULD ONLY INCLUDE AIM STOCKS
IN THE PORTFOLIOS OF ADVENTUROUS CLIENTS David Thomson
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
inspired | March 2014 17
THERE ARE
Treatt has built up an immaculate record of delivering profits
to take advantage was Lord Lee of Trafford the UKrsquos first Isa millionaire and author of How to Make a Million ndash Slowly My Guiding Principles from a Lifetime of Successful Investing lsquoI have a
big holding of Christie Group that was originally in my per-sonal equity planrsquo he says lsquoWhen the company moved to Aim [from the main market] I took it out of the Pep but when Aim shares became Isa-eligible I sold it and bought it back again within my Isarsquo
April 2014 will mark the removal of stamp duty from Aim purchases a develop-ment expected to encourage asset managers to launch a new wave of Aim-focused funds The axing of stamp duty makes the junior market more appeal-ing to companies on the main market as well with several recently moving across
Alec Stewart partner at Anderson Strathern Asset Management explains lsquoA company can reduce its regulatory burden by moving to the junior market with lower audit and compliance requirementsrsquo For example the main market
stipulates that any potential listing should have a market capitalisation no lower than pound700000 whereas therersquos no such guideline on the Aim mar-ket Nor do companies need a trading history to list on Aim compared with the three years required for the main market Moreover the cost of listing on Aim is considerably lower
But for many private investors the main appeal of Aim stocks lies largely in the prospect of sky-high returns from the success of small and fledgling companies There are some 1200 stocks on the market from a wide range of sectors ndash albeit with a heavy weighting in technology and especially natural resources and with a gulf in size between the biggest and smallest
The largest are eligible for the FTSE AIM 50 and the FTSE AIM 100 where the likes of Bowleven Majestic Wine Dobbies Asos and MampC Saatchi are listed
Stewart picks out three he favours as part of a diversified portfolio One is Dart Group The owner of Jet2com and Jet2Holidays Dart has had a lsquostrong runrsquo and is focused on becoming more fam-ily friendly in these budget-conscious times says Stewart lsquoIt benefits from good visibility of future bookings and strong cash generationrsquo he adds
Aerospace and defence firm Cohort is another with a lsquoprogressive dividend policyrsquo that has grown at an annualised rate of 20 per cent over
DEWHURST (pound520)Dewhurst is a well-established manu-facturer of lift pushbuttons indicators and controls keypads for ATMs security devices and petrol pumps and traffic management products such as bollards
The company has a long record of profitability under the stewardship of the Dewhurst family and a debt-free balance sheet That suggests it is a strong competitor
Profits fell in 2013 ndash a result of a slowdown in Dewhurstrsquos major markets and customers having stocked up in the previous year Management is quite cagey about the companyrsquos prospects for 2014 but an improved performance is likely as conditions in the UK and the US improve The shares are probably good value at 11 times adjusted 2013 earnings
MS INTERNATIONAL (pound204)MS International manufactures military hardware forks for forklift trucks and petrol station canopies and car washes
The company has been profitable in each of the past 10 years and has a balance sheet flush with cash yet the share price has fallen to a level that val-ues MSI at five times adjusted 2013
earnings MSIrsquos current unpopularity stems from a decline in the profitability of MSI Defence Systems which has the highest turnover of its three businesses
The company expects 2014 to be no easier than 2013 due to continu-ing pressure on defence spending but itrsquos confident it will add to defence work already contracted and scheduled for every year until 2020
Itrsquos quite possible that MSI is having a lull that does not reflect on the qual-ity of its products or businesses If thatrsquos the case itrsquos a bargain
TREATT (pound747)Treatt distills flavourings and frag-rances essential oils and water-soluble essences Its products are used in drinks confectionery sauces and cosmetics worldwide
The companyrsquos expertise and close customer relationships might give it a competitive advantage and it has never suffered a loss However it has ushered out managing director Hugo Bovill and his family has sold its interest
Management with large share-holdings gives companies some independence from the often short-term imperatives of fund managers
However the new team is focused on controlling costs and developing the most profitable products
Profit grew 28 per cent in 2013 and Treattrsquos long-term prospects are prob-ably good but the share price has spiked valuing the shares at 15 times adjusted 2013 earnings
FW THORPE (pound143)FW Thorpe designs and manufactures light fittings known as luminaires They are becoming increasingly complex with the introduction of LED technology that requires printed circuit boards Its main business is Thorlux which supplies lighting to schools hospitals ware-houses and factories Other subsidiaries supply retailers emergency exit signage and cleanroom lighting
Stable family ownership long indus-try experience and a commitment to modernisation and investment are the keys to Thorpersquos prosperity
Although it has to contend with the additional investment required to produce LED lighting Thorpe is manag-ing the transition well The shares cost pound137 which values the company at about 15 times adjusted 2013 earnings Thatrsquos a fair price for a quality company
Richard Beddard picks out four Aim-listed companies worth considering for inclusion in a diversified Isa share portfolio
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
I TRANSFERRED INTO MY ISA A BIG
HOLDING OF CHRISTIE GROUP THAT USEDTO BE IN MY PEPLord Lee of Trafford
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
AIMSHARES
18 March 2014 | inspired
the past three years he adds Among food pro-ducers he likes Wynnstay It has lsquobenefited from strong revenue and pre-tax profitsrsquo increasing its interim dividend by 9 per cent
But therersquos ample cause for caution too because Aim shares are typically far riskier than those listed on the main market Not only is there the vol-atility inherent in shares issued by smaller firms but there remains the potential for liquidity issues even after the surge of money into the market in recent months Haig Bathgate chief investment officer at Turcan Connell says lsquoThey are by impli-cation of their size much less liquid in terms of the shares that trade hands on a daily basis so they are prone to more extreme price movementsrsquo
UK investors may also be averse to Aim stocks that are effectively overseas companies Indeed many Aim fund portfolios specifically exclude both these and natural resources firms as well as stocks that donrsquot offer business property relief
lsquoSignificant numbers of companies have failed to deliver on expectations in this part of the mar-ket and it is also quite heavily weighted towards technology (12 per cent) resources (9 per cent) and oil and gas companies (22 per cent)rsquo says Bathgate There are transparency concerns too due to the less stringent regulatory and company reporting requirements on the Aim market
lsquoWe would only include Aim stocks within the
portfolios of adventurous clients and then only up to a maximum of 10 per centrsquo says David Thomson chief investment officer at VWM Wealth lsquoEven then the bulk of this is likely to be via a venture capital trust where the investor can also enjoy 30 per cent income tax relief providing a further cushion against the volatility of Aim sharesrsquo
Collective investment funds and trusts offer a way into Aim stocks that provides useful diversification and so reduces the risk of heavy losses Investment trusts can offer particular advantages where Aim-listed shares are concerned as their closed-ended status gives them a hedge against the market liquidity issues that can affect Aim stocks Among the growing number of UK smaller companies investment trusts in which Aim shares are prominent are those run by BlackRock Standard Life and Aberforth Unit trusts invest-ing in Aim companies include the LampG UK Alpha Trust and Cazenove UK Smaller Companies
However there is a downside to access-ing Aim through funds and trusts as investors no longer benefit from the IHT-free status that direct holders of Aim stocks enjoy The risk of hefty losses remains the biggest caveat to investing in Aim
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
AIMSHARESAREMUCHLESS
LIQUIDINTERMSOFTHESHARESTHATTRADEHANDSDAILYHaig Bathgate
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
inspired | March 2014 19
Clockwise from top Cohort Wynnstay and Jet2com are Stewartrsquos picks for a diversified portfolio
rewarding such as smaller companies private equity and emerging markets
Trusts can also increase their assets by borrow-ing So long as this gearing is sensibly priced it should accelerate the trustrsquos gains in positive mar-ket conditions However gearing will exacerbate losses in any downturn The possible closing of the discount will also enhance share price returns
SOLID GROWTHBaillie Gifford Global DiscoveryThis fund picked by independent financial adviser Brian Dennehy invests globally in growth stocks especially companies operating in industries with potential for structural change and innova-tion Dennehy says manager Douglas Brodie has had considerable experience and success in iden-tifying growth opportunities particularly among exciting smaller-cap stocks
CF Lindsell Train UK EquityJohn Husselbee head of multi-asset at Liontrust Asset Management prefers investors to traders Renowned investor Warren Buffett takes a similar view and Husselbee says fund manager Nick Train invests like Buffett Train looks to buy great com-panies such as Burberry Heineken and Unilever when they are good value and hold them lsquoforeverrsquo
Cazenove UK Opportunities This fund aims to achieve long-term capital growth from a focused portfolio of large and medium-sized UK companies Gavin Haynes managing
huge variety of investment funds rang-ing from generalist funds to highly specialised versions aim to generate capital growth for investors
Investing in a specific fund entails investors accepting different degrees of risk in return for a range of potential rewards So when we asked financial advisers to predict which funds offer the best prospects for growth in 2014 we also urged them to consider which types of investor the funds would suit best
Solid growth funds will appeal to investors who prefer steady investment while higher-risk growth funds are likely to be more volatile and appeal to those with a higher risk tolerance Speculative funds could produce handsome returns this year but they could also dip sharply in value
Closed-ended status means investment trusts can invest in less liquid asset classes without having to worry about realising their holdings in a market setback This enables them to invest in areas that have historically proved particularly
A
Helen Pridham and Fiona Hamilton have rounded up a collection of investment funds and trusts experts believe will prosper in the year ahead for investors looking to cash in on an improving economic outlook
PERFECT YOUR FUND PORTFOLIOTO SEE IT
GROW
inspired | March 2014 2120 March 2014 | inspired
FUNDSAND
TRUSTS
GROW
inspired | March 2014 2120 March 2014 | inspired
A
RE Y
OU
A
GLO
BAL
INV
ESTO
R Take a global view of investment trusts expertly managed by Henderson
For over 75 years Henderson Global Investors has been at the forefront of investment trust innovation and development Now with a diverse and established range of managed investment trusts and investment companies Henderson has a global view of the market
Whether you are retirement planning investing for your children looking to take advantage of dynamic global markets or want a cautious investment approach our managed companies offer a wide range of investment objectives and strategies professionally managed by regional experts
If your priority is high income long term capital growth or a mixture of both Henderson Global Investors has a range of solutions which aims to meet your investment needs
Please remember that past performance is not a guide to future performance The value of an investment and the income from it can fall as well as rise as a result of market and currency fluctuations and you may not get back the amount originally invested
Call to receive your Investment Trust brochure or visit wwwhendersoninvestmenttrustscom
0800 856 5656
Investment Trusts managed by Henderson
Issued in the UK by Henderson Global Investors Henderson Global Investors is the name under which Henderson Global Investors Limited (reg no 906355) Henderson Fund Management Limited (reg no 2607112) Henderson Investment Funds Limited (reg no 2678531) Henderson Investment Management Limited (reg no 1795354) Henderson Alternative Investment Advisor Limited (reg no 962757) Henderson Equity Partners Limited (reg no2606646) Gartmore Investment Limited (reg no 1508030) (each incorporated and registered in England and Wales with registered office at 201 Bishopsgate London EC2M 3AE) are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority to provide investment products and services Telephone calls may be recorded and monitored H0046521113ad
Itrsquos a global marketplace
HGiTrusts
director at Whitechurch Securities says fund manager Julie Dean has built up an excellent track record
Securities Trust of ScotlandRobin McAdam likes Securities Trust of Scotland which seeks rising income and long-term capi-tal growth from global equities The trust yields 33 per cent so it provides income and growth potential lsquoThe trust has outperformed its bench-mark recently and we expect this to continuersquo says McAdam
Finsbury Growth amp Income TrustPeter Hewitt nominates Finsbury Growth amp Income Trust on the basis of its strong short- and long-term performance Manager Nick Train seeks out the highest-quality companies to hold long term The portfolio is dominated by companies Train expects to have longevity such as Diageo Unilever and Heineken lsquoThe manager looks for strong cash gen-eration and dividend growth which he believes are undervalued by the stock marketrsquo Hewitt says
RIT Capital PartnersThis multi-asset trust selected by John Newlands is the flagship financial vehicle for its chairman Lord Jacob Rothschild and his family lsquoGiven the uncertainty in the world it is no bad thing to be diversified both globally and across a range of asset classes RIT is a global growth trust that offers a combination of these benefitsrsquo Newlands says
His enthusiasm is bolstered by RITrsquos current relatively wide discount which reflects disap-pointment among investors that it was rather too cautious over the past two or three years
Perpetual Income amp Growth Trust This trust is classified as a member of the AIC UK growth and income sector but its yield tends to be below the sector average because manager Mark Barnett is more interested in income growth than immediate income Tim Cockerill classifies it as a total return trust and makes it his solid growth choice Barnett has secured excellent long-term returns dur-ing his 15 years at the helm
HIGHER-RISK GROWTHLazard Emerging MarketsMick Gilligan believes the investment case for emerging market equi-ties remains strong He says lsquoEquity markets in emerging regions are trading at their widest price-to-earnings discount to developed markets since 2006 We believe many well-capitalised businesses that have shown strong financial discipline should gener-ate good profitsrsquo The Lazard Emerging Markets fund focuses on such businesses
Rathbone Global OpportunitiesThis go-almost-anywhere bottom-up thorough stockpicking fund looks for undiscovered gems Rob Burdett fund manager at Thames River believes manager James Thomson strikes the
KEY FACTS ABOUT GROWTH FUND TIPS
Mininv pound
Ongoing Charges
1-yearreturn
Sectorrank
SOLID GROWTHBaillie Gifford Global Discovery 1000 086 5920 2248CF Lindsell Train UK Equity ndash 080 2910 53271Cazenove UK Opportunities 1000 082 3210 40271 HIGHER-RISK GROWTHInvestec Global Energy 1000 087 1420 40206Lazard Emerging Markets 2000 161 320 1668Rathbone Global Opportunities 1000 082 2150 111248 SPECULATIVE GROWTHAllianz BRIC Stars 500 122 -120 134206Liontrust Special Situations 1000 114 1450 251271MampG Recovery 500 096 1330 264271Note Ongoing charges figure refers to the least expensive retail share class Source Financial Express and companies websites as at 3 December 2013
KEY FACTS ABOUT THE TRUSTS TIPPED FOR GROWTH
Shareprice
p
Discprem to NAV
Netyield
Gearing
Net asset valuetotal return after
1 year
3 years
5 years
SOLID GROWTHFinsbury Growth amp Income 5010 (+) 12 21 50 305 767 2038Perpetual Income amp Growth 3686 10 32 120 346 714 1407RIT Capital Partners 12480 105 11 50 210 225 591Securities Trust of Scotland 1469 (+) 31 32 40 192 460 1132 HIGHER-RISK GROWTHBiotech Growth Trust 4335 72 00 70 582 1723 2968Fidelity Chinese Special Sits 1062 65 09 210 433 02 ndashGraphite Enterprise Trust 5690 170 09 -90 167 442 405Schroder Asia Pacific 2730 92 14 -20 08 201 1779 SPECULATIVE GROWTHBaker Steel Resources 470 331 00 10 -57 -137 740Hansa Trust A 8600 243 23 10 142 69 947Impax Environmental Markets 1463 112 06 -20 350 285 921Standard Life Eq Inc subscription 1070 ndash 00 3700 ndash ndash ndashNotes NAV = net asset value Annualised All data as at 1 December Source Numis Securities
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
MARK BARNETT HAS SECURED
EXCELLENT RETURNSTim Cockerill
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
inspired | March 2014 23PB March 2014 | inspired
FUNDSANDTRUSTS
right balance between taking calculated risks for high returns and investing in defensive holdings Burdett says lsquoHe likes companies undertaking gentle innovation ndash moving online for example ndash rather than game changers which have more potential to go wrongrsquo Investec Global EnergyThis fund invests in companies that produce energy and provide services to the energy sector Fund managers Tom Nelson and Charles Whall believe the consensus view on future oil prices anticipates weak demand and growing supply from US shale oil But they demur as does Tony Yarrow at Wise Investment He says lsquoOil is harder to extract from shale than gas is while demand for oil is growing as economies recover A higher oil price feeds straight through to the companiesrsquo profitsrsquo
Biotech Growth TrustPeter Hewitt favours Biotech Growth Trust which has achieved scorching gains recently ndash up 172 per cent over three years to 1 December 2013
It is managed in New York by Orbimed a specialist healthcare and biotechnology investor with $7 bil-lion (pound42 billion) under management It offers exposure to a mix of large and profitable biotech companies along-side emerging businesses Most of its holdings are US-based and they have
benefited from a much more positive approach by the Federal Drug Authority ndash new drug approvals in 2010 were the highest for 10 years
Graphite Enterprise TrustAndrew McHattie contends that just one sector offers great value private equity lsquoThese trusts were hammered in the credit crisis and discounts widened to extreme levelsrsquo he says
His selection is Graphite Enterprise Trust Its discount to net asset value remains at a level that rings alarm bells in most other sectors but it has a strong track record and a relatively mature port-folio of shares he expects to rise in value
Fidelity Chinese Special SituationslsquoWith Chinese equities looking cheap the long-term outlook for investing in China is positiversquo Cockerill says lsquoThis fund invests in medium and small caps where high growth can be achieved New manager Dale Nicholls is well qualified and the combination of Fidelity manager experience and China is compelling in the long termrsquo
Scottish Oriental Smaller Companies Trust This trust is favoured by McAdam The invest-ment team identifies quality companies offering sustainable predictable growth lsquoThe trust may underperform if the market rises strongly but the teamrsquos enviable track record and experience should be respectedrsquo he says
Tim Cockerill is investment director at Rowan Dartington
RowanDartingtonhas20investmentadvisersbasedinsevenofficesacrossthesouthofEnglandIthaspound900millionunderman-
agementInvestmenttrustshavefeaturedinitsdiscretionaryandadvisoryportfoliosformanyyears
Peter Hewittis a member of FampC Asset Managementrsquos global equities team
HehasmanagedtheFampCManagedPortfolioTrustsinceApril2008aswellasitsforerunnerFampCManagedPortfolio
Servicesince2002HewasheadofUKequitiesatMurray
Johnstonefrom1981to1983beforejoiningIvoryampSime
Jean Mattersonis a partner and chief investment officer at Rossie House Investment Management
Shejoinedthefirmin1998after20yearswithassetmanagerStewartIvory
BasedinEdinburghsheisoneoffiveinvestment
professionalsmanagingaroundpound300mil-lionallonadiscretionarybasisAroundhalfisininvestmenttrusts
Robin McAdamjoined Brooks MacDonald Asset Management in 2009 from Adam amp Company Investment Management
Hehas24yearsrsquoexperi-encemanagingprivateclientportfoliosandheadsBMrsquosEdinburghbranch
Thefirmhaspound537billionunderdiscretionarymanagementinbespokeandmanagedportfolios
Andrew McHattieis head of The McHattie Group
McHattieGroupisanauthorisedfirmthatpublishesspecialistinvestmentnewsletters
McHattiehasbeentheeditorofInvestmentTrustNewslettersince1996(wwwtipsheetscouk)andoffersafreeservicecalledthelsquoitlistrsquo(wwwtheitlistcouk)ThecompanyhasaFacebookpage(wwwfacebookcominvestmenttrusts)
John Newlandsis responsible for investment trust research at Brewin Dolphin
Heissupportedbyfouranalystswhocoverspecificsectorsresearchingopen-andclosed-endedfunds
BrewinDolphinhas35officesaroundtheUKandChannelIslandsandmanagespound28billionofwhichpound39billionisininvestmenttrusts
TrusttipstersOursixexpertsrevealtheirtopfundpicks
inspired | March 2014 PB24 March 2014 | inspired
FUNDSAND
TRUSTS
One in twelve goes free on your next golf break plus every golfer receives a free pint
12thmansagimme
Book online at MarriottGolfcouk
Offer is only valid on residential golf bookings booked during the promotional dates For every 11 players booked the 12th player will be free of charge Rates are per person per night based on 2 people sharing a twindouble room and include dinner bed amp breakfast Bookings must be made by one named player and separate bookings will not qualify Each residential player aged 18 and over will receive a voucher entitling them to a complimentary pint
of Beckrsquos or Boddingtons Offer is valid on bookings made via 3rd parties Offer is available on 1 night 2 rounds or 2 night 3 rounds and excludes Sunday Driver Maximum of 2 night stay and 2 people per room Day of week availability may vary based on location Limited number of rooms may be available This offer applies to new bookings only at Marriott Hotel amp Country Clubs and offer courses and tee times are subject to availability Offer cannot
be used in conjunction with any other promotion Course terms and conditions apply Advance reservations required Book between 17th February and 29th June 2014 for stays between 4th April and 29th September 2014
The SIPP thatrsquos
fair and square
We believe in straightforward investing Thatrsquos why we donrsquot nibble at your SIPP with percentage fees For just pound144 per year you can open a SIPP and add an ISA for free After that itrsquos just pound10 to buy or sell a wide range of investments including shares funds bonds and gilts Open an account today and if you transfer your existing SIPP wersquoll give you up to pound240 as a thank you (terms apply) We believe thatrsquos fair and square
The value of investments and any income from them can fall as well as rise so you could get back less than you invest Tax treatment depends on your individual circumstances and may be subject to change If in any doubt please seek advice
iiicouksipp
Interactive Investor Trading Limited trading as ldquoInteractive Investorrdquo is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority Registered Office Standon House 21 Mansell Street London E1 8AA Tel 0845 200 3637 Registered in England with Company Registration number 3699618
SPECULATIVE GROWTHMampG RecoveryDennehy says manager Tom Dobell backs his convictions engages with companies he invests in and has delivered long-term outperformance lsquoDobellrsquos MampG Recovery fund has a clear value-style process and management stability It invests in a wide range of firms that are out of favour or in difficulty or whose prospects are not fully rec-ognised by the marketrsquo he says
Liontrust Special SituationsHusselbee says Liontrustrsquos Anthony Cross and Julian Fosh have their own unique philosophy He adds lsquoThey look for characteristics in a company that its competitors find difficult to replicate such as intellectual property or distribution channelsrsquo
Allianz Bric StarsThis fund aims for capital growth in the long term by investing mainly in Brazil Russia India and China Haynes says investors have shunned these markets recently and valuations fallen He adds lsquoFor investors looking for a recovery story this fund is worth considerationrsquo
Standard Life Equity Income subscription shareMcHattie says warrant and subscription shares are widely ignored creating opportunities for those who understand them He favours the subscrip-tion shares of Standard Life Equity Income which can be exercised at 320p a share up to the end of December 2016 lsquoThey offer gearing of 37 times and if the ordinary shares grow by more than 28 per cent a year between now and the end of 2016 the subscription shares ought to outperformrsquo
Impax Environmental MarketsMcAdam likes this trust It invests in companies seeking to provide cleaner or more-efficient energy as well as water and waste solutions to the growing problems faced by authorities around the world It offers exposure to a rapidly changing marketplace as well as to socially responsible investments
Hansa TrustJohn Newlands sees potential in the A shares of Hansa Trust which languish at a discount of more than 25 per cent He says that whereas the trustrsquos portfolio appears skewed with a third of its assets in Ocean Wilsons there is actually plenty of diversification because Ocean Wilsons has an investment portfolio that stands at a discount to underlying value lsquoOne day an attractive bid [may] be made for Ocean Wilsons that will enhance Hansarsquos NAV and sim-plify its capital structure all to the good of its market ratingrsquo Newlands says
Baker Steel Resources TrustJean Matterson hopes for good returns from this trust shares in which trade on a near 30 per cent discount lsquoIt has not had an easy run of late but we believe the underlying assets are attractive and that the mining projects in the companyrsquos portfo-lio will continue to progressrsquo she says
Prospects have improved for biotechs (left) while growing interest in sustain-able energy has boosted Impax
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
AHIGHEROILPRICEFEEDSSTRAIGHT
THROUGHTOPROFITSTony Yarrow
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
inspired | March 2014 27PB March 2014 | inspired
FUNDSANDTRUSTS
The world of funds and trusts is a confusing place with over 2300 funds and more than 300 investment trusts to choose from
Money Observerrsquos Rated Funds system narrows down the playing field to help you decide which funds and investment trusts might be best for you
Our team of experts constantly monitor the marketplace rating those funds that have delivered consistently good returns However you should be aware that there is no guarantee this performance will be repeated
With our comparison tool you can filter by whatrsquos important to you compare up to four funds and trusts side-by-side as well as view factsheets
COMPAREMONEY OBSERVER RATED FUNDS
VISIT MONEYOBSERVERCOMCOMPAREFUNDS AND LOOK OUT FOR THE RATED FUND STAMP
had spare cash or I were start-ing afresh The companies in the add category are high qual-ity judging by the strategies they follow and their finan-cial strength and are probably undervalued
Irsquom more likely to eject or reduce holdings in companies in the watch and specula-tive categories These shares are more risky either because they have risen greatly in price or because their prospects are more uncertain than usual I may think the risk is worth tak-ing but I am prepared to act should that calculation change
Every decision to increase a portfolio holding must be weighed against the potential of new candidates drawn from all companies listed in the UK and corralled into another live spreadsheet the Share Sleuth watchlist When I add a share to the watchlist or trade a share in the portfolio I explain this in the Share Sleuth blog
ccumulating income and capital gains in an index tracking fund is inexpensive takes little effort and all but guarantees an
average return so it should be the default investment for a lazy equity investor saving for the long term
To justify the work of decid-ing which shares to buy and sell and the effort and cost of placing trades an active investor must do better Consequently the first objective of the active Share Sleuth portfolio is to beat passive investments after costs over the long-term which in practice means any five-year period The second objective is to win this tussle against an unknowing and unthinking opponent transparently
At the heart of the portfolio is an online spreadsheet The first page shows the constitu-ent shares arranged into three categories lsquoaddrsquo lsquowatchrsquo and lsquospeculativersquo The categorisa-tion is updated daily based on live data in subsequent spread-sheets each of which contains a financial model for a particular company
The Share Sleuth portfo-lio shows the holdings I would add to the portfolio today if it
Share Sleuth is a simulation no money changes hands But I use prices quoted by a bro-ker and adjust the accounting to factor in notional broker fees and stamp duty However I lsquoeat my own cookingrsquo by investing my self-invested personal pen-sion in Share Sleuth companies
No doubt you are wonder-ing how the portfolio is doing Share Sleuthrsquos five-year anni-versary judgement day is on 9 September this year and I will not prejudge it now
Short-term performance watching and the knee-jerk trad-ing it encourages is I think one reason why many inves-tors fail My focus is on ensuring the portfolio remains invested in good companies at reasona-ble prices
You can see a live perfor-mance table and learn what I think of every share in the port-folio and which companies I might add to it at wwwiiicoukZkr
SHAREBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIOR
The Share Sleuth portfolio has been carefully devised to show investors how to find good companies at cheap prices and also prove the value of its investment approach says Richard Beddard
Richard Beddard an editor at Interactive Investor since 1999 has managed the Share Sleuth portfolio since 9 September 2009 Hersquos a columnist at Money Observer magazine and a private investor
AMY FOCUS IS ON ENSURING THAT THE PORTFOLIO IS INVESTED IN GOOD FIRMS AT DECENT PRICES
inspired | March 2014 29PB March 2014 | inspired
SHARESLEUTH
iiicoukstraightforward
Interactive Investor Trading Limited trading as ldquoInteractive Investorrdquo is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority Registered Office Standon House 21 Mansell Street London E1 8AA Tel 0845 200 3637 Registered in England with Company Registration number 3699618
We believe in being straightforwardthis is why we donrsquot nibble at your investment by charging percentage fees Find out how this could affect your investment performance at iiicoukstraightforward
If you transfer to us you can even get up to pound240 as a thank you (terms apply)
Donrsquot forget the value of investments and any income from them can fall as well as rise so you could get back less than you invest If in any doubt please seek advice
7784_II_QI_MONEY_OBSERVER_210x297_AWindd 1 16012014 1224
Take a closer look
at your investment
options
Discover a straightforward way to understand everything from ISAs to SIPPs and OEICs to Investment Trusts
Investing for generationsEver feel yoursquod like to know more about investing Wersquove been helping people build their wealth for over 125 years Our guide lsquoMaking sense of the investment universersquo is just one of the resources yoursquoll find on our Investment Focus hub
As well as clear simple guides therersquos a wealth of information and expert opinion all designed to help you take control of your investments Please remember that investments can go down as well as up and investors may get back less than they originally invested
Introducing your free online source of information help and expert opinion
investment-focuscouk
This has been approved as a financial promotion by Alliance Trust Investments Limited for the purpose of Section 21 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 Alliance Trust Investments Limited is a subsidiary of Alliance Trust PLC and is registered in Scotland No SC330862 registered office 8 West Marketgait Dundee DD1 1QN is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority firm reference number 479764 Alliance Trust Investments gives no financial or investment advice
TAX YEAR ENDS APRIL 5TH ndash learn more about
your options now
Investment Focus Smart Insight from Alliance Trust
Yoursquove spoken Wersquove listened Introducing your free online source of information help and expert opinion
Based on real insight we have launched a new website which focuses on investment education
We believe that we are uniquely positioned to provide this hub of information based on the reputation we have built for trust and transparency over the last 125 years
We will be publishing new content over the next few months focusing on specific themes
bull Investing from scratch
bull Products in a portfolio
bull Global diversification
bull Planning for your familyrsquos future
bull Retirement planning
bull Getting more information
There is a generation of future investors out there who have been brought up in an era of economic turmoil and banking crises which has led to disillusionment and a lack of trust in our sector and the services we offer Despite it being more important than ever for investors to take control of their financial situation this new generation of savers lacks the basic knowledge and understanding to make these very important long-term decisions
Our goal is to develop a useful resource with contributions from third-parties as well as the team at Alliance Trust which offers insights into the various life stages and challenges faced and which can be built upon and adapted to meet savers needs in the long term
Katherine Garrett-Cox CBE Chief Executive Alliance Trust PLC
ldquo
rdquo
There are too many products to make an informed decision
I donrsquot know whereto go for reliable
information
investment-focuscouk
Yoursquoll naturally take a keen interest in the performance of your investments But itrsquos just as important to understand the fees you will be paying as they can have a significant impact on the returns you achieve Knowing what the different types of costs mean and exactly what they consist of can prove rewarding
Itrsquos worth remembering that for every fee you pay (whether it is a or flat fee) your investment needs to grow by at least the same amount just to stay ahead of the game It sounds obvious but itrsquos easy to forget Broadly speaking there are three types of fees fund fees platform fees and fees for a financial adviser You can either invest directly into a fund and pay the associated fees or you can invest via a platform provider (some of which are referred to as wrap platforms others as fund supermarkets) This is a service that lets you manage and review all your investments online in one place As a general rule fund fees are lower when
bought through a platform than if you buy direct You can invest through a platform on either an execution only basis where the investor assesses the risks and makes their own investment decisions or on an advised basis
Learn more about fund platform and financial advice fees
What can you expect to seeOver the next two pages we have provided a sneak preview of just some of the information you will find on the Investment Focus hub We will be updating the site regularly so make sure you sign up for our email alerts to be informed when new topics are published
Everything you need to know about fees
Risk informationInvestments can go down as well as up You may get back less than you originally invested
Alliance Trust does not give advice You need to ensure you understand the risks and commitments before investing If you are unsure you should consult a Financial Adviser before investing
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
For the vast majority of investors the simplest cheapest and most pragmatic way to invest is through pooled funds
Sometimes called managed funds unit trusts or even Open-Ended Investment Companies (or OEICs) these are designed to give ordinary savers access to a diverse range of investments
One of the principles of investment is that diversification helps reduce risk But it is expensive and time consuming for ordinary savers to buy shares of 80 to 100 different companies and keep track of how each is performing
But with a managed fund you are pooling your money with other investors enabling the fund manager to buy a wide range of assets
Investors have the option of buying an actively managed or passive fund With an active fund the manager selects and then monitors these stocks for investors in a bid to maximise returns
In contrast a passive fund will simply follow a stock market index such as the FTSE100 up and down
Having a manager at the helm can be beneficial in a market downturn as they can take a more defensive approach buying shares that are better able to hold their value or in some cases switching to bonds or cash instead to help preserve investorsrsquo capital Managers can also research individual companies and markets and have access to forecasts and economic data that isnrsquot always available to individuals
Learn more about investing for growth or income exploring different investment remits how to invest and keeping track of your investments
Understanding funds Written by Emma Simon Personal Finance Journalist
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
What are Investment TrustsInvestment Trusts are investment vehicles that are listed on the London Stock Exchange and which invest in shares and other securities They pool together investorsrsquo money and delegate responsibility to a professional fund manager to invest in a range of companies from different sectors and regions across the world They were designed for ldquothe investor of moderate meansrdquo
A brief historybull The first Investment Trust was launched by Foreign amp
Colonial in 1868
bull Investment Trusts made it possible for individual investors to gain diversified exposure to global stock markets
bull Many Investment Trusts were formed in Scotland including Alliance Trust PLC which was formed over 125 years ago
A guide to Investment Trusts
Learn more about Investment Trusts their main features and why you should consider them for your portfolio
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
Alliance Trust is an investment and savings business with over 125 year history of building investor wealth We offer our shareholders clients and customers a unique portfolio of products and services These range from a renowned global investment trust to an innovative range of investment strategies and funds and a multi-award winning investment platform where investors can host their ISAs SIPPs or investment accounts Our mission is to provide products and services that help to ensure a more sustainable financial future for generations of investors
Alliance Trust PLC is one of the largest generalist investment trusts by market value listed on the London Stock Exchange and is the parent company to two wholly-owned subsidiaries Alliance Trust Savings and Alliance Trust Investments
The fact that many of us make irrational decisions when it comes to our finances is widely debated and is often referred to as behavioural finance In this short video we talk to Professor Phyl Johnson Consultant Psychologist and Visiting Professor of Executive Education at Strathclyde Business School about why this is and more importantly about what we can do as individuals to avoid it
About us Alliance Trust Investments is a specialist fund management business offering a range of products and services focusing on global equities fixed income and sustainable investing with an emphasis on specialist investment solutions
Alliance Trust Savings is one of the UKrsquos leading financial services providers for private investors offering customers the information and services they need to manage their investments in a way that works for them
Risk informationInvestments can go down as well as up You may get back less than you originally invested
Alliance Trust does not give advice You need to ensure you understand the risks and commitments before investing If you are unsure you should consult a Financial Adviser before investing
Unusually for a company of our size around 70 of shares
in Alliance Trust are held by private
individuals
Nobodyrsquos perfect why we all make irrational decisions
Inflation by ageThis monthrsquos official inflation report showed that the headline rate of inflation fell from 20 to 19 Our Economic Research Team analyse this data on a monthly basis to see how inflation rates affect different age groups In February 2014 the summary highlights include
bull The over 75s and the under 30s face the highest rate of inflation in January at 21
bull The over 75s suffered the highest rate of inflation for the whole of 2013 and this trend continues into 2014 as they spend a larger share of their budgets on basic goods such as gas and electricity
bull The 65 to 74 year olds have faced the lowest rate of inflation in 11 out of the last 12 months thanks to lower inflation in food petrol and package holidays
Learn more about how inflation might affect you
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
You can also sign up for our regular email alerts to be informed when new topics are published by clicking here
Wersquove been bringing clarity to investment for over 125 years
Investing for generationsWhen it comes to investing therersquos no substitute for experience And at Alliance Trust wersquove been helping people invest since 1888 Our new Investment Focus hub is full of online information and expert opinion It aims to provide real insight to help you take control of your investments
Over the next few weeks the hub will build to cover everything from taking your first steps to diversifying worldwide Please remember that investments can go down as well as up and investors may get back less than they originally invested For valuable insight from Alliance Trust visit Investment Focus today
Introducing your free online source of information help and expert opinion
investment-focuscouk
This has been approved as a financial promotion by Alliance Trust Investments Limited for the purpose of Section 21 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 Alliance Trust Investments Limited is a subsidiary of Alliance Trust PLC and is registered in Scotland No SC330862 registered office 8 West Marketgait Dundee DD1 1QN is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority firm reference number 479764 Alliance Trust Investments gives no financial or investment advice
TAX YEAR ENDS APRIL 5TH ndash learn more about
your options now
Change the way you think about stocks reap the rewardsBy Edward Page Croft CEO Stockopediacom
I remember so clearly the day when I picked my first stock for clients Managing $2 billion (pound12 billion) in assets across 100 portfolios for high-net-wealth private investors is no easy task As I was to learn when you are green
and straight out of university itrsquos even harder The stock in question was on the Goldman
Sachs US lsquobuyrsquo list It had the potential to be hot Dotcoms were bubbling It was an internet stock in education services and cheap It seemed like it had everything but we needed to get in One day it fell out of bed Down 50 per cent on no news
Irsquod been trained to call the analyst in situations like this He reiterated his buy stance Double buy On my insistence we put almost $20 million of client money into the stock within an hour The next day it fell another 50 per cent on
bad newsThere is nothing more
painful than a loss but you never forget the first
one It immedi-ately forced me to reconsider every-thing I thought I
knew From that day on I vowed to never trust anotherrsquos opin-ion and find a better
way through the market minefieldIrsquove now spent 15 years
reassessing common
wisdom about stock selection No stone has gone unturned in the quest to understand the behav-ioural flaws that lead to poor decision making But there is one finding that crops up again and again in all the research that hurts stock market investors most We as investors are suckers for stories
A 1990rsquos study of 60000 private investor broker-age accounts by Kumar and Goetzmann found that 70 per cent of portfolios held less than four stocks
The stocks held all tended to be in the same sector highly correlated and risky Think internet stocks in the 1990s China in the 2000s or resource stocks more recently The grand theme sucks everyone in The outcome rarely dif-fers Kumar and Goetzmann showed that across these
60000 accounts the average underperformance was of the order of 4 per cent annually
This massive failing across private inves-tor portfolios is repeated in nearly every market cycle and is bound to happen again in this one Benjamin Graham the great father of value invest-ing and tutor of Warren Buffett once wrote
lsquoIn the short run the stock market is a vot-ing machine but in the long run it is a weighing machinersquo
ADVERTISING FEATURE
IN THE SHORT RUN THE STOCK MARKET IS A VOTING MACHINE BUT IN THE LONG RUN IT IS A WEIGHING MACHINEBenjamin Graham
What he meant was that while stories may drive stocks in the short run statistics drive stocks in the long run When statistics reassert them-selves it can cause huge damage to investors punting their portfolios on stories
It doesnrsquot take much to learn how basic statis-tics can guide your portfolio into winning stock selections though very few seem to understand how to do it Benjamin Graham as his life wore on gradually came to the conclusion that building portfolios according to rules-based processes was a far more appropriate methodology for the typi-cal investor
lsquoTry to buy groups of stocks that meet some sim-ple criterion for being undervalued ndash regardless of
the industry and with very little attention to the indi-vidual company It seems too good to be true but all I can tell you after 60 years of experience is it seems to stand up under any of the tests I would make uprsquo
My time is now dedi-cated to helping investors practice exactly what Benjamin Graham and many other investment luminaries have preached rules-based investing For the majority itrsquos a better process and leads to bet-ter outcomes Our work at
Stockopediacom where we crunch fundamental and technical data in order to model and track the investment processes of the great investors bears this out
Portfolios composed with stocks showing the right statistical mix of value quality and momen-tum have significantly outperformed Rules-based investing beats the market But more importantly it helps promote the emotional detachment needed to stop investors from beating themselves
Irsquoll never buy a stock on a punt or an analystrsquos tip again Perhaps neither should you
For a two week free trial and pound50 discount to Stockopedia UK Premium CLICK HERE
TANK MCM A N U F A C T U R E M O V E M E N T 1 9 0 4 M C
SINCE THE CREATION OF THE FIRST TANK WATCH IN 1917 THE TANK COLLECTION HAS CONTINUED
TO BREAK NEW GROUND THE INCREDIBLY REFINED AESTHETICS OF THE NEW TANK MC WATCH ARE FITTED
WITH THE CARTIER MANUFACTURE MOVEMENT 1904 MC ESTABLISHED IN 1847 CARTIER CREATES
EXCEPTIONAL WATCHES THAT COMBINE DARING DESIGN AND WATCHMAKING SAVOIR-FAIRE
EXPLORE AND SHOP WWWCARTIERCOUK - (020) 3147 4850
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Inside
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TO THE CONNOISSEUR section of Inspired a showcase for the finer things in life for those who truly appreciate them
Enjoying the fruits of your labour away from the relentless demands of our age poses its own challenges and quandaries Would a tropical idyll restore your ebbing energy levels Might a break based around hair-raising activities revive them even more effectively Perhaps reawakening a dormant passion for fine wines or luxury cars would be the most enjoyable reward for your industry
A luxury tropical holiday is probably near the top of most peoplersquos wish lists We take a look at some of the most tantalising options
The arrival of BMWrsquos new super coupe is featured on page 50 BMW aficionados and petrolheads alike are certain to be won over by its head-turning looks and mouthwatering specs
Gems come under the microscope on page 53 A rare coloured diamond can be a joy as well an appreciating asset
Wine is on the menu on page 54 where we explore the charms of Argentinian Malbec
Watches are often treasured objects and the best can turn out to be shrewd investments We look at the secondary watch market and the growth of online retailing on page 58 Enjoy
Welcome
40 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
FIVE TOP PRIVATE ISLAND RETREATSIslandFantasy
Top-rated resorts and hotels offer a variety of temptations and services to impress even the most discerning tastes but there is no better way to escape the rigours and
stresses of daily life than cutting off from the outside world while still enjoying lavish service
in the pinnacle of all resorts the private islandThere are thousands of small islands around
the world but only a few have chosen to cater to the most discriminating travellers seeking a rarified yet perfect world of quiet and relaxed luxury We look at five of the worldrsquos top private islands destinations where your holiday is certain to be an exceptional experience
TRAVEL
Necker Island is owned by Sir Richard Branson and guests stay in his home The island has become a popular des-tination for some of the worldrsquos most prominent figures as a hideaway from lifersquos stresses and strains
Because Necker Island is a resi-dence and not a resort guests who rent the island are treated as owners and catered for in a unique way
The74-acre island is fringed with beautiful white beaches and surrounded by turquoise waters and coral reefs It boasts every resort-type amenity guests can spend their days being pampered in the spa explor-ing underwater reefs in a submarine lounging by the pool bar or swimming in one of the worldrsquos most elab-orate private pools
Haute cuisine is a highlight for most guests ndash rates are fully inclusive of all food and drink A team of chefs creates bespoke menus featuring anything from lobster and caviar to a Sunday roast And because Necker is a home first and a resort second guests decide whether dining will be formal or informal inside or outside themed or traditional
The bar is stocked with international wines top-quality spirits and beers and a world renowned house champagne while special orders can be shipped in at no extra charge ndash unless an item is particularly rare Every service and amenity is available around the clock and guests are encouraged to treat Necker as their own home
As youLike it
NECKER ISLAND
42 March 2014 | inspired
Unalloyed luxury and an impressive range of amenities make Necker one of the most desirable island destinations in the world
The Jumby Bay resort which is only accessible by boat from Antigua is a Caribbean hideaway owned by Rosewood Resorts It is perfect for those seeking either relaxation or spirited adventure
You can rent the island resort entirely for your stay or simply take a room Those opt-ing for exclusive use of the island will have the resortrsquos two pools three tennis courts fitness centre croquet field and putting green to themselves
A wide range of water sports are available and guests can indulge in as much adventure or relaxation as they want during their stay The resort is ideal for large family
reunions or corporate retreats ndash 40 guest rooms and suites are available on the island
Executive chef Sylvain Hervochon celebrates gastron-omy ndash and mixology (cocktail making) ndash with casual elegance by creating Caribbean-style dishes inspired by fresh local ingredients and incorporating international influences
Jumby Bayrsquos rates start at pound150000 for four nights based on double occupancy between May and December Visit wwwrosewoodhotelscomenjumby-bay-antigua for further information
Fine BalanceCaribbean ambiance international sophistication and adventurous activities make Jumby Bay a compelling choice
JUMBY BAY
Just laze by the pool or venture beyond to dive in the turquoise waters of the South Pacific among stunning reefs and a dazzling array of marine creatures
Isle of PlentyT
he private island of Laucala in the South Pacific is a 3500-acre site in a picturesque rainforest-laced land-scape Enchanting deserted beaches nestle among coconut plantations organic farms and lush green vol-canic mountains
The resort offers an outstanding level of refined lux-ury as well as a compelling collection of sporting and cultural activities diving among iridescent marine life in the warm turquoise waters guided rainforest tours horse riding surfing and golfing on the 18-hole cham-pionship course The island is a superb choice for an escape from civilization whether you want an adven-ture in the wild or simply to relax in one of Laucalarsquos five restaurants and bars
Rates are available on request Visit wwwlaucalacom for further details
TRAVEL
LAUCALA ISLAND
inspired | March 2014 4544 March 2014 | inspired
Lush green surroundings sensitive development and beautiful beaches help Laucala island conjure up a complete South Seas experience
Isle of Plenty
inspired | March 2014 4544 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
inspired | March 2014 4746 March 2014 | inspired
Slow LaneSlow
Pulau Joyo is a seductively serene environment of pristine beaches surrounded by clear blue sea in Indonesiarsquos Riau Archipelago Accessible from Singapore or Bintan Pulau Joyo is a true castaway island offering every resort luxury
amid untouched natural beauty Pulau Joyo is famous for its remarkable sunsets and
brightly star-lit sky The resort can host 28 guests and 20 staff are on hand to cater to their every need Guests stay in open driftwood lsquopalacesrsquo that lsquoallow the sea inrsquoDespite its desert island appeal Pulau Joyo offers every modern convenience a range of adrenaline boosting activities and more relaxing options such as spa treatments and massages
The resortrsquos cuisine focuses on western and Indonesian dishes Meals are usually served buffet style and feature grilled fish squid prawns beef and chicken as well as many curry dishes Side dishes include fresh garden salads pasta salads boiled or steamed leafy greens and grilled aubergine (an island favourite) Prawn and tofu kebabs appear from time to time as does satay The chef will often provide a selection of freshly picked fruit and homemade cakes for dessert Itrsquos worth noting that the management will not serve pork or shellfish on this private island
Pulau Joyo may not be as refined as some islands but itrsquos an excellent choice for those who want a more casual laidback island experience that replicates the castaway experience like perhaps no other
Rates start at pound1913 a night More information is available at wwwpulau-joyocom
Wannabe castaways may find Pulau Joyorsquos purer simpler take on the luxury island experience more to their taste
PULAU JOYO
inspired | March 2014 4746 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
In the Fijian island paradise of Dolphin Island a small army of staff await to meet guestsrsquo every need On arriving ndash by boat helicopter or float plane ndash visitors are invariably struck by the beauty of the island and the luxuri-ous accommodation that awaits them amid 14-acres of lush tropical gardens
Three traditional palm-thatched bures individually designed by world renowned interior designer Virginia Fisher sit in an elevated position around the resortrsquos infinity pool
Guests are brought fresh tropical fish to choose each day that are cooked to perfec-
tion within hours of leaving the water The culinary focus is on
organic produce and ingredi-ents unique to Fijian cuisine but meals are tailored to guestsrsquo personal tastes Papayas man-goes bananas and pineapples
are plentiful throughout the day When it comes to recreation the
14-acre island is an expansive play-ground offering a diverse range of watersports as well as diving opportunities on Fijirsquos coral reefs
Rates start at pound720 a night More information is avail-able at wwwdolphinislandfijicom
Fijian Paean
Traditional features modern comforts and excellent facilities make for a harmonious whole on this Fijian island
DOLPHIN ISLAND
48 March 2014 | inspired
Pictured slightly larger than actual size
Big Pilotrsquos Watch Ref 5009
Your wrist never felt this big before The
case of the top model in the IWC Pilotrsquos
Watch range is a gigantic 462 mm in diashy
meter And the technology inside it is
even more impressive the largest IWCshy
manufactured automatic movement with
its Pellaton winding system is protected
against strong magnetic fields by a softshy
iron inner case And needless to say enshy
vious glances iwc engineered for men
Mechanical IWCshymanufactured movement Pellaton
automatic winding system 7shyday power reserve
with display (figure) Date display Softshyiron inner
case for protection against magnetic fields
Antireflective sapphire glass Watershyresistant 6 bar
Stainless steel
IWC Schaffhausen Switzerland iwccom The worldrsquos finest timepieces are exclusively available from selected watch specialists
For an illustrated catalogue or list of nationwide concessionaires please contact IWC UK Tel 0845 337 1868 Eshymail infoshyukiwccom
CARS
MunichLegend
50 March 2014 | inspired
BMW fanatics can open their eyes ndash the M4 has arrived
Most BMW aficionados are proba-bly pretty sad to see production of the M3 coupe ndash quite possibly the companyrsquos most noteworthy and celebrated model ndash end after almost 30 years Ever since the first wide-body E30 M3 saw the
light of day in 1985 drivers have loved the sporty coupe for its incredible balance intoxicating power and of course solid build quality
The model never got stale in all that time and always remained the poster child for the M division so itrsquos a lit-tle weird that BMW has apparently decided to axe it In truth though they havenrsquot really dropped the M3 The M3 sedan will continue to be produced in 2014 so all
is not lost Moreover BMW seems to be adopting a pat-tern of giving its sedans odd-numbered titles only and its coupes even-numbered titles only so the 4-Series and especially the M4 concept that debuted at Pebble Beach Monterey California will fill the gap left by the M3 Many people have been awaiting the new super coupe with great expectancy but can it fill in for the M3
The journalists who swarmed over the M4 concept at Pebble Beach were obviously much more interested in it than the somewhat predictable 428i that was also there Finished in an eye-catching colour called Aurum Dust (which actually looks a lot like the old M3rsquos Phoenix Yellow colour) the car presented in California may be a concept but typically BMW M cars donrsquot change much before they finally hit the showroom
MunichLegend
inspired | March 2014 51
CARS
52 March 2014 | inspired
From front to back the bodywork is manifestly differ-ent and much more aggressive looking than a standard 4-Series car It really looks to pretty much pick up where the E92E93 M3 coupe left off especially with its undeniably cool domed hood Wide wheel arches big wheels wrapped in low-profile tyres more than enough M badges and a well-executed double-bubble roof make the already underwhelming existing 4-Series coupe look even more pedestrian
Power for the new M4 is likely to come from a three-litre twin-turbo straight-six engine While the horsepower probably wonrsquot differ much from the M3rsquos old 4-litre V-8 it will generate more than 100lbft more in torque almost 400 in total With the M4 being a lighter 3300lb in weight the M4 promises to be an excit-ing worthy car A proper six-speed manual may be in the mix alongside the now obligatory dual clutch and paddles option
The best way to look at the M4 however it ends up is not as a new car but as a new and improved M3 thatrsquos just getting a new name The decision to rename the coupe is a strange one but thankfully BMW apparently felt the 3-Series coupe had made such an identity for itself that a new model was needed albeit in a slightly different incarnation
With BMW embarking on some new-ageish ideas such as its 1-Series ActiveE and the soon-to-arrive lsquoirsquo range of cars itrsquos nice to see the company also stick to classics such as the heart-stopping sports coupe even if the latest model does come with a new name
Seductive curves and racier performance make the BMW M4 a more than acceptable replacement for the M3 super coupe
SparklingForm Coloured diamonds are making their mark
One of the main factors that deter-mines the value of what we ordinarily think of as diamonds is their purity the degree to which col-our is absent in the gem However with coloured diamonds the extent to which they are saturated with
colour is a principal determinant of their valueColoured diamonds come in 12 basic colours more
than 90 secondary hues and nine intensity levels The depth of their colour is what really differentiates these diamonds from their colourless counterparts
Natural coloured diamonds are 10000 times rarer than typical colourless diamonds one of several rea-sons why they are treasured by the rich and famous yet remain unknown to most other people ndash despite hav-ing been around for centuries
Of course some colours are rarer than others Red violet and purple stones are as rare as the proverbial hensrsquo teeth while green and blue are also rare The most popular colours are pink and yellow (or canary) They also come in white grey orange black and lsquochame-leonrsquo form
A pinkie ring encrusted with a large coloured dia-mond has become a status symbol for men in Asia That little stone is an unregistered asset that could quickly be sold for millions of dollars should the need arise
Coloured diamonds are durable and never lose their sparkle or lustre so they are assets that can be enjoyed every day unlike stocks or bonds And they have proved to be fantastic investments having steadily appreciated in price with relatively little volatility for more than a decade They even held their own during the most recent financial crisis
Coloured diamonds are auctioned by reputable
auction houses such a Sothebyrsquos and Christiersquos where prices for large unique pink red blue or yellow stones can reach in excess of $2 million (pound12 million) a carat and other stones regularly sell for $1 million a carat
They are often bought by high-net-worth individu-als as an insurance policy Instead of stashing cash in undeclared bank accounts and potentially incurring the wrath of the authorities the wealthy can purchase some loose yellow diamonds to secure their future
Clearly coloured diamonds are much more than a magnificent indulgence
GEMS
inspired | March 2014 53PB March 2014 | inspired
WINE
Make the most of the deeply
satisfying Malbec wines emerging from Argentina
and perhaps even enjoy a return on a shrewd
investment says Ewan Lacey
Finding a red wine to enjoy in spring is a delicate balancing act The shock of seeing sunlight after a dark winter fosters in us a desire to drink some-thing refreshing while the still-cool temperatures demand something with comforting depth
Increasingly Malbec wines particularly those from Argentina provide a perfect solution to this quandary And while there are plenty of delicious wines for infor-mal occasions what is most interesting is the emergence of finer Malbec wines Some are so good they may well have ageing potential raising the intriguing possibility that the wine may one day become collectable
Malbec is the most popular wine among those aged 25-34 and is now becoming a fixture on most restaurant wine lists There are several reasons for its success the word Malbec is easy to pronounce the wine goes well with red meat the Malbec grape can be turned into wines that are both relatively easy to drink and packed with flavour and decent wines are available at reason-able prices Malbec is deep fruity and charming and it delivers instant pleasure ndash claret on a motorbike
The Malbec grape originated in France and it remains one of the permitted varieties used to make Bordeaux However it has gained prominence through the work of the post-junta Argentine wine industry
I recently had the pleasure of tasting some very fine Malbecs with Laura Catena managing director at the Catena Zapata winery and president of the International Wine and Spirit Competition She opened my
Mendoza Marvels
inspired | March 2014 55
WINE
eyes to the potential of this grape variety when handled with care
Laurarsquos family business makes a range of wines but the wine that truly astonished me was the Nicasia Vineyard Malbec 2006 The wine is perfumed with floral and fruit notes and it is smooth and soft at first Like all great wines it has many layers of flavour warm bursts of cherry and black-currant cede centre stage to deeper darker caramel and mocha notes and a touch of spice Therersquos an amazing depth of flavour and the finish is long and lingering Whatrsquos more at nearly eight years old it still has a slight purple tinge and tastes extremely fresh There is every indication that it will age beautifully for at least another decade
The winersquos character is heavily influenced by the alti-tude the grapes used to make it are grown at (1180m
above sea level) At this elevation the grapes ripen in bright sun but lsquorelaxrsquo during the cool evenings The fact that the wine is made in tiny quantities (eight barrels only) means every care can be taken during the winemak-ing process to ensure the wine is allowed to show its grown-up side The cost per bot-tle of pound70 is not insubstantial but neither is the wine
We cannot know whether these wines will ever become investments in the way the wines of Bordeaux have Whatrsquos cer-tain is that Malbec wines have a very rare quality a balance of finesse and power that
can delight wine lovers and linger in their memories
Ewan Lacey is a leading wine expert and general manager of the International Wine and Spirit Competition He has appeared on BBC television and radio as well as Channel 4 and written for the national press
Laura Catena is managing director at the Catena Zapata winery (above)
THE INTERNATIONAL WINE AND SPIRIT COMPETITIONThe International Wine and Spirit Competition has been the premier drinks competition in the world for 45 years Each year it receives and reviews thousands of wines and spirits and presents qual-ity awards to producers
More than anything the IWSC exists to help
people make better deci-sions particularly when buying wines and spirits An IWSC award on a bot-tle of wine is a guarantee
of quality backed not only by a rigorous and strin-gent judging process but also by the skill of the judges who are drawn from the ranks of masters of wine master distill-ers industry leaders and commentators
Each year the IWSC honours a leading figure
in the drinks industry with the presidency of the competition The current president is Laura Catena who succeeds a nota-ble line of predecessors including Prince Robert of Luxembourg winemakers Piero Antinori and Warren Winiarski and Baroness Philippine de Rothschild
56 March 2014 | inspired
LUXURY WATCHES
Time is preciousA
t a recent watch auc-tion in Geneva at Antiquorum ndash the worldrsquos premiere auc-tion house for modern and vintage time pieces ndash a Patek Philippe
pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon watch emerged as the auctionrsquos top lot and sold for 12 million Swiss francs (pound807000)
Unlike most of the timepieces sold at auctions outside Asia this particular Patek watch ndash the most complicated wristwatch the Swiss watchmaker has ever produced ndash was not a vintage model
That Geneva auction raised intriguing
1284Clocks with weights gears and regulators start to appear mostly with no dial to strike the important moments of daily life
Around 1410The mainspring is devel-oped Combined with the fusee this innovation makes possible the truly portable domestic clock
1492The mechanical watch appears simultaneously in Italy Germany and France
1675Christian Huygens invents the spiral balance spring
for watches significantly improving their accuracy
1704The first watch with jew-els is produced by French watchmaker de Beaufreacute
1714The British parliament offers pound20000 to who-ever can a find a method to determine longitude
1766Parliament publishes the rating results for John Harrisonrsquos H4 marine timekeeper Harrisonrsquos highly accurate marine clock solution to the problem of determining logitude wins him part of the pound20000 prize
1787Pierre-Freacutedeacuteric Ingold is born an important pio-neer in mechanised timepiece production and the use of interchangea-ble parts
1790Jacquet-Droz and Leschot manufactures a watch attached to a strap
1839Vacheron amp Constantin developes a full set of machine tools for manu-facturing its watches
1875Calcium sulphate is the first luminescent sub-stance to be used for numerals and hands
TIMEKEEPING MILESTONES
questions Are modern luxury timepieces every bit as appealing as the vintage watches that typically command top prices at auc-tion And does that Geneva auction tell us anything about the contemporary watch market as a whole
Julien Schaerer Antiquorumrsquos managing director in Geneva says top-quality vintage watches often appreciate in value over the long term But he urges buyers for whom appreciation is an important consideration to be cautious about purchasing contempo-rary watches
lsquoWatch price depreciation is the cost of ownership just as it is with a luxury carrsquo he says lsquoIf the value goes up then
58 March 2014 | inspired
1880The first water- resistant watch incorpo-rating a screwed case is produced by Genevan watchmaker Franccedilois Borgel
1889The first known patent for a wristwatch is filed in Bern Switzerland
1890Dialmaker A Beyeler invents a transfer press for applying numerals and letters to dials
1892Auguste Verneuil in France produces the first synthetic jewels to be used in watchmaking
1904Wens Wilsdorf launches large-scale production of a womenrsquos wristwatch
1924John Harwood files the
first Swiss patent for a self-winding wristwatch with a central oscillating weight
1925The first known wrist-watch with a perpetual calendar is manufactured using a pendant watch movement
1926Rolex creates the Oyster wristwatch with a water-resistant case and crown
1966The first quartz wrist-watch prototype is produced
1969The first quartz watch
with an LED display appears
1978Quartz watches overtake mechanical watches in popularity
2005Creation of the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie Seiko launches the spring drive Kinetic the first self-winding mechanical watch with an electro-magnetic escapement
A Patek Philippe pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon recently sold for pound807000
inspired | March 2014 59
online retailers from the comfort of your homeSince 2006 DM London has quietly estab-
lished a powerful presence for itself in the UK retail watch market with the acquisition of The Watch Hut and The Watch Gallery DM London chairman David Coleridge says the company has capitalised on the increasing willingness of buy-ers to purchase online
lsquoHaving decided that they would like to buy a watch for themselves or someone elsersquo he says lsquopeople start to do their research More often than not this starts online nowadays where they com-pare brands performance and functions
lsquoAs trust in the online marketplace has devel-oped many want to buy online because it is convenient and saves time Shopping online becomes a habit established sites build trust and awareness with customers which gives custom-ers the confidence to buy more expensive itemsrsquo
He adds lsquoOur challenge is to make the online environment as attractive informative and enjoy-able as a high street store Then customers will decide to spend onlinersquo
Coleridge believes a multi-channel approach is the way forward for retailers He says lsquoWithout doubt the future is multi-channel selling ndash a combination of direct selling on the internet and various forms of click and collect ndash combined with beautiful stores on the high street
Over the past few years demand for luxury watches (particularly contemporary models) has spiked sharply in Asia and according to some specialists emerging affluence in the
of course thatrsquos an added benefit However he adds lsquoPrice appreciation is still quite rare with modern watches There is some poten-tial for appreciation but probably only with ultra-limited editions A purchase has to be
seen as a medium- to long-term invest-ment One should buy a timepiece first out of love for the brand or [the watchrsquos] complicationrsquo
The watch brands that offer the greatest assurance of appreci-
ation include Cartier Patek Philippe Rolex Audemars
Piguet A Lange amp Sohne Breguet and Vacheron Constantin All enjoy views from the top of
the watchmaking hierarchy thanks to their longstand-ing histories and well-established brand identities
Relative new-comers to the industry such as Richard Mille and Roger Dubuis have carved out a niche for
themselves with their revolutionary designs and
space-age technologies but it remains to be seen just how well the values of their timepieces will stand up on the secondary market
According to Nathaniel Borgelt a specialist at auction house Sothebyrsquos
some modern watches have already achieved good prices at auction but these (like the Patek Philippe Sky Moon Tourbillon) were highly exclusive models when new
lsquoSome limited edition pieces currently fetch incredible prices at auctionrsquo he says lsquoAnd there is a select group of modern mod-els that could compete with a certain sector of the vintage market based on their brand innovative features such as materials or com-plications and avant-garde designs
Buying these has now become a whole lot easier The luxury watch retailing land-scape is changing and the traditional pattern of physically walking into a luxury salon to buy a watch is gradually being replaced by a trend towards visiting the websites of the big
LUXURY WATCHES
A Lange amp Sohne (above) is a long-standing high-end watchmaker Comparative new-comer Roger Dubuis (right) is forging a strong reputation
inspired | March 2014 PB60 March 2014 | inspired
helpthewatchgallerycom
Hublot ClassiC FusiontHe WatCH Gallery exClusive
The Watch Gallery and Hublot have joined forces to create two very special limited edition watches Both are limited to just 15 pieces worldwide and have been specifically designed to feature The Watch Gallery blue brand colour on the hands and tinted open case back
SelfridgeS OxfOrd StreetWeStfield lOndOnMancheSter exchange Square
wwwthewatchgallerycomhublot-watches
Far East has kept global values strong while other markets around the world continue to recover from recession
Despite the market boost from growing prosperity in Asia there are signs that the market is becoming saturated and that globally the new watch market isnrsquot as robust as some commentators suggest
It may still be a good time to buy but its important to know what you want and what yoursquore buying Modern watchmakers such as Richard Mille Roger Dubuis and Greubel Forsey are producing beautiful timepieces but because of their limited foothold in the market itrsquos difficult to predict their long-term success and desirability They donrsquot yet have the brand power that might ensure the value of their
watches in the secondhand market remains highSuch producers might one day stand eye to
eye with the most desirable brands such as Patek Philippe and Rolex but achieving that kind of parity wonrsquot be easy Collectors looking to invest in timepieces are advised to keep an open mind about modern producers uncertainty is the one aspect of modern luxury watch market most experts tend to agree on
That said the buoyancy in the watch market suggests that plenty of buyers are unconcerned about future values For them itrsquos all about the appreciation of the watch itself People buy watches because they bring them pleasure ndash and say some-thing about who they are
LUXURY WATCHES
Contemporary watches such as those made by Hublot (left) have yet to show they will have the lasting appeal of watches such as Cartierrsquos Rotonde de Cartier Astrocalendaire (right)
inspired | March 2014 63
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-
and shares in [non-cash] Isas However this isnrsquot the case Indeed some other asset classes ndash in particular those that pro-duce income ndash offer even more tax benefits than equities when held within an Isa
Bond funds for example get (at least) 20 per cent income tax relief on the yield they pro-duce (dividends from equities in contrast are subjected to a 10 per cent tax at source which is not reclaimable even in an Isa)
The new property author-ised investment fund structure for property funds meanwhile means Isa investors no longer incur the 20 per cent tax that would previously have been applied on income received from a property investment
the increase in the contribution limit if you can afford to Itrsquos all too easy for regular investors with their money invested auto-matically every month to overlook those annual allow-ance increases And consider increasing your investment whenever you receive a salary increase
LOOK BEYOND STOCKS AND SHARES
Darius McDermott Chelsea Financial Services Some potential Isa investors think you can only hold stocks
PLOUGH INTO PROPERTYGavin Haynes managing director Whitechurch Securities
Many people donrsquot realise they can gain expo-sure to bricks and mortar through
commercial property funds held in a stocks and shares Isa
The asset class currently offers an attractive yield rela-tive to cash and bonds without the volatility of the stock market investments
Property funds are not with-out risk but an allocation to a commercial property fund (that invests directly in bricks and mortar not property shares) can add diversification to an Isa portfolio With the economic outlook improving the sector looks well placed for recovery
ACCEPT RISK BUT BE SURE TO DIVERSIFY
Rebecca OrsquoKeeffe head of investment Interactive Investor
The primary ben-efits of an Isa are felt over the long term so itrsquos important to rec-
ognise that taking on risk
inspired | March 2014 1312 March 2014 | inspired
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
ITrsquoS ALL TOO EASY TO OVERLOOK THOSE ANNUAL ALLOWANCE INCREASESDariusMcDermott
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
Isa can suddenly become a poorly paying one But never try to transfer an Isa yourself Contact the new provider first and follow its transfer rules
Remember the amount of money you can invest in a cash Isa in each tax year is capped (currently at pound5760) so if you want to switch in the middle of the tax year you will prob-ably be switching the entire amount ndash you cannot switch a portion of an existing Isa into a new one and top it up If your original Isa is due to pay you interest at the end of the year it should pay you the accrued interest up to the date you close the account
Itrsquos possible to transfer your cash Isa into a stocks and shares Isa if you decide this is a better home for you money but you canrsquot switch your money back from a stocks and shares Isa into a cash Isa
You can invest up to pound11520 in a stocks and shares Isa in a single tax year minus anything you may have paid into a cash Isa ndash which is capped at pound5760
over the long term is usually a far more profitable strategy than minimising risk Investors typi-cally take less risk than they should especially if they have suffered a loss in the past
You can mitigate your overall risk by diversifying across differ-ent asset classes and geographic areas Regular investing is also a great risk reduction strategy
Itrsquos also important to rec-ognise the value of dividend reinvestment and understand the benefit this compound-ing effect has on your portfolio And remember to choose a bro-ker that doesnrsquot penalise you for reinvesting
TRANSFER YOUR ISAS TO GET THE BEST DEALS
Mark King editor MoneywiseUnlike a stocks and shares Isa a cash Isa is a sim-ple savings account with a
tax-free Isa lsquowrapperrsquo placed around it so that you donrsquot pay tax on your interest
You can choose to have access to your money or tie it up until a future date just as with typical savings accounts Generally the longer you tie your money up for the better the interest rate you get
While a cash Isa is considered a low-risk investment ndash which sophisticated investors may find returns too little as a result ndash you can transfer a cash Isa should you decide you want to take on more risk or get a bet-ter rate Indeed you may have to transfer a cash Isa regularly Providers offer different rates that can change so a top-paying
From 6 April ndash the beginning of the 201415 tax year ndash however these limits rise to pound11880 and pound5940 respectively
LOOK AT THE LONG- TERM BENEFITS
Philippa Gee managing director Philippa Gee Wealth Management
Some investors look at the return on an Isa or at the limit on how much they can
invest in a single year and fail to see the value
However they would be wise to consider the longer-term view Those who have invested each year for a number of years have been able to build six- figure portfolios that they do not have to pay any further income or capital gains tax on or list on their tax assessment
By securing a significant sum in an Isa wrapper each year as far as yoursquore able you can build up a valuable flexible and tax-efficient investment
inspired | March 2014 PB14 March 2014 | inspired
EXPERTSrsquoTOP ISA
TIPS
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
TAKING ON RISK OVER THE LONG TERM IS USUALLY MORE PROFITABLERebecca OrsquoKeeffe
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
The ISA thatrsquos
fair and square
We believe in straightforward investing Thatrsquos why we donrsquot nibble at your investments with percentage charges Open an account and for pound20 per quarter you get two pound10 trades and an ISA for free After that itrsquos just pound10 per trade across a wide range of UK and international investmentsTransfer to us today and get up to pound240 as a thank you (terms apply) We believe thatrsquos fair and square
The value of investments and any income from them can fall as well as rise so you could get back less than you invest Tax treatment depends on your individual circumstances and may be subject to change If in any doubt please seek advice
iiicoukisa
Interactive Investor Trading Limited trading as ldquoInteractive Investorrdquo is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority Registered Office Standon House 21 Mansell Street London E1 8AA Tel 0845 200 3637 Registered in England with Company Registration number 3699618
hen new rules were introduced last August allowing the inclusion of Alternative Investment Market (Aim) shares in Isas demand for exposure to the junior market
quickly exceeded expectations Another surge in demand is likely in April as the new tax year dawns and investors have a fresh annual allow-ance to play with
Yet while stocks on Aim can boast eye-catching returns and attractive tax perks they can also be very volatile raising concerns that investors may be letting the tax tail wag the investment dog with-out understanding what they are getting into
The Treasuryrsquos decision to allow Aim shares into Isas was driven by a desire to encourage greater investment in small and medium-sized companies The move was immediately popular with investors and brokers reported a sharp rise in Aim-listed purchases Demand for smaller companies funds was up too as investors wary of direct share ownership
bought into funds offering exposure to Aim stocksIt helped that Aim stocks were enjoying a good
run as were smaller companies generally with the amount of money raised on the market over the summer rising sharply Performance is just one aspect of their appeal however
Aim shares already offered inheritance tax effi-ciency most of them qualify for business property relief making them exempt from IHT when held for two years or more However itrsquos worth noting that BPR is subject to change and a company can lose its eligibility and therefore its IHT relief status as a result Therefore investors wanting to continue benefiting from IHT relief have to switch out of such companies and into those still eligible
Wider income and capital gains tax benefits also drove some demand for Aim shares after the
Isa rule change in August The move created a bed- and-Isa opportunity whereby existing Aim share inves-tors sold their holdings and bought them back within an Isa
Among those quick
Alternative Investment Market stocks offer Isa investors a chance to realise heady returns ndash but you need to pick your holdings carefully because of the high risk of losses in an illiquid market says Jeff Salway
AIMSHARES
W
GEMSTO BE UNEARTHED
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
WE WOULD ONLY INCLUDE AIM STOCKS
IN THE PORTFOLIOS OF ADVENTUROUS CLIENTS David Thomson
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
inspired | March 2014 17
THERE ARE
Treatt has built up an immaculate record of delivering profits
to take advantage was Lord Lee of Trafford the UKrsquos first Isa millionaire and author of How to Make a Million ndash Slowly My Guiding Principles from a Lifetime of Successful Investing lsquoI have a
big holding of Christie Group that was originally in my per-sonal equity planrsquo he says lsquoWhen the company moved to Aim [from the main market] I took it out of the Pep but when Aim shares became Isa-eligible I sold it and bought it back again within my Isarsquo
April 2014 will mark the removal of stamp duty from Aim purchases a develop-ment expected to encourage asset managers to launch a new wave of Aim-focused funds The axing of stamp duty makes the junior market more appeal-ing to companies on the main market as well with several recently moving across
Alec Stewart partner at Anderson Strathern Asset Management explains lsquoA company can reduce its regulatory burden by moving to the junior market with lower audit and compliance requirementsrsquo For example the main market
stipulates that any potential listing should have a market capitalisation no lower than pound700000 whereas therersquos no such guideline on the Aim mar-ket Nor do companies need a trading history to list on Aim compared with the three years required for the main market Moreover the cost of listing on Aim is considerably lower
But for many private investors the main appeal of Aim stocks lies largely in the prospect of sky-high returns from the success of small and fledgling companies There are some 1200 stocks on the market from a wide range of sectors ndash albeit with a heavy weighting in technology and especially natural resources and with a gulf in size between the biggest and smallest
The largest are eligible for the FTSE AIM 50 and the FTSE AIM 100 where the likes of Bowleven Majestic Wine Dobbies Asos and MampC Saatchi are listed
Stewart picks out three he favours as part of a diversified portfolio One is Dart Group The owner of Jet2com and Jet2Holidays Dart has had a lsquostrong runrsquo and is focused on becoming more fam-ily friendly in these budget-conscious times says Stewart lsquoIt benefits from good visibility of future bookings and strong cash generationrsquo he adds
Aerospace and defence firm Cohort is another with a lsquoprogressive dividend policyrsquo that has grown at an annualised rate of 20 per cent over
DEWHURST (pound520)Dewhurst is a well-established manu-facturer of lift pushbuttons indicators and controls keypads for ATMs security devices and petrol pumps and traffic management products such as bollards
The company has a long record of profitability under the stewardship of the Dewhurst family and a debt-free balance sheet That suggests it is a strong competitor
Profits fell in 2013 ndash a result of a slowdown in Dewhurstrsquos major markets and customers having stocked up in the previous year Management is quite cagey about the companyrsquos prospects for 2014 but an improved performance is likely as conditions in the UK and the US improve The shares are probably good value at 11 times adjusted 2013 earnings
MS INTERNATIONAL (pound204)MS International manufactures military hardware forks for forklift trucks and petrol station canopies and car washes
The company has been profitable in each of the past 10 years and has a balance sheet flush with cash yet the share price has fallen to a level that val-ues MSI at five times adjusted 2013
earnings MSIrsquos current unpopularity stems from a decline in the profitability of MSI Defence Systems which has the highest turnover of its three businesses
The company expects 2014 to be no easier than 2013 due to continu-ing pressure on defence spending but itrsquos confident it will add to defence work already contracted and scheduled for every year until 2020
Itrsquos quite possible that MSI is having a lull that does not reflect on the qual-ity of its products or businesses If thatrsquos the case itrsquos a bargain
TREATT (pound747)Treatt distills flavourings and frag-rances essential oils and water-soluble essences Its products are used in drinks confectionery sauces and cosmetics worldwide
The companyrsquos expertise and close customer relationships might give it a competitive advantage and it has never suffered a loss However it has ushered out managing director Hugo Bovill and his family has sold its interest
Management with large share-holdings gives companies some independence from the often short-term imperatives of fund managers
However the new team is focused on controlling costs and developing the most profitable products
Profit grew 28 per cent in 2013 and Treattrsquos long-term prospects are prob-ably good but the share price has spiked valuing the shares at 15 times adjusted 2013 earnings
FW THORPE (pound143)FW Thorpe designs and manufactures light fittings known as luminaires They are becoming increasingly complex with the introduction of LED technology that requires printed circuit boards Its main business is Thorlux which supplies lighting to schools hospitals ware-houses and factories Other subsidiaries supply retailers emergency exit signage and cleanroom lighting
Stable family ownership long indus-try experience and a commitment to modernisation and investment are the keys to Thorpersquos prosperity
Although it has to contend with the additional investment required to produce LED lighting Thorpe is manag-ing the transition well The shares cost pound137 which values the company at about 15 times adjusted 2013 earnings Thatrsquos a fair price for a quality company
Richard Beddard picks out four Aim-listed companies worth considering for inclusion in a diversified Isa share portfolio
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
I TRANSFERRED INTO MY ISA A BIG
HOLDING OF CHRISTIE GROUP THAT USEDTO BE IN MY PEPLord Lee of Trafford
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
AIMSHARES
18 March 2014 | inspired
the past three years he adds Among food pro-ducers he likes Wynnstay It has lsquobenefited from strong revenue and pre-tax profitsrsquo increasing its interim dividend by 9 per cent
But therersquos ample cause for caution too because Aim shares are typically far riskier than those listed on the main market Not only is there the vol-atility inherent in shares issued by smaller firms but there remains the potential for liquidity issues even after the surge of money into the market in recent months Haig Bathgate chief investment officer at Turcan Connell says lsquoThey are by impli-cation of their size much less liquid in terms of the shares that trade hands on a daily basis so they are prone to more extreme price movementsrsquo
UK investors may also be averse to Aim stocks that are effectively overseas companies Indeed many Aim fund portfolios specifically exclude both these and natural resources firms as well as stocks that donrsquot offer business property relief
lsquoSignificant numbers of companies have failed to deliver on expectations in this part of the mar-ket and it is also quite heavily weighted towards technology (12 per cent) resources (9 per cent) and oil and gas companies (22 per cent)rsquo says Bathgate There are transparency concerns too due to the less stringent regulatory and company reporting requirements on the Aim market
lsquoWe would only include Aim stocks within the
portfolios of adventurous clients and then only up to a maximum of 10 per centrsquo says David Thomson chief investment officer at VWM Wealth lsquoEven then the bulk of this is likely to be via a venture capital trust where the investor can also enjoy 30 per cent income tax relief providing a further cushion against the volatility of Aim sharesrsquo
Collective investment funds and trusts offer a way into Aim stocks that provides useful diversification and so reduces the risk of heavy losses Investment trusts can offer particular advantages where Aim-listed shares are concerned as their closed-ended status gives them a hedge against the market liquidity issues that can affect Aim stocks Among the growing number of UK smaller companies investment trusts in which Aim shares are prominent are those run by BlackRock Standard Life and Aberforth Unit trusts invest-ing in Aim companies include the LampG UK Alpha Trust and Cazenove UK Smaller Companies
However there is a downside to access-ing Aim through funds and trusts as investors no longer benefit from the IHT-free status that direct holders of Aim stocks enjoy The risk of hefty losses remains the biggest caveat to investing in Aim
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
AIMSHARESAREMUCHLESS
LIQUIDINTERMSOFTHESHARESTHATTRADEHANDSDAILYHaig Bathgate
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
inspired | March 2014 19
Clockwise from top Cohort Wynnstay and Jet2com are Stewartrsquos picks for a diversified portfolio
rewarding such as smaller companies private equity and emerging markets
Trusts can also increase their assets by borrow-ing So long as this gearing is sensibly priced it should accelerate the trustrsquos gains in positive mar-ket conditions However gearing will exacerbate losses in any downturn The possible closing of the discount will also enhance share price returns
SOLID GROWTHBaillie Gifford Global DiscoveryThis fund picked by independent financial adviser Brian Dennehy invests globally in growth stocks especially companies operating in industries with potential for structural change and innova-tion Dennehy says manager Douglas Brodie has had considerable experience and success in iden-tifying growth opportunities particularly among exciting smaller-cap stocks
CF Lindsell Train UK EquityJohn Husselbee head of multi-asset at Liontrust Asset Management prefers investors to traders Renowned investor Warren Buffett takes a similar view and Husselbee says fund manager Nick Train invests like Buffett Train looks to buy great com-panies such as Burberry Heineken and Unilever when they are good value and hold them lsquoforeverrsquo
Cazenove UK Opportunities This fund aims to achieve long-term capital growth from a focused portfolio of large and medium-sized UK companies Gavin Haynes managing
huge variety of investment funds rang-ing from generalist funds to highly specialised versions aim to generate capital growth for investors
Investing in a specific fund entails investors accepting different degrees of risk in return for a range of potential rewards So when we asked financial advisers to predict which funds offer the best prospects for growth in 2014 we also urged them to consider which types of investor the funds would suit best
Solid growth funds will appeal to investors who prefer steady investment while higher-risk growth funds are likely to be more volatile and appeal to those with a higher risk tolerance Speculative funds could produce handsome returns this year but they could also dip sharply in value
Closed-ended status means investment trusts can invest in less liquid asset classes without having to worry about realising their holdings in a market setback This enables them to invest in areas that have historically proved particularly
A
Helen Pridham and Fiona Hamilton have rounded up a collection of investment funds and trusts experts believe will prosper in the year ahead for investors looking to cash in on an improving economic outlook
PERFECT YOUR FUND PORTFOLIOTO SEE IT
GROW
inspired | March 2014 2120 March 2014 | inspired
FUNDSAND
TRUSTS
GROW
inspired | March 2014 2120 March 2014 | inspired
A
RE Y
OU
A
GLO
BAL
INV
ESTO
R Take a global view of investment trusts expertly managed by Henderson
For over 75 years Henderson Global Investors has been at the forefront of investment trust innovation and development Now with a diverse and established range of managed investment trusts and investment companies Henderson has a global view of the market
Whether you are retirement planning investing for your children looking to take advantage of dynamic global markets or want a cautious investment approach our managed companies offer a wide range of investment objectives and strategies professionally managed by regional experts
If your priority is high income long term capital growth or a mixture of both Henderson Global Investors has a range of solutions which aims to meet your investment needs
Please remember that past performance is not a guide to future performance The value of an investment and the income from it can fall as well as rise as a result of market and currency fluctuations and you may not get back the amount originally invested
Call to receive your Investment Trust brochure or visit wwwhendersoninvestmenttrustscom
0800 856 5656
Investment Trusts managed by Henderson
Issued in the UK by Henderson Global Investors Henderson Global Investors is the name under which Henderson Global Investors Limited (reg no 906355) Henderson Fund Management Limited (reg no 2607112) Henderson Investment Funds Limited (reg no 2678531) Henderson Investment Management Limited (reg no 1795354) Henderson Alternative Investment Advisor Limited (reg no 962757) Henderson Equity Partners Limited (reg no2606646) Gartmore Investment Limited (reg no 1508030) (each incorporated and registered in England and Wales with registered office at 201 Bishopsgate London EC2M 3AE) are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority to provide investment products and services Telephone calls may be recorded and monitored H0046521113ad
Itrsquos a global marketplace
HGiTrusts
director at Whitechurch Securities says fund manager Julie Dean has built up an excellent track record
Securities Trust of ScotlandRobin McAdam likes Securities Trust of Scotland which seeks rising income and long-term capi-tal growth from global equities The trust yields 33 per cent so it provides income and growth potential lsquoThe trust has outperformed its bench-mark recently and we expect this to continuersquo says McAdam
Finsbury Growth amp Income TrustPeter Hewitt nominates Finsbury Growth amp Income Trust on the basis of its strong short- and long-term performance Manager Nick Train seeks out the highest-quality companies to hold long term The portfolio is dominated by companies Train expects to have longevity such as Diageo Unilever and Heineken lsquoThe manager looks for strong cash gen-eration and dividend growth which he believes are undervalued by the stock marketrsquo Hewitt says
RIT Capital PartnersThis multi-asset trust selected by John Newlands is the flagship financial vehicle for its chairman Lord Jacob Rothschild and his family lsquoGiven the uncertainty in the world it is no bad thing to be diversified both globally and across a range of asset classes RIT is a global growth trust that offers a combination of these benefitsrsquo Newlands says
His enthusiasm is bolstered by RITrsquos current relatively wide discount which reflects disap-pointment among investors that it was rather too cautious over the past two or three years
Perpetual Income amp Growth Trust This trust is classified as a member of the AIC UK growth and income sector but its yield tends to be below the sector average because manager Mark Barnett is more interested in income growth than immediate income Tim Cockerill classifies it as a total return trust and makes it his solid growth choice Barnett has secured excellent long-term returns dur-ing his 15 years at the helm
HIGHER-RISK GROWTHLazard Emerging MarketsMick Gilligan believes the investment case for emerging market equi-ties remains strong He says lsquoEquity markets in emerging regions are trading at their widest price-to-earnings discount to developed markets since 2006 We believe many well-capitalised businesses that have shown strong financial discipline should gener-ate good profitsrsquo The Lazard Emerging Markets fund focuses on such businesses
Rathbone Global OpportunitiesThis go-almost-anywhere bottom-up thorough stockpicking fund looks for undiscovered gems Rob Burdett fund manager at Thames River believes manager James Thomson strikes the
KEY FACTS ABOUT GROWTH FUND TIPS
Mininv pound
Ongoing Charges
1-yearreturn
Sectorrank
SOLID GROWTHBaillie Gifford Global Discovery 1000 086 5920 2248CF Lindsell Train UK Equity ndash 080 2910 53271Cazenove UK Opportunities 1000 082 3210 40271 HIGHER-RISK GROWTHInvestec Global Energy 1000 087 1420 40206Lazard Emerging Markets 2000 161 320 1668Rathbone Global Opportunities 1000 082 2150 111248 SPECULATIVE GROWTHAllianz BRIC Stars 500 122 -120 134206Liontrust Special Situations 1000 114 1450 251271MampG Recovery 500 096 1330 264271Note Ongoing charges figure refers to the least expensive retail share class Source Financial Express and companies websites as at 3 December 2013
KEY FACTS ABOUT THE TRUSTS TIPPED FOR GROWTH
Shareprice
p
Discprem to NAV
Netyield
Gearing
Net asset valuetotal return after
1 year
3 years
5 years
SOLID GROWTHFinsbury Growth amp Income 5010 (+) 12 21 50 305 767 2038Perpetual Income amp Growth 3686 10 32 120 346 714 1407RIT Capital Partners 12480 105 11 50 210 225 591Securities Trust of Scotland 1469 (+) 31 32 40 192 460 1132 HIGHER-RISK GROWTHBiotech Growth Trust 4335 72 00 70 582 1723 2968Fidelity Chinese Special Sits 1062 65 09 210 433 02 ndashGraphite Enterprise Trust 5690 170 09 -90 167 442 405Schroder Asia Pacific 2730 92 14 -20 08 201 1779 SPECULATIVE GROWTHBaker Steel Resources 470 331 00 10 -57 -137 740Hansa Trust A 8600 243 23 10 142 69 947Impax Environmental Markets 1463 112 06 -20 350 285 921Standard Life Eq Inc subscription 1070 ndash 00 3700 ndash ndash ndashNotes NAV = net asset value Annualised All data as at 1 December Source Numis Securities
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
MARK BARNETT HAS SECURED
EXCELLENT RETURNSTim Cockerill
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
inspired | March 2014 23PB March 2014 | inspired
FUNDSANDTRUSTS
right balance between taking calculated risks for high returns and investing in defensive holdings Burdett says lsquoHe likes companies undertaking gentle innovation ndash moving online for example ndash rather than game changers which have more potential to go wrongrsquo Investec Global EnergyThis fund invests in companies that produce energy and provide services to the energy sector Fund managers Tom Nelson and Charles Whall believe the consensus view on future oil prices anticipates weak demand and growing supply from US shale oil But they demur as does Tony Yarrow at Wise Investment He says lsquoOil is harder to extract from shale than gas is while demand for oil is growing as economies recover A higher oil price feeds straight through to the companiesrsquo profitsrsquo
Biotech Growth TrustPeter Hewitt favours Biotech Growth Trust which has achieved scorching gains recently ndash up 172 per cent over three years to 1 December 2013
It is managed in New York by Orbimed a specialist healthcare and biotechnology investor with $7 bil-lion (pound42 billion) under management It offers exposure to a mix of large and profitable biotech companies along-side emerging businesses Most of its holdings are US-based and they have
benefited from a much more positive approach by the Federal Drug Authority ndash new drug approvals in 2010 were the highest for 10 years
Graphite Enterprise TrustAndrew McHattie contends that just one sector offers great value private equity lsquoThese trusts were hammered in the credit crisis and discounts widened to extreme levelsrsquo he says
His selection is Graphite Enterprise Trust Its discount to net asset value remains at a level that rings alarm bells in most other sectors but it has a strong track record and a relatively mature port-folio of shares he expects to rise in value
Fidelity Chinese Special SituationslsquoWith Chinese equities looking cheap the long-term outlook for investing in China is positiversquo Cockerill says lsquoThis fund invests in medium and small caps where high growth can be achieved New manager Dale Nicholls is well qualified and the combination of Fidelity manager experience and China is compelling in the long termrsquo
Scottish Oriental Smaller Companies Trust This trust is favoured by McAdam The invest-ment team identifies quality companies offering sustainable predictable growth lsquoThe trust may underperform if the market rises strongly but the teamrsquos enviable track record and experience should be respectedrsquo he says
Tim Cockerill is investment director at Rowan Dartington
RowanDartingtonhas20investmentadvisersbasedinsevenofficesacrossthesouthofEnglandIthaspound900millionunderman-
agementInvestmenttrustshavefeaturedinitsdiscretionaryandadvisoryportfoliosformanyyears
Peter Hewittis a member of FampC Asset Managementrsquos global equities team
HehasmanagedtheFampCManagedPortfolioTrustsinceApril2008aswellasitsforerunnerFampCManagedPortfolio
Servicesince2002HewasheadofUKequitiesatMurray
Johnstonefrom1981to1983beforejoiningIvoryampSime
Jean Mattersonis a partner and chief investment officer at Rossie House Investment Management
Shejoinedthefirmin1998after20yearswithassetmanagerStewartIvory
BasedinEdinburghsheisoneoffiveinvestment
professionalsmanagingaroundpound300mil-lionallonadiscretionarybasisAroundhalfisininvestmenttrusts
Robin McAdamjoined Brooks MacDonald Asset Management in 2009 from Adam amp Company Investment Management
Hehas24yearsrsquoexperi-encemanagingprivateclientportfoliosandheadsBMrsquosEdinburghbranch
Thefirmhaspound537billionunderdiscretionarymanagementinbespokeandmanagedportfolios
Andrew McHattieis head of The McHattie Group
McHattieGroupisanauthorisedfirmthatpublishesspecialistinvestmentnewsletters
McHattiehasbeentheeditorofInvestmentTrustNewslettersince1996(wwwtipsheetscouk)andoffersafreeservicecalledthelsquoitlistrsquo(wwwtheitlistcouk)ThecompanyhasaFacebookpage(wwwfacebookcominvestmenttrusts)
John Newlandsis responsible for investment trust research at Brewin Dolphin
Heissupportedbyfouranalystswhocoverspecificsectorsresearchingopen-andclosed-endedfunds
BrewinDolphinhas35officesaroundtheUKandChannelIslandsandmanagespound28billionofwhichpound39billionisininvestmenttrusts
TrusttipstersOursixexpertsrevealtheirtopfundpicks
inspired | March 2014 PB24 March 2014 | inspired
FUNDSAND
TRUSTS
One in twelve goes free on your next golf break plus every golfer receives a free pint
12thmansagimme
Book online at MarriottGolfcouk
Offer is only valid on residential golf bookings booked during the promotional dates For every 11 players booked the 12th player will be free of charge Rates are per person per night based on 2 people sharing a twindouble room and include dinner bed amp breakfast Bookings must be made by one named player and separate bookings will not qualify Each residential player aged 18 and over will receive a voucher entitling them to a complimentary pint
of Beckrsquos or Boddingtons Offer is valid on bookings made via 3rd parties Offer is available on 1 night 2 rounds or 2 night 3 rounds and excludes Sunday Driver Maximum of 2 night stay and 2 people per room Day of week availability may vary based on location Limited number of rooms may be available This offer applies to new bookings only at Marriott Hotel amp Country Clubs and offer courses and tee times are subject to availability Offer cannot
be used in conjunction with any other promotion Course terms and conditions apply Advance reservations required Book between 17th February and 29th June 2014 for stays between 4th April and 29th September 2014
The SIPP thatrsquos
fair and square
We believe in straightforward investing Thatrsquos why we donrsquot nibble at your SIPP with percentage fees For just pound144 per year you can open a SIPP and add an ISA for free After that itrsquos just pound10 to buy or sell a wide range of investments including shares funds bonds and gilts Open an account today and if you transfer your existing SIPP wersquoll give you up to pound240 as a thank you (terms apply) We believe thatrsquos fair and square
The value of investments and any income from them can fall as well as rise so you could get back less than you invest Tax treatment depends on your individual circumstances and may be subject to change If in any doubt please seek advice
iiicouksipp
Interactive Investor Trading Limited trading as ldquoInteractive Investorrdquo is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority Registered Office Standon House 21 Mansell Street London E1 8AA Tel 0845 200 3637 Registered in England with Company Registration number 3699618
SPECULATIVE GROWTHMampG RecoveryDennehy says manager Tom Dobell backs his convictions engages with companies he invests in and has delivered long-term outperformance lsquoDobellrsquos MampG Recovery fund has a clear value-style process and management stability It invests in a wide range of firms that are out of favour or in difficulty or whose prospects are not fully rec-ognised by the marketrsquo he says
Liontrust Special SituationsHusselbee says Liontrustrsquos Anthony Cross and Julian Fosh have their own unique philosophy He adds lsquoThey look for characteristics in a company that its competitors find difficult to replicate such as intellectual property or distribution channelsrsquo
Allianz Bric StarsThis fund aims for capital growth in the long term by investing mainly in Brazil Russia India and China Haynes says investors have shunned these markets recently and valuations fallen He adds lsquoFor investors looking for a recovery story this fund is worth considerationrsquo
Standard Life Equity Income subscription shareMcHattie says warrant and subscription shares are widely ignored creating opportunities for those who understand them He favours the subscrip-tion shares of Standard Life Equity Income which can be exercised at 320p a share up to the end of December 2016 lsquoThey offer gearing of 37 times and if the ordinary shares grow by more than 28 per cent a year between now and the end of 2016 the subscription shares ought to outperformrsquo
Impax Environmental MarketsMcAdam likes this trust It invests in companies seeking to provide cleaner or more-efficient energy as well as water and waste solutions to the growing problems faced by authorities around the world It offers exposure to a rapidly changing marketplace as well as to socially responsible investments
Hansa TrustJohn Newlands sees potential in the A shares of Hansa Trust which languish at a discount of more than 25 per cent He says that whereas the trustrsquos portfolio appears skewed with a third of its assets in Ocean Wilsons there is actually plenty of diversification because Ocean Wilsons has an investment portfolio that stands at a discount to underlying value lsquoOne day an attractive bid [may] be made for Ocean Wilsons that will enhance Hansarsquos NAV and sim-plify its capital structure all to the good of its market ratingrsquo Newlands says
Baker Steel Resources TrustJean Matterson hopes for good returns from this trust shares in which trade on a near 30 per cent discount lsquoIt has not had an easy run of late but we believe the underlying assets are attractive and that the mining projects in the companyrsquos portfo-lio will continue to progressrsquo she says
Prospects have improved for biotechs (left) while growing interest in sustain-able energy has boosted Impax
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
AHIGHEROILPRICEFEEDSSTRAIGHT
THROUGHTOPROFITSTony Yarrow
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
inspired | March 2014 27PB March 2014 | inspired
FUNDSANDTRUSTS
The world of funds and trusts is a confusing place with over 2300 funds and more than 300 investment trusts to choose from
Money Observerrsquos Rated Funds system narrows down the playing field to help you decide which funds and investment trusts might be best for you
Our team of experts constantly monitor the marketplace rating those funds that have delivered consistently good returns However you should be aware that there is no guarantee this performance will be repeated
With our comparison tool you can filter by whatrsquos important to you compare up to four funds and trusts side-by-side as well as view factsheets
COMPAREMONEY OBSERVER RATED FUNDS
VISIT MONEYOBSERVERCOMCOMPAREFUNDS AND LOOK OUT FOR THE RATED FUND STAMP
had spare cash or I were start-ing afresh The companies in the add category are high qual-ity judging by the strategies they follow and their finan-cial strength and are probably undervalued
Irsquom more likely to eject or reduce holdings in companies in the watch and specula-tive categories These shares are more risky either because they have risen greatly in price or because their prospects are more uncertain than usual I may think the risk is worth tak-ing but I am prepared to act should that calculation change
Every decision to increase a portfolio holding must be weighed against the potential of new candidates drawn from all companies listed in the UK and corralled into another live spreadsheet the Share Sleuth watchlist When I add a share to the watchlist or trade a share in the portfolio I explain this in the Share Sleuth blog
ccumulating income and capital gains in an index tracking fund is inexpensive takes little effort and all but guarantees an
average return so it should be the default investment for a lazy equity investor saving for the long term
To justify the work of decid-ing which shares to buy and sell and the effort and cost of placing trades an active investor must do better Consequently the first objective of the active Share Sleuth portfolio is to beat passive investments after costs over the long-term which in practice means any five-year period The second objective is to win this tussle against an unknowing and unthinking opponent transparently
At the heart of the portfolio is an online spreadsheet The first page shows the constitu-ent shares arranged into three categories lsquoaddrsquo lsquowatchrsquo and lsquospeculativersquo The categorisa-tion is updated daily based on live data in subsequent spread-sheets each of which contains a financial model for a particular company
The Share Sleuth portfo-lio shows the holdings I would add to the portfolio today if it
Share Sleuth is a simulation no money changes hands But I use prices quoted by a bro-ker and adjust the accounting to factor in notional broker fees and stamp duty However I lsquoeat my own cookingrsquo by investing my self-invested personal pen-sion in Share Sleuth companies
No doubt you are wonder-ing how the portfolio is doing Share Sleuthrsquos five-year anni-versary judgement day is on 9 September this year and I will not prejudge it now
Short-term performance watching and the knee-jerk trad-ing it encourages is I think one reason why many inves-tors fail My focus is on ensuring the portfolio remains invested in good companies at reasona-ble prices
You can see a live perfor-mance table and learn what I think of every share in the port-folio and which companies I might add to it at wwwiiicoukZkr
SHAREBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIOR
The Share Sleuth portfolio has been carefully devised to show investors how to find good companies at cheap prices and also prove the value of its investment approach says Richard Beddard
Richard Beddard an editor at Interactive Investor since 1999 has managed the Share Sleuth portfolio since 9 September 2009 Hersquos a columnist at Money Observer magazine and a private investor
AMY FOCUS IS ON ENSURING THAT THE PORTFOLIO IS INVESTED IN GOOD FIRMS AT DECENT PRICES
inspired | March 2014 29PB March 2014 | inspired
SHARESLEUTH
iiicoukstraightforward
Interactive Investor Trading Limited trading as ldquoInteractive Investorrdquo is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority Registered Office Standon House 21 Mansell Street London E1 8AA Tel 0845 200 3637 Registered in England with Company Registration number 3699618
We believe in being straightforwardthis is why we donrsquot nibble at your investment by charging percentage fees Find out how this could affect your investment performance at iiicoukstraightforward
If you transfer to us you can even get up to pound240 as a thank you (terms apply)
Donrsquot forget the value of investments and any income from them can fall as well as rise so you could get back less than you invest If in any doubt please seek advice
7784_II_QI_MONEY_OBSERVER_210x297_AWindd 1 16012014 1224
Take a closer look
at your investment
options
Discover a straightforward way to understand everything from ISAs to SIPPs and OEICs to Investment Trusts
Investing for generationsEver feel yoursquod like to know more about investing Wersquove been helping people build their wealth for over 125 years Our guide lsquoMaking sense of the investment universersquo is just one of the resources yoursquoll find on our Investment Focus hub
As well as clear simple guides therersquos a wealth of information and expert opinion all designed to help you take control of your investments Please remember that investments can go down as well as up and investors may get back less than they originally invested
Introducing your free online source of information help and expert opinion
investment-focuscouk
This has been approved as a financial promotion by Alliance Trust Investments Limited for the purpose of Section 21 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 Alliance Trust Investments Limited is a subsidiary of Alliance Trust PLC and is registered in Scotland No SC330862 registered office 8 West Marketgait Dundee DD1 1QN is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority firm reference number 479764 Alliance Trust Investments gives no financial or investment advice
TAX YEAR ENDS APRIL 5TH ndash learn more about
your options now
Investment Focus Smart Insight from Alliance Trust
Yoursquove spoken Wersquove listened Introducing your free online source of information help and expert opinion
Based on real insight we have launched a new website which focuses on investment education
We believe that we are uniquely positioned to provide this hub of information based on the reputation we have built for trust and transparency over the last 125 years
We will be publishing new content over the next few months focusing on specific themes
bull Investing from scratch
bull Products in a portfolio
bull Global diversification
bull Planning for your familyrsquos future
bull Retirement planning
bull Getting more information
There is a generation of future investors out there who have been brought up in an era of economic turmoil and banking crises which has led to disillusionment and a lack of trust in our sector and the services we offer Despite it being more important than ever for investors to take control of their financial situation this new generation of savers lacks the basic knowledge and understanding to make these very important long-term decisions
Our goal is to develop a useful resource with contributions from third-parties as well as the team at Alliance Trust which offers insights into the various life stages and challenges faced and which can be built upon and adapted to meet savers needs in the long term
Katherine Garrett-Cox CBE Chief Executive Alliance Trust PLC
ldquo
rdquo
There are too many products to make an informed decision
I donrsquot know whereto go for reliable
information
investment-focuscouk
Yoursquoll naturally take a keen interest in the performance of your investments But itrsquos just as important to understand the fees you will be paying as they can have a significant impact on the returns you achieve Knowing what the different types of costs mean and exactly what they consist of can prove rewarding
Itrsquos worth remembering that for every fee you pay (whether it is a or flat fee) your investment needs to grow by at least the same amount just to stay ahead of the game It sounds obvious but itrsquos easy to forget Broadly speaking there are three types of fees fund fees platform fees and fees for a financial adviser You can either invest directly into a fund and pay the associated fees or you can invest via a platform provider (some of which are referred to as wrap platforms others as fund supermarkets) This is a service that lets you manage and review all your investments online in one place As a general rule fund fees are lower when
bought through a platform than if you buy direct You can invest through a platform on either an execution only basis where the investor assesses the risks and makes their own investment decisions or on an advised basis
Learn more about fund platform and financial advice fees
What can you expect to seeOver the next two pages we have provided a sneak preview of just some of the information you will find on the Investment Focus hub We will be updating the site regularly so make sure you sign up for our email alerts to be informed when new topics are published
Everything you need to know about fees
Risk informationInvestments can go down as well as up You may get back less than you originally invested
Alliance Trust does not give advice You need to ensure you understand the risks and commitments before investing If you are unsure you should consult a Financial Adviser before investing
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
For the vast majority of investors the simplest cheapest and most pragmatic way to invest is through pooled funds
Sometimes called managed funds unit trusts or even Open-Ended Investment Companies (or OEICs) these are designed to give ordinary savers access to a diverse range of investments
One of the principles of investment is that diversification helps reduce risk But it is expensive and time consuming for ordinary savers to buy shares of 80 to 100 different companies and keep track of how each is performing
But with a managed fund you are pooling your money with other investors enabling the fund manager to buy a wide range of assets
Investors have the option of buying an actively managed or passive fund With an active fund the manager selects and then monitors these stocks for investors in a bid to maximise returns
In contrast a passive fund will simply follow a stock market index such as the FTSE100 up and down
Having a manager at the helm can be beneficial in a market downturn as they can take a more defensive approach buying shares that are better able to hold their value or in some cases switching to bonds or cash instead to help preserve investorsrsquo capital Managers can also research individual companies and markets and have access to forecasts and economic data that isnrsquot always available to individuals
Learn more about investing for growth or income exploring different investment remits how to invest and keeping track of your investments
Understanding funds Written by Emma Simon Personal Finance Journalist
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
What are Investment TrustsInvestment Trusts are investment vehicles that are listed on the London Stock Exchange and which invest in shares and other securities They pool together investorsrsquo money and delegate responsibility to a professional fund manager to invest in a range of companies from different sectors and regions across the world They were designed for ldquothe investor of moderate meansrdquo
A brief historybull The first Investment Trust was launched by Foreign amp
Colonial in 1868
bull Investment Trusts made it possible for individual investors to gain diversified exposure to global stock markets
bull Many Investment Trusts were formed in Scotland including Alliance Trust PLC which was formed over 125 years ago
A guide to Investment Trusts
Learn more about Investment Trusts their main features and why you should consider them for your portfolio
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
Alliance Trust is an investment and savings business with over 125 year history of building investor wealth We offer our shareholders clients and customers a unique portfolio of products and services These range from a renowned global investment trust to an innovative range of investment strategies and funds and a multi-award winning investment platform where investors can host their ISAs SIPPs or investment accounts Our mission is to provide products and services that help to ensure a more sustainable financial future for generations of investors
Alliance Trust PLC is one of the largest generalist investment trusts by market value listed on the London Stock Exchange and is the parent company to two wholly-owned subsidiaries Alliance Trust Savings and Alliance Trust Investments
The fact that many of us make irrational decisions when it comes to our finances is widely debated and is often referred to as behavioural finance In this short video we talk to Professor Phyl Johnson Consultant Psychologist and Visiting Professor of Executive Education at Strathclyde Business School about why this is and more importantly about what we can do as individuals to avoid it
About us Alliance Trust Investments is a specialist fund management business offering a range of products and services focusing on global equities fixed income and sustainable investing with an emphasis on specialist investment solutions
Alliance Trust Savings is one of the UKrsquos leading financial services providers for private investors offering customers the information and services they need to manage their investments in a way that works for them
Risk informationInvestments can go down as well as up You may get back less than you originally invested
Alliance Trust does not give advice You need to ensure you understand the risks and commitments before investing If you are unsure you should consult a Financial Adviser before investing
Unusually for a company of our size around 70 of shares
in Alliance Trust are held by private
individuals
Nobodyrsquos perfect why we all make irrational decisions
Inflation by ageThis monthrsquos official inflation report showed that the headline rate of inflation fell from 20 to 19 Our Economic Research Team analyse this data on a monthly basis to see how inflation rates affect different age groups In February 2014 the summary highlights include
bull The over 75s and the under 30s face the highest rate of inflation in January at 21
bull The over 75s suffered the highest rate of inflation for the whole of 2013 and this trend continues into 2014 as they spend a larger share of their budgets on basic goods such as gas and electricity
bull The 65 to 74 year olds have faced the lowest rate of inflation in 11 out of the last 12 months thanks to lower inflation in food petrol and package holidays
Learn more about how inflation might affect you
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
You can also sign up for our regular email alerts to be informed when new topics are published by clicking here
Wersquove been bringing clarity to investment for over 125 years
Investing for generationsWhen it comes to investing therersquos no substitute for experience And at Alliance Trust wersquove been helping people invest since 1888 Our new Investment Focus hub is full of online information and expert opinion It aims to provide real insight to help you take control of your investments
Over the next few weeks the hub will build to cover everything from taking your first steps to diversifying worldwide Please remember that investments can go down as well as up and investors may get back less than they originally invested For valuable insight from Alliance Trust visit Investment Focus today
Introducing your free online source of information help and expert opinion
investment-focuscouk
This has been approved as a financial promotion by Alliance Trust Investments Limited for the purpose of Section 21 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 Alliance Trust Investments Limited is a subsidiary of Alliance Trust PLC and is registered in Scotland No SC330862 registered office 8 West Marketgait Dundee DD1 1QN is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority firm reference number 479764 Alliance Trust Investments gives no financial or investment advice
TAX YEAR ENDS APRIL 5TH ndash learn more about
your options now
Change the way you think about stocks reap the rewardsBy Edward Page Croft CEO Stockopediacom
I remember so clearly the day when I picked my first stock for clients Managing $2 billion (pound12 billion) in assets across 100 portfolios for high-net-wealth private investors is no easy task As I was to learn when you are green
and straight out of university itrsquos even harder The stock in question was on the Goldman
Sachs US lsquobuyrsquo list It had the potential to be hot Dotcoms were bubbling It was an internet stock in education services and cheap It seemed like it had everything but we needed to get in One day it fell out of bed Down 50 per cent on no news
Irsquod been trained to call the analyst in situations like this He reiterated his buy stance Double buy On my insistence we put almost $20 million of client money into the stock within an hour The next day it fell another 50 per cent on
bad newsThere is nothing more
painful than a loss but you never forget the first
one It immedi-ately forced me to reconsider every-thing I thought I
knew From that day on I vowed to never trust anotherrsquos opin-ion and find a better
way through the market minefieldIrsquove now spent 15 years
reassessing common
wisdom about stock selection No stone has gone unturned in the quest to understand the behav-ioural flaws that lead to poor decision making But there is one finding that crops up again and again in all the research that hurts stock market investors most We as investors are suckers for stories
A 1990rsquos study of 60000 private investor broker-age accounts by Kumar and Goetzmann found that 70 per cent of portfolios held less than four stocks
The stocks held all tended to be in the same sector highly correlated and risky Think internet stocks in the 1990s China in the 2000s or resource stocks more recently The grand theme sucks everyone in The outcome rarely dif-fers Kumar and Goetzmann showed that across these
60000 accounts the average underperformance was of the order of 4 per cent annually
This massive failing across private inves-tor portfolios is repeated in nearly every market cycle and is bound to happen again in this one Benjamin Graham the great father of value invest-ing and tutor of Warren Buffett once wrote
lsquoIn the short run the stock market is a vot-ing machine but in the long run it is a weighing machinersquo
ADVERTISING FEATURE
IN THE SHORT RUN THE STOCK MARKET IS A VOTING MACHINE BUT IN THE LONG RUN IT IS A WEIGHING MACHINEBenjamin Graham
What he meant was that while stories may drive stocks in the short run statistics drive stocks in the long run When statistics reassert them-selves it can cause huge damage to investors punting their portfolios on stories
It doesnrsquot take much to learn how basic statis-tics can guide your portfolio into winning stock selections though very few seem to understand how to do it Benjamin Graham as his life wore on gradually came to the conclusion that building portfolios according to rules-based processes was a far more appropriate methodology for the typi-cal investor
lsquoTry to buy groups of stocks that meet some sim-ple criterion for being undervalued ndash regardless of
the industry and with very little attention to the indi-vidual company It seems too good to be true but all I can tell you after 60 years of experience is it seems to stand up under any of the tests I would make uprsquo
My time is now dedi-cated to helping investors practice exactly what Benjamin Graham and many other investment luminaries have preached rules-based investing For the majority itrsquos a better process and leads to bet-ter outcomes Our work at
Stockopediacom where we crunch fundamental and technical data in order to model and track the investment processes of the great investors bears this out
Portfolios composed with stocks showing the right statistical mix of value quality and momen-tum have significantly outperformed Rules-based investing beats the market But more importantly it helps promote the emotional detachment needed to stop investors from beating themselves
Irsquoll never buy a stock on a punt or an analystrsquos tip again Perhaps neither should you
For a two week free trial and pound50 discount to Stockopedia UK Premium CLICK HERE
TANK MCM A N U F A C T U R E M O V E M E N T 1 9 0 4 M C
SINCE THE CREATION OF THE FIRST TANK WATCH IN 1917 THE TANK COLLECTION HAS CONTINUED
TO BREAK NEW GROUND THE INCREDIBLY REFINED AESTHETICS OF THE NEW TANK MC WATCH ARE FITTED
WITH THE CARTIER MANUFACTURE MOVEMENT 1904 MC ESTABLISHED IN 1847 CARTIER CREATES
EXCEPTIONAL WATCHES THAT COMBINE DARING DESIGN AND WATCHMAKING SAVOIR-FAIRE
EXPLORE AND SHOP WWWCARTIERCOUK - (020) 3147 4850
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oisseur
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Inside
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TO THE CONNOISSEUR section of Inspired a showcase for the finer things in life for those who truly appreciate them
Enjoying the fruits of your labour away from the relentless demands of our age poses its own challenges and quandaries Would a tropical idyll restore your ebbing energy levels Might a break based around hair-raising activities revive them even more effectively Perhaps reawakening a dormant passion for fine wines or luxury cars would be the most enjoyable reward for your industry
A luxury tropical holiday is probably near the top of most peoplersquos wish lists We take a look at some of the most tantalising options
The arrival of BMWrsquos new super coupe is featured on page 50 BMW aficionados and petrolheads alike are certain to be won over by its head-turning looks and mouthwatering specs
Gems come under the microscope on page 53 A rare coloured diamond can be a joy as well an appreciating asset
Wine is on the menu on page 54 where we explore the charms of Argentinian Malbec
Watches are often treasured objects and the best can turn out to be shrewd investments We look at the secondary watch market and the growth of online retailing on page 58 Enjoy
Welcome
40 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
FIVE TOP PRIVATE ISLAND RETREATSIslandFantasy
Top-rated resorts and hotels offer a variety of temptations and services to impress even the most discerning tastes but there is no better way to escape the rigours and
stresses of daily life than cutting off from the outside world while still enjoying lavish service
in the pinnacle of all resorts the private islandThere are thousands of small islands around
the world but only a few have chosen to cater to the most discriminating travellers seeking a rarified yet perfect world of quiet and relaxed luxury We look at five of the worldrsquos top private islands destinations where your holiday is certain to be an exceptional experience
TRAVEL
Necker Island is owned by Sir Richard Branson and guests stay in his home The island has become a popular des-tination for some of the worldrsquos most prominent figures as a hideaway from lifersquos stresses and strains
Because Necker Island is a resi-dence and not a resort guests who rent the island are treated as owners and catered for in a unique way
The74-acre island is fringed with beautiful white beaches and surrounded by turquoise waters and coral reefs It boasts every resort-type amenity guests can spend their days being pampered in the spa explor-ing underwater reefs in a submarine lounging by the pool bar or swimming in one of the worldrsquos most elab-orate private pools
Haute cuisine is a highlight for most guests ndash rates are fully inclusive of all food and drink A team of chefs creates bespoke menus featuring anything from lobster and caviar to a Sunday roast And because Necker is a home first and a resort second guests decide whether dining will be formal or informal inside or outside themed or traditional
The bar is stocked with international wines top-quality spirits and beers and a world renowned house champagne while special orders can be shipped in at no extra charge ndash unless an item is particularly rare Every service and amenity is available around the clock and guests are encouraged to treat Necker as their own home
As youLike it
NECKER ISLAND
42 March 2014 | inspired
Unalloyed luxury and an impressive range of amenities make Necker one of the most desirable island destinations in the world
The Jumby Bay resort which is only accessible by boat from Antigua is a Caribbean hideaway owned by Rosewood Resorts It is perfect for those seeking either relaxation or spirited adventure
You can rent the island resort entirely for your stay or simply take a room Those opt-ing for exclusive use of the island will have the resortrsquos two pools three tennis courts fitness centre croquet field and putting green to themselves
A wide range of water sports are available and guests can indulge in as much adventure or relaxation as they want during their stay The resort is ideal for large family
reunions or corporate retreats ndash 40 guest rooms and suites are available on the island
Executive chef Sylvain Hervochon celebrates gastron-omy ndash and mixology (cocktail making) ndash with casual elegance by creating Caribbean-style dishes inspired by fresh local ingredients and incorporating international influences
Jumby Bayrsquos rates start at pound150000 for four nights based on double occupancy between May and December Visit wwwrosewoodhotelscomenjumby-bay-antigua for further information
Fine BalanceCaribbean ambiance international sophistication and adventurous activities make Jumby Bay a compelling choice
JUMBY BAY
Just laze by the pool or venture beyond to dive in the turquoise waters of the South Pacific among stunning reefs and a dazzling array of marine creatures
Isle of PlentyT
he private island of Laucala in the South Pacific is a 3500-acre site in a picturesque rainforest-laced land-scape Enchanting deserted beaches nestle among coconut plantations organic farms and lush green vol-canic mountains
The resort offers an outstanding level of refined lux-ury as well as a compelling collection of sporting and cultural activities diving among iridescent marine life in the warm turquoise waters guided rainforest tours horse riding surfing and golfing on the 18-hole cham-pionship course The island is a superb choice for an escape from civilization whether you want an adven-ture in the wild or simply to relax in one of Laucalarsquos five restaurants and bars
Rates are available on request Visit wwwlaucalacom for further details
TRAVEL
LAUCALA ISLAND
inspired | March 2014 4544 March 2014 | inspired
Lush green surroundings sensitive development and beautiful beaches help Laucala island conjure up a complete South Seas experience
Isle of Plenty
inspired | March 2014 4544 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
inspired | March 2014 4746 March 2014 | inspired
Slow LaneSlow
Pulau Joyo is a seductively serene environment of pristine beaches surrounded by clear blue sea in Indonesiarsquos Riau Archipelago Accessible from Singapore or Bintan Pulau Joyo is a true castaway island offering every resort luxury
amid untouched natural beauty Pulau Joyo is famous for its remarkable sunsets and
brightly star-lit sky The resort can host 28 guests and 20 staff are on hand to cater to their every need Guests stay in open driftwood lsquopalacesrsquo that lsquoallow the sea inrsquoDespite its desert island appeal Pulau Joyo offers every modern convenience a range of adrenaline boosting activities and more relaxing options such as spa treatments and massages
The resortrsquos cuisine focuses on western and Indonesian dishes Meals are usually served buffet style and feature grilled fish squid prawns beef and chicken as well as many curry dishes Side dishes include fresh garden salads pasta salads boiled or steamed leafy greens and grilled aubergine (an island favourite) Prawn and tofu kebabs appear from time to time as does satay The chef will often provide a selection of freshly picked fruit and homemade cakes for dessert Itrsquos worth noting that the management will not serve pork or shellfish on this private island
Pulau Joyo may not be as refined as some islands but itrsquos an excellent choice for those who want a more casual laidback island experience that replicates the castaway experience like perhaps no other
Rates start at pound1913 a night More information is available at wwwpulau-joyocom
Wannabe castaways may find Pulau Joyorsquos purer simpler take on the luxury island experience more to their taste
PULAU JOYO
inspired | March 2014 4746 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
In the Fijian island paradise of Dolphin Island a small army of staff await to meet guestsrsquo every need On arriving ndash by boat helicopter or float plane ndash visitors are invariably struck by the beauty of the island and the luxuri-ous accommodation that awaits them amid 14-acres of lush tropical gardens
Three traditional palm-thatched bures individually designed by world renowned interior designer Virginia Fisher sit in an elevated position around the resortrsquos infinity pool
Guests are brought fresh tropical fish to choose each day that are cooked to perfec-
tion within hours of leaving the water The culinary focus is on
organic produce and ingredi-ents unique to Fijian cuisine but meals are tailored to guestsrsquo personal tastes Papayas man-goes bananas and pineapples
are plentiful throughout the day When it comes to recreation the
14-acre island is an expansive play-ground offering a diverse range of watersports as well as diving opportunities on Fijirsquos coral reefs
Rates start at pound720 a night More information is avail-able at wwwdolphinislandfijicom
Fijian Paean
Traditional features modern comforts and excellent facilities make for a harmonious whole on this Fijian island
DOLPHIN ISLAND
48 March 2014 | inspired
Pictured slightly larger than actual size
Big Pilotrsquos Watch Ref 5009
Your wrist never felt this big before The
case of the top model in the IWC Pilotrsquos
Watch range is a gigantic 462 mm in diashy
meter And the technology inside it is
even more impressive the largest IWCshy
manufactured automatic movement with
its Pellaton winding system is protected
against strong magnetic fields by a softshy
iron inner case And needless to say enshy
vious glances iwc engineered for men
Mechanical IWCshymanufactured movement Pellaton
automatic winding system 7shyday power reserve
with display (figure) Date display Softshyiron inner
case for protection against magnetic fields
Antireflective sapphire glass Watershyresistant 6 bar
Stainless steel
IWC Schaffhausen Switzerland iwccom The worldrsquos finest timepieces are exclusively available from selected watch specialists
For an illustrated catalogue or list of nationwide concessionaires please contact IWC UK Tel 0845 337 1868 Eshymail infoshyukiwccom
CARS
MunichLegend
50 March 2014 | inspired
BMW fanatics can open their eyes ndash the M4 has arrived
Most BMW aficionados are proba-bly pretty sad to see production of the M3 coupe ndash quite possibly the companyrsquos most noteworthy and celebrated model ndash end after almost 30 years Ever since the first wide-body E30 M3 saw the
light of day in 1985 drivers have loved the sporty coupe for its incredible balance intoxicating power and of course solid build quality
The model never got stale in all that time and always remained the poster child for the M division so itrsquos a lit-tle weird that BMW has apparently decided to axe it In truth though they havenrsquot really dropped the M3 The M3 sedan will continue to be produced in 2014 so all
is not lost Moreover BMW seems to be adopting a pat-tern of giving its sedans odd-numbered titles only and its coupes even-numbered titles only so the 4-Series and especially the M4 concept that debuted at Pebble Beach Monterey California will fill the gap left by the M3 Many people have been awaiting the new super coupe with great expectancy but can it fill in for the M3
The journalists who swarmed over the M4 concept at Pebble Beach were obviously much more interested in it than the somewhat predictable 428i that was also there Finished in an eye-catching colour called Aurum Dust (which actually looks a lot like the old M3rsquos Phoenix Yellow colour) the car presented in California may be a concept but typically BMW M cars donrsquot change much before they finally hit the showroom
MunichLegend
inspired | March 2014 51
CARS
52 March 2014 | inspired
From front to back the bodywork is manifestly differ-ent and much more aggressive looking than a standard 4-Series car It really looks to pretty much pick up where the E92E93 M3 coupe left off especially with its undeniably cool domed hood Wide wheel arches big wheels wrapped in low-profile tyres more than enough M badges and a well-executed double-bubble roof make the already underwhelming existing 4-Series coupe look even more pedestrian
Power for the new M4 is likely to come from a three-litre twin-turbo straight-six engine While the horsepower probably wonrsquot differ much from the M3rsquos old 4-litre V-8 it will generate more than 100lbft more in torque almost 400 in total With the M4 being a lighter 3300lb in weight the M4 promises to be an excit-ing worthy car A proper six-speed manual may be in the mix alongside the now obligatory dual clutch and paddles option
The best way to look at the M4 however it ends up is not as a new car but as a new and improved M3 thatrsquos just getting a new name The decision to rename the coupe is a strange one but thankfully BMW apparently felt the 3-Series coupe had made such an identity for itself that a new model was needed albeit in a slightly different incarnation
With BMW embarking on some new-ageish ideas such as its 1-Series ActiveE and the soon-to-arrive lsquoirsquo range of cars itrsquos nice to see the company also stick to classics such as the heart-stopping sports coupe even if the latest model does come with a new name
Seductive curves and racier performance make the BMW M4 a more than acceptable replacement for the M3 super coupe
SparklingForm Coloured diamonds are making their mark
One of the main factors that deter-mines the value of what we ordinarily think of as diamonds is their purity the degree to which col-our is absent in the gem However with coloured diamonds the extent to which they are saturated with
colour is a principal determinant of their valueColoured diamonds come in 12 basic colours more
than 90 secondary hues and nine intensity levels The depth of their colour is what really differentiates these diamonds from their colourless counterparts
Natural coloured diamonds are 10000 times rarer than typical colourless diamonds one of several rea-sons why they are treasured by the rich and famous yet remain unknown to most other people ndash despite hav-ing been around for centuries
Of course some colours are rarer than others Red violet and purple stones are as rare as the proverbial hensrsquo teeth while green and blue are also rare The most popular colours are pink and yellow (or canary) They also come in white grey orange black and lsquochame-leonrsquo form
A pinkie ring encrusted with a large coloured dia-mond has become a status symbol for men in Asia That little stone is an unregistered asset that could quickly be sold for millions of dollars should the need arise
Coloured diamonds are durable and never lose their sparkle or lustre so they are assets that can be enjoyed every day unlike stocks or bonds And they have proved to be fantastic investments having steadily appreciated in price with relatively little volatility for more than a decade They even held their own during the most recent financial crisis
Coloured diamonds are auctioned by reputable
auction houses such a Sothebyrsquos and Christiersquos where prices for large unique pink red blue or yellow stones can reach in excess of $2 million (pound12 million) a carat and other stones regularly sell for $1 million a carat
They are often bought by high-net-worth individu-als as an insurance policy Instead of stashing cash in undeclared bank accounts and potentially incurring the wrath of the authorities the wealthy can purchase some loose yellow diamonds to secure their future
Clearly coloured diamonds are much more than a magnificent indulgence
GEMS
inspired | March 2014 53PB March 2014 | inspired
WINE
Make the most of the deeply
satisfying Malbec wines emerging from Argentina
and perhaps even enjoy a return on a shrewd
investment says Ewan Lacey
Finding a red wine to enjoy in spring is a delicate balancing act The shock of seeing sunlight after a dark winter fosters in us a desire to drink some-thing refreshing while the still-cool temperatures demand something with comforting depth
Increasingly Malbec wines particularly those from Argentina provide a perfect solution to this quandary And while there are plenty of delicious wines for infor-mal occasions what is most interesting is the emergence of finer Malbec wines Some are so good they may well have ageing potential raising the intriguing possibility that the wine may one day become collectable
Malbec is the most popular wine among those aged 25-34 and is now becoming a fixture on most restaurant wine lists There are several reasons for its success the word Malbec is easy to pronounce the wine goes well with red meat the Malbec grape can be turned into wines that are both relatively easy to drink and packed with flavour and decent wines are available at reason-able prices Malbec is deep fruity and charming and it delivers instant pleasure ndash claret on a motorbike
The Malbec grape originated in France and it remains one of the permitted varieties used to make Bordeaux However it has gained prominence through the work of the post-junta Argentine wine industry
I recently had the pleasure of tasting some very fine Malbecs with Laura Catena managing director at the Catena Zapata winery and president of the International Wine and Spirit Competition She opened my
Mendoza Marvels
inspired | March 2014 55
WINE
eyes to the potential of this grape variety when handled with care
Laurarsquos family business makes a range of wines but the wine that truly astonished me was the Nicasia Vineyard Malbec 2006 The wine is perfumed with floral and fruit notes and it is smooth and soft at first Like all great wines it has many layers of flavour warm bursts of cherry and black-currant cede centre stage to deeper darker caramel and mocha notes and a touch of spice Therersquos an amazing depth of flavour and the finish is long and lingering Whatrsquos more at nearly eight years old it still has a slight purple tinge and tastes extremely fresh There is every indication that it will age beautifully for at least another decade
The winersquos character is heavily influenced by the alti-tude the grapes used to make it are grown at (1180m
above sea level) At this elevation the grapes ripen in bright sun but lsquorelaxrsquo during the cool evenings The fact that the wine is made in tiny quantities (eight barrels only) means every care can be taken during the winemak-ing process to ensure the wine is allowed to show its grown-up side The cost per bot-tle of pound70 is not insubstantial but neither is the wine
We cannot know whether these wines will ever become investments in the way the wines of Bordeaux have Whatrsquos cer-tain is that Malbec wines have a very rare quality a balance of finesse and power that
can delight wine lovers and linger in their memories
Ewan Lacey is a leading wine expert and general manager of the International Wine and Spirit Competition He has appeared on BBC television and radio as well as Channel 4 and written for the national press
Laura Catena is managing director at the Catena Zapata winery (above)
THE INTERNATIONAL WINE AND SPIRIT COMPETITIONThe International Wine and Spirit Competition has been the premier drinks competition in the world for 45 years Each year it receives and reviews thousands of wines and spirits and presents qual-ity awards to producers
More than anything the IWSC exists to help
people make better deci-sions particularly when buying wines and spirits An IWSC award on a bot-tle of wine is a guarantee
of quality backed not only by a rigorous and strin-gent judging process but also by the skill of the judges who are drawn from the ranks of masters of wine master distill-ers industry leaders and commentators
Each year the IWSC honours a leading figure
in the drinks industry with the presidency of the competition The current president is Laura Catena who succeeds a nota-ble line of predecessors including Prince Robert of Luxembourg winemakers Piero Antinori and Warren Winiarski and Baroness Philippine de Rothschild
56 March 2014 | inspired
LUXURY WATCHES
Time is preciousA
t a recent watch auc-tion in Geneva at Antiquorum ndash the worldrsquos premiere auc-tion house for modern and vintage time pieces ndash a Patek Philippe
pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon watch emerged as the auctionrsquos top lot and sold for 12 million Swiss francs (pound807000)
Unlike most of the timepieces sold at auctions outside Asia this particular Patek watch ndash the most complicated wristwatch the Swiss watchmaker has ever produced ndash was not a vintage model
That Geneva auction raised intriguing
1284Clocks with weights gears and regulators start to appear mostly with no dial to strike the important moments of daily life
Around 1410The mainspring is devel-oped Combined with the fusee this innovation makes possible the truly portable domestic clock
1492The mechanical watch appears simultaneously in Italy Germany and France
1675Christian Huygens invents the spiral balance spring
for watches significantly improving their accuracy
1704The first watch with jew-els is produced by French watchmaker de Beaufreacute
1714The British parliament offers pound20000 to who-ever can a find a method to determine longitude
1766Parliament publishes the rating results for John Harrisonrsquos H4 marine timekeeper Harrisonrsquos highly accurate marine clock solution to the problem of determining logitude wins him part of the pound20000 prize
1787Pierre-Freacutedeacuteric Ingold is born an important pio-neer in mechanised timepiece production and the use of interchangea-ble parts
1790Jacquet-Droz and Leschot manufactures a watch attached to a strap
1839Vacheron amp Constantin developes a full set of machine tools for manu-facturing its watches
1875Calcium sulphate is the first luminescent sub-stance to be used for numerals and hands
TIMEKEEPING MILESTONES
questions Are modern luxury timepieces every bit as appealing as the vintage watches that typically command top prices at auc-tion And does that Geneva auction tell us anything about the contemporary watch market as a whole
Julien Schaerer Antiquorumrsquos managing director in Geneva says top-quality vintage watches often appreciate in value over the long term But he urges buyers for whom appreciation is an important consideration to be cautious about purchasing contempo-rary watches
lsquoWatch price depreciation is the cost of ownership just as it is with a luxury carrsquo he says lsquoIf the value goes up then
58 March 2014 | inspired
1880The first water- resistant watch incorpo-rating a screwed case is produced by Genevan watchmaker Franccedilois Borgel
1889The first known patent for a wristwatch is filed in Bern Switzerland
1890Dialmaker A Beyeler invents a transfer press for applying numerals and letters to dials
1892Auguste Verneuil in France produces the first synthetic jewels to be used in watchmaking
1904Wens Wilsdorf launches large-scale production of a womenrsquos wristwatch
1924John Harwood files the
first Swiss patent for a self-winding wristwatch with a central oscillating weight
1925The first known wrist-watch with a perpetual calendar is manufactured using a pendant watch movement
1926Rolex creates the Oyster wristwatch with a water-resistant case and crown
1966The first quartz wrist-watch prototype is produced
1969The first quartz watch
with an LED display appears
1978Quartz watches overtake mechanical watches in popularity
2005Creation of the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie Seiko launches the spring drive Kinetic the first self-winding mechanical watch with an electro-magnetic escapement
A Patek Philippe pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon recently sold for pound807000
inspired | March 2014 59
online retailers from the comfort of your homeSince 2006 DM London has quietly estab-
lished a powerful presence for itself in the UK retail watch market with the acquisition of The Watch Hut and The Watch Gallery DM London chairman David Coleridge says the company has capitalised on the increasing willingness of buy-ers to purchase online
lsquoHaving decided that they would like to buy a watch for themselves or someone elsersquo he says lsquopeople start to do their research More often than not this starts online nowadays where they com-pare brands performance and functions
lsquoAs trust in the online marketplace has devel-oped many want to buy online because it is convenient and saves time Shopping online becomes a habit established sites build trust and awareness with customers which gives custom-ers the confidence to buy more expensive itemsrsquo
He adds lsquoOur challenge is to make the online environment as attractive informative and enjoy-able as a high street store Then customers will decide to spend onlinersquo
Coleridge believes a multi-channel approach is the way forward for retailers He says lsquoWithout doubt the future is multi-channel selling ndash a combination of direct selling on the internet and various forms of click and collect ndash combined with beautiful stores on the high street
Over the past few years demand for luxury watches (particularly contemporary models) has spiked sharply in Asia and according to some specialists emerging affluence in the
of course thatrsquos an added benefit However he adds lsquoPrice appreciation is still quite rare with modern watches There is some poten-tial for appreciation but probably only with ultra-limited editions A purchase has to be
seen as a medium- to long-term invest-ment One should buy a timepiece first out of love for the brand or [the watchrsquos] complicationrsquo
The watch brands that offer the greatest assurance of appreci-
ation include Cartier Patek Philippe Rolex Audemars
Piguet A Lange amp Sohne Breguet and Vacheron Constantin All enjoy views from the top of
the watchmaking hierarchy thanks to their longstand-ing histories and well-established brand identities
Relative new-comers to the industry such as Richard Mille and Roger Dubuis have carved out a niche for
themselves with their revolutionary designs and
space-age technologies but it remains to be seen just how well the values of their timepieces will stand up on the secondary market
According to Nathaniel Borgelt a specialist at auction house Sothebyrsquos
some modern watches have already achieved good prices at auction but these (like the Patek Philippe Sky Moon Tourbillon) were highly exclusive models when new
lsquoSome limited edition pieces currently fetch incredible prices at auctionrsquo he says lsquoAnd there is a select group of modern mod-els that could compete with a certain sector of the vintage market based on their brand innovative features such as materials or com-plications and avant-garde designs
Buying these has now become a whole lot easier The luxury watch retailing land-scape is changing and the traditional pattern of physically walking into a luxury salon to buy a watch is gradually being replaced by a trend towards visiting the websites of the big
LUXURY WATCHES
A Lange amp Sohne (above) is a long-standing high-end watchmaker Comparative new-comer Roger Dubuis (right) is forging a strong reputation
inspired | March 2014 PB60 March 2014 | inspired
helpthewatchgallerycom
Hublot ClassiC FusiontHe WatCH Gallery exClusive
The Watch Gallery and Hublot have joined forces to create two very special limited edition watches Both are limited to just 15 pieces worldwide and have been specifically designed to feature The Watch Gallery blue brand colour on the hands and tinted open case back
SelfridgeS OxfOrd StreetWeStfield lOndOnMancheSter exchange Square
wwwthewatchgallerycomhublot-watches
Far East has kept global values strong while other markets around the world continue to recover from recession
Despite the market boost from growing prosperity in Asia there are signs that the market is becoming saturated and that globally the new watch market isnrsquot as robust as some commentators suggest
It may still be a good time to buy but its important to know what you want and what yoursquore buying Modern watchmakers such as Richard Mille Roger Dubuis and Greubel Forsey are producing beautiful timepieces but because of their limited foothold in the market itrsquos difficult to predict their long-term success and desirability They donrsquot yet have the brand power that might ensure the value of their
watches in the secondhand market remains highSuch producers might one day stand eye to
eye with the most desirable brands such as Patek Philippe and Rolex but achieving that kind of parity wonrsquot be easy Collectors looking to invest in timepieces are advised to keep an open mind about modern producers uncertainty is the one aspect of modern luxury watch market most experts tend to agree on
That said the buoyancy in the watch market suggests that plenty of buyers are unconcerned about future values For them itrsquos all about the appreciation of the watch itself People buy watches because they bring them pleasure ndash and say some-thing about who they are
LUXURY WATCHES
Contemporary watches such as those made by Hublot (left) have yet to show they will have the lasting appeal of watches such as Cartierrsquos Rotonde de Cartier Astrocalendaire (right)
inspired | March 2014 63
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-
Isa can suddenly become a poorly paying one But never try to transfer an Isa yourself Contact the new provider first and follow its transfer rules
Remember the amount of money you can invest in a cash Isa in each tax year is capped (currently at pound5760) so if you want to switch in the middle of the tax year you will prob-ably be switching the entire amount ndash you cannot switch a portion of an existing Isa into a new one and top it up If your original Isa is due to pay you interest at the end of the year it should pay you the accrued interest up to the date you close the account
Itrsquos possible to transfer your cash Isa into a stocks and shares Isa if you decide this is a better home for you money but you canrsquot switch your money back from a stocks and shares Isa into a cash Isa
You can invest up to pound11520 in a stocks and shares Isa in a single tax year minus anything you may have paid into a cash Isa ndash which is capped at pound5760
over the long term is usually a far more profitable strategy than minimising risk Investors typi-cally take less risk than they should especially if they have suffered a loss in the past
You can mitigate your overall risk by diversifying across differ-ent asset classes and geographic areas Regular investing is also a great risk reduction strategy
Itrsquos also important to rec-ognise the value of dividend reinvestment and understand the benefit this compound-ing effect has on your portfolio And remember to choose a bro-ker that doesnrsquot penalise you for reinvesting
TRANSFER YOUR ISAS TO GET THE BEST DEALS
Mark King editor MoneywiseUnlike a stocks and shares Isa a cash Isa is a sim-ple savings account with a
tax-free Isa lsquowrapperrsquo placed around it so that you donrsquot pay tax on your interest
You can choose to have access to your money or tie it up until a future date just as with typical savings accounts Generally the longer you tie your money up for the better the interest rate you get
While a cash Isa is considered a low-risk investment ndash which sophisticated investors may find returns too little as a result ndash you can transfer a cash Isa should you decide you want to take on more risk or get a bet-ter rate Indeed you may have to transfer a cash Isa regularly Providers offer different rates that can change so a top-paying
From 6 April ndash the beginning of the 201415 tax year ndash however these limits rise to pound11880 and pound5940 respectively
LOOK AT THE LONG- TERM BENEFITS
Philippa Gee managing director Philippa Gee Wealth Management
Some investors look at the return on an Isa or at the limit on how much they can
invest in a single year and fail to see the value
However they would be wise to consider the longer-term view Those who have invested each year for a number of years have been able to build six- figure portfolios that they do not have to pay any further income or capital gains tax on or list on their tax assessment
By securing a significant sum in an Isa wrapper each year as far as yoursquore able you can build up a valuable flexible and tax-efficient investment
inspired | March 2014 PB14 March 2014 | inspired
EXPERTSrsquoTOP ISA
TIPS
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
TAKING ON RISK OVER THE LONG TERM IS USUALLY MORE PROFITABLERebecca OrsquoKeeffe
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
The ISA thatrsquos
fair and square
We believe in straightforward investing Thatrsquos why we donrsquot nibble at your investments with percentage charges Open an account and for pound20 per quarter you get two pound10 trades and an ISA for free After that itrsquos just pound10 per trade across a wide range of UK and international investmentsTransfer to us today and get up to pound240 as a thank you (terms apply) We believe thatrsquos fair and square
The value of investments and any income from them can fall as well as rise so you could get back less than you invest Tax treatment depends on your individual circumstances and may be subject to change If in any doubt please seek advice
iiicoukisa
Interactive Investor Trading Limited trading as ldquoInteractive Investorrdquo is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority Registered Office Standon House 21 Mansell Street London E1 8AA Tel 0845 200 3637 Registered in England with Company Registration number 3699618
hen new rules were introduced last August allowing the inclusion of Alternative Investment Market (Aim) shares in Isas demand for exposure to the junior market
quickly exceeded expectations Another surge in demand is likely in April as the new tax year dawns and investors have a fresh annual allow-ance to play with
Yet while stocks on Aim can boast eye-catching returns and attractive tax perks they can also be very volatile raising concerns that investors may be letting the tax tail wag the investment dog with-out understanding what they are getting into
The Treasuryrsquos decision to allow Aim shares into Isas was driven by a desire to encourage greater investment in small and medium-sized companies The move was immediately popular with investors and brokers reported a sharp rise in Aim-listed purchases Demand for smaller companies funds was up too as investors wary of direct share ownership
bought into funds offering exposure to Aim stocksIt helped that Aim stocks were enjoying a good
run as were smaller companies generally with the amount of money raised on the market over the summer rising sharply Performance is just one aspect of their appeal however
Aim shares already offered inheritance tax effi-ciency most of them qualify for business property relief making them exempt from IHT when held for two years or more However itrsquos worth noting that BPR is subject to change and a company can lose its eligibility and therefore its IHT relief status as a result Therefore investors wanting to continue benefiting from IHT relief have to switch out of such companies and into those still eligible
Wider income and capital gains tax benefits also drove some demand for Aim shares after the
Isa rule change in August The move created a bed- and-Isa opportunity whereby existing Aim share inves-tors sold their holdings and bought them back within an Isa
Among those quick
Alternative Investment Market stocks offer Isa investors a chance to realise heady returns ndash but you need to pick your holdings carefully because of the high risk of losses in an illiquid market says Jeff Salway
AIMSHARES
W
GEMSTO BE UNEARTHED
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
WE WOULD ONLY INCLUDE AIM STOCKS
IN THE PORTFOLIOS OF ADVENTUROUS CLIENTS David Thomson
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
inspired | March 2014 17
THERE ARE
Treatt has built up an immaculate record of delivering profits
to take advantage was Lord Lee of Trafford the UKrsquos first Isa millionaire and author of How to Make a Million ndash Slowly My Guiding Principles from a Lifetime of Successful Investing lsquoI have a
big holding of Christie Group that was originally in my per-sonal equity planrsquo he says lsquoWhen the company moved to Aim [from the main market] I took it out of the Pep but when Aim shares became Isa-eligible I sold it and bought it back again within my Isarsquo
April 2014 will mark the removal of stamp duty from Aim purchases a develop-ment expected to encourage asset managers to launch a new wave of Aim-focused funds The axing of stamp duty makes the junior market more appeal-ing to companies on the main market as well with several recently moving across
Alec Stewart partner at Anderson Strathern Asset Management explains lsquoA company can reduce its regulatory burden by moving to the junior market with lower audit and compliance requirementsrsquo For example the main market
stipulates that any potential listing should have a market capitalisation no lower than pound700000 whereas therersquos no such guideline on the Aim mar-ket Nor do companies need a trading history to list on Aim compared with the three years required for the main market Moreover the cost of listing on Aim is considerably lower
But for many private investors the main appeal of Aim stocks lies largely in the prospect of sky-high returns from the success of small and fledgling companies There are some 1200 stocks on the market from a wide range of sectors ndash albeit with a heavy weighting in technology and especially natural resources and with a gulf in size between the biggest and smallest
The largest are eligible for the FTSE AIM 50 and the FTSE AIM 100 where the likes of Bowleven Majestic Wine Dobbies Asos and MampC Saatchi are listed
Stewart picks out three he favours as part of a diversified portfolio One is Dart Group The owner of Jet2com and Jet2Holidays Dart has had a lsquostrong runrsquo and is focused on becoming more fam-ily friendly in these budget-conscious times says Stewart lsquoIt benefits from good visibility of future bookings and strong cash generationrsquo he adds
Aerospace and defence firm Cohort is another with a lsquoprogressive dividend policyrsquo that has grown at an annualised rate of 20 per cent over
DEWHURST (pound520)Dewhurst is a well-established manu-facturer of lift pushbuttons indicators and controls keypads for ATMs security devices and petrol pumps and traffic management products such as bollards
The company has a long record of profitability under the stewardship of the Dewhurst family and a debt-free balance sheet That suggests it is a strong competitor
Profits fell in 2013 ndash a result of a slowdown in Dewhurstrsquos major markets and customers having stocked up in the previous year Management is quite cagey about the companyrsquos prospects for 2014 but an improved performance is likely as conditions in the UK and the US improve The shares are probably good value at 11 times adjusted 2013 earnings
MS INTERNATIONAL (pound204)MS International manufactures military hardware forks for forklift trucks and petrol station canopies and car washes
The company has been profitable in each of the past 10 years and has a balance sheet flush with cash yet the share price has fallen to a level that val-ues MSI at five times adjusted 2013
earnings MSIrsquos current unpopularity stems from a decline in the profitability of MSI Defence Systems which has the highest turnover of its three businesses
The company expects 2014 to be no easier than 2013 due to continu-ing pressure on defence spending but itrsquos confident it will add to defence work already contracted and scheduled for every year until 2020
Itrsquos quite possible that MSI is having a lull that does not reflect on the qual-ity of its products or businesses If thatrsquos the case itrsquos a bargain
TREATT (pound747)Treatt distills flavourings and frag-rances essential oils and water-soluble essences Its products are used in drinks confectionery sauces and cosmetics worldwide
The companyrsquos expertise and close customer relationships might give it a competitive advantage and it has never suffered a loss However it has ushered out managing director Hugo Bovill and his family has sold its interest
Management with large share-holdings gives companies some independence from the often short-term imperatives of fund managers
However the new team is focused on controlling costs and developing the most profitable products
Profit grew 28 per cent in 2013 and Treattrsquos long-term prospects are prob-ably good but the share price has spiked valuing the shares at 15 times adjusted 2013 earnings
FW THORPE (pound143)FW Thorpe designs and manufactures light fittings known as luminaires They are becoming increasingly complex with the introduction of LED technology that requires printed circuit boards Its main business is Thorlux which supplies lighting to schools hospitals ware-houses and factories Other subsidiaries supply retailers emergency exit signage and cleanroom lighting
Stable family ownership long indus-try experience and a commitment to modernisation and investment are the keys to Thorpersquos prosperity
Although it has to contend with the additional investment required to produce LED lighting Thorpe is manag-ing the transition well The shares cost pound137 which values the company at about 15 times adjusted 2013 earnings Thatrsquos a fair price for a quality company
Richard Beddard picks out four Aim-listed companies worth considering for inclusion in a diversified Isa share portfolio
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
I TRANSFERRED INTO MY ISA A BIG
HOLDING OF CHRISTIE GROUP THAT USEDTO BE IN MY PEPLord Lee of Trafford
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
AIMSHARES
18 March 2014 | inspired
the past three years he adds Among food pro-ducers he likes Wynnstay It has lsquobenefited from strong revenue and pre-tax profitsrsquo increasing its interim dividend by 9 per cent
But therersquos ample cause for caution too because Aim shares are typically far riskier than those listed on the main market Not only is there the vol-atility inherent in shares issued by smaller firms but there remains the potential for liquidity issues even after the surge of money into the market in recent months Haig Bathgate chief investment officer at Turcan Connell says lsquoThey are by impli-cation of their size much less liquid in terms of the shares that trade hands on a daily basis so they are prone to more extreme price movementsrsquo
UK investors may also be averse to Aim stocks that are effectively overseas companies Indeed many Aim fund portfolios specifically exclude both these and natural resources firms as well as stocks that donrsquot offer business property relief
lsquoSignificant numbers of companies have failed to deliver on expectations in this part of the mar-ket and it is also quite heavily weighted towards technology (12 per cent) resources (9 per cent) and oil and gas companies (22 per cent)rsquo says Bathgate There are transparency concerns too due to the less stringent regulatory and company reporting requirements on the Aim market
lsquoWe would only include Aim stocks within the
portfolios of adventurous clients and then only up to a maximum of 10 per centrsquo says David Thomson chief investment officer at VWM Wealth lsquoEven then the bulk of this is likely to be via a venture capital trust where the investor can also enjoy 30 per cent income tax relief providing a further cushion against the volatility of Aim sharesrsquo
Collective investment funds and trusts offer a way into Aim stocks that provides useful diversification and so reduces the risk of heavy losses Investment trusts can offer particular advantages where Aim-listed shares are concerned as their closed-ended status gives them a hedge against the market liquidity issues that can affect Aim stocks Among the growing number of UK smaller companies investment trusts in which Aim shares are prominent are those run by BlackRock Standard Life and Aberforth Unit trusts invest-ing in Aim companies include the LampG UK Alpha Trust and Cazenove UK Smaller Companies
However there is a downside to access-ing Aim through funds and trusts as investors no longer benefit from the IHT-free status that direct holders of Aim stocks enjoy The risk of hefty losses remains the biggest caveat to investing in Aim
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
AIMSHARESAREMUCHLESS
LIQUIDINTERMSOFTHESHARESTHATTRADEHANDSDAILYHaig Bathgate
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
inspired | March 2014 19
Clockwise from top Cohort Wynnstay and Jet2com are Stewartrsquos picks for a diversified portfolio
rewarding such as smaller companies private equity and emerging markets
Trusts can also increase their assets by borrow-ing So long as this gearing is sensibly priced it should accelerate the trustrsquos gains in positive mar-ket conditions However gearing will exacerbate losses in any downturn The possible closing of the discount will also enhance share price returns
SOLID GROWTHBaillie Gifford Global DiscoveryThis fund picked by independent financial adviser Brian Dennehy invests globally in growth stocks especially companies operating in industries with potential for structural change and innova-tion Dennehy says manager Douglas Brodie has had considerable experience and success in iden-tifying growth opportunities particularly among exciting smaller-cap stocks
CF Lindsell Train UK EquityJohn Husselbee head of multi-asset at Liontrust Asset Management prefers investors to traders Renowned investor Warren Buffett takes a similar view and Husselbee says fund manager Nick Train invests like Buffett Train looks to buy great com-panies such as Burberry Heineken and Unilever when they are good value and hold them lsquoforeverrsquo
Cazenove UK Opportunities This fund aims to achieve long-term capital growth from a focused portfolio of large and medium-sized UK companies Gavin Haynes managing
huge variety of investment funds rang-ing from generalist funds to highly specialised versions aim to generate capital growth for investors
Investing in a specific fund entails investors accepting different degrees of risk in return for a range of potential rewards So when we asked financial advisers to predict which funds offer the best prospects for growth in 2014 we also urged them to consider which types of investor the funds would suit best
Solid growth funds will appeal to investors who prefer steady investment while higher-risk growth funds are likely to be more volatile and appeal to those with a higher risk tolerance Speculative funds could produce handsome returns this year but they could also dip sharply in value
Closed-ended status means investment trusts can invest in less liquid asset classes without having to worry about realising their holdings in a market setback This enables them to invest in areas that have historically proved particularly
A
Helen Pridham and Fiona Hamilton have rounded up a collection of investment funds and trusts experts believe will prosper in the year ahead for investors looking to cash in on an improving economic outlook
PERFECT YOUR FUND PORTFOLIOTO SEE IT
GROW
inspired | March 2014 2120 March 2014 | inspired
FUNDSAND
TRUSTS
GROW
inspired | March 2014 2120 March 2014 | inspired
A
RE Y
OU
A
GLO
BAL
INV
ESTO
R Take a global view of investment trusts expertly managed by Henderson
For over 75 years Henderson Global Investors has been at the forefront of investment trust innovation and development Now with a diverse and established range of managed investment trusts and investment companies Henderson has a global view of the market
Whether you are retirement planning investing for your children looking to take advantage of dynamic global markets or want a cautious investment approach our managed companies offer a wide range of investment objectives and strategies professionally managed by regional experts
If your priority is high income long term capital growth or a mixture of both Henderson Global Investors has a range of solutions which aims to meet your investment needs
Please remember that past performance is not a guide to future performance The value of an investment and the income from it can fall as well as rise as a result of market and currency fluctuations and you may not get back the amount originally invested
Call to receive your Investment Trust brochure or visit wwwhendersoninvestmenttrustscom
0800 856 5656
Investment Trusts managed by Henderson
Issued in the UK by Henderson Global Investors Henderson Global Investors is the name under which Henderson Global Investors Limited (reg no 906355) Henderson Fund Management Limited (reg no 2607112) Henderson Investment Funds Limited (reg no 2678531) Henderson Investment Management Limited (reg no 1795354) Henderson Alternative Investment Advisor Limited (reg no 962757) Henderson Equity Partners Limited (reg no2606646) Gartmore Investment Limited (reg no 1508030) (each incorporated and registered in England and Wales with registered office at 201 Bishopsgate London EC2M 3AE) are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority to provide investment products and services Telephone calls may be recorded and monitored H0046521113ad
Itrsquos a global marketplace
HGiTrusts
director at Whitechurch Securities says fund manager Julie Dean has built up an excellent track record
Securities Trust of ScotlandRobin McAdam likes Securities Trust of Scotland which seeks rising income and long-term capi-tal growth from global equities The trust yields 33 per cent so it provides income and growth potential lsquoThe trust has outperformed its bench-mark recently and we expect this to continuersquo says McAdam
Finsbury Growth amp Income TrustPeter Hewitt nominates Finsbury Growth amp Income Trust on the basis of its strong short- and long-term performance Manager Nick Train seeks out the highest-quality companies to hold long term The portfolio is dominated by companies Train expects to have longevity such as Diageo Unilever and Heineken lsquoThe manager looks for strong cash gen-eration and dividend growth which he believes are undervalued by the stock marketrsquo Hewitt says
RIT Capital PartnersThis multi-asset trust selected by John Newlands is the flagship financial vehicle for its chairman Lord Jacob Rothschild and his family lsquoGiven the uncertainty in the world it is no bad thing to be diversified both globally and across a range of asset classes RIT is a global growth trust that offers a combination of these benefitsrsquo Newlands says
His enthusiasm is bolstered by RITrsquos current relatively wide discount which reflects disap-pointment among investors that it was rather too cautious over the past two or three years
Perpetual Income amp Growth Trust This trust is classified as a member of the AIC UK growth and income sector but its yield tends to be below the sector average because manager Mark Barnett is more interested in income growth than immediate income Tim Cockerill classifies it as a total return trust and makes it his solid growth choice Barnett has secured excellent long-term returns dur-ing his 15 years at the helm
HIGHER-RISK GROWTHLazard Emerging MarketsMick Gilligan believes the investment case for emerging market equi-ties remains strong He says lsquoEquity markets in emerging regions are trading at their widest price-to-earnings discount to developed markets since 2006 We believe many well-capitalised businesses that have shown strong financial discipline should gener-ate good profitsrsquo The Lazard Emerging Markets fund focuses on such businesses
Rathbone Global OpportunitiesThis go-almost-anywhere bottom-up thorough stockpicking fund looks for undiscovered gems Rob Burdett fund manager at Thames River believes manager James Thomson strikes the
KEY FACTS ABOUT GROWTH FUND TIPS
Mininv pound
Ongoing Charges
1-yearreturn
Sectorrank
SOLID GROWTHBaillie Gifford Global Discovery 1000 086 5920 2248CF Lindsell Train UK Equity ndash 080 2910 53271Cazenove UK Opportunities 1000 082 3210 40271 HIGHER-RISK GROWTHInvestec Global Energy 1000 087 1420 40206Lazard Emerging Markets 2000 161 320 1668Rathbone Global Opportunities 1000 082 2150 111248 SPECULATIVE GROWTHAllianz BRIC Stars 500 122 -120 134206Liontrust Special Situations 1000 114 1450 251271MampG Recovery 500 096 1330 264271Note Ongoing charges figure refers to the least expensive retail share class Source Financial Express and companies websites as at 3 December 2013
KEY FACTS ABOUT THE TRUSTS TIPPED FOR GROWTH
Shareprice
p
Discprem to NAV
Netyield
Gearing
Net asset valuetotal return after
1 year
3 years
5 years
SOLID GROWTHFinsbury Growth amp Income 5010 (+) 12 21 50 305 767 2038Perpetual Income amp Growth 3686 10 32 120 346 714 1407RIT Capital Partners 12480 105 11 50 210 225 591Securities Trust of Scotland 1469 (+) 31 32 40 192 460 1132 HIGHER-RISK GROWTHBiotech Growth Trust 4335 72 00 70 582 1723 2968Fidelity Chinese Special Sits 1062 65 09 210 433 02 ndashGraphite Enterprise Trust 5690 170 09 -90 167 442 405Schroder Asia Pacific 2730 92 14 -20 08 201 1779 SPECULATIVE GROWTHBaker Steel Resources 470 331 00 10 -57 -137 740Hansa Trust A 8600 243 23 10 142 69 947Impax Environmental Markets 1463 112 06 -20 350 285 921Standard Life Eq Inc subscription 1070 ndash 00 3700 ndash ndash ndashNotes NAV = net asset value Annualised All data as at 1 December Source Numis Securities
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
MARK BARNETT HAS SECURED
EXCELLENT RETURNSTim Cockerill
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
inspired | March 2014 23PB March 2014 | inspired
FUNDSANDTRUSTS
right balance between taking calculated risks for high returns and investing in defensive holdings Burdett says lsquoHe likes companies undertaking gentle innovation ndash moving online for example ndash rather than game changers which have more potential to go wrongrsquo Investec Global EnergyThis fund invests in companies that produce energy and provide services to the energy sector Fund managers Tom Nelson and Charles Whall believe the consensus view on future oil prices anticipates weak demand and growing supply from US shale oil But they demur as does Tony Yarrow at Wise Investment He says lsquoOil is harder to extract from shale than gas is while demand for oil is growing as economies recover A higher oil price feeds straight through to the companiesrsquo profitsrsquo
Biotech Growth TrustPeter Hewitt favours Biotech Growth Trust which has achieved scorching gains recently ndash up 172 per cent over three years to 1 December 2013
It is managed in New York by Orbimed a specialist healthcare and biotechnology investor with $7 bil-lion (pound42 billion) under management It offers exposure to a mix of large and profitable biotech companies along-side emerging businesses Most of its holdings are US-based and they have
benefited from a much more positive approach by the Federal Drug Authority ndash new drug approvals in 2010 were the highest for 10 years
Graphite Enterprise TrustAndrew McHattie contends that just one sector offers great value private equity lsquoThese trusts were hammered in the credit crisis and discounts widened to extreme levelsrsquo he says
His selection is Graphite Enterprise Trust Its discount to net asset value remains at a level that rings alarm bells in most other sectors but it has a strong track record and a relatively mature port-folio of shares he expects to rise in value
Fidelity Chinese Special SituationslsquoWith Chinese equities looking cheap the long-term outlook for investing in China is positiversquo Cockerill says lsquoThis fund invests in medium and small caps where high growth can be achieved New manager Dale Nicholls is well qualified and the combination of Fidelity manager experience and China is compelling in the long termrsquo
Scottish Oriental Smaller Companies Trust This trust is favoured by McAdam The invest-ment team identifies quality companies offering sustainable predictable growth lsquoThe trust may underperform if the market rises strongly but the teamrsquos enviable track record and experience should be respectedrsquo he says
Tim Cockerill is investment director at Rowan Dartington
RowanDartingtonhas20investmentadvisersbasedinsevenofficesacrossthesouthofEnglandIthaspound900millionunderman-
agementInvestmenttrustshavefeaturedinitsdiscretionaryandadvisoryportfoliosformanyyears
Peter Hewittis a member of FampC Asset Managementrsquos global equities team
HehasmanagedtheFampCManagedPortfolioTrustsinceApril2008aswellasitsforerunnerFampCManagedPortfolio
Servicesince2002HewasheadofUKequitiesatMurray
Johnstonefrom1981to1983beforejoiningIvoryampSime
Jean Mattersonis a partner and chief investment officer at Rossie House Investment Management
Shejoinedthefirmin1998after20yearswithassetmanagerStewartIvory
BasedinEdinburghsheisoneoffiveinvestment
professionalsmanagingaroundpound300mil-lionallonadiscretionarybasisAroundhalfisininvestmenttrusts
Robin McAdamjoined Brooks MacDonald Asset Management in 2009 from Adam amp Company Investment Management
Hehas24yearsrsquoexperi-encemanagingprivateclientportfoliosandheadsBMrsquosEdinburghbranch
Thefirmhaspound537billionunderdiscretionarymanagementinbespokeandmanagedportfolios
Andrew McHattieis head of The McHattie Group
McHattieGroupisanauthorisedfirmthatpublishesspecialistinvestmentnewsletters
McHattiehasbeentheeditorofInvestmentTrustNewslettersince1996(wwwtipsheetscouk)andoffersafreeservicecalledthelsquoitlistrsquo(wwwtheitlistcouk)ThecompanyhasaFacebookpage(wwwfacebookcominvestmenttrusts)
John Newlandsis responsible for investment trust research at Brewin Dolphin
Heissupportedbyfouranalystswhocoverspecificsectorsresearchingopen-andclosed-endedfunds
BrewinDolphinhas35officesaroundtheUKandChannelIslandsandmanagespound28billionofwhichpound39billionisininvestmenttrusts
TrusttipstersOursixexpertsrevealtheirtopfundpicks
inspired | March 2014 PB24 March 2014 | inspired
FUNDSAND
TRUSTS
One in twelve goes free on your next golf break plus every golfer receives a free pint
12thmansagimme
Book online at MarriottGolfcouk
Offer is only valid on residential golf bookings booked during the promotional dates For every 11 players booked the 12th player will be free of charge Rates are per person per night based on 2 people sharing a twindouble room and include dinner bed amp breakfast Bookings must be made by one named player and separate bookings will not qualify Each residential player aged 18 and over will receive a voucher entitling them to a complimentary pint
of Beckrsquos or Boddingtons Offer is valid on bookings made via 3rd parties Offer is available on 1 night 2 rounds or 2 night 3 rounds and excludes Sunday Driver Maximum of 2 night stay and 2 people per room Day of week availability may vary based on location Limited number of rooms may be available This offer applies to new bookings only at Marriott Hotel amp Country Clubs and offer courses and tee times are subject to availability Offer cannot
be used in conjunction with any other promotion Course terms and conditions apply Advance reservations required Book between 17th February and 29th June 2014 for stays between 4th April and 29th September 2014
The SIPP thatrsquos
fair and square
We believe in straightforward investing Thatrsquos why we donrsquot nibble at your SIPP with percentage fees For just pound144 per year you can open a SIPP and add an ISA for free After that itrsquos just pound10 to buy or sell a wide range of investments including shares funds bonds and gilts Open an account today and if you transfer your existing SIPP wersquoll give you up to pound240 as a thank you (terms apply) We believe thatrsquos fair and square
The value of investments and any income from them can fall as well as rise so you could get back less than you invest Tax treatment depends on your individual circumstances and may be subject to change If in any doubt please seek advice
iiicouksipp
Interactive Investor Trading Limited trading as ldquoInteractive Investorrdquo is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority Registered Office Standon House 21 Mansell Street London E1 8AA Tel 0845 200 3637 Registered in England with Company Registration number 3699618
SPECULATIVE GROWTHMampG RecoveryDennehy says manager Tom Dobell backs his convictions engages with companies he invests in and has delivered long-term outperformance lsquoDobellrsquos MampG Recovery fund has a clear value-style process and management stability It invests in a wide range of firms that are out of favour or in difficulty or whose prospects are not fully rec-ognised by the marketrsquo he says
Liontrust Special SituationsHusselbee says Liontrustrsquos Anthony Cross and Julian Fosh have their own unique philosophy He adds lsquoThey look for characteristics in a company that its competitors find difficult to replicate such as intellectual property or distribution channelsrsquo
Allianz Bric StarsThis fund aims for capital growth in the long term by investing mainly in Brazil Russia India and China Haynes says investors have shunned these markets recently and valuations fallen He adds lsquoFor investors looking for a recovery story this fund is worth considerationrsquo
Standard Life Equity Income subscription shareMcHattie says warrant and subscription shares are widely ignored creating opportunities for those who understand them He favours the subscrip-tion shares of Standard Life Equity Income which can be exercised at 320p a share up to the end of December 2016 lsquoThey offer gearing of 37 times and if the ordinary shares grow by more than 28 per cent a year between now and the end of 2016 the subscription shares ought to outperformrsquo
Impax Environmental MarketsMcAdam likes this trust It invests in companies seeking to provide cleaner or more-efficient energy as well as water and waste solutions to the growing problems faced by authorities around the world It offers exposure to a rapidly changing marketplace as well as to socially responsible investments
Hansa TrustJohn Newlands sees potential in the A shares of Hansa Trust which languish at a discount of more than 25 per cent He says that whereas the trustrsquos portfolio appears skewed with a third of its assets in Ocean Wilsons there is actually plenty of diversification because Ocean Wilsons has an investment portfolio that stands at a discount to underlying value lsquoOne day an attractive bid [may] be made for Ocean Wilsons that will enhance Hansarsquos NAV and sim-plify its capital structure all to the good of its market ratingrsquo Newlands says
Baker Steel Resources TrustJean Matterson hopes for good returns from this trust shares in which trade on a near 30 per cent discount lsquoIt has not had an easy run of late but we believe the underlying assets are attractive and that the mining projects in the companyrsquos portfo-lio will continue to progressrsquo she says
Prospects have improved for biotechs (left) while growing interest in sustain-able energy has boosted Impax
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
AHIGHEROILPRICEFEEDSSTRAIGHT
THROUGHTOPROFITSTony Yarrow
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
inspired | March 2014 27PB March 2014 | inspired
FUNDSANDTRUSTS
The world of funds and trusts is a confusing place with over 2300 funds and more than 300 investment trusts to choose from
Money Observerrsquos Rated Funds system narrows down the playing field to help you decide which funds and investment trusts might be best for you
Our team of experts constantly monitor the marketplace rating those funds that have delivered consistently good returns However you should be aware that there is no guarantee this performance will be repeated
With our comparison tool you can filter by whatrsquos important to you compare up to four funds and trusts side-by-side as well as view factsheets
COMPAREMONEY OBSERVER RATED FUNDS
VISIT MONEYOBSERVERCOMCOMPAREFUNDS AND LOOK OUT FOR THE RATED FUND STAMP
had spare cash or I were start-ing afresh The companies in the add category are high qual-ity judging by the strategies they follow and their finan-cial strength and are probably undervalued
Irsquom more likely to eject or reduce holdings in companies in the watch and specula-tive categories These shares are more risky either because they have risen greatly in price or because their prospects are more uncertain than usual I may think the risk is worth tak-ing but I am prepared to act should that calculation change
Every decision to increase a portfolio holding must be weighed against the potential of new candidates drawn from all companies listed in the UK and corralled into another live spreadsheet the Share Sleuth watchlist When I add a share to the watchlist or trade a share in the portfolio I explain this in the Share Sleuth blog
ccumulating income and capital gains in an index tracking fund is inexpensive takes little effort and all but guarantees an
average return so it should be the default investment for a lazy equity investor saving for the long term
To justify the work of decid-ing which shares to buy and sell and the effort and cost of placing trades an active investor must do better Consequently the first objective of the active Share Sleuth portfolio is to beat passive investments after costs over the long-term which in practice means any five-year period The second objective is to win this tussle against an unknowing and unthinking opponent transparently
At the heart of the portfolio is an online spreadsheet The first page shows the constitu-ent shares arranged into three categories lsquoaddrsquo lsquowatchrsquo and lsquospeculativersquo The categorisa-tion is updated daily based on live data in subsequent spread-sheets each of which contains a financial model for a particular company
The Share Sleuth portfo-lio shows the holdings I would add to the portfolio today if it
Share Sleuth is a simulation no money changes hands But I use prices quoted by a bro-ker and adjust the accounting to factor in notional broker fees and stamp duty However I lsquoeat my own cookingrsquo by investing my self-invested personal pen-sion in Share Sleuth companies
No doubt you are wonder-ing how the portfolio is doing Share Sleuthrsquos five-year anni-versary judgement day is on 9 September this year and I will not prejudge it now
Short-term performance watching and the knee-jerk trad-ing it encourages is I think one reason why many inves-tors fail My focus is on ensuring the portfolio remains invested in good companies at reasona-ble prices
You can see a live perfor-mance table and learn what I think of every share in the port-folio and which companies I might add to it at wwwiiicoukZkr
SHAREBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIOR
The Share Sleuth portfolio has been carefully devised to show investors how to find good companies at cheap prices and also prove the value of its investment approach says Richard Beddard
Richard Beddard an editor at Interactive Investor since 1999 has managed the Share Sleuth portfolio since 9 September 2009 Hersquos a columnist at Money Observer magazine and a private investor
AMY FOCUS IS ON ENSURING THAT THE PORTFOLIO IS INVESTED IN GOOD FIRMS AT DECENT PRICES
inspired | March 2014 29PB March 2014 | inspired
SHARESLEUTH
iiicoukstraightforward
Interactive Investor Trading Limited trading as ldquoInteractive Investorrdquo is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority Registered Office Standon House 21 Mansell Street London E1 8AA Tel 0845 200 3637 Registered in England with Company Registration number 3699618
We believe in being straightforwardthis is why we donrsquot nibble at your investment by charging percentage fees Find out how this could affect your investment performance at iiicoukstraightforward
If you transfer to us you can even get up to pound240 as a thank you (terms apply)
Donrsquot forget the value of investments and any income from them can fall as well as rise so you could get back less than you invest If in any doubt please seek advice
7784_II_QI_MONEY_OBSERVER_210x297_AWindd 1 16012014 1224
Take a closer look
at your investment
options
Discover a straightforward way to understand everything from ISAs to SIPPs and OEICs to Investment Trusts
Investing for generationsEver feel yoursquod like to know more about investing Wersquove been helping people build their wealth for over 125 years Our guide lsquoMaking sense of the investment universersquo is just one of the resources yoursquoll find on our Investment Focus hub
As well as clear simple guides therersquos a wealth of information and expert opinion all designed to help you take control of your investments Please remember that investments can go down as well as up and investors may get back less than they originally invested
Introducing your free online source of information help and expert opinion
investment-focuscouk
This has been approved as a financial promotion by Alliance Trust Investments Limited for the purpose of Section 21 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 Alliance Trust Investments Limited is a subsidiary of Alliance Trust PLC and is registered in Scotland No SC330862 registered office 8 West Marketgait Dundee DD1 1QN is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority firm reference number 479764 Alliance Trust Investments gives no financial or investment advice
TAX YEAR ENDS APRIL 5TH ndash learn more about
your options now
Investment Focus Smart Insight from Alliance Trust
Yoursquove spoken Wersquove listened Introducing your free online source of information help and expert opinion
Based on real insight we have launched a new website which focuses on investment education
We believe that we are uniquely positioned to provide this hub of information based on the reputation we have built for trust and transparency over the last 125 years
We will be publishing new content over the next few months focusing on specific themes
bull Investing from scratch
bull Products in a portfolio
bull Global diversification
bull Planning for your familyrsquos future
bull Retirement planning
bull Getting more information
There is a generation of future investors out there who have been brought up in an era of economic turmoil and banking crises which has led to disillusionment and a lack of trust in our sector and the services we offer Despite it being more important than ever for investors to take control of their financial situation this new generation of savers lacks the basic knowledge and understanding to make these very important long-term decisions
Our goal is to develop a useful resource with contributions from third-parties as well as the team at Alliance Trust which offers insights into the various life stages and challenges faced and which can be built upon and adapted to meet savers needs in the long term
Katherine Garrett-Cox CBE Chief Executive Alliance Trust PLC
ldquo
rdquo
There are too many products to make an informed decision
I donrsquot know whereto go for reliable
information
investment-focuscouk
Yoursquoll naturally take a keen interest in the performance of your investments But itrsquos just as important to understand the fees you will be paying as they can have a significant impact on the returns you achieve Knowing what the different types of costs mean and exactly what they consist of can prove rewarding
Itrsquos worth remembering that for every fee you pay (whether it is a or flat fee) your investment needs to grow by at least the same amount just to stay ahead of the game It sounds obvious but itrsquos easy to forget Broadly speaking there are three types of fees fund fees platform fees and fees for a financial adviser You can either invest directly into a fund and pay the associated fees or you can invest via a platform provider (some of which are referred to as wrap platforms others as fund supermarkets) This is a service that lets you manage and review all your investments online in one place As a general rule fund fees are lower when
bought through a platform than if you buy direct You can invest through a platform on either an execution only basis where the investor assesses the risks and makes their own investment decisions or on an advised basis
Learn more about fund platform and financial advice fees
What can you expect to seeOver the next two pages we have provided a sneak preview of just some of the information you will find on the Investment Focus hub We will be updating the site regularly so make sure you sign up for our email alerts to be informed when new topics are published
Everything you need to know about fees
Risk informationInvestments can go down as well as up You may get back less than you originally invested
Alliance Trust does not give advice You need to ensure you understand the risks and commitments before investing If you are unsure you should consult a Financial Adviser before investing
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
For the vast majority of investors the simplest cheapest and most pragmatic way to invest is through pooled funds
Sometimes called managed funds unit trusts or even Open-Ended Investment Companies (or OEICs) these are designed to give ordinary savers access to a diverse range of investments
One of the principles of investment is that diversification helps reduce risk But it is expensive and time consuming for ordinary savers to buy shares of 80 to 100 different companies and keep track of how each is performing
But with a managed fund you are pooling your money with other investors enabling the fund manager to buy a wide range of assets
Investors have the option of buying an actively managed or passive fund With an active fund the manager selects and then monitors these stocks for investors in a bid to maximise returns
In contrast a passive fund will simply follow a stock market index such as the FTSE100 up and down
Having a manager at the helm can be beneficial in a market downturn as they can take a more defensive approach buying shares that are better able to hold their value or in some cases switching to bonds or cash instead to help preserve investorsrsquo capital Managers can also research individual companies and markets and have access to forecasts and economic data that isnrsquot always available to individuals
Learn more about investing for growth or income exploring different investment remits how to invest and keeping track of your investments
Understanding funds Written by Emma Simon Personal Finance Journalist
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
What are Investment TrustsInvestment Trusts are investment vehicles that are listed on the London Stock Exchange and which invest in shares and other securities They pool together investorsrsquo money and delegate responsibility to a professional fund manager to invest in a range of companies from different sectors and regions across the world They were designed for ldquothe investor of moderate meansrdquo
A brief historybull The first Investment Trust was launched by Foreign amp
Colonial in 1868
bull Investment Trusts made it possible for individual investors to gain diversified exposure to global stock markets
bull Many Investment Trusts were formed in Scotland including Alliance Trust PLC which was formed over 125 years ago
A guide to Investment Trusts
Learn more about Investment Trusts their main features and why you should consider them for your portfolio
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
Alliance Trust is an investment and savings business with over 125 year history of building investor wealth We offer our shareholders clients and customers a unique portfolio of products and services These range from a renowned global investment trust to an innovative range of investment strategies and funds and a multi-award winning investment platform where investors can host their ISAs SIPPs or investment accounts Our mission is to provide products and services that help to ensure a more sustainable financial future for generations of investors
Alliance Trust PLC is one of the largest generalist investment trusts by market value listed on the London Stock Exchange and is the parent company to two wholly-owned subsidiaries Alliance Trust Savings and Alliance Trust Investments
The fact that many of us make irrational decisions when it comes to our finances is widely debated and is often referred to as behavioural finance In this short video we talk to Professor Phyl Johnson Consultant Psychologist and Visiting Professor of Executive Education at Strathclyde Business School about why this is and more importantly about what we can do as individuals to avoid it
About us Alliance Trust Investments is a specialist fund management business offering a range of products and services focusing on global equities fixed income and sustainable investing with an emphasis on specialist investment solutions
Alliance Trust Savings is one of the UKrsquos leading financial services providers for private investors offering customers the information and services they need to manage their investments in a way that works for them
Risk informationInvestments can go down as well as up You may get back less than you originally invested
Alliance Trust does not give advice You need to ensure you understand the risks and commitments before investing If you are unsure you should consult a Financial Adviser before investing
Unusually for a company of our size around 70 of shares
in Alliance Trust are held by private
individuals
Nobodyrsquos perfect why we all make irrational decisions
Inflation by ageThis monthrsquos official inflation report showed that the headline rate of inflation fell from 20 to 19 Our Economic Research Team analyse this data on a monthly basis to see how inflation rates affect different age groups In February 2014 the summary highlights include
bull The over 75s and the under 30s face the highest rate of inflation in January at 21
bull The over 75s suffered the highest rate of inflation for the whole of 2013 and this trend continues into 2014 as they spend a larger share of their budgets on basic goods such as gas and electricity
bull The 65 to 74 year olds have faced the lowest rate of inflation in 11 out of the last 12 months thanks to lower inflation in food petrol and package holidays
Learn more about how inflation might affect you
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
You can also sign up for our regular email alerts to be informed when new topics are published by clicking here
Wersquove been bringing clarity to investment for over 125 years
Investing for generationsWhen it comes to investing therersquos no substitute for experience And at Alliance Trust wersquove been helping people invest since 1888 Our new Investment Focus hub is full of online information and expert opinion It aims to provide real insight to help you take control of your investments
Over the next few weeks the hub will build to cover everything from taking your first steps to diversifying worldwide Please remember that investments can go down as well as up and investors may get back less than they originally invested For valuable insight from Alliance Trust visit Investment Focus today
Introducing your free online source of information help and expert opinion
investment-focuscouk
This has been approved as a financial promotion by Alliance Trust Investments Limited for the purpose of Section 21 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 Alliance Trust Investments Limited is a subsidiary of Alliance Trust PLC and is registered in Scotland No SC330862 registered office 8 West Marketgait Dundee DD1 1QN is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority firm reference number 479764 Alliance Trust Investments gives no financial or investment advice
TAX YEAR ENDS APRIL 5TH ndash learn more about
your options now
Change the way you think about stocks reap the rewardsBy Edward Page Croft CEO Stockopediacom
I remember so clearly the day when I picked my first stock for clients Managing $2 billion (pound12 billion) in assets across 100 portfolios for high-net-wealth private investors is no easy task As I was to learn when you are green
and straight out of university itrsquos even harder The stock in question was on the Goldman
Sachs US lsquobuyrsquo list It had the potential to be hot Dotcoms were bubbling It was an internet stock in education services and cheap It seemed like it had everything but we needed to get in One day it fell out of bed Down 50 per cent on no news
Irsquod been trained to call the analyst in situations like this He reiterated his buy stance Double buy On my insistence we put almost $20 million of client money into the stock within an hour The next day it fell another 50 per cent on
bad newsThere is nothing more
painful than a loss but you never forget the first
one It immedi-ately forced me to reconsider every-thing I thought I
knew From that day on I vowed to never trust anotherrsquos opin-ion and find a better
way through the market minefieldIrsquove now spent 15 years
reassessing common
wisdom about stock selection No stone has gone unturned in the quest to understand the behav-ioural flaws that lead to poor decision making But there is one finding that crops up again and again in all the research that hurts stock market investors most We as investors are suckers for stories
A 1990rsquos study of 60000 private investor broker-age accounts by Kumar and Goetzmann found that 70 per cent of portfolios held less than four stocks
The stocks held all tended to be in the same sector highly correlated and risky Think internet stocks in the 1990s China in the 2000s or resource stocks more recently The grand theme sucks everyone in The outcome rarely dif-fers Kumar and Goetzmann showed that across these
60000 accounts the average underperformance was of the order of 4 per cent annually
This massive failing across private inves-tor portfolios is repeated in nearly every market cycle and is bound to happen again in this one Benjamin Graham the great father of value invest-ing and tutor of Warren Buffett once wrote
lsquoIn the short run the stock market is a vot-ing machine but in the long run it is a weighing machinersquo
ADVERTISING FEATURE
IN THE SHORT RUN THE STOCK MARKET IS A VOTING MACHINE BUT IN THE LONG RUN IT IS A WEIGHING MACHINEBenjamin Graham
What he meant was that while stories may drive stocks in the short run statistics drive stocks in the long run When statistics reassert them-selves it can cause huge damage to investors punting their portfolios on stories
It doesnrsquot take much to learn how basic statis-tics can guide your portfolio into winning stock selections though very few seem to understand how to do it Benjamin Graham as his life wore on gradually came to the conclusion that building portfolios according to rules-based processes was a far more appropriate methodology for the typi-cal investor
lsquoTry to buy groups of stocks that meet some sim-ple criterion for being undervalued ndash regardless of
the industry and with very little attention to the indi-vidual company It seems too good to be true but all I can tell you after 60 years of experience is it seems to stand up under any of the tests I would make uprsquo
My time is now dedi-cated to helping investors practice exactly what Benjamin Graham and many other investment luminaries have preached rules-based investing For the majority itrsquos a better process and leads to bet-ter outcomes Our work at
Stockopediacom where we crunch fundamental and technical data in order to model and track the investment processes of the great investors bears this out
Portfolios composed with stocks showing the right statistical mix of value quality and momen-tum have significantly outperformed Rules-based investing beats the market But more importantly it helps promote the emotional detachment needed to stop investors from beating themselves
Irsquoll never buy a stock on a punt or an analystrsquos tip again Perhaps neither should you
For a two week free trial and pound50 discount to Stockopedia UK Premium CLICK HERE
TANK MCM A N U F A C T U R E M O V E M E N T 1 9 0 4 M C
SINCE THE CREATION OF THE FIRST TANK WATCH IN 1917 THE TANK COLLECTION HAS CONTINUED
TO BREAK NEW GROUND THE INCREDIBLY REFINED AESTHETICS OF THE NEW TANK MC WATCH ARE FITTED
WITH THE CARTIER MANUFACTURE MOVEMENT 1904 MC ESTABLISHED IN 1847 CARTIER CREATES
EXCEPTIONAL WATCHES THAT COMBINE DARING DESIGN AND WATCHMAKING SAVOIR-FAIRE
EXPLORE AND SHOP WWWCARTIERCOUK - (020) 3147 4850
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TO THE CONNOISSEUR section of Inspired a showcase for the finer things in life for those who truly appreciate them
Enjoying the fruits of your labour away from the relentless demands of our age poses its own challenges and quandaries Would a tropical idyll restore your ebbing energy levels Might a break based around hair-raising activities revive them even more effectively Perhaps reawakening a dormant passion for fine wines or luxury cars would be the most enjoyable reward for your industry
A luxury tropical holiday is probably near the top of most peoplersquos wish lists We take a look at some of the most tantalising options
The arrival of BMWrsquos new super coupe is featured on page 50 BMW aficionados and petrolheads alike are certain to be won over by its head-turning looks and mouthwatering specs
Gems come under the microscope on page 53 A rare coloured diamond can be a joy as well an appreciating asset
Wine is on the menu on page 54 where we explore the charms of Argentinian Malbec
Watches are often treasured objects and the best can turn out to be shrewd investments We look at the secondary watch market and the growth of online retailing on page 58 Enjoy
Welcome
40 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
FIVE TOP PRIVATE ISLAND RETREATSIslandFantasy
Top-rated resorts and hotels offer a variety of temptations and services to impress even the most discerning tastes but there is no better way to escape the rigours and
stresses of daily life than cutting off from the outside world while still enjoying lavish service
in the pinnacle of all resorts the private islandThere are thousands of small islands around
the world but only a few have chosen to cater to the most discriminating travellers seeking a rarified yet perfect world of quiet and relaxed luxury We look at five of the worldrsquos top private islands destinations where your holiday is certain to be an exceptional experience
TRAVEL
Necker Island is owned by Sir Richard Branson and guests stay in his home The island has become a popular des-tination for some of the worldrsquos most prominent figures as a hideaway from lifersquos stresses and strains
Because Necker Island is a resi-dence and not a resort guests who rent the island are treated as owners and catered for in a unique way
The74-acre island is fringed with beautiful white beaches and surrounded by turquoise waters and coral reefs It boasts every resort-type amenity guests can spend their days being pampered in the spa explor-ing underwater reefs in a submarine lounging by the pool bar or swimming in one of the worldrsquos most elab-orate private pools
Haute cuisine is a highlight for most guests ndash rates are fully inclusive of all food and drink A team of chefs creates bespoke menus featuring anything from lobster and caviar to a Sunday roast And because Necker is a home first and a resort second guests decide whether dining will be formal or informal inside or outside themed or traditional
The bar is stocked with international wines top-quality spirits and beers and a world renowned house champagne while special orders can be shipped in at no extra charge ndash unless an item is particularly rare Every service and amenity is available around the clock and guests are encouraged to treat Necker as their own home
As youLike it
NECKER ISLAND
42 March 2014 | inspired
Unalloyed luxury and an impressive range of amenities make Necker one of the most desirable island destinations in the world
The Jumby Bay resort which is only accessible by boat from Antigua is a Caribbean hideaway owned by Rosewood Resorts It is perfect for those seeking either relaxation or spirited adventure
You can rent the island resort entirely for your stay or simply take a room Those opt-ing for exclusive use of the island will have the resortrsquos two pools three tennis courts fitness centre croquet field and putting green to themselves
A wide range of water sports are available and guests can indulge in as much adventure or relaxation as they want during their stay The resort is ideal for large family
reunions or corporate retreats ndash 40 guest rooms and suites are available on the island
Executive chef Sylvain Hervochon celebrates gastron-omy ndash and mixology (cocktail making) ndash with casual elegance by creating Caribbean-style dishes inspired by fresh local ingredients and incorporating international influences
Jumby Bayrsquos rates start at pound150000 for four nights based on double occupancy between May and December Visit wwwrosewoodhotelscomenjumby-bay-antigua for further information
Fine BalanceCaribbean ambiance international sophistication and adventurous activities make Jumby Bay a compelling choice
JUMBY BAY
Just laze by the pool or venture beyond to dive in the turquoise waters of the South Pacific among stunning reefs and a dazzling array of marine creatures
Isle of PlentyT
he private island of Laucala in the South Pacific is a 3500-acre site in a picturesque rainforest-laced land-scape Enchanting deserted beaches nestle among coconut plantations organic farms and lush green vol-canic mountains
The resort offers an outstanding level of refined lux-ury as well as a compelling collection of sporting and cultural activities diving among iridescent marine life in the warm turquoise waters guided rainforest tours horse riding surfing and golfing on the 18-hole cham-pionship course The island is a superb choice for an escape from civilization whether you want an adven-ture in the wild or simply to relax in one of Laucalarsquos five restaurants and bars
Rates are available on request Visit wwwlaucalacom for further details
TRAVEL
LAUCALA ISLAND
inspired | March 2014 4544 March 2014 | inspired
Lush green surroundings sensitive development and beautiful beaches help Laucala island conjure up a complete South Seas experience
Isle of Plenty
inspired | March 2014 4544 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
inspired | March 2014 4746 March 2014 | inspired
Slow LaneSlow
Pulau Joyo is a seductively serene environment of pristine beaches surrounded by clear blue sea in Indonesiarsquos Riau Archipelago Accessible from Singapore or Bintan Pulau Joyo is a true castaway island offering every resort luxury
amid untouched natural beauty Pulau Joyo is famous for its remarkable sunsets and
brightly star-lit sky The resort can host 28 guests and 20 staff are on hand to cater to their every need Guests stay in open driftwood lsquopalacesrsquo that lsquoallow the sea inrsquoDespite its desert island appeal Pulau Joyo offers every modern convenience a range of adrenaline boosting activities and more relaxing options such as spa treatments and massages
The resortrsquos cuisine focuses on western and Indonesian dishes Meals are usually served buffet style and feature grilled fish squid prawns beef and chicken as well as many curry dishes Side dishes include fresh garden salads pasta salads boiled or steamed leafy greens and grilled aubergine (an island favourite) Prawn and tofu kebabs appear from time to time as does satay The chef will often provide a selection of freshly picked fruit and homemade cakes for dessert Itrsquos worth noting that the management will not serve pork or shellfish on this private island
Pulau Joyo may not be as refined as some islands but itrsquos an excellent choice for those who want a more casual laidback island experience that replicates the castaway experience like perhaps no other
Rates start at pound1913 a night More information is available at wwwpulau-joyocom
Wannabe castaways may find Pulau Joyorsquos purer simpler take on the luxury island experience more to their taste
PULAU JOYO
inspired | March 2014 4746 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
In the Fijian island paradise of Dolphin Island a small army of staff await to meet guestsrsquo every need On arriving ndash by boat helicopter or float plane ndash visitors are invariably struck by the beauty of the island and the luxuri-ous accommodation that awaits them amid 14-acres of lush tropical gardens
Three traditional palm-thatched bures individually designed by world renowned interior designer Virginia Fisher sit in an elevated position around the resortrsquos infinity pool
Guests are brought fresh tropical fish to choose each day that are cooked to perfec-
tion within hours of leaving the water The culinary focus is on
organic produce and ingredi-ents unique to Fijian cuisine but meals are tailored to guestsrsquo personal tastes Papayas man-goes bananas and pineapples
are plentiful throughout the day When it comes to recreation the
14-acre island is an expansive play-ground offering a diverse range of watersports as well as diving opportunities on Fijirsquos coral reefs
Rates start at pound720 a night More information is avail-able at wwwdolphinislandfijicom
Fijian Paean
Traditional features modern comforts and excellent facilities make for a harmonious whole on this Fijian island
DOLPHIN ISLAND
48 March 2014 | inspired
Pictured slightly larger than actual size
Big Pilotrsquos Watch Ref 5009
Your wrist never felt this big before The
case of the top model in the IWC Pilotrsquos
Watch range is a gigantic 462 mm in diashy
meter And the technology inside it is
even more impressive the largest IWCshy
manufactured automatic movement with
its Pellaton winding system is protected
against strong magnetic fields by a softshy
iron inner case And needless to say enshy
vious glances iwc engineered for men
Mechanical IWCshymanufactured movement Pellaton
automatic winding system 7shyday power reserve
with display (figure) Date display Softshyiron inner
case for protection against magnetic fields
Antireflective sapphire glass Watershyresistant 6 bar
Stainless steel
IWC Schaffhausen Switzerland iwccom The worldrsquos finest timepieces are exclusively available from selected watch specialists
For an illustrated catalogue or list of nationwide concessionaires please contact IWC UK Tel 0845 337 1868 Eshymail infoshyukiwccom
CARS
MunichLegend
50 March 2014 | inspired
BMW fanatics can open their eyes ndash the M4 has arrived
Most BMW aficionados are proba-bly pretty sad to see production of the M3 coupe ndash quite possibly the companyrsquos most noteworthy and celebrated model ndash end after almost 30 years Ever since the first wide-body E30 M3 saw the
light of day in 1985 drivers have loved the sporty coupe for its incredible balance intoxicating power and of course solid build quality
The model never got stale in all that time and always remained the poster child for the M division so itrsquos a lit-tle weird that BMW has apparently decided to axe it In truth though they havenrsquot really dropped the M3 The M3 sedan will continue to be produced in 2014 so all
is not lost Moreover BMW seems to be adopting a pat-tern of giving its sedans odd-numbered titles only and its coupes even-numbered titles only so the 4-Series and especially the M4 concept that debuted at Pebble Beach Monterey California will fill the gap left by the M3 Many people have been awaiting the new super coupe with great expectancy but can it fill in for the M3
The journalists who swarmed over the M4 concept at Pebble Beach were obviously much more interested in it than the somewhat predictable 428i that was also there Finished in an eye-catching colour called Aurum Dust (which actually looks a lot like the old M3rsquos Phoenix Yellow colour) the car presented in California may be a concept but typically BMW M cars donrsquot change much before they finally hit the showroom
MunichLegend
inspired | March 2014 51
CARS
52 March 2014 | inspired
From front to back the bodywork is manifestly differ-ent and much more aggressive looking than a standard 4-Series car It really looks to pretty much pick up where the E92E93 M3 coupe left off especially with its undeniably cool domed hood Wide wheel arches big wheels wrapped in low-profile tyres more than enough M badges and a well-executed double-bubble roof make the already underwhelming existing 4-Series coupe look even more pedestrian
Power for the new M4 is likely to come from a three-litre twin-turbo straight-six engine While the horsepower probably wonrsquot differ much from the M3rsquos old 4-litre V-8 it will generate more than 100lbft more in torque almost 400 in total With the M4 being a lighter 3300lb in weight the M4 promises to be an excit-ing worthy car A proper six-speed manual may be in the mix alongside the now obligatory dual clutch and paddles option
The best way to look at the M4 however it ends up is not as a new car but as a new and improved M3 thatrsquos just getting a new name The decision to rename the coupe is a strange one but thankfully BMW apparently felt the 3-Series coupe had made such an identity for itself that a new model was needed albeit in a slightly different incarnation
With BMW embarking on some new-ageish ideas such as its 1-Series ActiveE and the soon-to-arrive lsquoirsquo range of cars itrsquos nice to see the company also stick to classics such as the heart-stopping sports coupe even if the latest model does come with a new name
Seductive curves and racier performance make the BMW M4 a more than acceptable replacement for the M3 super coupe
SparklingForm Coloured diamonds are making their mark
One of the main factors that deter-mines the value of what we ordinarily think of as diamonds is their purity the degree to which col-our is absent in the gem However with coloured diamonds the extent to which they are saturated with
colour is a principal determinant of their valueColoured diamonds come in 12 basic colours more
than 90 secondary hues and nine intensity levels The depth of their colour is what really differentiates these diamonds from their colourless counterparts
Natural coloured diamonds are 10000 times rarer than typical colourless diamonds one of several rea-sons why they are treasured by the rich and famous yet remain unknown to most other people ndash despite hav-ing been around for centuries
Of course some colours are rarer than others Red violet and purple stones are as rare as the proverbial hensrsquo teeth while green and blue are also rare The most popular colours are pink and yellow (or canary) They also come in white grey orange black and lsquochame-leonrsquo form
A pinkie ring encrusted with a large coloured dia-mond has become a status symbol for men in Asia That little stone is an unregistered asset that could quickly be sold for millions of dollars should the need arise
Coloured diamonds are durable and never lose their sparkle or lustre so they are assets that can be enjoyed every day unlike stocks or bonds And they have proved to be fantastic investments having steadily appreciated in price with relatively little volatility for more than a decade They even held their own during the most recent financial crisis
Coloured diamonds are auctioned by reputable
auction houses such a Sothebyrsquos and Christiersquos where prices for large unique pink red blue or yellow stones can reach in excess of $2 million (pound12 million) a carat and other stones regularly sell for $1 million a carat
They are often bought by high-net-worth individu-als as an insurance policy Instead of stashing cash in undeclared bank accounts and potentially incurring the wrath of the authorities the wealthy can purchase some loose yellow diamonds to secure their future
Clearly coloured diamonds are much more than a magnificent indulgence
GEMS
inspired | March 2014 53PB March 2014 | inspired
WINE
Make the most of the deeply
satisfying Malbec wines emerging from Argentina
and perhaps even enjoy a return on a shrewd
investment says Ewan Lacey
Finding a red wine to enjoy in spring is a delicate balancing act The shock of seeing sunlight after a dark winter fosters in us a desire to drink some-thing refreshing while the still-cool temperatures demand something with comforting depth
Increasingly Malbec wines particularly those from Argentina provide a perfect solution to this quandary And while there are plenty of delicious wines for infor-mal occasions what is most interesting is the emergence of finer Malbec wines Some are so good they may well have ageing potential raising the intriguing possibility that the wine may one day become collectable
Malbec is the most popular wine among those aged 25-34 and is now becoming a fixture on most restaurant wine lists There are several reasons for its success the word Malbec is easy to pronounce the wine goes well with red meat the Malbec grape can be turned into wines that are both relatively easy to drink and packed with flavour and decent wines are available at reason-able prices Malbec is deep fruity and charming and it delivers instant pleasure ndash claret on a motorbike
The Malbec grape originated in France and it remains one of the permitted varieties used to make Bordeaux However it has gained prominence through the work of the post-junta Argentine wine industry
I recently had the pleasure of tasting some very fine Malbecs with Laura Catena managing director at the Catena Zapata winery and president of the International Wine and Spirit Competition She opened my
Mendoza Marvels
inspired | March 2014 55
WINE
eyes to the potential of this grape variety when handled with care
Laurarsquos family business makes a range of wines but the wine that truly astonished me was the Nicasia Vineyard Malbec 2006 The wine is perfumed with floral and fruit notes and it is smooth and soft at first Like all great wines it has many layers of flavour warm bursts of cherry and black-currant cede centre stage to deeper darker caramel and mocha notes and a touch of spice Therersquos an amazing depth of flavour and the finish is long and lingering Whatrsquos more at nearly eight years old it still has a slight purple tinge and tastes extremely fresh There is every indication that it will age beautifully for at least another decade
The winersquos character is heavily influenced by the alti-tude the grapes used to make it are grown at (1180m
above sea level) At this elevation the grapes ripen in bright sun but lsquorelaxrsquo during the cool evenings The fact that the wine is made in tiny quantities (eight barrels only) means every care can be taken during the winemak-ing process to ensure the wine is allowed to show its grown-up side The cost per bot-tle of pound70 is not insubstantial but neither is the wine
We cannot know whether these wines will ever become investments in the way the wines of Bordeaux have Whatrsquos cer-tain is that Malbec wines have a very rare quality a balance of finesse and power that
can delight wine lovers and linger in their memories
Ewan Lacey is a leading wine expert and general manager of the International Wine and Spirit Competition He has appeared on BBC television and radio as well as Channel 4 and written for the national press
Laura Catena is managing director at the Catena Zapata winery (above)
THE INTERNATIONAL WINE AND SPIRIT COMPETITIONThe International Wine and Spirit Competition has been the premier drinks competition in the world for 45 years Each year it receives and reviews thousands of wines and spirits and presents qual-ity awards to producers
More than anything the IWSC exists to help
people make better deci-sions particularly when buying wines and spirits An IWSC award on a bot-tle of wine is a guarantee
of quality backed not only by a rigorous and strin-gent judging process but also by the skill of the judges who are drawn from the ranks of masters of wine master distill-ers industry leaders and commentators
Each year the IWSC honours a leading figure
in the drinks industry with the presidency of the competition The current president is Laura Catena who succeeds a nota-ble line of predecessors including Prince Robert of Luxembourg winemakers Piero Antinori and Warren Winiarski and Baroness Philippine de Rothschild
56 March 2014 | inspired
LUXURY WATCHES
Time is preciousA
t a recent watch auc-tion in Geneva at Antiquorum ndash the worldrsquos premiere auc-tion house for modern and vintage time pieces ndash a Patek Philippe
pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon watch emerged as the auctionrsquos top lot and sold for 12 million Swiss francs (pound807000)
Unlike most of the timepieces sold at auctions outside Asia this particular Patek watch ndash the most complicated wristwatch the Swiss watchmaker has ever produced ndash was not a vintage model
That Geneva auction raised intriguing
1284Clocks with weights gears and regulators start to appear mostly with no dial to strike the important moments of daily life
Around 1410The mainspring is devel-oped Combined with the fusee this innovation makes possible the truly portable domestic clock
1492The mechanical watch appears simultaneously in Italy Germany and France
1675Christian Huygens invents the spiral balance spring
for watches significantly improving their accuracy
1704The first watch with jew-els is produced by French watchmaker de Beaufreacute
1714The British parliament offers pound20000 to who-ever can a find a method to determine longitude
1766Parliament publishes the rating results for John Harrisonrsquos H4 marine timekeeper Harrisonrsquos highly accurate marine clock solution to the problem of determining logitude wins him part of the pound20000 prize
1787Pierre-Freacutedeacuteric Ingold is born an important pio-neer in mechanised timepiece production and the use of interchangea-ble parts
1790Jacquet-Droz and Leschot manufactures a watch attached to a strap
1839Vacheron amp Constantin developes a full set of machine tools for manu-facturing its watches
1875Calcium sulphate is the first luminescent sub-stance to be used for numerals and hands
TIMEKEEPING MILESTONES
questions Are modern luxury timepieces every bit as appealing as the vintage watches that typically command top prices at auc-tion And does that Geneva auction tell us anything about the contemporary watch market as a whole
Julien Schaerer Antiquorumrsquos managing director in Geneva says top-quality vintage watches often appreciate in value over the long term But he urges buyers for whom appreciation is an important consideration to be cautious about purchasing contempo-rary watches
lsquoWatch price depreciation is the cost of ownership just as it is with a luxury carrsquo he says lsquoIf the value goes up then
58 March 2014 | inspired
1880The first water- resistant watch incorpo-rating a screwed case is produced by Genevan watchmaker Franccedilois Borgel
1889The first known patent for a wristwatch is filed in Bern Switzerland
1890Dialmaker A Beyeler invents a transfer press for applying numerals and letters to dials
1892Auguste Verneuil in France produces the first synthetic jewels to be used in watchmaking
1904Wens Wilsdorf launches large-scale production of a womenrsquos wristwatch
1924John Harwood files the
first Swiss patent for a self-winding wristwatch with a central oscillating weight
1925The first known wrist-watch with a perpetual calendar is manufactured using a pendant watch movement
1926Rolex creates the Oyster wristwatch with a water-resistant case and crown
1966The first quartz wrist-watch prototype is produced
1969The first quartz watch
with an LED display appears
1978Quartz watches overtake mechanical watches in popularity
2005Creation of the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie Seiko launches the spring drive Kinetic the first self-winding mechanical watch with an electro-magnetic escapement
A Patek Philippe pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon recently sold for pound807000
inspired | March 2014 59
online retailers from the comfort of your homeSince 2006 DM London has quietly estab-
lished a powerful presence for itself in the UK retail watch market with the acquisition of The Watch Hut and The Watch Gallery DM London chairman David Coleridge says the company has capitalised on the increasing willingness of buy-ers to purchase online
lsquoHaving decided that they would like to buy a watch for themselves or someone elsersquo he says lsquopeople start to do their research More often than not this starts online nowadays where they com-pare brands performance and functions
lsquoAs trust in the online marketplace has devel-oped many want to buy online because it is convenient and saves time Shopping online becomes a habit established sites build trust and awareness with customers which gives custom-ers the confidence to buy more expensive itemsrsquo
He adds lsquoOur challenge is to make the online environment as attractive informative and enjoy-able as a high street store Then customers will decide to spend onlinersquo
Coleridge believes a multi-channel approach is the way forward for retailers He says lsquoWithout doubt the future is multi-channel selling ndash a combination of direct selling on the internet and various forms of click and collect ndash combined with beautiful stores on the high street
Over the past few years demand for luxury watches (particularly contemporary models) has spiked sharply in Asia and according to some specialists emerging affluence in the
of course thatrsquos an added benefit However he adds lsquoPrice appreciation is still quite rare with modern watches There is some poten-tial for appreciation but probably only with ultra-limited editions A purchase has to be
seen as a medium- to long-term invest-ment One should buy a timepiece first out of love for the brand or [the watchrsquos] complicationrsquo
The watch brands that offer the greatest assurance of appreci-
ation include Cartier Patek Philippe Rolex Audemars
Piguet A Lange amp Sohne Breguet and Vacheron Constantin All enjoy views from the top of
the watchmaking hierarchy thanks to their longstand-ing histories and well-established brand identities
Relative new-comers to the industry such as Richard Mille and Roger Dubuis have carved out a niche for
themselves with their revolutionary designs and
space-age technologies but it remains to be seen just how well the values of their timepieces will stand up on the secondary market
According to Nathaniel Borgelt a specialist at auction house Sothebyrsquos
some modern watches have already achieved good prices at auction but these (like the Patek Philippe Sky Moon Tourbillon) were highly exclusive models when new
lsquoSome limited edition pieces currently fetch incredible prices at auctionrsquo he says lsquoAnd there is a select group of modern mod-els that could compete with a certain sector of the vintage market based on their brand innovative features such as materials or com-plications and avant-garde designs
Buying these has now become a whole lot easier The luxury watch retailing land-scape is changing and the traditional pattern of physically walking into a luxury salon to buy a watch is gradually being replaced by a trend towards visiting the websites of the big
LUXURY WATCHES
A Lange amp Sohne (above) is a long-standing high-end watchmaker Comparative new-comer Roger Dubuis (right) is forging a strong reputation
inspired | March 2014 PB60 March 2014 | inspired
helpthewatchgallerycom
Hublot ClassiC FusiontHe WatCH Gallery exClusive
The Watch Gallery and Hublot have joined forces to create two very special limited edition watches Both are limited to just 15 pieces worldwide and have been specifically designed to feature The Watch Gallery blue brand colour on the hands and tinted open case back
SelfridgeS OxfOrd StreetWeStfield lOndOnMancheSter exchange Square
wwwthewatchgallerycomhublot-watches
Far East has kept global values strong while other markets around the world continue to recover from recession
Despite the market boost from growing prosperity in Asia there are signs that the market is becoming saturated and that globally the new watch market isnrsquot as robust as some commentators suggest
It may still be a good time to buy but its important to know what you want and what yoursquore buying Modern watchmakers such as Richard Mille Roger Dubuis and Greubel Forsey are producing beautiful timepieces but because of their limited foothold in the market itrsquos difficult to predict their long-term success and desirability They donrsquot yet have the brand power that might ensure the value of their
watches in the secondhand market remains highSuch producers might one day stand eye to
eye with the most desirable brands such as Patek Philippe and Rolex but achieving that kind of parity wonrsquot be easy Collectors looking to invest in timepieces are advised to keep an open mind about modern producers uncertainty is the one aspect of modern luxury watch market most experts tend to agree on
That said the buoyancy in the watch market suggests that plenty of buyers are unconcerned about future values For them itrsquos all about the appreciation of the watch itself People buy watches because they bring them pleasure ndash and say some-thing about who they are
LUXURY WATCHES
Contemporary watches such as those made by Hublot (left) have yet to show they will have the lasting appeal of watches such as Cartierrsquos Rotonde de Cartier Astrocalendaire (right)
inspired | March 2014 63
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-
The ISA thatrsquos
fair and square
We believe in straightforward investing Thatrsquos why we donrsquot nibble at your investments with percentage charges Open an account and for pound20 per quarter you get two pound10 trades and an ISA for free After that itrsquos just pound10 per trade across a wide range of UK and international investmentsTransfer to us today and get up to pound240 as a thank you (terms apply) We believe thatrsquos fair and square
The value of investments and any income from them can fall as well as rise so you could get back less than you invest Tax treatment depends on your individual circumstances and may be subject to change If in any doubt please seek advice
iiicoukisa
Interactive Investor Trading Limited trading as ldquoInteractive Investorrdquo is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority Registered Office Standon House 21 Mansell Street London E1 8AA Tel 0845 200 3637 Registered in England with Company Registration number 3699618
hen new rules were introduced last August allowing the inclusion of Alternative Investment Market (Aim) shares in Isas demand for exposure to the junior market
quickly exceeded expectations Another surge in demand is likely in April as the new tax year dawns and investors have a fresh annual allow-ance to play with
Yet while stocks on Aim can boast eye-catching returns and attractive tax perks they can also be very volatile raising concerns that investors may be letting the tax tail wag the investment dog with-out understanding what they are getting into
The Treasuryrsquos decision to allow Aim shares into Isas was driven by a desire to encourage greater investment in small and medium-sized companies The move was immediately popular with investors and brokers reported a sharp rise in Aim-listed purchases Demand for smaller companies funds was up too as investors wary of direct share ownership
bought into funds offering exposure to Aim stocksIt helped that Aim stocks were enjoying a good
run as were smaller companies generally with the amount of money raised on the market over the summer rising sharply Performance is just one aspect of their appeal however
Aim shares already offered inheritance tax effi-ciency most of them qualify for business property relief making them exempt from IHT when held for two years or more However itrsquos worth noting that BPR is subject to change and a company can lose its eligibility and therefore its IHT relief status as a result Therefore investors wanting to continue benefiting from IHT relief have to switch out of such companies and into those still eligible
Wider income and capital gains tax benefits also drove some demand for Aim shares after the
Isa rule change in August The move created a bed- and-Isa opportunity whereby existing Aim share inves-tors sold their holdings and bought them back within an Isa
Among those quick
Alternative Investment Market stocks offer Isa investors a chance to realise heady returns ndash but you need to pick your holdings carefully because of the high risk of losses in an illiquid market says Jeff Salway
AIMSHARES
W
GEMSTO BE UNEARTHED
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
WE WOULD ONLY INCLUDE AIM STOCKS
IN THE PORTFOLIOS OF ADVENTUROUS CLIENTS David Thomson
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
inspired | March 2014 17
THERE ARE
Treatt has built up an immaculate record of delivering profits
to take advantage was Lord Lee of Trafford the UKrsquos first Isa millionaire and author of How to Make a Million ndash Slowly My Guiding Principles from a Lifetime of Successful Investing lsquoI have a
big holding of Christie Group that was originally in my per-sonal equity planrsquo he says lsquoWhen the company moved to Aim [from the main market] I took it out of the Pep but when Aim shares became Isa-eligible I sold it and bought it back again within my Isarsquo
April 2014 will mark the removal of stamp duty from Aim purchases a develop-ment expected to encourage asset managers to launch a new wave of Aim-focused funds The axing of stamp duty makes the junior market more appeal-ing to companies on the main market as well with several recently moving across
Alec Stewart partner at Anderson Strathern Asset Management explains lsquoA company can reduce its regulatory burden by moving to the junior market with lower audit and compliance requirementsrsquo For example the main market
stipulates that any potential listing should have a market capitalisation no lower than pound700000 whereas therersquos no such guideline on the Aim mar-ket Nor do companies need a trading history to list on Aim compared with the three years required for the main market Moreover the cost of listing on Aim is considerably lower
But for many private investors the main appeal of Aim stocks lies largely in the prospect of sky-high returns from the success of small and fledgling companies There are some 1200 stocks on the market from a wide range of sectors ndash albeit with a heavy weighting in technology and especially natural resources and with a gulf in size between the biggest and smallest
The largest are eligible for the FTSE AIM 50 and the FTSE AIM 100 where the likes of Bowleven Majestic Wine Dobbies Asos and MampC Saatchi are listed
Stewart picks out three he favours as part of a diversified portfolio One is Dart Group The owner of Jet2com and Jet2Holidays Dart has had a lsquostrong runrsquo and is focused on becoming more fam-ily friendly in these budget-conscious times says Stewart lsquoIt benefits from good visibility of future bookings and strong cash generationrsquo he adds
Aerospace and defence firm Cohort is another with a lsquoprogressive dividend policyrsquo that has grown at an annualised rate of 20 per cent over
DEWHURST (pound520)Dewhurst is a well-established manu-facturer of lift pushbuttons indicators and controls keypads for ATMs security devices and petrol pumps and traffic management products such as bollards
The company has a long record of profitability under the stewardship of the Dewhurst family and a debt-free balance sheet That suggests it is a strong competitor
Profits fell in 2013 ndash a result of a slowdown in Dewhurstrsquos major markets and customers having stocked up in the previous year Management is quite cagey about the companyrsquos prospects for 2014 but an improved performance is likely as conditions in the UK and the US improve The shares are probably good value at 11 times adjusted 2013 earnings
MS INTERNATIONAL (pound204)MS International manufactures military hardware forks for forklift trucks and petrol station canopies and car washes
The company has been profitable in each of the past 10 years and has a balance sheet flush with cash yet the share price has fallen to a level that val-ues MSI at five times adjusted 2013
earnings MSIrsquos current unpopularity stems from a decline in the profitability of MSI Defence Systems which has the highest turnover of its three businesses
The company expects 2014 to be no easier than 2013 due to continu-ing pressure on defence spending but itrsquos confident it will add to defence work already contracted and scheduled for every year until 2020
Itrsquos quite possible that MSI is having a lull that does not reflect on the qual-ity of its products or businesses If thatrsquos the case itrsquos a bargain
TREATT (pound747)Treatt distills flavourings and frag-rances essential oils and water-soluble essences Its products are used in drinks confectionery sauces and cosmetics worldwide
The companyrsquos expertise and close customer relationships might give it a competitive advantage and it has never suffered a loss However it has ushered out managing director Hugo Bovill and his family has sold its interest
Management with large share-holdings gives companies some independence from the often short-term imperatives of fund managers
However the new team is focused on controlling costs and developing the most profitable products
Profit grew 28 per cent in 2013 and Treattrsquos long-term prospects are prob-ably good but the share price has spiked valuing the shares at 15 times adjusted 2013 earnings
FW THORPE (pound143)FW Thorpe designs and manufactures light fittings known as luminaires They are becoming increasingly complex with the introduction of LED technology that requires printed circuit boards Its main business is Thorlux which supplies lighting to schools hospitals ware-houses and factories Other subsidiaries supply retailers emergency exit signage and cleanroom lighting
Stable family ownership long indus-try experience and a commitment to modernisation and investment are the keys to Thorpersquos prosperity
Although it has to contend with the additional investment required to produce LED lighting Thorpe is manag-ing the transition well The shares cost pound137 which values the company at about 15 times adjusted 2013 earnings Thatrsquos a fair price for a quality company
Richard Beddard picks out four Aim-listed companies worth considering for inclusion in a diversified Isa share portfolio
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
I TRANSFERRED INTO MY ISA A BIG
HOLDING OF CHRISTIE GROUP THAT USEDTO BE IN MY PEPLord Lee of Trafford
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
AIMSHARES
18 March 2014 | inspired
the past three years he adds Among food pro-ducers he likes Wynnstay It has lsquobenefited from strong revenue and pre-tax profitsrsquo increasing its interim dividend by 9 per cent
But therersquos ample cause for caution too because Aim shares are typically far riskier than those listed on the main market Not only is there the vol-atility inherent in shares issued by smaller firms but there remains the potential for liquidity issues even after the surge of money into the market in recent months Haig Bathgate chief investment officer at Turcan Connell says lsquoThey are by impli-cation of their size much less liquid in terms of the shares that trade hands on a daily basis so they are prone to more extreme price movementsrsquo
UK investors may also be averse to Aim stocks that are effectively overseas companies Indeed many Aim fund portfolios specifically exclude both these and natural resources firms as well as stocks that donrsquot offer business property relief
lsquoSignificant numbers of companies have failed to deliver on expectations in this part of the mar-ket and it is also quite heavily weighted towards technology (12 per cent) resources (9 per cent) and oil and gas companies (22 per cent)rsquo says Bathgate There are transparency concerns too due to the less stringent regulatory and company reporting requirements on the Aim market
lsquoWe would only include Aim stocks within the
portfolios of adventurous clients and then only up to a maximum of 10 per centrsquo says David Thomson chief investment officer at VWM Wealth lsquoEven then the bulk of this is likely to be via a venture capital trust where the investor can also enjoy 30 per cent income tax relief providing a further cushion against the volatility of Aim sharesrsquo
Collective investment funds and trusts offer a way into Aim stocks that provides useful diversification and so reduces the risk of heavy losses Investment trusts can offer particular advantages where Aim-listed shares are concerned as their closed-ended status gives them a hedge against the market liquidity issues that can affect Aim stocks Among the growing number of UK smaller companies investment trusts in which Aim shares are prominent are those run by BlackRock Standard Life and Aberforth Unit trusts invest-ing in Aim companies include the LampG UK Alpha Trust and Cazenove UK Smaller Companies
However there is a downside to access-ing Aim through funds and trusts as investors no longer benefit from the IHT-free status that direct holders of Aim stocks enjoy The risk of hefty losses remains the biggest caveat to investing in Aim
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
AIMSHARESAREMUCHLESS
LIQUIDINTERMSOFTHESHARESTHATTRADEHANDSDAILYHaig Bathgate
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
inspired | March 2014 19
Clockwise from top Cohort Wynnstay and Jet2com are Stewartrsquos picks for a diversified portfolio
rewarding such as smaller companies private equity and emerging markets
Trusts can also increase their assets by borrow-ing So long as this gearing is sensibly priced it should accelerate the trustrsquos gains in positive mar-ket conditions However gearing will exacerbate losses in any downturn The possible closing of the discount will also enhance share price returns
SOLID GROWTHBaillie Gifford Global DiscoveryThis fund picked by independent financial adviser Brian Dennehy invests globally in growth stocks especially companies operating in industries with potential for structural change and innova-tion Dennehy says manager Douglas Brodie has had considerable experience and success in iden-tifying growth opportunities particularly among exciting smaller-cap stocks
CF Lindsell Train UK EquityJohn Husselbee head of multi-asset at Liontrust Asset Management prefers investors to traders Renowned investor Warren Buffett takes a similar view and Husselbee says fund manager Nick Train invests like Buffett Train looks to buy great com-panies such as Burberry Heineken and Unilever when they are good value and hold them lsquoforeverrsquo
Cazenove UK Opportunities This fund aims to achieve long-term capital growth from a focused portfolio of large and medium-sized UK companies Gavin Haynes managing
huge variety of investment funds rang-ing from generalist funds to highly specialised versions aim to generate capital growth for investors
Investing in a specific fund entails investors accepting different degrees of risk in return for a range of potential rewards So when we asked financial advisers to predict which funds offer the best prospects for growth in 2014 we also urged them to consider which types of investor the funds would suit best
Solid growth funds will appeal to investors who prefer steady investment while higher-risk growth funds are likely to be more volatile and appeal to those with a higher risk tolerance Speculative funds could produce handsome returns this year but they could also dip sharply in value
Closed-ended status means investment trusts can invest in less liquid asset classes without having to worry about realising their holdings in a market setback This enables them to invest in areas that have historically proved particularly
A
Helen Pridham and Fiona Hamilton have rounded up a collection of investment funds and trusts experts believe will prosper in the year ahead for investors looking to cash in on an improving economic outlook
PERFECT YOUR FUND PORTFOLIOTO SEE IT
GROW
inspired | March 2014 2120 March 2014 | inspired
FUNDSAND
TRUSTS
GROW
inspired | March 2014 2120 March 2014 | inspired
A
RE Y
OU
A
GLO
BAL
INV
ESTO
R Take a global view of investment trusts expertly managed by Henderson
For over 75 years Henderson Global Investors has been at the forefront of investment trust innovation and development Now with a diverse and established range of managed investment trusts and investment companies Henderson has a global view of the market
Whether you are retirement planning investing for your children looking to take advantage of dynamic global markets or want a cautious investment approach our managed companies offer a wide range of investment objectives and strategies professionally managed by regional experts
If your priority is high income long term capital growth or a mixture of both Henderson Global Investors has a range of solutions which aims to meet your investment needs
Please remember that past performance is not a guide to future performance The value of an investment and the income from it can fall as well as rise as a result of market and currency fluctuations and you may not get back the amount originally invested
Call to receive your Investment Trust brochure or visit wwwhendersoninvestmenttrustscom
0800 856 5656
Investment Trusts managed by Henderson
Issued in the UK by Henderson Global Investors Henderson Global Investors is the name under which Henderson Global Investors Limited (reg no 906355) Henderson Fund Management Limited (reg no 2607112) Henderson Investment Funds Limited (reg no 2678531) Henderson Investment Management Limited (reg no 1795354) Henderson Alternative Investment Advisor Limited (reg no 962757) Henderson Equity Partners Limited (reg no2606646) Gartmore Investment Limited (reg no 1508030) (each incorporated and registered in England and Wales with registered office at 201 Bishopsgate London EC2M 3AE) are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority to provide investment products and services Telephone calls may be recorded and monitored H0046521113ad
Itrsquos a global marketplace
HGiTrusts
director at Whitechurch Securities says fund manager Julie Dean has built up an excellent track record
Securities Trust of ScotlandRobin McAdam likes Securities Trust of Scotland which seeks rising income and long-term capi-tal growth from global equities The trust yields 33 per cent so it provides income and growth potential lsquoThe trust has outperformed its bench-mark recently and we expect this to continuersquo says McAdam
Finsbury Growth amp Income TrustPeter Hewitt nominates Finsbury Growth amp Income Trust on the basis of its strong short- and long-term performance Manager Nick Train seeks out the highest-quality companies to hold long term The portfolio is dominated by companies Train expects to have longevity such as Diageo Unilever and Heineken lsquoThe manager looks for strong cash gen-eration and dividend growth which he believes are undervalued by the stock marketrsquo Hewitt says
RIT Capital PartnersThis multi-asset trust selected by John Newlands is the flagship financial vehicle for its chairman Lord Jacob Rothschild and his family lsquoGiven the uncertainty in the world it is no bad thing to be diversified both globally and across a range of asset classes RIT is a global growth trust that offers a combination of these benefitsrsquo Newlands says
His enthusiasm is bolstered by RITrsquos current relatively wide discount which reflects disap-pointment among investors that it was rather too cautious over the past two or three years
Perpetual Income amp Growth Trust This trust is classified as a member of the AIC UK growth and income sector but its yield tends to be below the sector average because manager Mark Barnett is more interested in income growth than immediate income Tim Cockerill classifies it as a total return trust and makes it his solid growth choice Barnett has secured excellent long-term returns dur-ing his 15 years at the helm
HIGHER-RISK GROWTHLazard Emerging MarketsMick Gilligan believes the investment case for emerging market equi-ties remains strong He says lsquoEquity markets in emerging regions are trading at their widest price-to-earnings discount to developed markets since 2006 We believe many well-capitalised businesses that have shown strong financial discipline should gener-ate good profitsrsquo The Lazard Emerging Markets fund focuses on such businesses
Rathbone Global OpportunitiesThis go-almost-anywhere bottom-up thorough stockpicking fund looks for undiscovered gems Rob Burdett fund manager at Thames River believes manager James Thomson strikes the
KEY FACTS ABOUT GROWTH FUND TIPS
Mininv pound
Ongoing Charges
1-yearreturn
Sectorrank
SOLID GROWTHBaillie Gifford Global Discovery 1000 086 5920 2248CF Lindsell Train UK Equity ndash 080 2910 53271Cazenove UK Opportunities 1000 082 3210 40271 HIGHER-RISK GROWTHInvestec Global Energy 1000 087 1420 40206Lazard Emerging Markets 2000 161 320 1668Rathbone Global Opportunities 1000 082 2150 111248 SPECULATIVE GROWTHAllianz BRIC Stars 500 122 -120 134206Liontrust Special Situations 1000 114 1450 251271MampG Recovery 500 096 1330 264271Note Ongoing charges figure refers to the least expensive retail share class Source Financial Express and companies websites as at 3 December 2013
KEY FACTS ABOUT THE TRUSTS TIPPED FOR GROWTH
Shareprice
p
Discprem to NAV
Netyield
Gearing
Net asset valuetotal return after
1 year
3 years
5 years
SOLID GROWTHFinsbury Growth amp Income 5010 (+) 12 21 50 305 767 2038Perpetual Income amp Growth 3686 10 32 120 346 714 1407RIT Capital Partners 12480 105 11 50 210 225 591Securities Trust of Scotland 1469 (+) 31 32 40 192 460 1132 HIGHER-RISK GROWTHBiotech Growth Trust 4335 72 00 70 582 1723 2968Fidelity Chinese Special Sits 1062 65 09 210 433 02 ndashGraphite Enterprise Trust 5690 170 09 -90 167 442 405Schroder Asia Pacific 2730 92 14 -20 08 201 1779 SPECULATIVE GROWTHBaker Steel Resources 470 331 00 10 -57 -137 740Hansa Trust A 8600 243 23 10 142 69 947Impax Environmental Markets 1463 112 06 -20 350 285 921Standard Life Eq Inc subscription 1070 ndash 00 3700 ndash ndash ndashNotes NAV = net asset value Annualised All data as at 1 December Source Numis Securities
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
MARK BARNETT HAS SECURED
EXCELLENT RETURNSTim Cockerill
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
inspired | March 2014 23PB March 2014 | inspired
FUNDSANDTRUSTS
right balance between taking calculated risks for high returns and investing in defensive holdings Burdett says lsquoHe likes companies undertaking gentle innovation ndash moving online for example ndash rather than game changers which have more potential to go wrongrsquo Investec Global EnergyThis fund invests in companies that produce energy and provide services to the energy sector Fund managers Tom Nelson and Charles Whall believe the consensus view on future oil prices anticipates weak demand and growing supply from US shale oil But they demur as does Tony Yarrow at Wise Investment He says lsquoOil is harder to extract from shale than gas is while demand for oil is growing as economies recover A higher oil price feeds straight through to the companiesrsquo profitsrsquo
Biotech Growth TrustPeter Hewitt favours Biotech Growth Trust which has achieved scorching gains recently ndash up 172 per cent over three years to 1 December 2013
It is managed in New York by Orbimed a specialist healthcare and biotechnology investor with $7 bil-lion (pound42 billion) under management It offers exposure to a mix of large and profitable biotech companies along-side emerging businesses Most of its holdings are US-based and they have
benefited from a much more positive approach by the Federal Drug Authority ndash new drug approvals in 2010 were the highest for 10 years
Graphite Enterprise TrustAndrew McHattie contends that just one sector offers great value private equity lsquoThese trusts were hammered in the credit crisis and discounts widened to extreme levelsrsquo he says
His selection is Graphite Enterprise Trust Its discount to net asset value remains at a level that rings alarm bells in most other sectors but it has a strong track record and a relatively mature port-folio of shares he expects to rise in value
Fidelity Chinese Special SituationslsquoWith Chinese equities looking cheap the long-term outlook for investing in China is positiversquo Cockerill says lsquoThis fund invests in medium and small caps where high growth can be achieved New manager Dale Nicholls is well qualified and the combination of Fidelity manager experience and China is compelling in the long termrsquo
Scottish Oriental Smaller Companies Trust This trust is favoured by McAdam The invest-ment team identifies quality companies offering sustainable predictable growth lsquoThe trust may underperform if the market rises strongly but the teamrsquos enviable track record and experience should be respectedrsquo he says
Tim Cockerill is investment director at Rowan Dartington
RowanDartingtonhas20investmentadvisersbasedinsevenofficesacrossthesouthofEnglandIthaspound900millionunderman-
agementInvestmenttrustshavefeaturedinitsdiscretionaryandadvisoryportfoliosformanyyears
Peter Hewittis a member of FampC Asset Managementrsquos global equities team
HehasmanagedtheFampCManagedPortfolioTrustsinceApril2008aswellasitsforerunnerFampCManagedPortfolio
Servicesince2002HewasheadofUKequitiesatMurray
Johnstonefrom1981to1983beforejoiningIvoryampSime
Jean Mattersonis a partner and chief investment officer at Rossie House Investment Management
Shejoinedthefirmin1998after20yearswithassetmanagerStewartIvory
BasedinEdinburghsheisoneoffiveinvestment
professionalsmanagingaroundpound300mil-lionallonadiscretionarybasisAroundhalfisininvestmenttrusts
Robin McAdamjoined Brooks MacDonald Asset Management in 2009 from Adam amp Company Investment Management
Hehas24yearsrsquoexperi-encemanagingprivateclientportfoliosandheadsBMrsquosEdinburghbranch
Thefirmhaspound537billionunderdiscretionarymanagementinbespokeandmanagedportfolios
Andrew McHattieis head of The McHattie Group
McHattieGroupisanauthorisedfirmthatpublishesspecialistinvestmentnewsletters
McHattiehasbeentheeditorofInvestmentTrustNewslettersince1996(wwwtipsheetscouk)andoffersafreeservicecalledthelsquoitlistrsquo(wwwtheitlistcouk)ThecompanyhasaFacebookpage(wwwfacebookcominvestmenttrusts)
John Newlandsis responsible for investment trust research at Brewin Dolphin
Heissupportedbyfouranalystswhocoverspecificsectorsresearchingopen-andclosed-endedfunds
BrewinDolphinhas35officesaroundtheUKandChannelIslandsandmanagespound28billionofwhichpound39billionisininvestmenttrusts
TrusttipstersOursixexpertsrevealtheirtopfundpicks
inspired | March 2014 PB24 March 2014 | inspired
FUNDSAND
TRUSTS
One in twelve goes free on your next golf break plus every golfer receives a free pint
12thmansagimme
Book online at MarriottGolfcouk
Offer is only valid on residential golf bookings booked during the promotional dates For every 11 players booked the 12th player will be free of charge Rates are per person per night based on 2 people sharing a twindouble room and include dinner bed amp breakfast Bookings must be made by one named player and separate bookings will not qualify Each residential player aged 18 and over will receive a voucher entitling them to a complimentary pint
of Beckrsquos or Boddingtons Offer is valid on bookings made via 3rd parties Offer is available on 1 night 2 rounds or 2 night 3 rounds and excludes Sunday Driver Maximum of 2 night stay and 2 people per room Day of week availability may vary based on location Limited number of rooms may be available This offer applies to new bookings only at Marriott Hotel amp Country Clubs and offer courses and tee times are subject to availability Offer cannot
be used in conjunction with any other promotion Course terms and conditions apply Advance reservations required Book between 17th February and 29th June 2014 for stays between 4th April and 29th September 2014
The SIPP thatrsquos
fair and square
We believe in straightforward investing Thatrsquos why we donrsquot nibble at your SIPP with percentage fees For just pound144 per year you can open a SIPP and add an ISA for free After that itrsquos just pound10 to buy or sell a wide range of investments including shares funds bonds and gilts Open an account today and if you transfer your existing SIPP wersquoll give you up to pound240 as a thank you (terms apply) We believe thatrsquos fair and square
The value of investments and any income from them can fall as well as rise so you could get back less than you invest Tax treatment depends on your individual circumstances and may be subject to change If in any doubt please seek advice
iiicouksipp
Interactive Investor Trading Limited trading as ldquoInteractive Investorrdquo is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority Registered Office Standon House 21 Mansell Street London E1 8AA Tel 0845 200 3637 Registered in England with Company Registration number 3699618
SPECULATIVE GROWTHMampG RecoveryDennehy says manager Tom Dobell backs his convictions engages with companies he invests in and has delivered long-term outperformance lsquoDobellrsquos MampG Recovery fund has a clear value-style process and management stability It invests in a wide range of firms that are out of favour or in difficulty or whose prospects are not fully rec-ognised by the marketrsquo he says
Liontrust Special SituationsHusselbee says Liontrustrsquos Anthony Cross and Julian Fosh have their own unique philosophy He adds lsquoThey look for characteristics in a company that its competitors find difficult to replicate such as intellectual property or distribution channelsrsquo
Allianz Bric StarsThis fund aims for capital growth in the long term by investing mainly in Brazil Russia India and China Haynes says investors have shunned these markets recently and valuations fallen He adds lsquoFor investors looking for a recovery story this fund is worth considerationrsquo
Standard Life Equity Income subscription shareMcHattie says warrant and subscription shares are widely ignored creating opportunities for those who understand them He favours the subscrip-tion shares of Standard Life Equity Income which can be exercised at 320p a share up to the end of December 2016 lsquoThey offer gearing of 37 times and if the ordinary shares grow by more than 28 per cent a year between now and the end of 2016 the subscription shares ought to outperformrsquo
Impax Environmental MarketsMcAdam likes this trust It invests in companies seeking to provide cleaner or more-efficient energy as well as water and waste solutions to the growing problems faced by authorities around the world It offers exposure to a rapidly changing marketplace as well as to socially responsible investments
Hansa TrustJohn Newlands sees potential in the A shares of Hansa Trust which languish at a discount of more than 25 per cent He says that whereas the trustrsquos portfolio appears skewed with a third of its assets in Ocean Wilsons there is actually plenty of diversification because Ocean Wilsons has an investment portfolio that stands at a discount to underlying value lsquoOne day an attractive bid [may] be made for Ocean Wilsons that will enhance Hansarsquos NAV and sim-plify its capital structure all to the good of its market ratingrsquo Newlands says
Baker Steel Resources TrustJean Matterson hopes for good returns from this trust shares in which trade on a near 30 per cent discount lsquoIt has not had an easy run of late but we believe the underlying assets are attractive and that the mining projects in the companyrsquos portfo-lio will continue to progressrsquo she says
Prospects have improved for biotechs (left) while growing interest in sustain-able energy has boosted Impax
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
AHIGHEROILPRICEFEEDSSTRAIGHT
THROUGHTOPROFITSTony Yarrow
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
inspired | March 2014 27PB March 2014 | inspired
FUNDSANDTRUSTS
The world of funds and trusts is a confusing place with over 2300 funds and more than 300 investment trusts to choose from
Money Observerrsquos Rated Funds system narrows down the playing field to help you decide which funds and investment trusts might be best for you
Our team of experts constantly monitor the marketplace rating those funds that have delivered consistently good returns However you should be aware that there is no guarantee this performance will be repeated
With our comparison tool you can filter by whatrsquos important to you compare up to four funds and trusts side-by-side as well as view factsheets
COMPAREMONEY OBSERVER RATED FUNDS
VISIT MONEYOBSERVERCOMCOMPAREFUNDS AND LOOK OUT FOR THE RATED FUND STAMP
had spare cash or I were start-ing afresh The companies in the add category are high qual-ity judging by the strategies they follow and their finan-cial strength and are probably undervalued
Irsquom more likely to eject or reduce holdings in companies in the watch and specula-tive categories These shares are more risky either because they have risen greatly in price or because their prospects are more uncertain than usual I may think the risk is worth tak-ing but I am prepared to act should that calculation change
Every decision to increase a portfolio holding must be weighed against the potential of new candidates drawn from all companies listed in the UK and corralled into another live spreadsheet the Share Sleuth watchlist When I add a share to the watchlist or trade a share in the portfolio I explain this in the Share Sleuth blog
ccumulating income and capital gains in an index tracking fund is inexpensive takes little effort and all but guarantees an
average return so it should be the default investment for a lazy equity investor saving for the long term
To justify the work of decid-ing which shares to buy and sell and the effort and cost of placing trades an active investor must do better Consequently the first objective of the active Share Sleuth portfolio is to beat passive investments after costs over the long-term which in practice means any five-year period The second objective is to win this tussle against an unknowing and unthinking opponent transparently
At the heart of the portfolio is an online spreadsheet The first page shows the constitu-ent shares arranged into three categories lsquoaddrsquo lsquowatchrsquo and lsquospeculativersquo The categorisa-tion is updated daily based on live data in subsequent spread-sheets each of which contains a financial model for a particular company
The Share Sleuth portfo-lio shows the holdings I would add to the portfolio today if it
Share Sleuth is a simulation no money changes hands But I use prices quoted by a bro-ker and adjust the accounting to factor in notional broker fees and stamp duty However I lsquoeat my own cookingrsquo by investing my self-invested personal pen-sion in Share Sleuth companies
No doubt you are wonder-ing how the portfolio is doing Share Sleuthrsquos five-year anni-versary judgement day is on 9 September this year and I will not prejudge it now
Short-term performance watching and the knee-jerk trad-ing it encourages is I think one reason why many inves-tors fail My focus is on ensuring the portfolio remains invested in good companies at reasona-ble prices
You can see a live perfor-mance table and learn what I think of every share in the port-folio and which companies I might add to it at wwwiiicoukZkr
SHAREBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIOR
The Share Sleuth portfolio has been carefully devised to show investors how to find good companies at cheap prices and also prove the value of its investment approach says Richard Beddard
Richard Beddard an editor at Interactive Investor since 1999 has managed the Share Sleuth portfolio since 9 September 2009 Hersquos a columnist at Money Observer magazine and a private investor
AMY FOCUS IS ON ENSURING THAT THE PORTFOLIO IS INVESTED IN GOOD FIRMS AT DECENT PRICES
inspired | March 2014 29PB March 2014 | inspired
SHARESLEUTH
iiicoukstraightforward
Interactive Investor Trading Limited trading as ldquoInteractive Investorrdquo is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority Registered Office Standon House 21 Mansell Street London E1 8AA Tel 0845 200 3637 Registered in England with Company Registration number 3699618
We believe in being straightforwardthis is why we donrsquot nibble at your investment by charging percentage fees Find out how this could affect your investment performance at iiicoukstraightforward
If you transfer to us you can even get up to pound240 as a thank you (terms apply)
Donrsquot forget the value of investments and any income from them can fall as well as rise so you could get back less than you invest If in any doubt please seek advice
7784_II_QI_MONEY_OBSERVER_210x297_AWindd 1 16012014 1224
Take a closer look
at your investment
options
Discover a straightforward way to understand everything from ISAs to SIPPs and OEICs to Investment Trusts
Investing for generationsEver feel yoursquod like to know more about investing Wersquove been helping people build their wealth for over 125 years Our guide lsquoMaking sense of the investment universersquo is just one of the resources yoursquoll find on our Investment Focus hub
As well as clear simple guides therersquos a wealth of information and expert opinion all designed to help you take control of your investments Please remember that investments can go down as well as up and investors may get back less than they originally invested
Introducing your free online source of information help and expert opinion
investment-focuscouk
This has been approved as a financial promotion by Alliance Trust Investments Limited for the purpose of Section 21 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 Alliance Trust Investments Limited is a subsidiary of Alliance Trust PLC and is registered in Scotland No SC330862 registered office 8 West Marketgait Dundee DD1 1QN is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority firm reference number 479764 Alliance Trust Investments gives no financial or investment advice
TAX YEAR ENDS APRIL 5TH ndash learn more about
your options now
Investment Focus Smart Insight from Alliance Trust
Yoursquove spoken Wersquove listened Introducing your free online source of information help and expert opinion
Based on real insight we have launched a new website which focuses on investment education
We believe that we are uniquely positioned to provide this hub of information based on the reputation we have built for trust and transparency over the last 125 years
We will be publishing new content over the next few months focusing on specific themes
bull Investing from scratch
bull Products in a portfolio
bull Global diversification
bull Planning for your familyrsquos future
bull Retirement planning
bull Getting more information
There is a generation of future investors out there who have been brought up in an era of economic turmoil and banking crises which has led to disillusionment and a lack of trust in our sector and the services we offer Despite it being more important than ever for investors to take control of their financial situation this new generation of savers lacks the basic knowledge and understanding to make these very important long-term decisions
Our goal is to develop a useful resource with contributions from third-parties as well as the team at Alliance Trust which offers insights into the various life stages and challenges faced and which can be built upon and adapted to meet savers needs in the long term
Katherine Garrett-Cox CBE Chief Executive Alliance Trust PLC
ldquo
rdquo
There are too many products to make an informed decision
I donrsquot know whereto go for reliable
information
investment-focuscouk
Yoursquoll naturally take a keen interest in the performance of your investments But itrsquos just as important to understand the fees you will be paying as they can have a significant impact on the returns you achieve Knowing what the different types of costs mean and exactly what they consist of can prove rewarding
Itrsquos worth remembering that for every fee you pay (whether it is a or flat fee) your investment needs to grow by at least the same amount just to stay ahead of the game It sounds obvious but itrsquos easy to forget Broadly speaking there are three types of fees fund fees platform fees and fees for a financial adviser You can either invest directly into a fund and pay the associated fees or you can invest via a platform provider (some of which are referred to as wrap platforms others as fund supermarkets) This is a service that lets you manage and review all your investments online in one place As a general rule fund fees are lower when
bought through a platform than if you buy direct You can invest through a platform on either an execution only basis where the investor assesses the risks and makes their own investment decisions or on an advised basis
Learn more about fund platform and financial advice fees
What can you expect to seeOver the next two pages we have provided a sneak preview of just some of the information you will find on the Investment Focus hub We will be updating the site regularly so make sure you sign up for our email alerts to be informed when new topics are published
Everything you need to know about fees
Risk informationInvestments can go down as well as up You may get back less than you originally invested
Alliance Trust does not give advice You need to ensure you understand the risks and commitments before investing If you are unsure you should consult a Financial Adviser before investing
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
For the vast majority of investors the simplest cheapest and most pragmatic way to invest is through pooled funds
Sometimes called managed funds unit trusts or even Open-Ended Investment Companies (or OEICs) these are designed to give ordinary savers access to a diverse range of investments
One of the principles of investment is that diversification helps reduce risk But it is expensive and time consuming for ordinary savers to buy shares of 80 to 100 different companies and keep track of how each is performing
But with a managed fund you are pooling your money with other investors enabling the fund manager to buy a wide range of assets
Investors have the option of buying an actively managed or passive fund With an active fund the manager selects and then monitors these stocks for investors in a bid to maximise returns
In contrast a passive fund will simply follow a stock market index such as the FTSE100 up and down
Having a manager at the helm can be beneficial in a market downturn as they can take a more defensive approach buying shares that are better able to hold their value or in some cases switching to bonds or cash instead to help preserve investorsrsquo capital Managers can also research individual companies and markets and have access to forecasts and economic data that isnrsquot always available to individuals
Learn more about investing for growth or income exploring different investment remits how to invest and keeping track of your investments
Understanding funds Written by Emma Simon Personal Finance Journalist
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
What are Investment TrustsInvestment Trusts are investment vehicles that are listed on the London Stock Exchange and which invest in shares and other securities They pool together investorsrsquo money and delegate responsibility to a professional fund manager to invest in a range of companies from different sectors and regions across the world They were designed for ldquothe investor of moderate meansrdquo
A brief historybull The first Investment Trust was launched by Foreign amp
Colonial in 1868
bull Investment Trusts made it possible for individual investors to gain diversified exposure to global stock markets
bull Many Investment Trusts were formed in Scotland including Alliance Trust PLC which was formed over 125 years ago
A guide to Investment Trusts
Learn more about Investment Trusts their main features and why you should consider them for your portfolio
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
Alliance Trust is an investment and savings business with over 125 year history of building investor wealth We offer our shareholders clients and customers a unique portfolio of products and services These range from a renowned global investment trust to an innovative range of investment strategies and funds and a multi-award winning investment platform where investors can host their ISAs SIPPs or investment accounts Our mission is to provide products and services that help to ensure a more sustainable financial future for generations of investors
Alliance Trust PLC is one of the largest generalist investment trusts by market value listed on the London Stock Exchange and is the parent company to two wholly-owned subsidiaries Alliance Trust Savings and Alliance Trust Investments
The fact that many of us make irrational decisions when it comes to our finances is widely debated and is often referred to as behavioural finance In this short video we talk to Professor Phyl Johnson Consultant Psychologist and Visiting Professor of Executive Education at Strathclyde Business School about why this is and more importantly about what we can do as individuals to avoid it
About us Alliance Trust Investments is a specialist fund management business offering a range of products and services focusing on global equities fixed income and sustainable investing with an emphasis on specialist investment solutions
Alliance Trust Savings is one of the UKrsquos leading financial services providers for private investors offering customers the information and services they need to manage their investments in a way that works for them
Risk informationInvestments can go down as well as up You may get back less than you originally invested
Alliance Trust does not give advice You need to ensure you understand the risks and commitments before investing If you are unsure you should consult a Financial Adviser before investing
Unusually for a company of our size around 70 of shares
in Alliance Trust are held by private
individuals
Nobodyrsquos perfect why we all make irrational decisions
Inflation by ageThis monthrsquos official inflation report showed that the headline rate of inflation fell from 20 to 19 Our Economic Research Team analyse this data on a monthly basis to see how inflation rates affect different age groups In February 2014 the summary highlights include
bull The over 75s and the under 30s face the highest rate of inflation in January at 21
bull The over 75s suffered the highest rate of inflation for the whole of 2013 and this trend continues into 2014 as they spend a larger share of their budgets on basic goods such as gas and electricity
bull The 65 to 74 year olds have faced the lowest rate of inflation in 11 out of the last 12 months thanks to lower inflation in food petrol and package holidays
Learn more about how inflation might affect you
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
You can also sign up for our regular email alerts to be informed when new topics are published by clicking here
Wersquove been bringing clarity to investment for over 125 years
Investing for generationsWhen it comes to investing therersquos no substitute for experience And at Alliance Trust wersquove been helping people invest since 1888 Our new Investment Focus hub is full of online information and expert opinion It aims to provide real insight to help you take control of your investments
Over the next few weeks the hub will build to cover everything from taking your first steps to diversifying worldwide Please remember that investments can go down as well as up and investors may get back less than they originally invested For valuable insight from Alliance Trust visit Investment Focus today
Introducing your free online source of information help and expert opinion
investment-focuscouk
This has been approved as a financial promotion by Alliance Trust Investments Limited for the purpose of Section 21 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 Alliance Trust Investments Limited is a subsidiary of Alliance Trust PLC and is registered in Scotland No SC330862 registered office 8 West Marketgait Dundee DD1 1QN is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority firm reference number 479764 Alliance Trust Investments gives no financial or investment advice
TAX YEAR ENDS APRIL 5TH ndash learn more about
your options now
Change the way you think about stocks reap the rewardsBy Edward Page Croft CEO Stockopediacom
I remember so clearly the day when I picked my first stock for clients Managing $2 billion (pound12 billion) in assets across 100 portfolios for high-net-wealth private investors is no easy task As I was to learn when you are green
and straight out of university itrsquos even harder The stock in question was on the Goldman
Sachs US lsquobuyrsquo list It had the potential to be hot Dotcoms were bubbling It was an internet stock in education services and cheap It seemed like it had everything but we needed to get in One day it fell out of bed Down 50 per cent on no news
Irsquod been trained to call the analyst in situations like this He reiterated his buy stance Double buy On my insistence we put almost $20 million of client money into the stock within an hour The next day it fell another 50 per cent on
bad newsThere is nothing more
painful than a loss but you never forget the first
one It immedi-ately forced me to reconsider every-thing I thought I
knew From that day on I vowed to never trust anotherrsquos opin-ion and find a better
way through the market minefieldIrsquove now spent 15 years
reassessing common
wisdom about stock selection No stone has gone unturned in the quest to understand the behav-ioural flaws that lead to poor decision making But there is one finding that crops up again and again in all the research that hurts stock market investors most We as investors are suckers for stories
A 1990rsquos study of 60000 private investor broker-age accounts by Kumar and Goetzmann found that 70 per cent of portfolios held less than four stocks
The stocks held all tended to be in the same sector highly correlated and risky Think internet stocks in the 1990s China in the 2000s or resource stocks more recently The grand theme sucks everyone in The outcome rarely dif-fers Kumar and Goetzmann showed that across these
60000 accounts the average underperformance was of the order of 4 per cent annually
This massive failing across private inves-tor portfolios is repeated in nearly every market cycle and is bound to happen again in this one Benjamin Graham the great father of value invest-ing and tutor of Warren Buffett once wrote
lsquoIn the short run the stock market is a vot-ing machine but in the long run it is a weighing machinersquo
ADVERTISING FEATURE
IN THE SHORT RUN THE STOCK MARKET IS A VOTING MACHINE BUT IN THE LONG RUN IT IS A WEIGHING MACHINEBenjamin Graham
What he meant was that while stories may drive stocks in the short run statistics drive stocks in the long run When statistics reassert them-selves it can cause huge damage to investors punting their portfolios on stories
It doesnrsquot take much to learn how basic statis-tics can guide your portfolio into winning stock selections though very few seem to understand how to do it Benjamin Graham as his life wore on gradually came to the conclusion that building portfolios according to rules-based processes was a far more appropriate methodology for the typi-cal investor
lsquoTry to buy groups of stocks that meet some sim-ple criterion for being undervalued ndash regardless of
the industry and with very little attention to the indi-vidual company It seems too good to be true but all I can tell you after 60 years of experience is it seems to stand up under any of the tests I would make uprsquo
My time is now dedi-cated to helping investors practice exactly what Benjamin Graham and many other investment luminaries have preached rules-based investing For the majority itrsquos a better process and leads to bet-ter outcomes Our work at
Stockopediacom where we crunch fundamental and technical data in order to model and track the investment processes of the great investors bears this out
Portfolios composed with stocks showing the right statistical mix of value quality and momen-tum have significantly outperformed Rules-based investing beats the market But more importantly it helps promote the emotional detachment needed to stop investors from beating themselves
Irsquoll never buy a stock on a punt or an analystrsquos tip again Perhaps neither should you
For a two week free trial and pound50 discount to Stockopedia UK Premium CLICK HERE
TANK MCM A N U F A C T U R E M O V E M E N T 1 9 0 4 M C
SINCE THE CREATION OF THE FIRST TANK WATCH IN 1917 THE TANK COLLECTION HAS CONTINUED
TO BREAK NEW GROUND THE INCREDIBLY REFINED AESTHETICS OF THE NEW TANK MC WATCH ARE FITTED
WITH THE CARTIER MANUFACTURE MOVEMENT 1904 MC ESTABLISHED IN 1847 CARTIER CREATES
EXCEPTIONAL WATCHES THAT COMBINE DARING DESIGN AND WATCHMAKING SAVOIR-FAIRE
EXPLORE AND SHOP WWWCARTIERCOUK - (020) 3147 4850
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oisseur
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Inside
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TO THE CONNOISSEUR section of Inspired a showcase for the finer things in life for those who truly appreciate them
Enjoying the fruits of your labour away from the relentless demands of our age poses its own challenges and quandaries Would a tropical idyll restore your ebbing energy levels Might a break based around hair-raising activities revive them even more effectively Perhaps reawakening a dormant passion for fine wines or luxury cars would be the most enjoyable reward for your industry
A luxury tropical holiday is probably near the top of most peoplersquos wish lists We take a look at some of the most tantalising options
The arrival of BMWrsquos new super coupe is featured on page 50 BMW aficionados and petrolheads alike are certain to be won over by its head-turning looks and mouthwatering specs
Gems come under the microscope on page 53 A rare coloured diamond can be a joy as well an appreciating asset
Wine is on the menu on page 54 where we explore the charms of Argentinian Malbec
Watches are often treasured objects and the best can turn out to be shrewd investments We look at the secondary watch market and the growth of online retailing on page 58 Enjoy
Welcome
40 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
FIVE TOP PRIVATE ISLAND RETREATSIslandFantasy
Top-rated resorts and hotels offer a variety of temptations and services to impress even the most discerning tastes but there is no better way to escape the rigours and
stresses of daily life than cutting off from the outside world while still enjoying lavish service
in the pinnacle of all resorts the private islandThere are thousands of small islands around
the world but only a few have chosen to cater to the most discriminating travellers seeking a rarified yet perfect world of quiet and relaxed luxury We look at five of the worldrsquos top private islands destinations where your holiday is certain to be an exceptional experience
TRAVEL
Necker Island is owned by Sir Richard Branson and guests stay in his home The island has become a popular des-tination for some of the worldrsquos most prominent figures as a hideaway from lifersquos stresses and strains
Because Necker Island is a resi-dence and not a resort guests who rent the island are treated as owners and catered for in a unique way
The74-acre island is fringed with beautiful white beaches and surrounded by turquoise waters and coral reefs It boasts every resort-type amenity guests can spend their days being pampered in the spa explor-ing underwater reefs in a submarine lounging by the pool bar or swimming in one of the worldrsquos most elab-orate private pools
Haute cuisine is a highlight for most guests ndash rates are fully inclusive of all food and drink A team of chefs creates bespoke menus featuring anything from lobster and caviar to a Sunday roast And because Necker is a home first and a resort second guests decide whether dining will be formal or informal inside or outside themed or traditional
The bar is stocked with international wines top-quality spirits and beers and a world renowned house champagne while special orders can be shipped in at no extra charge ndash unless an item is particularly rare Every service and amenity is available around the clock and guests are encouraged to treat Necker as their own home
As youLike it
NECKER ISLAND
42 March 2014 | inspired
Unalloyed luxury and an impressive range of amenities make Necker one of the most desirable island destinations in the world
The Jumby Bay resort which is only accessible by boat from Antigua is a Caribbean hideaway owned by Rosewood Resorts It is perfect for those seeking either relaxation or spirited adventure
You can rent the island resort entirely for your stay or simply take a room Those opt-ing for exclusive use of the island will have the resortrsquos two pools three tennis courts fitness centre croquet field and putting green to themselves
A wide range of water sports are available and guests can indulge in as much adventure or relaxation as they want during their stay The resort is ideal for large family
reunions or corporate retreats ndash 40 guest rooms and suites are available on the island
Executive chef Sylvain Hervochon celebrates gastron-omy ndash and mixology (cocktail making) ndash with casual elegance by creating Caribbean-style dishes inspired by fresh local ingredients and incorporating international influences
Jumby Bayrsquos rates start at pound150000 for four nights based on double occupancy between May and December Visit wwwrosewoodhotelscomenjumby-bay-antigua for further information
Fine BalanceCaribbean ambiance international sophistication and adventurous activities make Jumby Bay a compelling choice
JUMBY BAY
Just laze by the pool or venture beyond to dive in the turquoise waters of the South Pacific among stunning reefs and a dazzling array of marine creatures
Isle of PlentyT
he private island of Laucala in the South Pacific is a 3500-acre site in a picturesque rainforest-laced land-scape Enchanting deserted beaches nestle among coconut plantations organic farms and lush green vol-canic mountains
The resort offers an outstanding level of refined lux-ury as well as a compelling collection of sporting and cultural activities diving among iridescent marine life in the warm turquoise waters guided rainforest tours horse riding surfing and golfing on the 18-hole cham-pionship course The island is a superb choice for an escape from civilization whether you want an adven-ture in the wild or simply to relax in one of Laucalarsquos five restaurants and bars
Rates are available on request Visit wwwlaucalacom for further details
TRAVEL
LAUCALA ISLAND
inspired | March 2014 4544 March 2014 | inspired
Lush green surroundings sensitive development and beautiful beaches help Laucala island conjure up a complete South Seas experience
Isle of Plenty
inspired | March 2014 4544 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
inspired | March 2014 4746 March 2014 | inspired
Slow LaneSlow
Pulau Joyo is a seductively serene environment of pristine beaches surrounded by clear blue sea in Indonesiarsquos Riau Archipelago Accessible from Singapore or Bintan Pulau Joyo is a true castaway island offering every resort luxury
amid untouched natural beauty Pulau Joyo is famous for its remarkable sunsets and
brightly star-lit sky The resort can host 28 guests and 20 staff are on hand to cater to their every need Guests stay in open driftwood lsquopalacesrsquo that lsquoallow the sea inrsquoDespite its desert island appeal Pulau Joyo offers every modern convenience a range of adrenaline boosting activities and more relaxing options such as spa treatments and massages
The resortrsquos cuisine focuses on western and Indonesian dishes Meals are usually served buffet style and feature grilled fish squid prawns beef and chicken as well as many curry dishes Side dishes include fresh garden salads pasta salads boiled or steamed leafy greens and grilled aubergine (an island favourite) Prawn and tofu kebabs appear from time to time as does satay The chef will often provide a selection of freshly picked fruit and homemade cakes for dessert Itrsquos worth noting that the management will not serve pork or shellfish on this private island
Pulau Joyo may not be as refined as some islands but itrsquos an excellent choice for those who want a more casual laidback island experience that replicates the castaway experience like perhaps no other
Rates start at pound1913 a night More information is available at wwwpulau-joyocom
Wannabe castaways may find Pulau Joyorsquos purer simpler take on the luxury island experience more to their taste
PULAU JOYO
inspired | March 2014 4746 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
In the Fijian island paradise of Dolphin Island a small army of staff await to meet guestsrsquo every need On arriving ndash by boat helicopter or float plane ndash visitors are invariably struck by the beauty of the island and the luxuri-ous accommodation that awaits them amid 14-acres of lush tropical gardens
Three traditional palm-thatched bures individually designed by world renowned interior designer Virginia Fisher sit in an elevated position around the resortrsquos infinity pool
Guests are brought fresh tropical fish to choose each day that are cooked to perfec-
tion within hours of leaving the water The culinary focus is on
organic produce and ingredi-ents unique to Fijian cuisine but meals are tailored to guestsrsquo personal tastes Papayas man-goes bananas and pineapples
are plentiful throughout the day When it comes to recreation the
14-acre island is an expansive play-ground offering a diverse range of watersports as well as diving opportunities on Fijirsquos coral reefs
Rates start at pound720 a night More information is avail-able at wwwdolphinislandfijicom
Fijian Paean
Traditional features modern comforts and excellent facilities make for a harmonious whole on this Fijian island
DOLPHIN ISLAND
48 March 2014 | inspired
Pictured slightly larger than actual size
Big Pilotrsquos Watch Ref 5009
Your wrist never felt this big before The
case of the top model in the IWC Pilotrsquos
Watch range is a gigantic 462 mm in diashy
meter And the technology inside it is
even more impressive the largest IWCshy
manufactured automatic movement with
its Pellaton winding system is protected
against strong magnetic fields by a softshy
iron inner case And needless to say enshy
vious glances iwc engineered for men
Mechanical IWCshymanufactured movement Pellaton
automatic winding system 7shyday power reserve
with display (figure) Date display Softshyiron inner
case for protection against magnetic fields
Antireflective sapphire glass Watershyresistant 6 bar
Stainless steel
IWC Schaffhausen Switzerland iwccom The worldrsquos finest timepieces are exclusively available from selected watch specialists
For an illustrated catalogue or list of nationwide concessionaires please contact IWC UK Tel 0845 337 1868 Eshymail infoshyukiwccom
CARS
MunichLegend
50 March 2014 | inspired
BMW fanatics can open their eyes ndash the M4 has arrived
Most BMW aficionados are proba-bly pretty sad to see production of the M3 coupe ndash quite possibly the companyrsquos most noteworthy and celebrated model ndash end after almost 30 years Ever since the first wide-body E30 M3 saw the
light of day in 1985 drivers have loved the sporty coupe for its incredible balance intoxicating power and of course solid build quality
The model never got stale in all that time and always remained the poster child for the M division so itrsquos a lit-tle weird that BMW has apparently decided to axe it In truth though they havenrsquot really dropped the M3 The M3 sedan will continue to be produced in 2014 so all
is not lost Moreover BMW seems to be adopting a pat-tern of giving its sedans odd-numbered titles only and its coupes even-numbered titles only so the 4-Series and especially the M4 concept that debuted at Pebble Beach Monterey California will fill the gap left by the M3 Many people have been awaiting the new super coupe with great expectancy but can it fill in for the M3
The journalists who swarmed over the M4 concept at Pebble Beach were obviously much more interested in it than the somewhat predictable 428i that was also there Finished in an eye-catching colour called Aurum Dust (which actually looks a lot like the old M3rsquos Phoenix Yellow colour) the car presented in California may be a concept but typically BMW M cars donrsquot change much before they finally hit the showroom
MunichLegend
inspired | March 2014 51
CARS
52 March 2014 | inspired
From front to back the bodywork is manifestly differ-ent and much more aggressive looking than a standard 4-Series car It really looks to pretty much pick up where the E92E93 M3 coupe left off especially with its undeniably cool domed hood Wide wheel arches big wheels wrapped in low-profile tyres more than enough M badges and a well-executed double-bubble roof make the already underwhelming existing 4-Series coupe look even more pedestrian
Power for the new M4 is likely to come from a three-litre twin-turbo straight-six engine While the horsepower probably wonrsquot differ much from the M3rsquos old 4-litre V-8 it will generate more than 100lbft more in torque almost 400 in total With the M4 being a lighter 3300lb in weight the M4 promises to be an excit-ing worthy car A proper six-speed manual may be in the mix alongside the now obligatory dual clutch and paddles option
The best way to look at the M4 however it ends up is not as a new car but as a new and improved M3 thatrsquos just getting a new name The decision to rename the coupe is a strange one but thankfully BMW apparently felt the 3-Series coupe had made such an identity for itself that a new model was needed albeit in a slightly different incarnation
With BMW embarking on some new-ageish ideas such as its 1-Series ActiveE and the soon-to-arrive lsquoirsquo range of cars itrsquos nice to see the company also stick to classics such as the heart-stopping sports coupe even if the latest model does come with a new name
Seductive curves and racier performance make the BMW M4 a more than acceptable replacement for the M3 super coupe
SparklingForm Coloured diamonds are making their mark
One of the main factors that deter-mines the value of what we ordinarily think of as diamonds is their purity the degree to which col-our is absent in the gem However with coloured diamonds the extent to which they are saturated with
colour is a principal determinant of their valueColoured diamonds come in 12 basic colours more
than 90 secondary hues and nine intensity levels The depth of their colour is what really differentiates these diamonds from their colourless counterparts
Natural coloured diamonds are 10000 times rarer than typical colourless diamonds one of several rea-sons why they are treasured by the rich and famous yet remain unknown to most other people ndash despite hav-ing been around for centuries
Of course some colours are rarer than others Red violet and purple stones are as rare as the proverbial hensrsquo teeth while green and blue are also rare The most popular colours are pink and yellow (or canary) They also come in white grey orange black and lsquochame-leonrsquo form
A pinkie ring encrusted with a large coloured dia-mond has become a status symbol for men in Asia That little stone is an unregistered asset that could quickly be sold for millions of dollars should the need arise
Coloured diamonds are durable and never lose their sparkle or lustre so they are assets that can be enjoyed every day unlike stocks or bonds And they have proved to be fantastic investments having steadily appreciated in price with relatively little volatility for more than a decade They even held their own during the most recent financial crisis
Coloured diamonds are auctioned by reputable
auction houses such a Sothebyrsquos and Christiersquos where prices for large unique pink red blue or yellow stones can reach in excess of $2 million (pound12 million) a carat and other stones regularly sell for $1 million a carat
They are often bought by high-net-worth individu-als as an insurance policy Instead of stashing cash in undeclared bank accounts and potentially incurring the wrath of the authorities the wealthy can purchase some loose yellow diamonds to secure their future
Clearly coloured diamonds are much more than a magnificent indulgence
GEMS
inspired | March 2014 53PB March 2014 | inspired
WINE
Make the most of the deeply
satisfying Malbec wines emerging from Argentina
and perhaps even enjoy a return on a shrewd
investment says Ewan Lacey
Finding a red wine to enjoy in spring is a delicate balancing act The shock of seeing sunlight after a dark winter fosters in us a desire to drink some-thing refreshing while the still-cool temperatures demand something with comforting depth
Increasingly Malbec wines particularly those from Argentina provide a perfect solution to this quandary And while there are plenty of delicious wines for infor-mal occasions what is most interesting is the emergence of finer Malbec wines Some are so good they may well have ageing potential raising the intriguing possibility that the wine may one day become collectable
Malbec is the most popular wine among those aged 25-34 and is now becoming a fixture on most restaurant wine lists There are several reasons for its success the word Malbec is easy to pronounce the wine goes well with red meat the Malbec grape can be turned into wines that are both relatively easy to drink and packed with flavour and decent wines are available at reason-able prices Malbec is deep fruity and charming and it delivers instant pleasure ndash claret on a motorbike
The Malbec grape originated in France and it remains one of the permitted varieties used to make Bordeaux However it has gained prominence through the work of the post-junta Argentine wine industry
I recently had the pleasure of tasting some very fine Malbecs with Laura Catena managing director at the Catena Zapata winery and president of the International Wine and Spirit Competition She opened my
Mendoza Marvels
inspired | March 2014 55
WINE
eyes to the potential of this grape variety when handled with care
Laurarsquos family business makes a range of wines but the wine that truly astonished me was the Nicasia Vineyard Malbec 2006 The wine is perfumed with floral and fruit notes and it is smooth and soft at first Like all great wines it has many layers of flavour warm bursts of cherry and black-currant cede centre stage to deeper darker caramel and mocha notes and a touch of spice Therersquos an amazing depth of flavour and the finish is long and lingering Whatrsquos more at nearly eight years old it still has a slight purple tinge and tastes extremely fresh There is every indication that it will age beautifully for at least another decade
The winersquos character is heavily influenced by the alti-tude the grapes used to make it are grown at (1180m
above sea level) At this elevation the grapes ripen in bright sun but lsquorelaxrsquo during the cool evenings The fact that the wine is made in tiny quantities (eight barrels only) means every care can be taken during the winemak-ing process to ensure the wine is allowed to show its grown-up side The cost per bot-tle of pound70 is not insubstantial but neither is the wine
We cannot know whether these wines will ever become investments in the way the wines of Bordeaux have Whatrsquos cer-tain is that Malbec wines have a very rare quality a balance of finesse and power that
can delight wine lovers and linger in their memories
Ewan Lacey is a leading wine expert and general manager of the International Wine and Spirit Competition He has appeared on BBC television and radio as well as Channel 4 and written for the national press
Laura Catena is managing director at the Catena Zapata winery (above)
THE INTERNATIONAL WINE AND SPIRIT COMPETITIONThe International Wine and Spirit Competition has been the premier drinks competition in the world for 45 years Each year it receives and reviews thousands of wines and spirits and presents qual-ity awards to producers
More than anything the IWSC exists to help
people make better deci-sions particularly when buying wines and spirits An IWSC award on a bot-tle of wine is a guarantee
of quality backed not only by a rigorous and strin-gent judging process but also by the skill of the judges who are drawn from the ranks of masters of wine master distill-ers industry leaders and commentators
Each year the IWSC honours a leading figure
in the drinks industry with the presidency of the competition The current president is Laura Catena who succeeds a nota-ble line of predecessors including Prince Robert of Luxembourg winemakers Piero Antinori and Warren Winiarski and Baroness Philippine de Rothschild
56 March 2014 | inspired
LUXURY WATCHES
Time is preciousA
t a recent watch auc-tion in Geneva at Antiquorum ndash the worldrsquos premiere auc-tion house for modern and vintage time pieces ndash a Patek Philippe
pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon watch emerged as the auctionrsquos top lot and sold for 12 million Swiss francs (pound807000)
Unlike most of the timepieces sold at auctions outside Asia this particular Patek watch ndash the most complicated wristwatch the Swiss watchmaker has ever produced ndash was not a vintage model
That Geneva auction raised intriguing
1284Clocks with weights gears and regulators start to appear mostly with no dial to strike the important moments of daily life
Around 1410The mainspring is devel-oped Combined with the fusee this innovation makes possible the truly portable domestic clock
1492The mechanical watch appears simultaneously in Italy Germany and France
1675Christian Huygens invents the spiral balance spring
for watches significantly improving their accuracy
1704The first watch with jew-els is produced by French watchmaker de Beaufreacute
1714The British parliament offers pound20000 to who-ever can a find a method to determine longitude
1766Parliament publishes the rating results for John Harrisonrsquos H4 marine timekeeper Harrisonrsquos highly accurate marine clock solution to the problem of determining logitude wins him part of the pound20000 prize
1787Pierre-Freacutedeacuteric Ingold is born an important pio-neer in mechanised timepiece production and the use of interchangea-ble parts
1790Jacquet-Droz and Leschot manufactures a watch attached to a strap
1839Vacheron amp Constantin developes a full set of machine tools for manu-facturing its watches
1875Calcium sulphate is the first luminescent sub-stance to be used for numerals and hands
TIMEKEEPING MILESTONES
questions Are modern luxury timepieces every bit as appealing as the vintage watches that typically command top prices at auc-tion And does that Geneva auction tell us anything about the contemporary watch market as a whole
Julien Schaerer Antiquorumrsquos managing director in Geneva says top-quality vintage watches often appreciate in value over the long term But he urges buyers for whom appreciation is an important consideration to be cautious about purchasing contempo-rary watches
lsquoWatch price depreciation is the cost of ownership just as it is with a luxury carrsquo he says lsquoIf the value goes up then
58 March 2014 | inspired
1880The first water- resistant watch incorpo-rating a screwed case is produced by Genevan watchmaker Franccedilois Borgel
1889The first known patent for a wristwatch is filed in Bern Switzerland
1890Dialmaker A Beyeler invents a transfer press for applying numerals and letters to dials
1892Auguste Verneuil in France produces the first synthetic jewels to be used in watchmaking
1904Wens Wilsdorf launches large-scale production of a womenrsquos wristwatch
1924John Harwood files the
first Swiss patent for a self-winding wristwatch with a central oscillating weight
1925The first known wrist-watch with a perpetual calendar is manufactured using a pendant watch movement
1926Rolex creates the Oyster wristwatch with a water-resistant case and crown
1966The first quartz wrist-watch prototype is produced
1969The first quartz watch
with an LED display appears
1978Quartz watches overtake mechanical watches in popularity
2005Creation of the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie Seiko launches the spring drive Kinetic the first self-winding mechanical watch with an electro-magnetic escapement
A Patek Philippe pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon recently sold for pound807000
inspired | March 2014 59
online retailers from the comfort of your homeSince 2006 DM London has quietly estab-
lished a powerful presence for itself in the UK retail watch market with the acquisition of The Watch Hut and The Watch Gallery DM London chairman David Coleridge says the company has capitalised on the increasing willingness of buy-ers to purchase online
lsquoHaving decided that they would like to buy a watch for themselves or someone elsersquo he says lsquopeople start to do their research More often than not this starts online nowadays where they com-pare brands performance and functions
lsquoAs trust in the online marketplace has devel-oped many want to buy online because it is convenient and saves time Shopping online becomes a habit established sites build trust and awareness with customers which gives custom-ers the confidence to buy more expensive itemsrsquo
He adds lsquoOur challenge is to make the online environment as attractive informative and enjoy-able as a high street store Then customers will decide to spend onlinersquo
Coleridge believes a multi-channel approach is the way forward for retailers He says lsquoWithout doubt the future is multi-channel selling ndash a combination of direct selling on the internet and various forms of click and collect ndash combined with beautiful stores on the high street
Over the past few years demand for luxury watches (particularly contemporary models) has spiked sharply in Asia and according to some specialists emerging affluence in the
of course thatrsquos an added benefit However he adds lsquoPrice appreciation is still quite rare with modern watches There is some poten-tial for appreciation but probably only with ultra-limited editions A purchase has to be
seen as a medium- to long-term invest-ment One should buy a timepiece first out of love for the brand or [the watchrsquos] complicationrsquo
The watch brands that offer the greatest assurance of appreci-
ation include Cartier Patek Philippe Rolex Audemars
Piguet A Lange amp Sohne Breguet and Vacheron Constantin All enjoy views from the top of
the watchmaking hierarchy thanks to their longstand-ing histories and well-established brand identities
Relative new-comers to the industry such as Richard Mille and Roger Dubuis have carved out a niche for
themselves with their revolutionary designs and
space-age technologies but it remains to be seen just how well the values of their timepieces will stand up on the secondary market
According to Nathaniel Borgelt a specialist at auction house Sothebyrsquos
some modern watches have already achieved good prices at auction but these (like the Patek Philippe Sky Moon Tourbillon) were highly exclusive models when new
lsquoSome limited edition pieces currently fetch incredible prices at auctionrsquo he says lsquoAnd there is a select group of modern mod-els that could compete with a certain sector of the vintage market based on their brand innovative features such as materials or com-plications and avant-garde designs
Buying these has now become a whole lot easier The luxury watch retailing land-scape is changing and the traditional pattern of physically walking into a luxury salon to buy a watch is gradually being replaced by a trend towards visiting the websites of the big
LUXURY WATCHES
A Lange amp Sohne (above) is a long-standing high-end watchmaker Comparative new-comer Roger Dubuis (right) is forging a strong reputation
inspired | March 2014 PB60 March 2014 | inspired
helpthewatchgallerycom
Hublot ClassiC FusiontHe WatCH Gallery exClusive
The Watch Gallery and Hublot have joined forces to create two very special limited edition watches Both are limited to just 15 pieces worldwide and have been specifically designed to feature The Watch Gallery blue brand colour on the hands and tinted open case back
SelfridgeS OxfOrd StreetWeStfield lOndOnMancheSter exchange Square
wwwthewatchgallerycomhublot-watches
Far East has kept global values strong while other markets around the world continue to recover from recession
Despite the market boost from growing prosperity in Asia there are signs that the market is becoming saturated and that globally the new watch market isnrsquot as robust as some commentators suggest
It may still be a good time to buy but its important to know what you want and what yoursquore buying Modern watchmakers such as Richard Mille Roger Dubuis and Greubel Forsey are producing beautiful timepieces but because of their limited foothold in the market itrsquos difficult to predict their long-term success and desirability They donrsquot yet have the brand power that might ensure the value of their
watches in the secondhand market remains highSuch producers might one day stand eye to
eye with the most desirable brands such as Patek Philippe and Rolex but achieving that kind of parity wonrsquot be easy Collectors looking to invest in timepieces are advised to keep an open mind about modern producers uncertainty is the one aspect of modern luxury watch market most experts tend to agree on
That said the buoyancy in the watch market suggests that plenty of buyers are unconcerned about future values For them itrsquos all about the appreciation of the watch itself People buy watches because they bring them pleasure ndash and say some-thing about who they are
LUXURY WATCHES
Contemporary watches such as those made by Hublot (left) have yet to show they will have the lasting appeal of watches such as Cartierrsquos Rotonde de Cartier Astrocalendaire (right)
inspired | March 2014 63
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-
hen new rules were introduced last August allowing the inclusion of Alternative Investment Market (Aim) shares in Isas demand for exposure to the junior market
quickly exceeded expectations Another surge in demand is likely in April as the new tax year dawns and investors have a fresh annual allow-ance to play with
Yet while stocks on Aim can boast eye-catching returns and attractive tax perks they can also be very volatile raising concerns that investors may be letting the tax tail wag the investment dog with-out understanding what they are getting into
The Treasuryrsquos decision to allow Aim shares into Isas was driven by a desire to encourage greater investment in small and medium-sized companies The move was immediately popular with investors and brokers reported a sharp rise in Aim-listed purchases Demand for smaller companies funds was up too as investors wary of direct share ownership
bought into funds offering exposure to Aim stocksIt helped that Aim stocks were enjoying a good
run as were smaller companies generally with the amount of money raised on the market over the summer rising sharply Performance is just one aspect of their appeal however
Aim shares already offered inheritance tax effi-ciency most of them qualify for business property relief making them exempt from IHT when held for two years or more However itrsquos worth noting that BPR is subject to change and a company can lose its eligibility and therefore its IHT relief status as a result Therefore investors wanting to continue benefiting from IHT relief have to switch out of such companies and into those still eligible
Wider income and capital gains tax benefits also drove some demand for Aim shares after the
Isa rule change in August The move created a bed- and-Isa opportunity whereby existing Aim share inves-tors sold their holdings and bought them back within an Isa
Among those quick
Alternative Investment Market stocks offer Isa investors a chance to realise heady returns ndash but you need to pick your holdings carefully because of the high risk of losses in an illiquid market says Jeff Salway
AIMSHARES
W
GEMSTO BE UNEARTHED
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
WE WOULD ONLY INCLUDE AIM STOCKS
IN THE PORTFOLIOS OF ADVENTUROUS CLIENTS David Thomson
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
inspired | March 2014 17
THERE ARE
Treatt has built up an immaculate record of delivering profits
to take advantage was Lord Lee of Trafford the UKrsquos first Isa millionaire and author of How to Make a Million ndash Slowly My Guiding Principles from a Lifetime of Successful Investing lsquoI have a
big holding of Christie Group that was originally in my per-sonal equity planrsquo he says lsquoWhen the company moved to Aim [from the main market] I took it out of the Pep but when Aim shares became Isa-eligible I sold it and bought it back again within my Isarsquo
April 2014 will mark the removal of stamp duty from Aim purchases a develop-ment expected to encourage asset managers to launch a new wave of Aim-focused funds The axing of stamp duty makes the junior market more appeal-ing to companies on the main market as well with several recently moving across
Alec Stewart partner at Anderson Strathern Asset Management explains lsquoA company can reduce its regulatory burden by moving to the junior market with lower audit and compliance requirementsrsquo For example the main market
stipulates that any potential listing should have a market capitalisation no lower than pound700000 whereas therersquos no such guideline on the Aim mar-ket Nor do companies need a trading history to list on Aim compared with the three years required for the main market Moreover the cost of listing on Aim is considerably lower
But for many private investors the main appeal of Aim stocks lies largely in the prospect of sky-high returns from the success of small and fledgling companies There are some 1200 stocks on the market from a wide range of sectors ndash albeit with a heavy weighting in technology and especially natural resources and with a gulf in size between the biggest and smallest
The largest are eligible for the FTSE AIM 50 and the FTSE AIM 100 where the likes of Bowleven Majestic Wine Dobbies Asos and MampC Saatchi are listed
Stewart picks out three he favours as part of a diversified portfolio One is Dart Group The owner of Jet2com and Jet2Holidays Dart has had a lsquostrong runrsquo and is focused on becoming more fam-ily friendly in these budget-conscious times says Stewart lsquoIt benefits from good visibility of future bookings and strong cash generationrsquo he adds
Aerospace and defence firm Cohort is another with a lsquoprogressive dividend policyrsquo that has grown at an annualised rate of 20 per cent over
DEWHURST (pound520)Dewhurst is a well-established manu-facturer of lift pushbuttons indicators and controls keypads for ATMs security devices and petrol pumps and traffic management products such as bollards
The company has a long record of profitability under the stewardship of the Dewhurst family and a debt-free balance sheet That suggests it is a strong competitor
Profits fell in 2013 ndash a result of a slowdown in Dewhurstrsquos major markets and customers having stocked up in the previous year Management is quite cagey about the companyrsquos prospects for 2014 but an improved performance is likely as conditions in the UK and the US improve The shares are probably good value at 11 times adjusted 2013 earnings
MS INTERNATIONAL (pound204)MS International manufactures military hardware forks for forklift trucks and petrol station canopies and car washes
The company has been profitable in each of the past 10 years and has a balance sheet flush with cash yet the share price has fallen to a level that val-ues MSI at five times adjusted 2013
earnings MSIrsquos current unpopularity stems from a decline in the profitability of MSI Defence Systems which has the highest turnover of its three businesses
The company expects 2014 to be no easier than 2013 due to continu-ing pressure on defence spending but itrsquos confident it will add to defence work already contracted and scheduled for every year until 2020
Itrsquos quite possible that MSI is having a lull that does not reflect on the qual-ity of its products or businesses If thatrsquos the case itrsquos a bargain
TREATT (pound747)Treatt distills flavourings and frag-rances essential oils and water-soluble essences Its products are used in drinks confectionery sauces and cosmetics worldwide
The companyrsquos expertise and close customer relationships might give it a competitive advantage and it has never suffered a loss However it has ushered out managing director Hugo Bovill and his family has sold its interest
Management with large share-holdings gives companies some independence from the often short-term imperatives of fund managers
However the new team is focused on controlling costs and developing the most profitable products
Profit grew 28 per cent in 2013 and Treattrsquos long-term prospects are prob-ably good but the share price has spiked valuing the shares at 15 times adjusted 2013 earnings
FW THORPE (pound143)FW Thorpe designs and manufactures light fittings known as luminaires They are becoming increasingly complex with the introduction of LED technology that requires printed circuit boards Its main business is Thorlux which supplies lighting to schools hospitals ware-houses and factories Other subsidiaries supply retailers emergency exit signage and cleanroom lighting
Stable family ownership long indus-try experience and a commitment to modernisation and investment are the keys to Thorpersquos prosperity
Although it has to contend with the additional investment required to produce LED lighting Thorpe is manag-ing the transition well The shares cost pound137 which values the company at about 15 times adjusted 2013 earnings Thatrsquos a fair price for a quality company
Richard Beddard picks out four Aim-listed companies worth considering for inclusion in a diversified Isa share portfolio
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
I TRANSFERRED INTO MY ISA A BIG
HOLDING OF CHRISTIE GROUP THAT USEDTO BE IN MY PEPLord Lee of Trafford
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
AIMSHARES
18 March 2014 | inspired
the past three years he adds Among food pro-ducers he likes Wynnstay It has lsquobenefited from strong revenue and pre-tax profitsrsquo increasing its interim dividend by 9 per cent
But therersquos ample cause for caution too because Aim shares are typically far riskier than those listed on the main market Not only is there the vol-atility inherent in shares issued by smaller firms but there remains the potential for liquidity issues even after the surge of money into the market in recent months Haig Bathgate chief investment officer at Turcan Connell says lsquoThey are by impli-cation of their size much less liquid in terms of the shares that trade hands on a daily basis so they are prone to more extreme price movementsrsquo
UK investors may also be averse to Aim stocks that are effectively overseas companies Indeed many Aim fund portfolios specifically exclude both these and natural resources firms as well as stocks that donrsquot offer business property relief
lsquoSignificant numbers of companies have failed to deliver on expectations in this part of the mar-ket and it is also quite heavily weighted towards technology (12 per cent) resources (9 per cent) and oil and gas companies (22 per cent)rsquo says Bathgate There are transparency concerns too due to the less stringent regulatory and company reporting requirements on the Aim market
lsquoWe would only include Aim stocks within the
portfolios of adventurous clients and then only up to a maximum of 10 per centrsquo says David Thomson chief investment officer at VWM Wealth lsquoEven then the bulk of this is likely to be via a venture capital trust where the investor can also enjoy 30 per cent income tax relief providing a further cushion against the volatility of Aim sharesrsquo
Collective investment funds and trusts offer a way into Aim stocks that provides useful diversification and so reduces the risk of heavy losses Investment trusts can offer particular advantages where Aim-listed shares are concerned as their closed-ended status gives them a hedge against the market liquidity issues that can affect Aim stocks Among the growing number of UK smaller companies investment trusts in which Aim shares are prominent are those run by BlackRock Standard Life and Aberforth Unit trusts invest-ing in Aim companies include the LampG UK Alpha Trust and Cazenove UK Smaller Companies
However there is a downside to access-ing Aim through funds and trusts as investors no longer benefit from the IHT-free status that direct holders of Aim stocks enjoy The risk of hefty losses remains the biggest caveat to investing in Aim
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
AIMSHARESAREMUCHLESS
LIQUIDINTERMSOFTHESHARESTHATTRADEHANDSDAILYHaig Bathgate
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
inspired | March 2014 19
Clockwise from top Cohort Wynnstay and Jet2com are Stewartrsquos picks for a diversified portfolio
rewarding such as smaller companies private equity and emerging markets
Trusts can also increase their assets by borrow-ing So long as this gearing is sensibly priced it should accelerate the trustrsquos gains in positive mar-ket conditions However gearing will exacerbate losses in any downturn The possible closing of the discount will also enhance share price returns
SOLID GROWTHBaillie Gifford Global DiscoveryThis fund picked by independent financial adviser Brian Dennehy invests globally in growth stocks especially companies operating in industries with potential for structural change and innova-tion Dennehy says manager Douglas Brodie has had considerable experience and success in iden-tifying growth opportunities particularly among exciting smaller-cap stocks
CF Lindsell Train UK EquityJohn Husselbee head of multi-asset at Liontrust Asset Management prefers investors to traders Renowned investor Warren Buffett takes a similar view and Husselbee says fund manager Nick Train invests like Buffett Train looks to buy great com-panies such as Burberry Heineken and Unilever when they are good value and hold them lsquoforeverrsquo
Cazenove UK Opportunities This fund aims to achieve long-term capital growth from a focused portfolio of large and medium-sized UK companies Gavin Haynes managing
huge variety of investment funds rang-ing from generalist funds to highly specialised versions aim to generate capital growth for investors
Investing in a specific fund entails investors accepting different degrees of risk in return for a range of potential rewards So when we asked financial advisers to predict which funds offer the best prospects for growth in 2014 we also urged them to consider which types of investor the funds would suit best
Solid growth funds will appeal to investors who prefer steady investment while higher-risk growth funds are likely to be more volatile and appeal to those with a higher risk tolerance Speculative funds could produce handsome returns this year but they could also dip sharply in value
Closed-ended status means investment trusts can invest in less liquid asset classes without having to worry about realising their holdings in a market setback This enables them to invest in areas that have historically proved particularly
A
Helen Pridham and Fiona Hamilton have rounded up a collection of investment funds and trusts experts believe will prosper in the year ahead for investors looking to cash in on an improving economic outlook
PERFECT YOUR FUND PORTFOLIOTO SEE IT
GROW
inspired | March 2014 2120 March 2014 | inspired
FUNDSAND
TRUSTS
GROW
inspired | March 2014 2120 March 2014 | inspired
A
RE Y
OU
A
GLO
BAL
INV
ESTO
R Take a global view of investment trusts expertly managed by Henderson
For over 75 years Henderson Global Investors has been at the forefront of investment trust innovation and development Now with a diverse and established range of managed investment trusts and investment companies Henderson has a global view of the market
Whether you are retirement planning investing for your children looking to take advantage of dynamic global markets or want a cautious investment approach our managed companies offer a wide range of investment objectives and strategies professionally managed by regional experts
If your priority is high income long term capital growth or a mixture of both Henderson Global Investors has a range of solutions which aims to meet your investment needs
Please remember that past performance is not a guide to future performance The value of an investment and the income from it can fall as well as rise as a result of market and currency fluctuations and you may not get back the amount originally invested
Call to receive your Investment Trust brochure or visit wwwhendersoninvestmenttrustscom
0800 856 5656
Investment Trusts managed by Henderson
Issued in the UK by Henderson Global Investors Henderson Global Investors is the name under which Henderson Global Investors Limited (reg no 906355) Henderson Fund Management Limited (reg no 2607112) Henderson Investment Funds Limited (reg no 2678531) Henderson Investment Management Limited (reg no 1795354) Henderson Alternative Investment Advisor Limited (reg no 962757) Henderson Equity Partners Limited (reg no2606646) Gartmore Investment Limited (reg no 1508030) (each incorporated and registered in England and Wales with registered office at 201 Bishopsgate London EC2M 3AE) are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority to provide investment products and services Telephone calls may be recorded and monitored H0046521113ad
Itrsquos a global marketplace
HGiTrusts
director at Whitechurch Securities says fund manager Julie Dean has built up an excellent track record
Securities Trust of ScotlandRobin McAdam likes Securities Trust of Scotland which seeks rising income and long-term capi-tal growth from global equities The trust yields 33 per cent so it provides income and growth potential lsquoThe trust has outperformed its bench-mark recently and we expect this to continuersquo says McAdam
Finsbury Growth amp Income TrustPeter Hewitt nominates Finsbury Growth amp Income Trust on the basis of its strong short- and long-term performance Manager Nick Train seeks out the highest-quality companies to hold long term The portfolio is dominated by companies Train expects to have longevity such as Diageo Unilever and Heineken lsquoThe manager looks for strong cash gen-eration and dividend growth which he believes are undervalued by the stock marketrsquo Hewitt says
RIT Capital PartnersThis multi-asset trust selected by John Newlands is the flagship financial vehicle for its chairman Lord Jacob Rothschild and his family lsquoGiven the uncertainty in the world it is no bad thing to be diversified both globally and across a range of asset classes RIT is a global growth trust that offers a combination of these benefitsrsquo Newlands says
His enthusiasm is bolstered by RITrsquos current relatively wide discount which reflects disap-pointment among investors that it was rather too cautious over the past two or three years
Perpetual Income amp Growth Trust This trust is classified as a member of the AIC UK growth and income sector but its yield tends to be below the sector average because manager Mark Barnett is more interested in income growth than immediate income Tim Cockerill classifies it as a total return trust and makes it his solid growth choice Barnett has secured excellent long-term returns dur-ing his 15 years at the helm
HIGHER-RISK GROWTHLazard Emerging MarketsMick Gilligan believes the investment case for emerging market equi-ties remains strong He says lsquoEquity markets in emerging regions are trading at their widest price-to-earnings discount to developed markets since 2006 We believe many well-capitalised businesses that have shown strong financial discipline should gener-ate good profitsrsquo The Lazard Emerging Markets fund focuses on such businesses
Rathbone Global OpportunitiesThis go-almost-anywhere bottom-up thorough stockpicking fund looks for undiscovered gems Rob Burdett fund manager at Thames River believes manager James Thomson strikes the
KEY FACTS ABOUT GROWTH FUND TIPS
Mininv pound
Ongoing Charges
1-yearreturn
Sectorrank
SOLID GROWTHBaillie Gifford Global Discovery 1000 086 5920 2248CF Lindsell Train UK Equity ndash 080 2910 53271Cazenove UK Opportunities 1000 082 3210 40271 HIGHER-RISK GROWTHInvestec Global Energy 1000 087 1420 40206Lazard Emerging Markets 2000 161 320 1668Rathbone Global Opportunities 1000 082 2150 111248 SPECULATIVE GROWTHAllianz BRIC Stars 500 122 -120 134206Liontrust Special Situations 1000 114 1450 251271MampG Recovery 500 096 1330 264271Note Ongoing charges figure refers to the least expensive retail share class Source Financial Express and companies websites as at 3 December 2013
KEY FACTS ABOUT THE TRUSTS TIPPED FOR GROWTH
Shareprice
p
Discprem to NAV
Netyield
Gearing
Net asset valuetotal return after
1 year
3 years
5 years
SOLID GROWTHFinsbury Growth amp Income 5010 (+) 12 21 50 305 767 2038Perpetual Income amp Growth 3686 10 32 120 346 714 1407RIT Capital Partners 12480 105 11 50 210 225 591Securities Trust of Scotland 1469 (+) 31 32 40 192 460 1132 HIGHER-RISK GROWTHBiotech Growth Trust 4335 72 00 70 582 1723 2968Fidelity Chinese Special Sits 1062 65 09 210 433 02 ndashGraphite Enterprise Trust 5690 170 09 -90 167 442 405Schroder Asia Pacific 2730 92 14 -20 08 201 1779 SPECULATIVE GROWTHBaker Steel Resources 470 331 00 10 -57 -137 740Hansa Trust A 8600 243 23 10 142 69 947Impax Environmental Markets 1463 112 06 -20 350 285 921Standard Life Eq Inc subscription 1070 ndash 00 3700 ndash ndash ndashNotes NAV = net asset value Annualised All data as at 1 December Source Numis Securities
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
MARK BARNETT HAS SECURED
EXCELLENT RETURNSTim Cockerill
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
inspired | March 2014 23PB March 2014 | inspired
FUNDSANDTRUSTS
right balance between taking calculated risks for high returns and investing in defensive holdings Burdett says lsquoHe likes companies undertaking gentle innovation ndash moving online for example ndash rather than game changers which have more potential to go wrongrsquo Investec Global EnergyThis fund invests in companies that produce energy and provide services to the energy sector Fund managers Tom Nelson and Charles Whall believe the consensus view on future oil prices anticipates weak demand and growing supply from US shale oil But they demur as does Tony Yarrow at Wise Investment He says lsquoOil is harder to extract from shale than gas is while demand for oil is growing as economies recover A higher oil price feeds straight through to the companiesrsquo profitsrsquo
Biotech Growth TrustPeter Hewitt favours Biotech Growth Trust which has achieved scorching gains recently ndash up 172 per cent over three years to 1 December 2013
It is managed in New York by Orbimed a specialist healthcare and biotechnology investor with $7 bil-lion (pound42 billion) under management It offers exposure to a mix of large and profitable biotech companies along-side emerging businesses Most of its holdings are US-based and they have
benefited from a much more positive approach by the Federal Drug Authority ndash new drug approvals in 2010 were the highest for 10 years
Graphite Enterprise TrustAndrew McHattie contends that just one sector offers great value private equity lsquoThese trusts were hammered in the credit crisis and discounts widened to extreme levelsrsquo he says
His selection is Graphite Enterprise Trust Its discount to net asset value remains at a level that rings alarm bells in most other sectors but it has a strong track record and a relatively mature port-folio of shares he expects to rise in value
Fidelity Chinese Special SituationslsquoWith Chinese equities looking cheap the long-term outlook for investing in China is positiversquo Cockerill says lsquoThis fund invests in medium and small caps where high growth can be achieved New manager Dale Nicholls is well qualified and the combination of Fidelity manager experience and China is compelling in the long termrsquo
Scottish Oriental Smaller Companies Trust This trust is favoured by McAdam The invest-ment team identifies quality companies offering sustainable predictable growth lsquoThe trust may underperform if the market rises strongly but the teamrsquos enviable track record and experience should be respectedrsquo he says
Tim Cockerill is investment director at Rowan Dartington
RowanDartingtonhas20investmentadvisersbasedinsevenofficesacrossthesouthofEnglandIthaspound900millionunderman-
agementInvestmenttrustshavefeaturedinitsdiscretionaryandadvisoryportfoliosformanyyears
Peter Hewittis a member of FampC Asset Managementrsquos global equities team
HehasmanagedtheFampCManagedPortfolioTrustsinceApril2008aswellasitsforerunnerFampCManagedPortfolio
Servicesince2002HewasheadofUKequitiesatMurray
Johnstonefrom1981to1983beforejoiningIvoryampSime
Jean Mattersonis a partner and chief investment officer at Rossie House Investment Management
Shejoinedthefirmin1998after20yearswithassetmanagerStewartIvory
BasedinEdinburghsheisoneoffiveinvestment
professionalsmanagingaroundpound300mil-lionallonadiscretionarybasisAroundhalfisininvestmenttrusts
Robin McAdamjoined Brooks MacDonald Asset Management in 2009 from Adam amp Company Investment Management
Hehas24yearsrsquoexperi-encemanagingprivateclientportfoliosandheadsBMrsquosEdinburghbranch
Thefirmhaspound537billionunderdiscretionarymanagementinbespokeandmanagedportfolios
Andrew McHattieis head of The McHattie Group
McHattieGroupisanauthorisedfirmthatpublishesspecialistinvestmentnewsletters
McHattiehasbeentheeditorofInvestmentTrustNewslettersince1996(wwwtipsheetscouk)andoffersafreeservicecalledthelsquoitlistrsquo(wwwtheitlistcouk)ThecompanyhasaFacebookpage(wwwfacebookcominvestmenttrusts)
John Newlandsis responsible for investment trust research at Brewin Dolphin
Heissupportedbyfouranalystswhocoverspecificsectorsresearchingopen-andclosed-endedfunds
BrewinDolphinhas35officesaroundtheUKandChannelIslandsandmanagespound28billionofwhichpound39billionisininvestmenttrusts
TrusttipstersOursixexpertsrevealtheirtopfundpicks
inspired | March 2014 PB24 March 2014 | inspired
FUNDSAND
TRUSTS
One in twelve goes free on your next golf break plus every golfer receives a free pint
12thmansagimme
Book online at MarriottGolfcouk
Offer is only valid on residential golf bookings booked during the promotional dates For every 11 players booked the 12th player will be free of charge Rates are per person per night based on 2 people sharing a twindouble room and include dinner bed amp breakfast Bookings must be made by one named player and separate bookings will not qualify Each residential player aged 18 and over will receive a voucher entitling them to a complimentary pint
of Beckrsquos or Boddingtons Offer is valid on bookings made via 3rd parties Offer is available on 1 night 2 rounds or 2 night 3 rounds and excludes Sunday Driver Maximum of 2 night stay and 2 people per room Day of week availability may vary based on location Limited number of rooms may be available This offer applies to new bookings only at Marriott Hotel amp Country Clubs and offer courses and tee times are subject to availability Offer cannot
be used in conjunction with any other promotion Course terms and conditions apply Advance reservations required Book between 17th February and 29th June 2014 for stays between 4th April and 29th September 2014
The SIPP thatrsquos
fair and square
We believe in straightforward investing Thatrsquos why we donrsquot nibble at your SIPP with percentage fees For just pound144 per year you can open a SIPP and add an ISA for free After that itrsquos just pound10 to buy or sell a wide range of investments including shares funds bonds and gilts Open an account today and if you transfer your existing SIPP wersquoll give you up to pound240 as a thank you (terms apply) We believe thatrsquos fair and square
The value of investments and any income from them can fall as well as rise so you could get back less than you invest Tax treatment depends on your individual circumstances and may be subject to change If in any doubt please seek advice
iiicouksipp
Interactive Investor Trading Limited trading as ldquoInteractive Investorrdquo is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority Registered Office Standon House 21 Mansell Street London E1 8AA Tel 0845 200 3637 Registered in England with Company Registration number 3699618
SPECULATIVE GROWTHMampG RecoveryDennehy says manager Tom Dobell backs his convictions engages with companies he invests in and has delivered long-term outperformance lsquoDobellrsquos MampG Recovery fund has a clear value-style process and management stability It invests in a wide range of firms that are out of favour or in difficulty or whose prospects are not fully rec-ognised by the marketrsquo he says
Liontrust Special SituationsHusselbee says Liontrustrsquos Anthony Cross and Julian Fosh have their own unique philosophy He adds lsquoThey look for characteristics in a company that its competitors find difficult to replicate such as intellectual property or distribution channelsrsquo
Allianz Bric StarsThis fund aims for capital growth in the long term by investing mainly in Brazil Russia India and China Haynes says investors have shunned these markets recently and valuations fallen He adds lsquoFor investors looking for a recovery story this fund is worth considerationrsquo
Standard Life Equity Income subscription shareMcHattie says warrant and subscription shares are widely ignored creating opportunities for those who understand them He favours the subscrip-tion shares of Standard Life Equity Income which can be exercised at 320p a share up to the end of December 2016 lsquoThey offer gearing of 37 times and if the ordinary shares grow by more than 28 per cent a year between now and the end of 2016 the subscription shares ought to outperformrsquo
Impax Environmental MarketsMcAdam likes this trust It invests in companies seeking to provide cleaner or more-efficient energy as well as water and waste solutions to the growing problems faced by authorities around the world It offers exposure to a rapidly changing marketplace as well as to socially responsible investments
Hansa TrustJohn Newlands sees potential in the A shares of Hansa Trust which languish at a discount of more than 25 per cent He says that whereas the trustrsquos portfolio appears skewed with a third of its assets in Ocean Wilsons there is actually plenty of diversification because Ocean Wilsons has an investment portfolio that stands at a discount to underlying value lsquoOne day an attractive bid [may] be made for Ocean Wilsons that will enhance Hansarsquos NAV and sim-plify its capital structure all to the good of its market ratingrsquo Newlands says
Baker Steel Resources TrustJean Matterson hopes for good returns from this trust shares in which trade on a near 30 per cent discount lsquoIt has not had an easy run of late but we believe the underlying assets are attractive and that the mining projects in the companyrsquos portfo-lio will continue to progressrsquo she says
Prospects have improved for biotechs (left) while growing interest in sustain-able energy has boosted Impax
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
AHIGHEROILPRICEFEEDSSTRAIGHT
THROUGHTOPROFITSTony Yarrow
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
inspired | March 2014 27PB March 2014 | inspired
FUNDSANDTRUSTS
The world of funds and trusts is a confusing place with over 2300 funds and more than 300 investment trusts to choose from
Money Observerrsquos Rated Funds system narrows down the playing field to help you decide which funds and investment trusts might be best for you
Our team of experts constantly monitor the marketplace rating those funds that have delivered consistently good returns However you should be aware that there is no guarantee this performance will be repeated
With our comparison tool you can filter by whatrsquos important to you compare up to four funds and trusts side-by-side as well as view factsheets
COMPAREMONEY OBSERVER RATED FUNDS
VISIT MONEYOBSERVERCOMCOMPAREFUNDS AND LOOK OUT FOR THE RATED FUND STAMP
had spare cash or I were start-ing afresh The companies in the add category are high qual-ity judging by the strategies they follow and their finan-cial strength and are probably undervalued
Irsquom more likely to eject or reduce holdings in companies in the watch and specula-tive categories These shares are more risky either because they have risen greatly in price or because their prospects are more uncertain than usual I may think the risk is worth tak-ing but I am prepared to act should that calculation change
Every decision to increase a portfolio holding must be weighed against the potential of new candidates drawn from all companies listed in the UK and corralled into another live spreadsheet the Share Sleuth watchlist When I add a share to the watchlist or trade a share in the portfolio I explain this in the Share Sleuth blog
ccumulating income and capital gains in an index tracking fund is inexpensive takes little effort and all but guarantees an
average return so it should be the default investment for a lazy equity investor saving for the long term
To justify the work of decid-ing which shares to buy and sell and the effort and cost of placing trades an active investor must do better Consequently the first objective of the active Share Sleuth portfolio is to beat passive investments after costs over the long-term which in practice means any five-year period The second objective is to win this tussle against an unknowing and unthinking opponent transparently
At the heart of the portfolio is an online spreadsheet The first page shows the constitu-ent shares arranged into three categories lsquoaddrsquo lsquowatchrsquo and lsquospeculativersquo The categorisa-tion is updated daily based on live data in subsequent spread-sheets each of which contains a financial model for a particular company
The Share Sleuth portfo-lio shows the holdings I would add to the portfolio today if it
Share Sleuth is a simulation no money changes hands But I use prices quoted by a bro-ker and adjust the accounting to factor in notional broker fees and stamp duty However I lsquoeat my own cookingrsquo by investing my self-invested personal pen-sion in Share Sleuth companies
No doubt you are wonder-ing how the portfolio is doing Share Sleuthrsquos five-year anni-versary judgement day is on 9 September this year and I will not prejudge it now
Short-term performance watching and the knee-jerk trad-ing it encourages is I think one reason why many inves-tors fail My focus is on ensuring the portfolio remains invested in good companies at reasona-ble prices
You can see a live perfor-mance table and learn what I think of every share in the port-folio and which companies I might add to it at wwwiiicoukZkr
SHAREBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIOR
The Share Sleuth portfolio has been carefully devised to show investors how to find good companies at cheap prices and also prove the value of its investment approach says Richard Beddard
Richard Beddard an editor at Interactive Investor since 1999 has managed the Share Sleuth portfolio since 9 September 2009 Hersquos a columnist at Money Observer magazine and a private investor
AMY FOCUS IS ON ENSURING THAT THE PORTFOLIO IS INVESTED IN GOOD FIRMS AT DECENT PRICES
inspired | March 2014 29PB March 2014 | inspired
SHARESLEUTH
iiicoukstraightforward
Interactive Investor Trading Limited trading as ldquoInteractive Investorrdquo is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority Registered Office Standon House 21 Mansell Street London E1 8AA Tel 0845 200 3637 Registered in England with Company Registration number 3699618
We believe in being straightforwardthis is why we donrsquot nibble at your investment by charging percentage fees Find out how this could affect your investment performance at iiicoukstraightforward
If you transfer to us you can even get up to pound240 as a thank you (terms apply)
Donrsquot forget the value of investments and any income from them can fall as well as rise so you could get back less than you invest If in any doubt please seek advice
7784_II_QI_MONEY_OBSERVER_210x297_AWindd 1 16012014 1224
Take a closer look
at your investment
options
Discover a straightforward way to understand everything from ISAs to SIPPs and OEICs to Investment Trusts
Investing for generationsEver feel yoursquod like to know more about investing Wersquove been helping people build their wealth for over 125 years Our guide lsquoMaking sense of the investment universersquo is just one of the resources yoursquoll find on our Investment Focus hub
As well as clear simple guides therersquos a wealth of information and expert opinion all designed to help you take control of your investments Please remember that investments can go down as well as up and investors may get back less than they originally invested
Introducing your free online source of information help and expert opinion
investment-focuscouk
This has been approved as a financial promotion by Alliance Trust Investments Limited for the purpose of Section 21 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 Alliance Trust Investments Limited is a subsidiary of Alliance Trust PLC and is registered in Scotland No SC330862 registered office 8 West Marketgait Dundee DD1 1QN is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority firm reference number 479764 Alliance Trust Investments gives no financial or investment advice
TAX YEAR ENDS APRIL 5TH ndash learn more about
your options now
Investment Focus Smart Insight from Alliance Trust
Yoursquove spoken Wersquove listened Introducing your free online source of information help and expert opinion
Based on real insight we have launched a new website which focuses on investment education
We believe that we are uniquely positioned to provide this hub of information based on the reputation we have built for trust and transparency over the last 125 years
We will be publishing new content over the next few months focusing on specific themes
bull Investing from scratch
bull Products in a portfolio
bull Global diversification
bull Planning for your familyrsquos future
bull Retirement planning
bull Getting more information
There is a generation of future investors out there who have been brought up in an era of economic turmoil and banking crises which has led to disillusionment and a lack of trust in our sector and the services we offer Despite it being more important than ever for investors to take control of their financial situation this new generation of savers lacks the basic knowledge and understanding to make these very important long-term decisions
Our goal is to develop a useful resource with contributions from third-parties as well as the team at Alliance Trust which offers insights into the various life stages and challenges faced and which can be built upon and adapted to meet savers needs in the long term
Katherine Garrett-Cox CBE Chief Executive Alliance Trust PLC
ldquo
rdquo
There are too many products to make an informed decision
I donrsquot know whereto go for reliable
information
investment-focuscouk
Yoursquoll naturally take a keen interest in the performance of your investments But itrsquos just as important to understand the fees you will be paying as they can have a significant impact on the returns you achieve Knowing what the different types of costs mean and exactly what they consist of can prove rewarding
Itrsquos worth remembering that for every fee you pay (whether it is a or flat fee) your investment needs to grow by at least the same amount just to stay ahead of the game It sounds obvious but itrsquos easy to forget Broadly speaking there are three types of fees fund fees platform fees and fees for a financial adviser You can either invest directly into a fund and pay the associated fees or you can invest via a platform provider (some of which are referred to as wrap platforms others as fund supermarkets) This is a service that lets you manage and review all your investments online in one place As a general rule fund fees are lower when
bought through a platform than if you buy direct You can invest through a platform on either an execution only basis where the investor assesses the risks and makes their own investment decisions or on an advised basis
Learn more about fund platform and financial advice fees
What can you expect to seeOver the next two pages we have provided a sneak preview of just some of the information you will find on the Investment Focus hub We will be updating the site regularly so make sure you sign up for our email alerts to be informed when new topics are published
Everything you need to know about fees
Risk informationInvestments can go down as well as up You may get back less than you originally invested
Alliance Trust does not give advice You need to ensure you understand the risks and commitments before investing If you are unsure you should consult a Financial Adviser before investing
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
For the vast majority of investors the simplest cheapest and most pragmatic way to invest is through pooled funds
Sometimes called managed funds unit trusts or even Open-Ended Investment Companies (or OEICs) these are designed to give ordinary savers access to a diverse range of investments
One of the principles of investment is that diversification helps reduce risk But it is expensive and time consuming for ordinary savers to buy shares of 80 to 100 different companies and keep track of how each is performing
But with a managed fund you are pooling your money with other investors enabling the fund manager to buy a wide range of assets
Investors have the option of buying an actively managed or passive fund With an active fund the manager selects and then monitors these stocks for investors in a bid to maximise returns
In contrast a passive fund will simply follow a stock market index such as the FTSE100 up and down
Having a manager at the helm can be beneficial in a market downturn as they can take a more defensive approach buying shares that are better able to hold their value or in some cases switching to bonds or cash instead to help preserve investorsrsquo capital Managers can also research individual companies and markets and have access to forecasts and economic data that isnrsquot always available to individuals
Learn more about investing for growth or income exploring different investment remits how to invest and keeping track of your investments
Understanding funds Written by Emma Simon Personal Finance Journalist
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
What are Investment TrustsInvestment Trusts are investment vehicles that are listed on the London Stock Exchange and which invest in shares and other securities They pool together investorsrsquo money and delegate responsibility to a professional fund manager to invest in a range of companies from different sectors and regions across the world They were designed for ldquothe investor of moderate meansrdquo
A brief historybull The first Investment Trust was launched by Foreign amp
Colonial in 1868
bull Investment Trusts made it possible for individual investors to gain diversified exposure to global stock markets
bull Many Investment Trusts were formed in Scotland including Alliance Trust PLC which was formed over 125 years ago
A guide to Investment Trusts
Learn more about Investment Trusts their main features and why you should consider them for your portfolio
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
Alliance Trust is an investment and savings business with over 125 year history of building investor wealth We offer our shareholders clients and customers a unique portfolio of products and services These range from a renowned global investment trust to an innovative range of investment strategies and funds and a multi-award winning investment platform where investors can host their ISAs SIPPs or investment accounts Our mission is to provide products and services that help to ensure a more sustainable financial future for generations of investors
Alliance Trust PLC is one of the largest generalist investment trusts by market value listed on the London Stock Exchange and is the parent company to two wholly-owned subsidiaries Alliance Trust Savings and Alliance Trust Investments
The fact that many of us make irrational decisions when it comes to our finances is widely debated and is often referred to as behavioural finance In this short video we talk to Professor Phyl Johnson Consultant Psychologist and Visiting Professor of Executive Education at Strathclyde Business School about why this is and more importantly about what we can do as individuals to avoid it
About us Alliance Trust Investments is a specialist fund management business offering a range of products and services focusing on global equities fixed income and sustainable investing with an emphasis on specialist investment solutions
Alliance Trust Savings is one of the UKrsquos leading financial services providers for private investors offering customers the information and services they need to manage their investments in a way that works for them
Risk informationInvestments can go down as well as up You may get back less than you originally invested
Alliance Trust does not give advice You need to ensure you understand the risks and commitments before investing If you are unsure you should consult a Financial Adviser before investing
Unusually for a company of our size around 70 of shares
in Alliance Trust are held by private
individuals
Nobodyrsquos perfect why we all make irrational decisions
Inflation by ageThis monthrsquos official inflation report showed that the headline rate of inflation fell from 20 to 19 Our Economic Research Team analyse this data on a monthly basis to see how inflation rates affect different age groups In February 2014 the summary highlights include
bull The over 75s and the under 30s face the highest rate of inflation in January at 21
bull The over 75s suffered the highest rate of inflation for the whole of 2013 and this trend continues into 2014 as they spend a larger share of their budgets on basic goods such as gas and electricity
bull The 65 to 74 year olds have faced the lowest rate of inflation in 11 out of the last 12 months thanks to lower inflation in food petrol and package holidays
Learn more about how inflation might affect you
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
You can also sign up for our regular email alerts to be informed when new topics are published by clicking here
Wersquove been bringing clarity to investment for over 125 years
Investing for generationsWhen it comes to investing therersquos no substitute for experience And at Alliance Trust wersquove been helping people invest since 1888 Our new Investment Focus hub is full of online information and expert opinion It aims to provide real insight to help you take control of your investments
Over the next few weeks the hub will build to cover everything from taking your first steps to diversifying worldwide Please remember that investments can go down as well as up and investors may get back less than they originally invested For valuable insight from Alliance Trust visit Investment Focus today
Introducing your free online source of information help and expert opinion
investment-focuscouk
This has been approved as a financial promotion by Alliance Trust Investments Limited for the purpose of Section 21 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 Alliance Trust Investments Limited is a subsidiary of Alliance Trust PLC and is registered in Scotland No SC330862 registered office 8 West Marketgait Dundee DD1 1QN is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority firm reference number 479764 Alliance Trust Investments gives no financial or investment advice
TAX YEAR ENDS APRIL 5TH ndash learn more about
your options now
Change the way you think about stocks reap the rewardsBy Edward Page Croft CEO Stockopediacom
I remember so clearly the day when I picked my first stock for clients Managing $2 billion (pound12 billion) in assets across 100 portfolios for high-net-wealth private investors is no easy task As I was to learn when you are green
and straight out of university itrsquos even harder The stock in question was on the Goldman
Sachs US lsquobuyrsquo list It had the potential to be hot Dotcoms were bubbling It was an internet stock in education services and cheap It seemed like it had everything but we needed to get in One day it fell out of bed Down 50 per cent on no news
Irsquod been trained to call the analyst in situations like this He reiterated his buy stance Double buy On my insistence we put almost $20 million of client money into the stock within an hour The next day it fell another 50 per cent on
bad newsThere is nothing more
painful than a loss but you never forget the first
one It immedi-ately forced me to reconsider every-thing I thought I
knew From that day on I vowed to never trust anotherrsquos opin-ion and find a better
way through the market minefieldIrsquove now spent 15 years
reassessing common
wisdom about stock selection No stone has gone unturned in the quest to understand the behav-ioural flaws that lead to poor decision making But there is one finding that crops up again and again in all the research that hurts stock market investors most We as investors are suckers for stories
A 1990rsquos study of 60000 private investor broker-age accounts by Kumar and Goetzmann found that 70 per cent of portfolios held less than four stocks
The stocks held all tended to be in the same sector highly correlated and risky Think internet stocks in the 1990s China in the 2000s or resource stocks more recently The grand theme sucks everyone in The outcome rarely dif-fers Kumar and Goetzmann showed that across these
60000 accounts the average underperformance was of the order of 4 per cent annually
This massive failing across private inves-tor portfolios is repeated in nearly every market cycle and is bound to happen again in this one Benjamin Graham the great father of value invest-ing and tutor of Warren Buffett once wrote
lsquoIn the short run the stock market is a vot-ing machine but in the long run it is a weighing machinersquo
ADVERTISING FEATURE
IN THE SHORT RUN THE STOCK MARKET IS A VOTING MACHINE BUT IN THE LONG RUN IT IS A WEIGHING MACHINEBenjamin Graham
What he meant was that while stories may drive stocks in the short run statistics drive stocks in the long run When statistics reassert them-selves it can cause huge damage to investors punting their portfolios on stories
It doesnrsquot take much to learn how basic statis-tics can guide your portfolio into winning stock selections though very few seem to understand how to do it Benjamin Graham as his life wore on gradually came to the conclusion that building portfolios according to rules-based processes was a far more appropriate methodology for the typi-cal investor
lsquoTry to buy groups of stocks that meet some sim-ple criterion for being undervalued ndash regardless of
the industry and with very little attention to the indi-vidual company It seems too good to be true but all I can tell you after 60 years of experience is it seems to stand up under any of the tests I would make uprsquo
My time is now dedi-cated to helping investors practice exactly what Benjamin Graham and many other investment luminaries have preached rules-based investing For the majority itrsquos a better process and leads to bet-ter outcomes Our work at
Stockopediacom where we crunch fundamental and technical data in order to model and track the investment processes of the great investors bears this out
Portfolios composed with stocks showing the right statistical mix of value quality and momen-tum have significantly outperformed Rules-based investing beats the market But more importantly it helps promote the emotional detachment needed to stop investors from beating themselves
Irsquoll never buy a stock on a punt or an analystrsquos tip again Perhaps neither should you
For a two week free trial and pound50 discount to Stockopedia UK Premium CLICK HERE
TANK MCM A N U F A C T U R E M O V E M E N T 1 9 0 4 M C
SINCE THE CREATION OF THE FIRST TANK WATCH IN 1917 THE TANK COLLECTION HAS CONTINUED
TO BREAK NEW GROUND THE INCREDIBLY REFINED AESTHETICS OF THE NEW TANK MC WATCH ARE FITTED
WITH THE CARTIER MANUFACTURE MOVEMENT 1904 MC ESTABLISHED IN 1847 CARTIER CREATES
EXCEPTIONAL WATCHES THAT COMBINE DARING DESIGN AND WATCHMAKING SAVOIR-FAIRE
EXPLORE AND SHOP WWWCARTIERCOUK - (020) 3147 4850
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oisseur
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Inside
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TO THE CONNOISSEUR section of Inspired a showcase for the finer things in life for those who truly appreciate them
Enjoying the fruits of your labour away from the relentless demands of our age poses its own challenges and quandaries Would a tropical idyll restore your ebbing energy levels Might a break based around hair-raising activities revive them even more effectively Perhaps reawakening a dormant passion for fine wines or luxury cars would be the most enjoyable reward for your industry
A luxury tropical holiday is probably near the top of most peoplersquos wish lists We take a look at some of the most tantalising options
The arrival of BMWrsquos new super coupe is featured on page 50 BMW aficionados and petrolheads alike are certain to be won over by its head-turning looks and mouthwatering specs
Gems come under the microscope on page 53 A rare coloured diamond can be a joy as well an appreciating asset
Wine is on the menu on page 54 where we explore the charms of Argentinian Malbec
Watches are often treasured objects and the best can turn out to be shrewd investments We look at the secondary watch market and the growth of online retailing on page 58 Enjoy
Welcome
40 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
FIVE TOP PRIVATE ISLAND RETREATSIslandFantasy
Top-rated resorts and hotels offer a variety of temptations and services to impress even the most discerning tastes but there is no better way to escape the rigours and
stresses of daily life than cutting off from the outside world while still enjoying lavish service
in the pinnacle of all resorts the private islandThere are thousands of small islands around
the world but only a few have chosen to cater to the most discriminating travellers seeking a rarified yet perfect world of quiet and relaxed luxury We look at five of the worldrsquos top private islands destinations where your holiday is certain to be an exceptional experience
TRAVEL
Necker Island is owned by Sir Richard Branson and guests stay in his home The island has become a popular des-tination for some of the worldrsquos most prominent figures as a hideaway from lifersquos stresses and strains
Because Necker Island is a resi-dence and not a resort guests who rent the island are treated as owners and catered for in a unique way
The74-acre island is fringed with beautiful white beaches and surrounded by turquoise waters and coral reefs It boasts every resort-type amenity guests can spend their days being pampered in the spa explor-ing underwater reefs in a submarine lounging by the pool bar or swimming in one of the worldrsquos most elab-orate private pools
Haute cuisine is a highlight for most guests ndash rates are fully inclusive of all food and drink A team of chefs creates bespoke menus featuring anything from lobster and caviar to a Sunday roast And because Necker is a home first and a resort second guests decide whether dining will be formal or informal inside or outside themed or traditional
The bar is stocked with international wines top-quality spirits and beers and a world renowned house champagne while special orders can be shipped in at no extra charge ndash unless an item is particularly rare Every service and amenity is available around the clock and guests are encouraged to treat Necker as their own home
As youLike it
NECKER ISLAND
42 March 2014 | inspired
Unalloyed luxury and an impressive range of amenities make Necker one of the most desirable island destinations in the world
The Jumby Bay resort which is only accessible by boat from Antigua is a Caribbean hideaway owned by Rosewood Resorts It is perfect for those seeking either relaxation or spirited adventure
You can rent the island resort entirely for your stay or simply take a room Those opt-ing for exclusive use of the island will have the resortrsquos two pools three tennis courts fitness centre croquet field and putting green to themselves
A wide range of water sports are available and guests can indulge in as much adventure or relaxation as they want during their stay The resort is ideal for large family
reunions or corporate retreats ndash 40 guest rooms and suites are available on the island
Executive chef Sylvain Hervochon celebrates gastron-omy ndash and mixology (cocktail making) ndash with casual elegance by creating Caribbean-style dishes inspired by fresh local ingredients and incorporating international influences
Jumby Bayrsquos rates start at pound150000 for four nights based on double occupancy between May and December Visit wwwrosewoodhotelscomenjumby-bay-antigua for further information
Fine BalanceCaribbean ambiance international sophistication and adventurous activities make Jumby Bay a compelling choice
JUMBY BAY
Just laze by the pool or venture beyond to dive in the turquoise waters of the South Pacific among stunning reefs and a dazzling array of marine creatures
Isle of PlentyT
he private island of Laucala in the South Pacific is a 3500-acre site in a picturesque rainforest-laced land-scape Enchanting deserted beaches nestle among coconut plantations organic farms and lush green vol-canic mountains
The resort offers an outstanding level of refined lux-ury as well as a compelling collection of sporting and cultural activities diving among iridescent marine life in the warm turquoise waters guided rainforest tours horse riding surfing and golfing on the 18-hole cham-pionship course The island is a superb choice for an escape from civilization whether you want an adven-ture in the wild or simply to relax in one of Laucalarsquos five restaurants and bars
Rates are available on request Visit wwwlaucalacom for further details
TRAVEL
LAUCALA ISLAND
inspired | March 2014 4544 March 2014 | inspired
Lush green surroundings sensitive development and beautiful beaches help Laucala island conjure up a complete South Seas experience
Isle of Plenty
inspired | March 2014 4544 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
inspired | March 2014 4746 March 2014 | inspired
Slow LaneSlow
Pulau Joyo is a seductively serene environment of pristine beaches surrounded by clear blue sea in Indonesiarsquos Riau Archipelago Accessible from Singapore or Bintan Pulau Joyo is a true castaway island offering every resort luxury
amid untouched natural beauty Pulau Joyo is famous for its remarkable sunsets and
brightly star-lit sky The resort can host 28 guests and 20 staff are on hand to cater to their every need Guests stay in open driftwood lsquopalacesrsquo that lsquoallow the sea inrsquoDespite its desert island appeal Pulau Joyo offers every modern convenience a range of adrenaline boosting activities and more relaxing options such as spa treatments and massages
The resortrsquos cuisine focuses on western and Indonesian dishes Meals are usually served buffet style and feature grilled fish squid prawns beef and chicken as well as many curry dishes Side dishes include fresh garden salads pasta salads boiled or steamed leafy greens and grilled aubergine (an island favourite) Prawn and tofu kebabs appear from time to time as does satay The chef will often provide a selection of freshly picked fruit and homemade cakes for dessert Itrsquos worth noting that the management will not serve pork or shellfish on this private island
Pulau Joyo may not be as refined as some islands but itrsquos an excellent choice for those who want a more casual laidback island experience that replicates the castaway experience like perhaps no other
Rates start at pound1913 a night More information is available at wwwpulau-joyocom
Wannabe castaways may find Pulau Joyorsquos purer simpler take on the luxury island experience more to their taste
PULAU JOYO
inspired | March 2014 4746 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
In the Fijian island paradise of Dolphin Island a small army of staff await to meet guestsrsquo every need On arriving ndash by boat helicopter or float plane ndash visitors are invariably struck by the beauty of the island and the luxuri-ous accommodation that awaits them amid 14-acres of lush tropical gardens
Three traditional palm-thatched bures individually designed by world renowned interior designer Virginia Fisher sit in an elevated position around the resortrsquos infinity pool
Guests are brought fresh tropical fish to choose each day that are cooked to perfec-
tion within hours of leaving the water The culinary focus is on
organic produce and ingredi-ents unique to Fijian cuisine but meals are tailored to guestsrsquo personal tastes Papayas man-goes bananas and pineapples
are plentiful throughout the day When it comes to recreation the
14-acre island is an expansive play-ground offering a diverse range of watersports as well as diving opportunities on Fijirsquos coral reefs
Rates start at pound720 a night More information is avail-able at wwwdolphinislandfijicom
Fijian Paean
Traditional features modern comforts and excellent facilities make for a harmonious whole on this Fijian island
DOLPHIN ISLAND
48 March 2014 | inspired
Pictured slightly larger than actual size
Big Pilotrsquos Watch Ref 5009
Your wrist never felt this big before The
case of the top model in the IWC Pilotrsquos
Watch range is a gigantic 462 mm in diashy
meter And the technology inside it is
even more impressive the largest IWCshy
manufactured automatic movement with
its Pellaton winding system is protected
against strong magnetic fields by a softshy
iron inner case And needless to say enshy
vious glances iwc engineered for men
Mechanical IWCshymanufactured movement Pellaton
automatic winding system 7shyday power reserve
with display (figure) Date display Softshyiron inner
case for protection against magnetic fields
Antireflective sapphire glass Watershyresistant 6 bar
Stainless steel
IWC Schaffhausen Switzerland iwccom The worldrsquos finest timepieces are exclusively available from selected watch specialists
For an illustrated catalogue or list of nationwide concessionaires please contact IWC UK Tel 0845 337 1868 Eshymail infoshyukiwccom
CARS
MunichLegend
50 March 2014 | inspired
BMW fanatics can open their eyes ndash the M4 has arrived
Most BMW aficionados are proba-bly pretty sad to see production of the M3 coupe ndash quite possibly the companyrsquos most noteworthy and celebrated model ndash end after almost 30 years Ever since the first wide-body E30 M3 saw the
light of day in 1985 drivers have loved the sporty coupe for its incredible balance intoxicating power and of course solid build quality
The model never got stale in all that time and always remained the poster child for the M division so itrsquos a lit-tle weird that BMW has apparently decided to axe it In truth though they havenrsquot really dropped the M3 The M3 sedan will continue to be produced in 2014 so all
is not lost Moreover BMW seems to be adopting a pat-tern of giving its sedans odd-numbered titles only and its coupes even-numbered titles only so the 4-Series and especially the M4 concept that debuted at Pebble Beach Monterey California will fill the gap left by the M3 Many people have been awaiting the new super coupe with great expectancy but can it fill in for the M3
The journalists who swarmed over the M4 concept at Pebble Beach were obviously much more interested in it than the somewhat predictable 428i that was also there Finished in an eye-catching colour called Aurum Dust (which actually looks a lot like the old M3rsquos Phoenix Yellow colour) the car presented in California may be a concept but typically BMW M cars donrsquot change much before they finally hit the showroom
MunichLegend
inspired | March 2014 51
CARS
52 March 2014 | inspired
From front to back the bodywork is manifestly differ-ent and much more aggressive looking than a standard 4-Series car It really looks to pretty much pick up where the E92E93 M3 coupe left off especially with its undeniably cool domed hood Wide wheel arches big wheels wrapped in low-profile tyres more than enough M badges and a well-executed double-bubble roof make the already underwhelming existing 4-Series coupe look even more pedestrian
Power for the new M4 is likely to come from a three-litre twin-turbo straight-six engine While the horsepower probably wonrsquot differ much from the M3rsquos old 4-litre V-8 it will generate more than 100lbft more in torque almost 400 in total With the M4 being a lighter 3300lb in weight the M4 promises to be an excit-ing worthy car A proper six-speed manual may be in the mix alongside the now obligatory dual clutch and paddles option
The best way to look at the M4 however it ends up is not as a new car but as a new and improved M3 thatrsquos just getting a new name The decision to rename the coupe is a strange one but thankfully BMW apparently felt the 3-Series coupe had made such an identity for itself that a new model was needed albeit in a slightly different incarnation
With BMW embarking on some new-ageish ideas such as its 1-Series ActiveE and the soon-to-arrive lsquoirsquo range of cars itrsquos nice to see the company also stick to classics such as the heart-stopping sports coupe even if the latest model does come with a new name
Seductive curves and racier performance make the BMW M4 a more than acceptable replacement for the M3 super coupe
SparklingForm Coloured diamonds are making their mark
One of the main factors that deter-mines the value of what we ordinarily think of as diamonds is their purity the degree to which col-our is absent in the gem However with coloured diamonds the extent to which they are saturated with
colour is a principal determinant of their valueColoured diamonds come in 12 basic colours more
than 90 secondary hues and nine intensity levels The depth of their colour is what really differentiates these diamonds from their colourless counterparts
Natural coloured diamonds are 10000 times rarer than typical colourless diamonds one of several rea-sons why they are treasured by the rich and famous yet remain unknown to most other people ndash despite hav-ing been around for centuries
Of course some colours are rarer than others Red violet and purple stones are as rare as the proverbial hensrsquo teeth while green and blue are also rare The most popular colours are pink and yellow (or canary) They also come in white grey orange black and lsquochame-leonrsquo form
A pinkie ring encrusted with a large coloured dia-mond has become a status symbol for men in Asia That little stone is an unregistered asset that could quickly be sold for millions of dollars should the need arise
Coloured diamonds are durable and never lose their sparkle or lustre so they are assets that can be enjoyed every day unlike stocks or bonds And they have proved to be fantastic investments having steadily appreciated in price with relatively little volatility for more than a decade They even held their own during the most recent financial crisis
Coloured diamonds are auctioned by reputable
auction houses such a Sothebyrsquos and Christiersquos where prices for large unique pink red blue or yellow stones can reach in excess of $2 million (pound12 million) a carat and other stones regularly sell for $1 million a carat
They are often bought by high-net-worth individu-als as an insurance policy Instead of stashing cash in undeclared bank accounts and potentially incurring the wrath of the authorities the wealthy can purchase some loose yellow diamonds to secure their future
Clearly coloured diamonds are much more than a magnificent indulgence
GEMS
inspired | March 2014 53PB March 2014 | inspired
WINE
Make the most of the deeply
satisfying Malbec wines emerging from Argentina
and perhaps even enjoy a return on a shrewd
investment says Ewan Lacey
Finding a red wine to enjoy in spring is a delicate balancing act The shock of seeing sunlight after a dark winter fosters in us a desire to drink some-thing refreshing while the still-cool temperatures demand something with comforting depth
Increasingly Malbec wines particularly those from Argentina provide a perfect solution to this quandary And while there are plenty of delicious wines for infor-mal occasions what is most interesting is the emergence of finer Malbec wines Some are so good they may well have ageing potential raising the intriguing possibility that the wine may one day become collectable
Malbec is the most popular wine among those aged 25-34 and is now becoming a fixture on most restaurant wine lists There are several reasons for its success the word Malbec is easy to pronounce the wine goes well with red meat the Malbec grape can be turned into wines that are both relatively easy to drink and packed with flavour and decent wines are available at reason-able prices Malbec is deep fruity and charming and it delivers instant pleasure ndash claret on a motorbike
The Malbec grape originated in France and it remains one of the permitted varieties used to make Bordeaux However it has gained prominence through the work of the post-junta Argentine wine industry
I recently had the pleasure of tasting some very fine Malbecs with Laura Catena managing director at the Catena Zapata winery and president of the International Wine and Spirit Competition She opened my
Mendoza Marvels
inspired | March 2014 55
WINE
eyes to the potential of this grape variety when handled with care
Laurarsquos family business makes a range of wines but the wine that truly astonished me was the Nicasia Vineyard Malbec 2006 The wine is perfumed with floral and fruit notes and it is smooth and soft at first Like all great wines it has many layers of flavour warm bursts of cherry and black-currant cede centre stage to deeper darker caramel and mocha notes and a touch of spice Therersquos an amazing depth of flavour and the finish is long and lingering Whatrsquos more at nearly eight years old it still has a slight purple tinge and tastes extremely fresh There is every indication that it will age beautifully for at least another decade
The winersquos character is heavily influenced by the alti-tude the grapes used to make it are grown at (1180m
above sea level) At this elevation the grapes ripen in bright sun but lsquorelaxrsquo during the cool evenings The fact that the wine is made in tiny quantities (eight barrels only) means every care can be taken during the winemak-ing process to ensure the wine is allowed to show its grown-up side The cost per bot-tle of pound70 is not insubstantial but neither is the wine
We cannot know whether these wines will ever become investments in the way the wines of Bordeaux have Whatrsquos cer-tain is that Malbec wines have a very rare quality a balance of finesse and power that
can delight wine lovers and linger in their memories
Ewan Lacey is a leading wine expert and general manager of the International Wine and Spirit Competition He has appeared on BBC television and radio as well as Channel 4 and written for the national press
Laura Catena is managing director at the Catena Zapata winery (above)
THE INTERNATIONAL WINE AND SPIRIT COMPETITIONThe International Wine and Spirit Competition has been the premier drinks competition in the world for 45 years Each year it receives and reviews thousands of wines and spirits and presents qual-ity awards to producers
More than anything the IWSC exists to help
people make better deci-sions particularly when buying wines and spirits An IWSC award on a bot-tle of wine is a guarantee
of quality backed not only by a rigorous and strin-gent judging process but also by the skill of the judges who are drawn from the ranks of masters of wine master distill-ers industry leaders and commentators
Each year the IWSC honours a leading figure
in the drinks industry with the presidency of the competition The current president is Laura Catena who succeeds a nota-ble line of predecessors including Prince Robert of Luxembourg winemakers Piero Antinori and Warren Winiarski and Baroness Philippine de Rothschild
56 March 2014 | inspired
LUXURY WATCHES
Time is preciousA
t a recent watch auc-tion in Geneva at Antiquorum ndash the worldrsquos premiere auc-tion house for modern and vintage time pieces ndash a Patek Philippe
pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon watch emerged as the auctionrsquos top lot and sold for 12 million Swiss francs (pound807000)
Unlike most of the timepieces sold at auctions outside Asia this particular Patek watch ndash the most complicated wristwatch the Swiss watchmaker has ever produced ndash was not a vintage model
That Geneva auction raised intriguing
1284Clocks with weights gears and regulators start to appear mostly with no dial to strike the important moments of daily life
Around 1410The mainspring is devel-oped Combined with the fusee this innovation makes possible the truly portable domestic clock
1492The mechanical watch appears simultaneously in Italy Germany and France
1675Christian Huygens invents the spiral balance spring
for watches significantly improving their accuracy
1704The first watch with jew-els is produced by French watchmaker de Beaufreacute
1714The British parliament offers pound20000 to who-ever can a find a method to determine longitude
1766Parliament publishes the rating results for John Harrisonrsquos H4 marine timekeeper Harrisonrsquos highly accurate marine clock solution to the problem of determining logitude wins him part of the pound20000 prize
1787Pierre-Freacutedeacuteric Ingold is born an important pio-neer in mechanised timepiece production and the use of interchangea-ble parts
1790Jacquet-Droz and Leschot manufactures a watch attached to a strap
1839Vacheron amp Constantin developes a full set of machine tools for manu-facturing its watches
1875Calcium sulphate is the first luminescent sub-stance to be used for numerals and hands
TIMEKEEPING MILESTONES
questions Are modern luxury timepieces every bit as appealing as the vintage watches that typically command top prices at auc-tion And does that Geneva auction tell us anything about the contemporary watch market as a whole
Julien Schaerer Antiquorumrsquos managing director in Geneva says top-quality vintage watches often appreciate in value over the long term But he urges buyers for whom appreciation is an important consideration to be cautious about purchasing contempo-rary watches
lsquoWatch price depreciation is the cost of ownership just as it is with a luxury carrsquo he says lsquoIf the value goes up then
58 March 2014 | inspired
1880The first water- resistant watch incorpo-rating a screwed case is produced by Genevan watchmaker Franccedilois Borgel
1889The first known patent for a wristwatch is filed in Bern Switzerland
1890Dialmaker A Beyeler invents a transfer press for applying numerals and letters to dials
1892Auguste Verneuil in France produces the first synthetic jewels to be used in watchmaking
1904Wens Wilsdorf launches large-scale production of a womenrsquos wristwatch
1924John Harwood files the
first Swiss patent for a self-winding wristwatch with a central oscillating weight
1925The first known wrist-watch with a perpetual calendar is manufactured using a pendant watch movement
1926Rolex creates the Oyster wristwatch with a water-resistant case and crown
1966The first quartz wrist-watch prototype is produced
1969The first quartz watch
with an LED display appears
1978Quartz watches overtake mechanical watches in popularity
2005Creation of the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie Seiko launches the spring drive Kinetic the first self-winding mechanical watch with an electro-magnetic escapement
A Patek Philippe pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon recently sold for pound807000
inspired | March 2014 59
online retailers from the comfort of your homeSince 2006 DM London has quietly estab-
lished a powerful presence for itself in the UK retail watch market with the acquisition of The Watch Hut and The Watch Gallery DM London chairman David Coleridge says the company has capitalised on the increasing willingness of buy-ers to purchase online
lsquoHaving decided that they would like to buy a watch for themselves or someone elsersquo he says lsquopeople start to do their research More often than not this starts online nowadays where they com-pare brands performance and functions
lsquoAs trust in the online marketplace has devel-oped many want to buy online because it is convenient and saves time Shopping online becomes a habit established sites build trust and awareness with customers which gives custom-ers the confidence to buy more expensive itemsrsquo
He adds lsquoOur challenge is to make the online environment as attractive informative and enjoy-able as a high street store Then customers will decide to spend onlinersquo
Coleridge believes a multi-channel approach is the way forward for retailers He says lsquoWithout doubt the future is multi-channel selling ndash a combination of direct selling on the internet and various forms of click and collect ndash combined with beautiful stores on the high street
Over the past few years demand for luxury watches (particularly contemporary models) has spiked sharply in Asia and according to some specialists emerging affluence in the
of course thatrsquos an added benefit However he adds lsquoPrice appreciation is still quite rare with modern watches There is some poten-tial for appreciation but probably only with ultra-limited editions A purchase has to be
seen as a medium- to long-term invest-ment One should buy a timepiece first out of love for the brand or [the watchrsquos] complicationrsquo
The watch brands that offer the greatest assurance of appreci-
ation include Cartier Patek Philippe Rolex Audemars
Piguet A Lange amp Sohne Breguet and Vacheron Constantin All enjoy views from the top of
the watchmaking hierarchy thanks to their longstand-ing histories and well-established brand identities
Relative new-comers to the industry such as Richard Mille and Roger Dubuis have carved out a niche for
themselves with their revolutionary designs and
space-age technologies but it remains to be seen just how well the values of their timepieces will stand up on the secondary market
According to Nathaniel Borgelt a specialist at auction house Sothebyrsquos
some modern watches have already achieved good prices at auction but these (like the Patek Philippe Sky Moon Tourbillon) were highly exclusive models when new
lsquoSome limited edition pieces currently fetch incredible prices at auctionrsquo he says lsquoAnd there is a select group of modern mod-els that could compete with a certain sector of the vintage market based on their brand innovative features such as materials or com-plications and avant-garde designs
Buying these has now become a whole lot easier The luxury watch retailing land-scape is changing and the traditional pattern of physically walking into a luxury salon to buy a watch is gradually being replaced by a trend towards visiting the websites of the big
LUXURY WATCHES
A Lange amp Sohne (above) is a long-standing high-end watchmaker Comparative new-comer Roger Dubuis (right) is forging a strong reputation
inspired | March 2014 PB60 March 2014 | inspired
helpthewatchgallerycom
Hublot ClassiC FusiontHe WatCH Gallery exClusive
The Watch Gallery and Hublot have joined forces to create two very special limited edition watches Both are limited to just 15 pieces worldwide and have been specifically designed to feature The Watch Gallery blue brand colour on the hands and tinted open case back
SelfridgeS OxfOrd StreetWeStfield lOndOnMancheSter exchange Square
wwwthewatchgallerycomhublot-watches
Far East has kept global values strong while other markets around the world continue to recover from recession
Despite the market boost from growing prosperity in Asia there are signs that the market is becoming saturated and that globally the new watch market isnrsquot as robust as some commentators suggest
It may still be a good time to buy but its important to know what you want and what yoursquore buying Modern watchmakers such as Richard Mille Roger Dubuis and Greubel Forsey are producing beautiful timepieces but because of their limited foothold in the market itrsquos difficult to predict their long-term success and desirability They donrsquot yet have the brand power that might ensure the value of their
watches in the secondhand market remains highSuch producers might one day stand eye to
eye with the most desirable brands such as Patek Philippe and Rolex but achieving that kind of parity wonrsquot be easy Collectors looking to invest in timepieces are advised to keep an open mind about modern producers uncertainty is the one aspect of modern luxury watch market most experts tend to agree on
That said the buoyancy in the watch market suggests that plenty of buyers are unconcerned about future values For them itrsquos all about the appreciation of the watch itself People buy watches because they bring them pleasure ndash and say some-thing about who they are
LUXURY WATCHES
Contemporary watches such as those made by Hublot (left) have yet to show they will have the lasting appeal of watches such as Cartierrsquos Rotonde de Cartier Astrocalendaire (right)
inspired | March 2014 63
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-
Treatt has built up an immaculate record of delivering profits
to take advantage was Lord Lee of Trafford the UKrsquos first Isa millionaire and author of How to Make a Million ndash Slowly My Guiding Principles from a Lifetime of Successful Investing lsquoI have a
big holding of Christie Group that was originally in my per-sonal equity planrsquo he says lsquoWhen the company moved to Aim [from the main market] I took it out of the Pep but when Aim shares became Isa-eligible I sold it and bought it back again within my Isarsquo
April 2014 will mark the removal of stamp duty from Aim purchases a develop-ment expected to encourage asset managers to launch a new wave of Aim-focused funds The axing of stamp duty makes the junior market more appeal-ing to companies on the main market as well with several recently moving across
Alec Stewart partner at Anderson Strathern Asset Management explains lsquoA company can reduce its regulatory burden by moving to the junior market with lower audit and compliance requirementsrsquo For example the main market
stipulates that any potential listing should have a market capitalisation no lower than pound700000 whereas therersquos no such guideline on the Aim mar-ket Nor do companies need a trading history to list on Aim compared with the three years required for the main market Moreover the cost of listing on Aim is considerably lower
But for many private investors the main appeal of Aim stocks lies largely in the prospect of sky-high returns from the success of small and fledgling companies There are some 1200 stocks on the market from a wide range of sectors ndash albeit with a heavy weighting in technology and especially natural resources and with a gulf in size between the biggest and smallest
The largest are eligible for the FTSE AIM 50 and the FTSE AIM 100 where the likes of Bowleven Majestic Wine Dobbies Asos and MampC Saatchi are listed
Stewart picks out three he favours as part of a diversified portfolio One is Dart Group The owner of Jet2com and Jet2Holidays Dart has had a lsquostrong runrsquo and is focused on becoming more fam-ily friendly in these budget-conscious times says Stewart lsquoIt benefits from good visibility of future bookings and strong cash generationrsquo he adds
Aerospace and defence firm Cohort is another with a lsquoprogressive dividend policyrsquo that has grown at an annualised rate of 20 per cent over
DEWHURST (pound520)Dewhurst is a well-established manu-facturer of lift pushbuttons indicators and controls keypads for ATMs security devices and petrol pumps and traffic management products such as bollards
The company has a long record of profitability under the stewardship of the Dewhurst family and a debt-free balance sheet That suggests it is a strong competitor
Profits fell in 2013 ndash a result of a slowdown in Dewhurstrsquos major markets and customers having stocked up in the previous year Management is quite cagey about the companyrsquos prospects for 2014 but an improved performance is likely as conditions in the UK and the US improve The shares are probably good value at 11 times adjusted 2013 earnings
MS INTERNATIONAL (pound204)MS International manufactures military hardware forks for forklift trucks and petrol station canopies and car washes
The company has been profitable in each of the past 10 years and has a balance sheet flush with cash yet the share price has fallen to a level that val-ues MSI at five times adjusted 2013
earnings MSIrsquos current unpopularity stems from a decline in the profitability of MSI Defence Systems which has the highest turnover of its three businesses
The company expects 2014 to be no easier than 2013 due to continu-ing pressure on defence spending but itrsquos confident it will add to defence work already contracted and scheduled for every year until 2020
Itrsquos quite possible that MSI is having a lull that does not reflect on the qual-ity of its products or businesses If thatrsquos the case itrsquos a bargain
TREATT (pound747)Treatt distills flavourings and frag-rances essential oils and water-soluble essences Its products are used in drinks confectionery sauces and cosmetics worldwide
The companyrsquos expertise and close customer relationships might give it a competitive advantage and it has never suffered a loss However it has ushered out managing director Hugo Bovill and his family has sold its interest
Management with large share-holdings gives companies some independence from the often short-term imperatives of fund managers
However the new team is focused on controlling costs and developing the most profitable products
Profit grew 28 per cent in 2013 and Treattrsquos long-term prospects are prob-ably good but the share price has spiked valuing the shares at 15 times adjusted 2013 earnings
FW THORPE (pound143)FW Thorpe designs and manufactures light fittings known as luminaires They are becoming increasingly complex with the introduction of LED technology that requires printed circuit boards Its main business is Thorlux which supplies lighting to schools hospitals ware-houses and factories Other subsidiaries supply retailers emergency exit signage and cleanroom lighting
Stable family ownership long indus-try experience and a commitment to modernisation and investment are the keys to Thorpersquos prosperity
Although it has to contend with the additional investment required to produce LED lighting Thorpe is manag-ing the transition well The shares cost pound137 which values the company at about 15 times adjusted 2013 earnings Thatrsquos a fair price for a quality company
Richard Beddard picks out four Aim-listed companies worth considering for inclusion in a diversified Isa share portfolio
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
I TRANSFERRED INTO MY ISA A BIG
HOLDING OF CHRISTIE GROUP THAT USEDTO BE IN MY PEPLord Lee of Trafford
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
AIMSHARES
18 March 2014 | inspired
the past three years he adds Among food pro-ducers he likes Wynnstay It has lsquobenefited from strong revenue and pre-tax profitsrsquo increasing its interim dividend by 9 per cent
But therersquos ample cause for caution too because Aim shares are typically far riskier than those listed on the main market Not only is there the vol-atility inherent in shares issued by smaller firms but there remains the potential for liquidity issues even after the surge of money into the market in recent months Haig Bathgate chief investment officer at Turcan Connell says lsquoThey are by impli-cation of their size much less liquid in terms of the shares that trade hands on a daily basis so they are prone to more extreme price movementsrsquo
UK investors may also be averse to Aim stocks that are effectively overseas companies Indeed many Aim fund portfolios specifically exclude both these and natural resources firms as well as stocks that donrsquot offer business property relief
lsquoSignificant numbers of companies have failed to deliver on expectations in this part of the mar-ket and it is also quite heavily weighted towards technology (12 per cent) resources (9 per cent) and oil and gas companies (22 per cent)rsquo says Bathgate There are transparency concerns too due to the less stringent regulatory and company reporting requirements on the Aim market
lsquoWe would only include Aim stocks within the
portfolios of adventurous clients and then only up to a maximum of 10 per centrsquo says David Thomson chief investment officer at VWM Wealth lsquoEven then the bulk of this is likely to be via a venture capital trust where the investor can also enjoy 30 per cent income tax relief providing a further cushion against the volatility of Aim sharesrsquo
Collective investment funds and trusts offer a way into Aim stocks that provides useful diversification and so reduces the risk of heavy losses Investment trusts can offer particular advantages where Aim-listed shares are concerned as their closed-ended status gives them a hedge against the market liquidity issues that can affect Aim stocks Among the growing number of UK smaller companies investment trusts in which Aim shares are prominent are those run by BlackRock Standard Life and Aberforth Unit trusts invest-ing in Aim companies include the LampG UK Alpha Trust and Cazenove UK Smaller Companies
However there is a downside to access-ing Aim through funds and trusts as investors no longer benefit from the IHT-free status that direct holders of Aim stocks enjoy The risk of hefty losses remains the biggest caveat to investing in Aim
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
AIMSHARESAREMUCHLESS
LIQUIDINTERMSOFTHESHARESTHATTRADEHANDSDAILYHaig Bathgate
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
inspired | March 2014 19
Clockwise from top Cohort Wynnstay and Jet2com are Stewartrsquos picks for a diversified portfolio
rewarding such as smaller companies private equity and emerging markets
Trusts can also increase their assets by borrow-ing So long as this gearing is sensibly priced it should accelerate the trustrsquos gains in positive mar-ket conditions However gearing will exacerbate losses in any downturn The possible closing of the discount will also enhance share price returns
SOLID GROWTHBaillie Gifford Global DiscoveryThis fund picked by independent financial adviser Brian Dennehy invests globally in growth stocks especially companies operating in industries with potential for structural change and innova-tion Dennehy says manager Douglas Brodie has had considerable experience and success in iden-tifying growth opportunities particularly among exciting smaller-cap stocks
CF Lindsell Train UK EquityJohn Husselbee head of multi-asset at Liontrust Asset Management prefers investors to traders Renowned investor Warren Buffett takes a similar view and Husselbee says fund manager Nick Train invests like Buffett Train looks to buy great com-panies such as Burberry Heineken and Unilever when they are good value and hold them lsquoforeverrsquo
Cazenove UK Opportunities This fund aims to achieve long-term capital growth from a focused portfolio of large and medium-sized UK companies Gavin Haynes managing
huge variety of investment funds rang-ing from generalist funds to highly specialised versions aim to generate capital growth for investors
Investing in a specific fund entails investors accepting different degrees of risk in return for a range of potential rewards So when we asked financial advisers to predict which funds offer the best prospects for growth in 2014 we also urged them to consider which types of investor the funds would suit best
Solid growth funds will appeal to investors who prefer steady investment while higher-risk growth funds are likely to be more volatile and appeal to those with a higher risk tolerance Speculative funds could produce handsome returns this year but they could also dip sharply in value
Closed-ended status means investment trusts can invest in less liquid asset classes without having to worry about realising their holdings in a market setback This enables them to invest in areas that have historically proved particularly
A
Helen Pridham and Fiona Hamilton have rounded up a collection of investment funds and trusts experts believe will prosper in the year ahead for investors looking to cash in on an improving economic outlook
PERFECT YOUR FUND PORTFOLIOTO SEE IT
GROW
inspired | March 2014 2120 March 2014 | inspired
FUNDSAND
TRUSTS
GROW
inspired | March 2014 2120 March 2014 | inspired
A
RE Y
OU
A
GLO
BAL
INV
ESTO
R Take a global view of investment trusts expertly managed by Henderson
For over 75 years Henderson Global Investors has been at the forefront of investment trust innovation and development Now with a diverse and established range of managed investment trusts and investment companies Henderson has a global view of the market
Whether you are retirement planning investing for your children looking to take advantage of dynamic global markets or want a cautious investment approach our managed companies offer a wide range of investment objectives and strategies professionally managed by regional experts
If your priority is high income long term capital growth or a mixture of both Henderson Global Investors has a range of solutions which aims to meet your investment needs
Please remember that past performance is not a guide to future performance The value of an investment and the income from it can fall as well as rise as a result of market and currency fluctuations and you may not get back the amount originally invested
Call to receive your Investment Trust brochure or visit wwwhendersoninvestmenttrustscom
0800 856 5656
Investment Trusts managed by Henderson
Issued in the UK by Henderson Global Investors Henderson Global Investors is the name under which Henderson Global Investors Limited (reg no 906355) Henderson Fund Management Limited (reg no 2607112) Henderson Investment Funds Limited (reg no 2678531) Henderson Investment Management Limited (reg no 1795354) Henderson Alternative Investment Advisor Limited (reg no 962757) Henderson Equity Partners Limited (reg no2606646) Gartmore Investment Limited (reg no 1508030) (each incorporated and registered in England and Wales with registered office at 201 Bishopsgate London EC2M 3AE) are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority to provide investment products and services Telephone calls may be recorded and monitored H0046521113ad
Itrsquos a global marketplace
HGiTrusts
director at Whitechurch Securities says fund manager Julie Dean has built up an excellent track record
Securities Trust of ScotlandRobin McAdam likes Securities Trust of Scotland which seeks rising income and long-term capi-tal growth from global equities The trust yields 33 per cent so it provides income and growth potential lsquoThe trust has outperformed its bench-mark recently and we expect this to continuersquo says McAdam
Finsbury Growth amp Income TrustPeter Hewitt nominates Finsbury Growth amp Income Trust on the basis of its strong short- and long-term performance Manager Nick Train seeks out the highest-quality companies to hold long term The portfolio is dominated by companies Train expects to have longevity such as Diageo Unilever and Heineken lsquoThe manager looks for strong cash gen-eration and dividend growth which he believes are undervalued by the stock marketrsquo Hewitt says
RIT Capital PartnersThis multi-asset trust selected by John Newlands is the flagship financial vehicle for its chairman Lord Jacob Rothschild and his family lsquoGiven the uncertainty in the world it is no bad thing to be diversified both globally and across a range of asset classes RIT is a global growth trust that offers a combination of these benefitsrsquo Newlands says
His enthusiasm is bolstered by RITrsquos current relatively wide discount which reflects disap-pointment among investors that it was rather too cautious over the past two or three years
Perpetual Income amp Growth Trust This trust is classified as a member of the AIC UK growth and income sector but its yield tends to be below the sector average because manager Mark Barnett is more interested in income growth than immediate income Tim Cockerill classifies it as a total return trust and makes it his solid growth choice Barnett has secured excellent long-term returns dur-ing his 15 years at the helm
HIGHER-RISK GROWTHLazard Emerging MarketsMick Gilligan believes the investment case for emerging market equi-ties remains strong He says lsquoEquity markets in emerging regions are trading at their widest price-to-earnings discount to developed markets since 2006 We believe many well-capitalised businesses that have shown strong financial discipline should gener-ate good profitsrsquo The Lazard Emerging Markets fund focuses on such businesses
Rathbone Global OpportunitiesThis go-almost-anywhere bottom-up thorough stockpicking fund looks for undiscovered gems Rob Burdett fund manager at Thames River believes manager James Thomson strikes the
KEY FACTS ABOUT GROWTH FUND TIPS
Mininv pound
Ongoing Charges
1-yearreturn
Sectorrank
SOLID GROWTHBaillie Gifford Global Discovery 1000 086 5920 2248CF Lindsell Train UK Equity ndash 080 2910 53271Cazenove UK Opportunities 1000 082 3210 40271 HIGHER-RISK GROWTHInvestec Global Energy 1000 087 1420 40206Lazard Emerging Markets 2000 161 320 1668Rathbone Global Opportunities 1000 082 2150 111248 SPECULATIVE GROWTHAllianz BRIC Stars 500 122 -120 134206Liontrust Special Situations 1000 114 1450 251271MampG Recovery 500 096 1330 264271Note Ongoing charges figure refers to the least expensive retail share class Source Financial Express and companies websites as at 3 December 2013
KEY FACTS ABOUT THE TRUSTS TIPPED FOR GROWTH
Shareprice
p
Discprem to NAV
Netyield
Gearing
Net asset valuetotal return after
1 year
3 years
5 years
SOLID GROWTHFinsbury Growth amp Income 5010 (+) 12 21 50 305 767 2038Perpetual Income amp Growth 3686 10 32 120 346 714 1407RIT Capital Partners 12480 105 11 50 210 225 591Securities Trust of Scotland 1469 (+) 31 32 40 192 460 1132 HIGHER-RISK GROWTHBiotech Growth Trust 4335 72 00 70 582 1723 2968Fidelity Chinese Special Sits 1062 65 09 210 433 02 ndashGraphite Enterprise Trust 5690 170 09 -90 167 442 405Schroder Asia Pacific 2730 92 14 -20 08 201 1779 SPECULATIVE GROWTHBaker Steel Resources 470 331 00 10 -57 -137 740Hansa Trust A 8600 243 23 10 142 69 947Impax Environmental Markets 1463 112 06 -20 350 285 921Standard Life Eq Inc subscription 1070 ndash 00 3700 ndash ndash ndashNotes NAV = net asset value Annualised All data as at 1 December Source Numis Securities
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
MARK BARNETT HAS SECURED
EXCELLENT RETURNSTim Cockerill
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
inspired | March 2014 23PB March 2014 | inspired
FUNDSANDTRUSTS
right balance between taking calculated risks for high returns and investing in defensive holdings Burdett says lsquoHe likes companies undertaking gentle innovation ndash moving online for example ndash rather than game changers which have more potential to go wrongrsquo Investec Global EnergyThis fund invests in companies that produce energy and provide services to the energy sector Fund managers Tom Nelson and Charles Whall believe the consensus view on future oil prices anticipates weak demand and growing supply from US shale oil But they demur as does Tony Yarrow at Wise Investment He says lsquoOil is harder to extract from shale than gas is while demand for oil is growing as economies recover A higher oil price feeds straight through to the companiesrsquo profitsrsquo
Biotech Growth TrustPeter Hewitt favours Biotech Growth Trust which has achieved scorching gains recently ndash up 172 per cent over three years to 1 December 2013
It is managed in New York by Orbimed a specialist healthcare and biotechnology investor with $7 bil-lion (pound42 billion) under management It offers exposure to a mix of large and profitable biotech companies along-side emerging businesses Most of its holdings are US-based and they have
benefited from a much more positive approach by the Federal Drug Authority ndash new drug approvals in 2010 were the highest for 10 years
Graphite Enterprise TrustAndrew McHattie contends that just one sector offers great value private equity lsquoThese trusts were hammered in the credit crisis and discounts widened to extreme levelsrsquo he says
His selection is Graphite Enterprise Trust Its discount to net asset value remains at a level that rings alarm bells in most other sectors but it has a strong track record and a relatively mature port-folio of shares he expects to rise in value
Fidelity Chinese Special SituationslsquoWith Chinese equities looking cheap the long-term outlook for investing in China is positiversquo Cockerill says lsquoThis fund invests in medium and small caps where high growth can be achieved New manager Dale Nicholls is well qualified and the combination of Fidelity manager experience and China is compelling in the long termrsquo
Scottish Oriental Smaller Companies Trust This trust is favoured by McAdam The invest-ment team identifies quality companies offering sustainable predictable growth lsquoThe trust may underperform if the market rises strongly but the teamrsquos enviable track record and experience should be respectedrsquo he says
Tim Cockerill is investment director at Rowan Dartington
RowanDartingtonhas20investmentadvisersbasedinsevenofficesacrossthesouthofEnglandIthaspound900millionunderman-
agementInvestmenttrustshavefeaturedinitsdiscretionaryandadvisoryportfoliosformanyyears
Peter Hewittis a member of FampC Asset Managementrsquos global equities team
HehasmanagedtheFampCManagedPortfolioTrustsinceApril2008aswellasitsforerunnerFampCManagedPortfolio
Servicesince2002HewasheadofUKequitiesatMurray
Johnstonefrom1981to1983beforejoiningIvoryampSime
Jean Mattersonis a partner and chief investment officer at Rossie House Investment Management
Shejoinedthefirmin1998after20yearswithassetmanagerStewartIvory
BasedinEdinburghsheisoneoffiveinvestment
professionalsmanagingaroundpound300mil-lionallonadiscretionarybasisAroundhalfisininvestmenttrusts
Robin McAdamjoined Brooks MacDonald Asset Management in 2009 from Adam amp Company Investment Management
Hehas24yearsrsquoexperi-encemanagingprivateclientportfoliosandheadsBMrsquosEdinburghbranch
Thefirmhaspound537billionunderdiscretionarymanagementinbespokeandmanagedportfolios
Andrew McHattieis head of The McHattie Group
McHattieGroupisanauthorisedfirmthatpublishesspecialistinvestmentnewsletters
McHattiehasbeentheeditorofInvestmentTrustNewslettersince1996(wwwtipsheetscouk)andoffersafreeservicecalledthelsquoitlistrsquo(wwwtheitlistcouk)ThecompanyhasaFacebookpage(wwwfacebookcominvestmenttrusts)
John Newlandsis responsible for investment trust research at Brewin Dolphin
Heissupportedbyfouranalystswhocoverspecificsectorsresearchingopen-andclosed-endedfunds
BrewinDolphinhas35officesaroundtheUKandChannelIslandsandmanagespound28billionofwhichpound39billionisininvestmenttrusts
TrusttipstersOursixexpertsrevealtheirtopfundpicks
inspired | March 2014 PB24 March 2014 | inspired
FUNDSAND
TRUSTS
One in twelve goes free on your next golf break plus every golfer receives a free pint
12thmansagimme
Book online at MarriottGolfcouk
Offer is only valid on residential golf bookings booked during the promotional dates For every 11 players booked the 12th player will be free of charge Rates are per person per night based on 2 people sharing a twindouble room and include dinner bed amp breakfast Bookings must be made by one named player and separate bookings will not qualify Each residential player aged 18 and over will receive a voucher entitling them to a complimentary pint
of Beckrsquos or Boddingtons Offer is valid on bookings made via 3rd parties Offer is available on 1 night 2 rounds or 2 night 3 rounds and excludes Sunday Driver Maximum of 2 night stay and 2 people per room Day of week availability may vary based on location Limited number of rooms may be available This offer applies to new bookings only at Marriott Hotel amp Country Clubs and offer courses and tee times are subject to availability Offer cannot
be used in conjunction with any other promotion Course terms and conditions apply Advance reservations required Book between 17th February and 29th June 2014 for stays between 4th April and 29th September 2014
The SIPP thatrsquos
fair and square
We believe in straightforward investing Thatrsquos why we donrsquot nibble at your SIPP with percentage fees For just pound144 per year you can open a SIPP and add an ISA for free After that itrsquos just pound10 to buy or sell a wide range of investments including shares funds bonds and gilts Open an account today and if you transfer your existing SIPP wersquoll give you up to pound240 as a thank you (terms apply) We believe thatrsquos fair and square
The value of investments and any income from them can fall as well as rise so you could get back less than you invest Tax treatment depends on your individual circumstances and may be subject to change If in any doubt please seek advice
iiicouksipp
Interactive Investor Trading Limited trading as ldquoInteractive Investorrdquo is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority Registered Office Standon House 21 Mansell Street London E1 8AA Tel 0845 200 3637 Registered in England with Company Registration number 3699618
SPECULATIVE GROWTHMampG RecoveryDennehy says manager Tom Dobell backs his convictions engages with companies he invests in and has delivered long-term outperformance lsquoDobellrsquos MampG Recovery fund has a clear value-style process and management stability It invests in a wide range of firms that are out of favour or in difficulty or whose prospects are not fully rec-ognised by the marketrsquo he says
Liontrust Special SituationsHusselbee says Liontrustrsquos Anthony Cross and Julian Fosh have their own unique philosophy He adds lsquoThey look for characteristics in a company that its competitors find difficult to replicate such as intellectual property or distribution channelsrsquo
Allianz Bric StarsThis fund aims for capital growth in the long term by investing mainly in Brazil Russia India and China Haynes says investors have shunned these markets recently and valuations fallen He adds lsquoFor investors looking for a recovery story this fund is worth considerationrsquo
Standard Life Equity Income subscription shareMcHattie says warrant and subscription shares are widely ignored creating opportunities for those who understand them He favours the subscrip-tion shares of Standard Life Equity Income which can be exercised at 320p a share up to the end of December 2016 lsquoThey offer gearing of 37 times and if the ordinary shares grow by more than 28 per cent a year between now and the end of 2016 the subscription shares ought to outperformrsquo
Impax Environmental MarketsMcAdam likes this trust It invests in companies seeking to provide cleaner or more-efficient energy as well as water and waste solutions to the growing problems faced by authorities around the world It offers exposure to a rapidly changing marketplace as well as to socially responsible investments
Hansa TrustJohn Newlands sees potential in the A shares of Hansa Trust which languish at a discount of more than 25 per cent He says that whereas the trustrsquos portfolio appears skewed with a third of its assets in Ocean Wilsons there is actually plenty of diversification because Ocean Wilsons has an investment portfolio that stands at a discount to underlying value lsquoOne day an attractive bid [may] be made for Ocean Wilsons that will enhance Hansarsquos NAV and sim-plify its capital structure all to the good of its market ratingrsquo Newlands says
Baker Steel Resources TrustJean Matterson hopes for good returns from this trust shares in which trade on a near 30 per cent discount lsquoIt has not had an easy run of late but we believe the underlying assets are attractive and that the mining projects in the companyrsquos portfo-lio will continue to progressrsquo she says
Prospects have improved for biotechs (left) while growing interest in sustain-able energy has boosted Impax
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
AHIGHEROILPRICEFEEDSSTRAIGHT
THROUGHTOPROFITSTony Yarrow
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
inspired | March 2014 27PB March 2014 | inspired
FUNDSANDTRUSTS
The world of funds and trusts is a confusing place with over 2300 funds and more than 300 investment trusts to choose from
Money Observerrsquos Rated Funds system narrows down the playing field to help you decide which funds and investment trusts might be best for you
Our team of experts constantly monitor the marketplace rating those funds that have delivered consistently good returns However you should be aware that there is no guarantee this performance will be repeated
With our comparison tool you can filter by whatrsquos important to you compare up to four funds and trusts side-by-side as well as view factsheets
COMPAREMONEY OBSERVER RATED FUNDS
VISIT MONEYOBSERVERCOMCOMPAREFUNDS AND LOOK OUT FOR THE RATED FUND STAMP
had spare cash or I were start-ing afresh The companies in the add category are high qual-ity judging by the strategies they follow and their finan-cial strength and are probably undervalued
Irsquom more likely to eject or reduce holdings in companies in the watch and specula-tive categories These shares are more risky either because they have risen greatly in price or because their prospects are more uncertain than usual I may think the risk is worth tak-ing but I am prepared to act should that calculation change
Every decision to increase a portfolio holding must be weighed against the potential of new candidates drawn from all companies listed in the UK and corralled into another live spreadsheet the Share Sleuth watchlist When I add a share to the watchlist or trade a share in the portfolio I explain this in the Share Sleuth blog
ccumulating income and capital gains in an index tracking fund is inexpensive takes little effort and all but guarantees an
average return so it should be the default investment for a lazy equity investor saving for the long term
To justify the work of decid-ing which shares to buy and sell and the effort and cost of placing trades an active investor must do better Consequently the first objective of the active Share Sleuth portfolio is to beat passive investments after costs over the long-term which in practice means any five-year period The second objective is to win this tussle against an unknowing and unthinking opponent transparently
At the heart of the portfolio is an online spreadsheet The first page shows the constitu-ent shares arranged into three categories lsquoaddrsquo lsquowatchrsquo and lsquospeculativersquo The categorisa-tion is updated daily based on live data in subsequent spread-sheets each of which contains a financial model for a particular company
The Share Sleuth portfo-lio shows the holdings I would add to the portfolio today if it
Share Sleuth is a simulation no money changes hands But I use prices quoted by a bro-ker and adjust the accounting to factor in notional broker fees and stamp duty However I lsquoeat my own cookingrsquo by investing my self-invested personal pen-sion in Share Sleuth companies
No doubt you are wonder-ing how the portfolio is doing Share Sleuthrsquos five-year anni-versary judgement day is on 9 September this year and I will not prejudge it now
Short-term performance watching and the knee-jerk trad-ing it encourages is I think one reason why many inves-tors fail My focus is on ensuring the portfolio remains invested in good companies at reasona-ble prices
You can see a live perfor-mance table and learn what I think of every share in the port-folio and which companies I might add to it at wwwiiicoukZkr
SHAREBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIOR
The Share Sleuth portfolio has been carefully devised to show investors how to find good companies at cheap prices and also prove the value of its investment approach says Richard Beddard
Richard Beddard an editor at Interactive Investor since 1999 has managed the Share Sleuth portfolio since 9 September 2009 Hersquos a columnist at Money Observer magazine and a private investor
AMY FOCUS IS ON ENSURING THAT THE PORTFOLIO IS INVESTED IN GOOD FIRMS AT DECENT PRICES
inspired | March 2014 29PB March 2014 | inspired
SHARESLEUTH
iiicoukstraightforward
Interactive Investor Trading Limited trading as ldquoInteractive Investorrdquo is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority Registered Office Standon House 21 Mansell Street London E1 8AA Tel 0845 200 3637 Registered in England with Company Registration number 3699618
We believe in being straightforwardthis is why we donrsquot nibble at your investment by charging percentage fees Find out how this could affect your investment performance at iiicoukstraightforward
If you transfer to us you can even get up to pound240 as a thank you (terms apply)
Donrsquot forget the value of investments and any income from them can fall as well as rise so you could get back less than you invest If in any doubt please seek advice
7784_II_QI_MONEY_OBSERVER_210x297_AWindd 1 16012014 1224
Take a closer look
at your investment
options
Discover a straightforward way to understand everything from ISAs to SIPPs and OEICs to Investment Trusts
Investing for generationsEver feel yoursquod like to know more about investing Wersquove been helping people build their wealth for over 125 years Our guide lsquoMaking sense of the investment universersquo is just one of the resources yoursquoll find on our Investment Focus hub
As well as clear simple guides therersquos a wealth of information and expert opinion all designed to help you take control of your investments Please remember that investments can go down as well as up and investors may get back less than they originally invested
Introducing your free online source of information help and expert opinion
investment-focuscouk
This has been approved as a financial promotion by Alliance Trust Investments Limited for the purpose of Section 21 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 Alliance Trust Investments Limited is a subsidiary of Alliance Trust PLC and is registered in Scotland No SC330862 registered office 8 West Marketgait Dundee DD1 1QN is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority firm reference number 479764 Alliance Trust Investments gives no financial or investment advice
TAX YEAR ENDS APRIL 5TH ndash learn more about
your options now
Investment Focus Smart Insight from Alliance Trust
Yoursquove spoken Wersquove listened Introducing your free online source of information help and expert opinion
Based on real insight we have launched a new website which focuses on investment education
We believe that we are uniquely positioned to provide this hub of information based on the reputation we have built for trust and transparency over the last 125 years
We will be publishing new content over the next few months focusing on specific themes
bull Investing from scratch
bull Products in a portfolio
bull Global diversification
bull Planning for your familyrsquos future
bull Retirement planning
bull Getting more information
There is a generation of future investors out there who have been brought up in an era of economic turmoil and banking crises which has led to disillusionment and a lack of trust in our sector and the services we offer Despite it being more important than ever for investors to take control of their financial situation this new generation of savers lacks the basic knowledge and understanding to make these very important long-term decisions
Our goal is to develop a useful resource with contributions from third-parties as well as the team at Alliance Trust which offers insights into the various life stages and challenges faced and which can be built upon and adapted to meet savers needs in the long term
Katherine Garrett-Cox CBE Chief Executive Alliance Trust PLC
ldquo
rdquo
There are too many products to make an informed decision
I donrsquot know whereto go for reliable
information
investment-focuscouk
Yoursquoll naturally take a keen interest in the performance of your investments But itrsquos just as important to understand the fees you will be paying as they can have a significant impact on the returns you achieve Knowing what the different types of costs mean and exactly what they consist of can prove rewarding
Itrsquos worth remembering that for every fee you pay (whether it is a or flat fee) your investment needs to grow by at least the same amount just to stay ahead of the game It sounds obvious but itrsquos easy to forget Broadly speaking there are three types of fees fund fees platform fees and fees for a financial adviser You can either invest directly into a fund and pay the associated fees or you can invest via a platform provider (some of which are referred to as wrap platforms others as fund supermarkets) This is a service that lets you manage and review all your investments online in one place As a general rule fund fees are lower when
bought through a platform than if you buy direct You can invest through a platform on either an execution only basis where the investor assesses the risks and makes their own investment decisions or on an advised basis
Learn more about fund platform and financial advice fees
What can you expect to seeOver the next two pages we have provided a sneak preview of just some of the information you will find on the Investment Focus hub We will be updating the site regularly so make sure you sign up for our email alerts to be informed when new topics are published
Everything you need to know about fees
Risk informationInvestments can go down as well as up You may get back less than you originally invested
Alliance Trust does not give advice You need to ensure you understand the risks and commitments before investing If you are unsure you should consult a Financial Adviser before investing
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
For the vast majority of investors the simplest cheapest and most pragmatic way to invest is through pooled funds
Sometimes called managed funds unit trusts or even Open-Ended Investment Companies (or OEICs) these are designed to give ordinary savers access to a diverse range of investments
One of the principles of investment is that diversification helps reduce risk But it is expensive and time consuming for ordinary savers to buy shares of 80 to 100 different companies and keep track of how each is performing
But with a managed fund you are pooling your money with other investors enabling the fund manager to buy a wide range of assets
Investors have the option of buying an actively managed or passive fund With an active fund the manager selects and then monitors these stocks for investors in a bid to maximise returns
In contrast a passive fund will simply follow a stock market index such as the FTSE100 up and down
Having a manager at the helm can be beneficial in a market downturn as they can take a more defensive approach buying shares that are better able to hold their value or in some cases switching to bonds or cash instead to help preserve investorsrsquo capital Managers can also research individual companies and markets and have access to forecasts and economic data that isnrsquot always available to individuals
Learn more about investing for growth or income exploring different investment remits how to invest and keeping track of your investments
Understanding funds Written by Emma Simon Personal Finance Journalist
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
What are Investment TrustsInvestment Trusts are investment vehicles that are listed on the London Stock Exchange and which invest in shares and other securities They pool together investorsrsquo money and delegate responsibility to a professional fund manager to invest in a range of companies from different sectors and regions across the world They were designed for ldquothe investor of moderate meansrdquo
A brief historybull The first Investment Trust was launched by Foreign amp
Colonial in 1868
bull Investment Trusts made it possible for individual investors to gain diversified exposure to global stock markets
bull Many Investment Trusts were formed in Scotland including Alliance Trust PLC which was formed over 125 years ago
A guide to Investment Trusts
Learn more about Investment Trusts their main features and why you should consider them for your portfolio
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
Alliance Trust is an investment and savings business with over 125 year history of building investor wealth We offer our shareholders clients and customers a unique portfolio of products and services These range from a renowned global investment trust to an innovative range of investment strategies and funds and a multi-award winning investment platform where investors can host their ISAs SIPPs or investment accounts Our mission is to provide products and services that help to ensure a more sustainable financial future for generations of investors
Alliance Trust PLC is one of the largest generalist investment trusts by market value listed on the London Stock Exchange and is the parent company to two wholly-owned subsidiaries Alliance Trust Savings and Alliance Trust Investments
The fact that many of us make irrational decisions when it comes to our finances is widely debated and is often referred to as behavioural finance In this short video we talk to Professor Phyl Johnson Consultant Psychologist and Visiting Professor of Executive Education at Strathclyde Business School about why this is and more importantly about what we can do as individuals to avoid it
About us Alliance Trust Investments is a specialist fund management business offering a range of products and services focusing on global equities fixed income and sustainable investing with an emphasis on specialist investment solutions
Alliance Trust Savings is one of the UKrsquos leading financial services providers for private investors offering customers the information and services they need to manage their investments in a way that works for them
Risk informationInvestments can go down as well as up You may get back less than you originally invested
Alliance Trust does not give advice You need to ensure you understand the risks and commitments before investing If you are unsure you should consult a Financial Adviser before investing
Unusually for a company of our size around 70 of shares
in Alliance Trust are held by private
individuals
Nobodyrsquos perfect why we all make irrational decisions
Inflation by ageThis monthrsquos official inflation report showed that the headline rate of inflation fell from 20 to 19 Our Economic Research Team analyse this data on a monthly basis to see how inflation rates affect different age groups In February 2014 the summary highlights include
bull The over 75s and the under 30s face the highest rate of inflation in January at 21
bull The over 75s suffered the highest rate of inflation for the whole of 2013 and this trend continues into 2014 as they spend a larger share of their budgets on basic goods such as gas and electricity
bull The 65 to 74 year olds have faced the lowest rate of inflation in 11 out of the last 12 months thanks to lower inflation in food petrol and package holidays
Learn more about how inflation might affect you
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
You can also sign up for our regular email alerts to be informed when new topics are published by clicking here
Wersquove been bringing clarity to investment for over 125 years
Investing for generationsWhen it comes to investing therersquos no substitute for experience And at Alliance Trust wersquove been helping people invest since 1888 Our new Investment Focus hub is full of online information and expert opinion It aims to provide real insight to help you take control of your investments
Over the next few weeks the hub will build to cover everything from taking your first steps to diversifying worldwide Please remember that investments can go down as well as up and investors may get back less than they originally invested For valuable insight from Alliance Trust visit Investment Focus today
Introducing your free online source of information help and expert opinion
investment-focuscouk
This has been approved as a financial promotion by Alliance Trust Investments Limited for the purpose of Section 21 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 Alliance Trust Investments Limited is a subsidiary of Alliance Trust PLC and is registered in Scotland No SC330862 registered office 8 West Marketgait Dundee DD1 1QN is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority firm reference number 479764 Alliance Trust Investments gives no financial or investment advice
TAX YEAR ENDS APRIL 5TH ndash learn more about
your options now
Change the way you think about stocks reap the rewardsBy Edward Page Croft CEO Stockopediacom
I remember so clearly the day when I picked my first stock for clients Managing $2 billion (pound12 billion) in assets across 100 portfolios for high-net-wealth private investors is no easy task As I was to learn when you are green
and straight out of university itrsquos even harder The stock in question was on the Goldman
Sachs US lsquobuyrsquo list It had the potential to be hot Dotcoms were bubbling It was an internet stock in education services and cheap It seemed like it had everything but we needed to get in One day it fell out of bed Down 50 per cent on no news
Irsquod been trained to call the analyst in situations like this He reiterated his buy stance Double buy On my insistence we put almost $20 million of client money into the stock within an hour The next day it fell another 50 per cent on
bad newsThere is nothing more
painful than a loss but you never forget the first
one It immedi-ately forced me to reconsider every-thing I thought I
knew From that day on I vowed to never trust anotherrsquos opin-ion and find a better
way through the market minefieldIrsquove now spent 15 years
reassessing common
wisdom about stock selection No stone has gone unturned in the quest to understand the behav-ioural flaws that lead to poor decision making But there is one finding that crops up again and again in all the research that hurts stock market investors most We as investors are suckers for stories
A 1990rsquos study of 60000 private investor broker-age accounts by Kumar and Goetzmann found that 70 per cent of portfolios held less than four stocks
The stocks held all tended to be in the same sector highly correlated and risky Think internet stocks in the 1990s China in the 2000s or resource stocks more recently The grand theme sucks everyone in The outcome rarely dif-fers Kumar and Goetzmann showed that across these
60000 accounts the average underperformance was of the order of 4 per cent annually
This massive failing across private inves-tor portfolios is repeated in nearly every market cycle and is bound to happen again in this one Benjamin Graham the great father of value invest-ing and tutor of Warren Buffett once wrote
lsquoIn the short run the stock market is a vot-ing machine but in the long run it is a weighing machinersquo
ADVERTISING FEATURE
IN THE SHORT RUN THE STOCK MARKET IS A VOTING MACHINE BUT IN THE LONG RUN IT IS A WEIGHING MACHINEBenjamin Graham
What he meant was that while stories may drive stocks in the short run statistics drive stocks in the long run When statistics reassert them-selves it can cause huge damage to investors punting their portfolios on stories
It doesnrsquot take much to learn how basic statis-tics can guide your portfolio into winning stock selections though very few seem to understand how to do it Benjamin Graham as his life wore on gradually came to the conclusion that building portfolios according to rules-based processes was a far more appropriate methodology for the typi-cal investor
lsquoTry to buy groups of stocks that meet some sim-ple criterion for being undervalued ndash regardless of
the industry and with very little attention to the indi-vidual company It seems too good to be true but all I can tell you after 60 years of experience is it seems to stand up under any of the tests I would make uprsquo
My time is now dedi-cated to helping investors practice exactly what Benjamin Graham and many other investment luminaries have preached rules-based investing For the majority itrsquos a better process and leads to bet-ter outcomes Our work at
Stockopediacom where we crunch fundamental and technical data in order to model and track the investment processes of the great investors bears this out
Portfolios composed with stocks showing the right statistical mix of value quality and momen-tum have significantly outperformed Rules-based investing beats the market But more importantly it helps promote the emotional detachment needed to stop investors from beating themselves
Irsquoll never buy a stock on a punt or an analystrsquos tip again Perhaps neither should you
For a two week free trial and pound50 discount to Stockopedia UK Premium CLICK HERE
TANK MCM A N U F A C T U R E M O V E M E N T 1 9 0 4 M C
SINCE THE CREATION OF THE FIRST TANK WATCH IN 1917 THE TANK COLLECTION HAS CONTINUED
TO BREAK NEW GROUND THE INCREDIBLY REFINED AESTHETICS OF THE NEW TANK MC WATCH ARE FITTED
WITH THE CARTIER MANUFACTURE MOVEMENT 1904 MC ESTABLISHED IN 1847 CARTIER CREATES
EXCEPTIONAL WATCHES THAT COMBINE DARING DESIGN AND WATCHMAKING SAVOIR-FAIRE
EXPLORE AND SHOP WWWCARTIERCOUK - (020) 3147 4850
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Inside
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TO THE CONNOISSEUR section of Inspired a showcase for the finer things in life for those who truly appreciate them
Enjoying the fruits of your labour away from the relentless demands of our age poses its own challenges and quandaries Would a tropical idyll restore your ebbing energy levels Might a break based around hair-raising activities revive them even more effectively Perhaps reawakening a dormant passion for fine wines or luxury cars would be the most enjoyable reward for your industry
A luxury tropical holiday is probably near the top of most peoplersquos wish lists We take a look at some of the most tantalising options
The arrival of BMWrsquos new super coupe is featured on page 50 BMW aficionados and petrolheads alike are certain to be won over by its head-turning looks and mouthwatering specs
Gems come under the microscope on page 53 A rare coloured diamond can be a joy as well an appreciating asset
Wine is on the menu on page 54 where we explore the charms of Argentinian Malbec
Watches are often treasured objects and the best can turn out to be shrewd investments We look at the secondary watch market and the growth of online retailing on page 58 Enjoy
Welcome
40 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
FIVE TOP PRIVATE ISLAND RETREATSIslandFantasy
Top-rated resorts and hotels offer a variety of temptations and services to impress even the most discerning tastes but there is no better way to escape the rigours and
stresses of daily life than cutting off from the outside world while still enjoying lavish service
in the pinnacle of all resorts the private islandThere are thousands of small islands around
the world but only a few have chosen to cater to the most discriminating travellers seeking a rarified yet perfect world of quiet and relaxed luxury We look at five of the worldrsquos top private islands destinations where your holiday is certain to be an exceptional experience
TRAVEL
Necker Island is owned by Sir Richard Branson and guests stay in his home The island has become a popular des-tination for some of the worldrsquos most prominent figures as a hideaway from lifersquos stresses and strains
Because Necker Island is a resi-dence and not a resort guests who rent the island are treated as owners and catered for in a unique way
The74-acre island is fringed with beautiful white beaches and surrounded by turquoise waters and coral reefs It boasts every resort-type amenity guests can spend their days being pampered in the spa explor-ing underwater reefs in a submarine lounging by the pool bar or swimming in one of the worldrsquos most elab-orate private pools
Haute cuisine is a highlight for most guests ndash rates are fully inclusive of all food and drink A team of chefs creates bespoke menus featuring anything from lobster and caviar to a Sunday roast And because Necker is a home first and a resort second guests decide whether dining will be formal or informal inside or outside themed or traditional
The bar is stocked with international wines top-quality spirits and beers and a world renowned house champagne while special orders can be shipped in at no extra charge ndash unless an item is particularly rare Every service and amenity is available around the clock and guests are encouraged to treat Necker as their own home
As youLike it
NECKER ISLAND
42 March 2014 | inspired
Unalloyed luxury and an impressive range of amenities make Necker one of the most desirable island destinations in the world
The Jumby Bay resort which is only accessible by boat from Antigua is a Caribbean hideaway owned by Rosewood Resorts It is perfect for those seeking either relaxation or spirited adventure
You can rent the island resort entirely for your stay or simply take a room Those opt-ing for exclusive use of the island will have the resortrsquos two pools three tennis courts fitness centre croquet field and putting green to themselves
A wide range of water sports are available and guests can indulge in as much adventure or relaxation as they want during their stay The resort is ideal for large family
reunions or corporate retreats ndash 40 guest rooms and suites are available on the island
Executive chef Sylvain Hervochon celebrates gastron-omy ndash and mixology (cocktail making) ndash with casual elegance by creating Caribbean-style dishes inspired by fresh local ingredients and incorporating international influences
Jumby Bayrsquos rates start at pound150000 for four nights based on double occupancy between May and December Visit wwwrosewoodhotelscomenjumby-bay-antigua for further information
Fine BalanceCaribbean ambiance international sophistication and adventurous activities make Jumby Bay a compelling choice
JUMBY BAY
Just laze by the pool or venture beyond to dive in the turquoise waters of the South Pacific among stunning reefs and a dazzling array of marine creatures
Isle of PlentyT
he private island of Laucala in the South Pacific is a 3500-acre site in a picturesque rainforest-laced land-scape Enchanting deserted beaches nestle among coconut plantations organic farms and lush green vol-canic mountains
The resort offers an outstanding level of refined lux-ury as well as a compelling collection of sporting and cultural activities diving among iridescent marine life in the warm turquoise waters guided rainforest tours horse riding surfing and golfing on the 18-hole cham-pionship course The island is a superb choice for an escape from civilization whether you want an adven-ture in the wild or simply to relax in one of Laucalarsquos five restaurants and bars
Rates are available on request Visit wwwlaucalacom for further details
TRAVEL
LAUCALA ISLAND
inspired | March 2014 4544 March 2014 | inspired
Lush green surroundings sensitive development and beautiful beaches help Laucala island conjure up a complete South Seas experience
Isle of Plenty
inspired | March 2014 4544 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
inspired | March 2014 4746 March 2014 | inspired
Slow LaneSlow
Pulau Joyo is a seductively serene environment of pristine beaches surrounded by clear blue sea in Indonesiarsquos Riau Archipelago Accessible from Singapore or Bintan Pulau Joyo is a true castaway island offering every resort luxury
amid untouched natural beauty Pulau Joyo is famous for its remarkable sunsets and
brightly star-lit sky The resort can host 28 guests and 20 staff are on hand to cater to their every need Guests stay in open driftwood lsquopalacesrsquo that lsquoallow the sea inrsquoDespite its desert island appeal Pulau Joyo offers every modern convenience a range of adrenaline boosting activities and more relaxing options such as spa treatments and massages
The resortrsquos cuisine focuses on western and Indonesian dishes Meals are usually served buffet style and feature grilled fish squid prawns beef and chicken as well as many curry dishes Side dishes include fresh garden salads pasta salads boiled or steamed leafy greens and grilled aubergine (an island favourite) Prawn and tofu kebabs appear from time to time as does satay The chef will often provide a selection of freshly picked fruit and homemade cakes for dessert Itrsquos worth noting that the management will not serve pork or shellfish on this private island
Pulau Joyo may not be as refined as some islands but itrsquos an excellent choice for those who want a more casual laidback island experience that replicates the castaway experience like perhaps no other
Rates start at pound1913 a night More information is available at wwwpulau-joyocom
Wannabe castaways may find Pulau Joyorsquos purer simpler take on the luxury island experience more to their taste
PULAU JOYO
inspired | March 2014 4746 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
In the Fijian island paradise of Dolphin Island a small army of staff await to meet guestsrsquo every need On arriving ndash by boat helicopter or float plane ndash visitors are invariably struck by the beauty of the island and the luxuri-ous accommodation that awaits them amid 14-acres of lush tropical gardens
Three traditional palm-thatched bures individually designed by world renowned interior designer Virginia Fisher sit in an elevated position around the resortrsquos infinity pool
Guests are brought fresh tropical fish to choose each day that are cooked to perfec-
tion within hours of leaving the water The culinary focus is on
organic produce and ingredi-ents unique to Fijian cuisine but meals are tailored to guestsrsquo personal tastes Papayas man-goes bananas and pineapples
are plentiful throughout the day When it comes to recreation the
14-acre island is an expansive play-ground offering a diverse range of watersports as well as diving opportunities on Fijirsquos coral reefs
Rates start at pound720 a night More information is avail-able at wwwdolphinislandfijicom
Fijian Paean
Traditional features modern comforts and excellent facilities make for a harmonious whole on this Fijian island
DOLPHIN ISLAND
48 March 2014 | inspired
Pictured slightly larger than actual size
Big Pilotrsquos Watch Ref 5009
Your wrist never felt this big before The
case of the top model in the IWC Pilotrsquos
Watch range is a gigantic 462 mm in diashy
meter And the technology inside it is
even more impressive the largest IWCshy
manufactured automatic movement with
its Pellaton winding system is protected
against strong magnetic fields by a softshy
iron inner case And needless to say enshy
vious glances iwc engineered for men
Mechanical IWCshymanufactured movement Pellaton
automatic winding system 7shyday power reserve
with display (figure) Date display Softshyiron inner
case for protection against magnetic fields
Antireflective sapphire glass Watershyresistant 6 bar
Stainless steel
IWC Schaffhausen Switzerland iwccom The worldrsquos finest timepieces are exclusively available from selected watch specialists
For an illustrated catalogue or list of nationwide concessionaires please contact IWC UK Tel 0845 337 1868 Eshymail infoshyukiwccom
CARS
MunichLegend
50 March 2014 | inspired
BMW fanatics can open their eyes ndash the M4 has arrived
Most BMW aficionados are proba-bly pretty sad to see production of the M3 coupe ndash quite possibly the companyrsquos most noteworthy and celebrated model ndash end after almost 30 years Ever since the first wide-body E30 M3 saw the
light of day in 1985 drivers have loved the sporty coupe for its incredible balance intoxicating power and of course solid build quality
The model never got stale in all that time and always remained the poster child for the M division so itrsquos a lit-tle weird that BMW has apparently decided to axe it In truth though they havenrsquot really dropped the M3 The M3 sedan will continue to be produced in 2014 so all
is not lost Moreover BMW seems to be adopting a pat-tern of giving its sedans odd-numbered titles only and its coupes even-numbered titles only so the 4-Series and especially the M4 concept that debuted at Pebble Beach Monterey California will fill the gap left by the M3 Many people have been awaiting the new super coupe with great expectancy but can it fill in for the M3
The journalists who swarmed over the M4 concept at Pebble Beach were obviously much more interested in it than the somewhat predictable 428i that was also there Finished in an eye-catching colour called Aurum Dust (which actually looks a lot like the old M3rsquos Phoenix Yellow colour) the car presented in California may be a concept but typically BMW M cars donrsquot change much before they finally hit the showroom
MunichLegend
inspired | March 2014 51
CARS
52 March 2014 | inspired
From front to back the bodywork is manifestly differ-ent and much more aggressive looking than a standard 4-Series car It really looks to pretty much pick up where the E92E93 M3 coupe left off especially with its undeniably cool domed hood Wide wheel arches big wheels wrapped in low-profile tyres more than enough M badges and a well-executed double-bubble roof make the already underwhelming existing 4-Series coupe look even more pedestrian
Power for the new M4 is likely to come from a three-litre twin-turbo straight-six engine While the horsepower probably wonrsquot differ much from the M3rsquos old 4-litre V-8 it will generate more than 100lbft more in torque almost 400 in total With the M4 being a lighter 3300lb in weight the M4 promises to be an excit-ing worthy car A proper six-speed manual may be in the mix alongside the now obligatory dual clutch and paddles option
The best way to look at the M4 however it ends up is not as a new car but as a new and improved M3 thatrsquos just getting a new name The decision to rename the coupe is a strange one but thankfully BMW apparently felt the 3-Series coupe had made such an identity for itself that a new model was needed albeit in a slightly different incarnation
With BMW embarking on some new-ageish ideas such as its 1-Series ActiveE and the soon-to-arrive lsquoirsquo range of cars itrsquos nice to see the company also stick to classics such as the heart-stopping sports coupe even if the latest model does come with a new name
Seductive curves and racier performance make the BMW M4 a more than acceptable replacement for the M3 super coupe
SparklingForm Coloured diamonds are making their mark
One of the main factors that deter-mines the value of what we ordinarily think of as diamonds is their purity the degree to which col-our is absent in the gem However with coloured diamonds the extent to which they are saturated with
colour is a principal determinant of their valueColoured diamonds come in 12 basic colours more
than 90 secondary hues and nine intensity levels The depth of their colour is what really differentiates these diamonds from their colourless counterparts
Natural coloured diamonds are 10000 times rarer than typical colourless diamonds one of several rea-sons why they are treasured by the rich and famous yet remain unknown to most other people ndash despite hav-ing been around for centuries
Of course some colours are rarer than others Red violet and purple stones are as rare as the proverbial hensrsquo teeth while green and blue are also rare The most popular colours are pink and yellow (or canary) They also come in white grey orange black and lsquochame-leonrsquo form
A pinkie ring encrusted with a large coloured dia-mond has become a status symbol for men in Asia That little stone is an unregistered asset that could quickly be sold for millions of dollars should the need arise
Coloured diamonds are durable and never lose their sparkle or lustre so they are assets that can be enjoyed every day unlike stocks or bonds And they have proved to be fantastic investments having steadily appreciated in price with relatively little volatility for more than a decade They even held their own during the most recent financial crisis
Coloured diamonds are auctioned by reputable
auction houses such a Sothebyrsquos and Christiersquos where prices for large unique pink red blue or yellow stones can reach in excess of $2 million (pound12 million) a carat and other stones regularly sell for $1 million a carat
They are often bought by high-net-worth individu-als as an insurance policy Instead of stashing cash in undeclared bank accounts and potentially incurring the wrath of the authorities the wealthy can purchase some loose yellow diamonds to secure their future
Clearly coloured diamonds are much more than a magnificent indulgence
GEMS
inspired | March 2014 53PB March 2014 | inspired
WINE
Make the most of the deeply
satisfying Malbec wines emerging from Argentina
and perhaps even enjoy a return on a shrewd
investment says Ewan Lacey
Finding a red wine to enjoy in spring is a delicate balancing act The shock of seeing sunlight after a dark winter fosters in us a desire to drink some-thing refreshing while the still-cool temperatures demand something with comforting depth
Increasingly Malbec wines particularly those from Argentina provide a perfect solution to this quandary And while there are plenty of delicious wines for infor-mal occasions what is most interesting is the emergence of finer Malbec wines Some are so good they may well have ageing potential raising the intriguing possibility that the wine may one day become collectable
Malbec is the most popular wine among those aged 25-34 and is now becoming a fixture on most restaurant wine lists There are several reasons for its success the word Malbec is easy to pronounce the wine goes well with red meat the Malbec grape can be turned into wines that are both relatively easy to drink and packed with flavour and decent wines are available at reason-able prices Malbec is deep fruity and charming and it delivers instant pleasure ndash claret on a motorbike
The Malbec grape originated in France and it remains one of the permitted varieties used to make Bordeaux However it has gained prominence through the work of the post-junta Argentine wine industry
I recently had the pleasure of tasting some very fine Malbecs with Laura Catena managing director at the Catena Zapata winery and president of the International Wine and Spirit Competition She opened my
Mendoza Marvels
inspired | March 2014 55
WINE
eyes to the potential of this grape variety when handled with care
Laurarsquos family business makes a range of wines but the wine that truly astonished me was the Nicasia Vineyard Malbec 2006 The wine is perfumed with floral and fruit notes and it is smooth and soft at first Like all great wines it has many layers of flavour warm bursts of cherry and black-currant cede centre stage to deeper darker caramel and mocha notes and a touch of spice Therersquos an amazing depth of flavour and the finish is long and lingering Whatrsquos more at nearly eight years old it still has a slight purple tinge and tastes extremely fresh There is every indication that it will age beautifully for at least another decade
The winersquos character is heavily influenced by the alti-tude the grapes used to make it are grown at (1180m
above sea level) At this elevation the grapes ripen in bright sun but lsquorelaxrsquo during the cool evenings The fact that the wine is made in tiny quantities (eight barrels only) means every care can be taken during the winemak-ing process to ensure the wine is allowed to show its grown-up side The cost per bot-tle of pound70 is not insubstantial but neither is the wine
We cannot know whether these wines will ever become investments in the way the wines of Bordeaux have Whatrsquos cer-tain is that Malbec wines have a very rare quality a balance of finesse and power that
can delight wine lovers and linger in their memories
Ewan Lacey is a leading wine expert and general manager of the International Wine and Spirit Competition He has appeared on BBC television and radio as well as Channel 4 and written for the national press
Laura Catena is managing director at the Catena Zapata winery (above)
THE INTERNATIONAL WINE AND SPIRIT COMPETITIONThe International Wine and Spirit Competition has been the premier drinks competition in the world for 45 years Each year it receives and reviews thousands of wines and spirits and presents qual-ity awards to producers
More than anything the IWSC exists to help
people make better deci-sions particularly when buying wines and spirits An IWSC award on a bot-tle of wine is a guarantee
of quality backed not only by a rigorous and strin-gent judging process but also by the skill of the judges who are drawn from the ranks of masters of wine master distill-ers industry leaders and commentators
Each year the IWSC honours a leading figure
in the drinks industry with the presidency of the competition The current president is Laura Catena who succeeds a nota-ble line of predecessors including Prince Robert of Luxembourg winemakers Piero Antinori and Warren Winiarski and Baroness Philippine de Rothschild
56 March 2014 | inspired
LUXURY WATCHES
Time is preciousA
t a recent watch auc-tion in Geneva at Antiquorum ndash the worldrsquos premiere auc-tion house for modern and vintage time pieces ndash a Patek Philippe
pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon watch emerged as the auctionrsquos top lot and sold for 12 million Swiss francs (pound807000)
Unlike most of the timepieces sold at auctions outside Asia this particular Patek watch ndash the most complicated wristwatch the Swiss watchmaker has ever produced ndash was not a vintage model
That Geneva auction raised intriguing
1284Clocks with weights gears and regulators start to appear mostly with no dial to strike the important moments of daily life
Around 1410The mainspring is devel-oped Combined with the fusee this innovation makes possible the truly portable domestic clock
1492The mechanical watch appears simultaneously in Italy Germany and France
1675Christian Huygens invents the spiral balance spring
for watches significantly improving their accuracy
1704The first watch with jew-els is produced by French watchmaker de Beaufreacute
1714The British parliament offers pound20000 to who-ever can a find a method to determine longitude
1766Parliament publishes the rating results for John Harrisonrsquos H4 marine timekeeper Harrisonrsquos highly accurate marine clock solution to the problem of determining logitude wins him part of the pound20000 prize
1787Pierre-Freacutedeacuteric Ingold is born an important pio-neer in mechanised timepiece production and the use of interchangea-ble parts
1790Jacquet-Droz and Leschot manufactures a watch attached to a strap
1839Vacheron amp Constantin developes a full set of machine tools for manu-facturing its watches
1875Calcium sulphate is the first luminescent sub-stance to be used for numerals and hands
TIMEKEEPING MILESTONES
questions Are modern luxury timepieces every bit as appealing as the vintage watches that typically command top prices at auc-tion And does that Geneva auction tell us anything about the contemporary watch market as a whole
Julien Schaerer Antiquorumrsquos managing director in Geneva says top-quality vintage watches often appreciate in value over the long term But he urges buyers for whom appreciation is an important consideration to be cautious about purchasing contempo-rary watches
lsquoWatch price depreciation is the cost of ownership just as it is with a luxury carrsquo he says lsquoIf the value goes up then
58 March 2014 | inspired
1880The first water- resistant watch incorpo-rating a screwed case is produced by Genevan watchmaker Franccedilois Borgel
1889The first known patent for a wristwatch is filed in Bern Switzerland
1890Dialmaker A Beyeler invents a transfer press for applying numerals and letters to dials
1892Auguste Verneuil in France produces the first synthetic jewels to be used in watchmaking
1904Wens Wilsdorf launches large-scale production of a womenrsquos wristwatch
1924John Harwood files the
first Swiss patent for a self-winding wristwatch with a central oscillating weight
1925The first known wrist-watch with a perpetual calendar is manufactured using a pendant watch movement
1926Rolex creates the Oyster wristwatch with a water-resistant case and crown
1966The first quartz wrist-watch prototype is produced
1969The first quartz watch
with an LED display appears
1978Quartz watches overtake mechanical watches in popularity
2005Creation of the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie Seiko launches the spring drive Kinetic the first self-winding mechanical watch with an electro-magnetic escapement
A Patek Philippe pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon recently sold for pound807000
inspired | March 2014 59
online retailers from the comfort of your homeSince 2006 DM London has quietly estab-
lished a powerful presence for itself in the UK retail watch market with the acquisition of The Watch Hut and The Watch Gallery DM London chairman David Coleridge says the company has capitalised on the increasing willingness of buy-ers to purchase online
lsquoHaving decided that they would like to buy a watch for themselves or someone elsersquo he says lsquopeople start to do their research More often than not this starts online nowadays where they com-pare brands performance and functions
lsquoAs trust in the online marketplace has devel-oped many want to buy online because it is convenient and saves time Shopping online becomes a habit established sites build trust and awareness with customers which gives custom-ers the confidence to buy more expensive itemsrsquo
He adds lsquoOur challenge is to make the online environment as attractive informative and enjoy-able as a high street store Then customers will decide to spend onlinersquo
Coleridge believes a multi-channel approach is the way forward for retailers He says lsquoWithout doubt the future is multi-channel selling ndash a combination of direct selling on the internet and various forms of click and collect ndash combined with beautiful stores on the high street
Over the past few years demand for luxury watches (particularly contemporary models) has spiked sharply in Asia and according to some specialists emerging affluence in the
of course thatrsquos an added benefit However he adds lsquoPrice appreciation is still quite rare with modern watches There is some poten-tial for appreciation but probably only with ultra-limited editions A purchase has to be
seen as a medium- to long-term invest-ment One should buy a timepiece first out of love for the brand or [the watchrsquos] complicationrsquo
The watch brands that offer the greatest assurance of appreci-
ation include Cartier Patek Philippe Rolex Audemars
Piguet A Lange amp Sohne Breguet and Vacheron Constantin All enjoy views from the top of
the watchmaking hierarchy thanks to their longstand-ing histories and well-established brand identities
Relative new-comers to the industry such as Richard Mille and Roger Dubuis have carved out a niche for
themselves with their revolutionary designs and
space-age technologies but it remains to be seen just how well the values of their timepieces will stand up on the secondary market
According to Nathaniel Borgelt a specialist at auction house Sothebyrsquos
some modern watches have already achieved good prices at auction but these (like the Patek Philippe Sky Moon Tourbillon) were highly exclusive models when new
lsquoSome limited edition pieces currently fetch incredible prices at auctionrsquo he says lsquoAnd there is a select group of modern mod-els that could compete with a certain sector of the vintage market based on their brand innovative features such as materials or com-plications and avant-garde designs
Buying these has now become a whole lot easier The luxury watch retailing land-scape is changing and the traditional pattern of physically walking into a luxury salon to buy a watch is gradually being replaced by a trend towards visiting the websites of the big
LUXURY WATCHES
A Lange amp Sohne (above) is a long-standing high-end watchmaker Comparative new-comer Roger Dubuis (right) is forging a strong reputation
inspired | March 2014 PB60 March 2014 | inspired
helpthewatchgallerycom
Hublot ClassiC FusiontHe WatCH Gallery exClusive
The Watch Gallery and Hublot have joined forces to create two very special limited edition watches Both are limited to just 15 pieces worldwide and have been specifically designed to feature The Watch Gallery blue brand colour on the hands and tinted open case back
SelfridgeS OxfOrd StreetWeStfield lOndOnMancheSter exchange Square
wwwthewatchgallerycomhublot-watches
Far East has kept global values strong while other markets around the world continue to recover from recession
Despite the market boost from growing prosperity in Asia there are signs that the market is becoming saturated and that globally the new watch market isnrsquot as robust as some commentators suggest
It may still be a good time to buy but its important to know what you want and what yoursquore buying Modern watchmakers such as Richard Mille Roger Dubuis and Greubel Forsey are producing beautiful timepieces but because of their limited foothold in the market itrsquos difficult to predict their long-term success and desirability They donrsquot yet have the brand power that might ensure the value of their
watches in the secondhand market remains highSuch producers might one day stand eye to
eye with the most desirable brands such as Patek Philippe and Rolex but achieving that kind of parity wonrsquot be easy Collectors looking to invest in timepieces are advised to keep an open mind about modern producers uncertainty is the one aspect of modern luxury watch market most experts tend to agree on
That said the buoyancy in the watch market suggests that plenty of buyers are unconcerned about future values For them itrsquos all about the appreciation of the watch itself People buy watches because they bring them pleasure ndash and say some-thing about who they are
LUXURY WATCHES
Contemporary watches such as those made by Hublot (left) have yet to show they will have the lasting appeal of watches such as Cartierrsquos Rotonde de Cartier Astrocalendaire (right)
inspired | March 2014 63
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-
the past three years he adds Among food pro-ducers he likes Wynnstay It has lsquobenefited from strong revenue and pre-tax profitsrsquo increasing its interim dividend by 9 per cent
But therersquos ample cause for caution too because Aim shares are typically far riskier than those listed on the main market Not only is there the vol-atility inherent in shares issued by smaller firms but there remains the potential for liquidity issues even after the surge of money into the market in recent months Haig Bathgate chief investment officer at Turcan Connell says lsquoThey are by impli-cation of their size much less liquid in terms of the shares that trade hands on a daily basis so they are prone to more extreme price movementsrsquo
UK investors may also be averse to Aim stocks that are effectively overseas companies Indeed many Aim fund portfolios specifically exclude both these and natural resources firms as well as stocks that donrsquot offer business property relief
lsquoSignificant numbers of companies have failed to deliver on expectations in this part of the mar-ket and it is also quite heavily weighted towards technology (12 per cent) resources (9 per cent) and oil and gas companies (22 per cent)rsquo says Bathgate There are transparency concerns too due to the less stringent regulatory and company reporting requirements on the Aim market
lsquoWe would only include Aim stocks within the
portfolios of adventurous clients and then only up to a maximum of 10 per centrsquo says David Thomson chief investment officer at VWM Wealth lsquoEven then the bulk of this is likely to be via a venture capital trust where the investor can also enjoy 30 per cent income tax relief providing a further cushion against the volatility of Aim sharesrsquo
Collective investment funds and trusts offer a way into Aim stocks that provides useful diversification and so reduces the risk of heavy losses Investment trusts can offer particular advantages where Aim-listed shares are concerned as their closed-ended status gives them a hedge against the market liquidity issues that can affect Aim stocks Among the growing number of UK smaller companies investment trusts in which Aim shares are prominent are those run by BlackRock Standard Life and Aberforth Unit trusts invest-ing in Aim companies include the LampG UK Alpha Trust and Cazenove UK Smaller Companies
However there is a downside to access-ing Aim through funds and trusts as investors no longer benefit from the IHT-free status that direct holders of Aim stocks enjoy The risk of hefty losses remains the biggest caveat to investing in Aim
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
AIMSHARESAREMUCHLESS
LIQUIDINTERMSOFTHESHARESTHATTRADEHANDSDAILYHaig Bathgate
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
inspired | March 2014 19
Clockwise from top Cohort Wynnstay and Jet2com are Stewartrsquos picks for a diversified portfolio
rewarding such as smaller companies private equity and emerging markets
Trusts can also increase their assets by borrow-ing So long as this gearing is sensibly priced it should accelerate the trustrsquos gains in positive mar-ket conditions However gearing will exacerbate losses in any downturn The possible closing of the discount will also enhance share price returns
SOLID GROWTHBaillie Gifford Global DiscoveryThis fund picked by independent financial adviser Brian Dennehy invests globally in growth stocks especially companies operating in industries with potential for structural change and innova-tion Dennehy says manager Douglas Brodie has had considerable experience and success in iden-tifying growth opportunities particularly among exciting smaller-cap stocks
CF Lindsell Train UK EquityJohn Husselbee head of multi-asset at Liontrust Asset Management prefers investors to traders Renowned investor Warren Buffett takes a similar view and Husselbee says fund manager Nick Train invests like Buffett Train looks to buy great com-panies such as Burberry Heineken and Unilever when they are good value and hold them lsquoforeverrsquo
Cazenove UK Opportunities This fund aims to achieve long-term capital growth from a focused portfolio of large and medium-sized UK companies Gavin Haynes managing
huge variety of investment funds rang-ing from generalist funds to highly specialised versions aim to generate capital growth for investors
Investing in a specific fund entails investors accepting different degrees of risk in return for a range of potential rewards So when we asked financial advisers to predict which funds offer the best prospects for growth in 2014 we also urged them to consider which types of investor the funds would suit best
Solid growth funds will appeal to investors who prefer steady investment while higher-risk growth funds are likely to be more volatile and appeal to those with a higher risk tolerance Speculative funds could produce handsome returns this year but they could also dip sharply in value
Closed-ended status means investment trusts can invest in less liquid asset classes without having to worry about realising their holdings in a market setback This enables them to invest in areas that have historically proved particularly
A
Helen Pridham and Fiona Hamilton have rounded up a collection of investment funds and trusts experts believe will prosper in the year ahead for investors looking to cash in on an improving economic outlook
PERFECT YOUR FUND PORTFOLIOTO SEE IT
GROW
inspired | March 2014 2120 March 2014 | inspired
FUNDSAND
TRUSTS
GROW
inspired | March 2014 2120 March 2014 | inspired
A
RE Y
OU
A
GLO
BAL
INV
ESTO
R Take a global view of investment trusts expertly managed by Henderson
For over 75 years Henderson Global Investors has been at the forefront of investment trust innovation and development Now with a diverse and established range of managed investment trusts and investment companies Henderson has a global view of the market
Whether you are retirement planning investing for your children looking to take advantage of dynamic global markets or want a cautious investment approach our managed companies offer a wide range of investment objectives and strategies professionally managed by regional experts
If your priority is high income long term capital growth or a mixture of both Henderson Global Investors has a range of solutions which aims to meet your investment needs
Please remember that past performance is not a guide to future performance The value of an investment and the income from it can fall as well as rise as a result of market and currency fluctuations and you may not get back the amount originally invested
Call to receive your Investment Trust brochure or visit wwwhendersoninvestmenttrustscom
0800 856 5656
Investment Trusts managed by Henderson
Issued in the UK by Henderson Global Investors Henderson Global Investors is the name under which Henderson Global Investors Limited (reg no 906355) Henderson Fund Management Limited (reg no 2607112) Henderson Investment Funds Limited (reg no 2678531) Henderson Investment Management Limited (reg no 1795354) Henderson Alternative Investment Advisor Limited (reg no 962757) Henderson Equity Partners Limited (reg no2606646) Gartmore Investment Limited (reg no 1508030) (each incorporated and registered in England and Wales with registered office at 201 Bishopsgate London EC2M 3AE) are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority to provide investment products and services Telephone calls may be recorded and monitored H0046521113ad
Itrsquos a global marketplace
HGiTrusts
director at Whitechurch Securities says fund manager Julie Dean has built up an excellent track record
Securities Trust of ScotlandRobin McAdam likes Securities Trust of Scotland which seeks rising income and long-term capi-tal growth from global equities The trust yields 33 per cent so it provides income and growth potential lsquoThe trust has outperformed its bench-mark recently and we expect this to continuersquo says McAdam
Finsbury Growth amp Income TrustPeter Hewitt nominates Finsbury Growth amp Income Trust on the basis of its strong short- and long-term performance Manager Nick Train seeks out the highest-quality companies to hold long term The portfolio is dominated by companies Train expects to have longevity such as Diageo Unilever and Heineken lsquoThe manager looks for strong cash gen-eration and dividend growth which he believes are undervalued by the stock marketrsquo Hewitt says
RIT Capital PartnersThis multi-asset trust selected by John Newlands is the flagship financial vehicle for its chairman Lord Jacob Rothschild and his family lsquoGiven the uncertainty in the world it is no bad thing to be diversified both globally and across a range of asset classes RIT is a global growth trust that offers a combination of these benefitsrsquo Newlands says
His enthusiasm is bolstered by RITrsquos current relatively wide discount which reflects disap-pointment among investors that it was rather too cautious over the past two or three years
Perpetual Income amp Growth Trust This trust is classified as a member of the AIC UK growth and income sector but its yield tends to be below the sector average because manager Mark Barnett is more interested in income growth than immediate income Tim Cockerill classifies it as a total return trust and makes it his solid growth choice Barnett has secured excellent long-term returns dur-ing his 15 years at the helm
HIGHER-RISK GROWTHLazard Emerging MarketsMick Gilligan believes the investment case for emerging market equi-ties remains strong He says lsquoEquity markets in emerging regions are trading at their widest price-to-earnings discount to developed markets since 2006 We believe many well-capitalised businesses that have shown strong financial discipline should gener-ate good profitsrsquo The Lazard Emerging Markets fund focuses on such businesses
Rathbone Global OpportunitiesThis go-almost-anywhere bottom-up thorough stockpicking fund looks for undiscovered gems Rob Burdett fund manager at Thames River believes manager James Thomson strikes the
KEY FACTS ABOUT GROWTH FUND TIPS
Mininv pound
Ongoing Charges
1-yearreturn
Sectorrank
SOLID GROWTHBaillie Gifford Global Discovery 1000 086 5920 2248CF Lindsell Train UK Equity ndash 080 2910 53271Cazenove UK Opportunities 1000 082 3210 40271 HIGHER-RISK GROWTHInvestec Global Energy 1000 087 1420 40206Lazard Emerging Markets 2000 161 320 1668Rathbone Global Opportunities 1000 082 2150 111248 SPECULATIVE GROWTHAllianz BRIC Stars 500 122 -120 134206Liontrust Special Situations 1000 114 1450 251271MampG Recovery 500 096 1330 264271Note Ongoing charges figure refers to the least expensive retail share class Source Financial Express and companies websites as at 3 December 2013
KEY FACTS ABOUT THE TRUSTS TIPPED FOR GROWTH
Shareprice
p
Discprem to NAV
Netyield
Gearing
Net asset valuetotal return after
1 year
3 years
5 years
SOLID GROWTHFinsbury Growth amp Income 5010 (+) 12 21 50 305 767 2038Perpetual Income amp Growth 3686 10 32 120 346 714 1407RIT Capital Partners 12480 105 11 50 210 225 591Securities Trust of Scotland 1469 (+) 31 32 40 192 460 1132 HIGHER-RISK GROWTHBiotech Growth Trust 4335 72 00 70 582 1723 2968Fidelity Chinese Special Sits 1062 65 09 210 433 02 ndashGraphite Enterprise Trust 5690 170 09 -90 167 442 405Schroder Asia Pacific 2730 92 14 -20 08 201 1779 SPECULATIVE GROWTHBaker Steel Resources 470 331 00 10 -57 -137 740Hansa Trust A 8600 243 23 10 142 69 947Impax Environmental Markets 1463 112 06 -20 350 285 921Standard Life Eq Inc subscription 1070 ndash 00 3700 ndash ndash ndashNotes NAV = net asset value Annualised All data as at 1 December Source Numis Securities
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
MARK BARNETT HAS SECURED
EXCELLENT RETURNSTim Cockerill
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
inspired | March 2014 23PB March 2014 | inspired
FUNDSANDTRUSTS
right balance between taking calculated risks for high returns and investing in defensive holdings Burdett says lsquoHe likes companies undertaking gentle innovation ndash moving online for example ndash rather than game changers which have more potential to go wrongrsquo Investec Global EnergyThis fund invests in companies that produce energy and provide services to the energy sector Fund managers Tom Nelson and Charles Whall believe the consensus view on future oil prices anticipates weak demand and growing supply from US shale oil But they demur as does Tony Yarrow at Wise Investment He says lsquoOil is harder to extract from shale than gas is while demand for oil is growing as economies recover A higher oil price feeds straight through to the companiesrsquo profitsrsquo
Biotech Growth TrustPeter Hewitt favours Biotech Growth Trust which has achieved scorching gains recently ndash up 172 per cent over three years to 1 December 2013
It is managed in New York by Orbimed a specialist healthcare and biotechnology investor with $7 bil-lion (pound42 billion) under management It offers exposure to a mix of large and profitable biotech companies along-side emerging businesses Most of its holdings are US-based and they have
benefited from a much more positive approach by the Federal Drug Authority ndash new drug approvals in 2010 were the highest for 10 years
Graphite Enterprise TrustAndrew McHattie contends that just one sector offers great value private equity lsquoThese trusts were hammered in the credit crisis and discounts widened to extreme levelsrsquo he says
His selection is Graphite Enterprise Trust Its discount to net asset value remains at a level that rings alarm bells in most other sectors but it has a strong track record and a relatively mature port-folio of shares he expects to rise in value
Fidelity Chinese Special SituationslsquoWith Chinese equities looking cheap the long-term outlook for investing in China is positiversquo Cockerill says lsquoThis fund invests in medium and small caps where high growth can be achieved New manager Dale Nicholls is well qualified and the combination of Fidelity manager experience and China is compelling in the long termrsquo
Scottish Oriental Smaller Companies Trust This trust is favoured by McAdam The invest-ment team identifies quality companies offering sustainable predictable growth lsquoThe trust may underperform if the market rises strongly but the teamrsquos enviable track record and experience should be respectedrsquo he says
Tim Cockerill is investment director at Rowan Dartington
RowanDartingtonhas20investmentadvisersbasedinsevenofficesacrossthesouthofEnglandIthaspound900millionunderman-
agementInvestmenttrustshavefeaturedinitsdiscretionaryandadvisoryportfoliosformanyyears
Peter Hewittis a member of FampC Asset Managementrsquos global equities team
HehasmanagedtheFampCManagedPortfolioTrustsinceApril2008aswellasitsforerunnerFampCManagedPortfolio
Servicesince2002HewasheadofUKequitiesatMurray
Johnstonefrom1981to1983beforejoiningIvoryampSime
Jean Mattersonis a partner and chief investment officer at Rossie House Investment Management
Shejoinedthefirmin1998after20yearswithassetmanagerStewartIvory
BasedinEdinburghsheisoneoffiveinvestment
professionalsmanagingaroundpound300mil-lionallonadiscretionarybasisAroundhalfisininvestmenttrusts
Robin McAdamjoined Brooks MacDonald Asset Management in 2009 from Adam amp Company Investment Management
Hehas24yearsrsquoexperi-encemanagingprivateclientportfoliosandheadsBMrsquosEdinburghbranch
Thefirmhaspound537billionunderdiscretionarymanagementinbespokeandmanagedportfolios
Andrew McHattieis head of The McHattie Group
McHattieGroupisanauthorisedfirmthatpublishesspecialistinvestmentnewsletters
McHattiehasbeentheeditorofInvestmentTrustNewslettersince1996(wwwtipsheetscouk)andoffersafreeservicecalledthelsquoitlistrsquo(wwwtheitlistcouk)ThecompanyhasaFacebookpage(wwwfacebookcominvestmenttrusts)
John Newlandsis responsible for investment trust research at Brewin Dolphin
Heissupportedbyfouranalystswhocoverspecificsectorsresearchingopen-andclosed-endedfunds
BrewinDolphinhas35officesaroundtheUKandChannelIslandsandmanagespound28billionofwhichpound39billionisininvestmenttrusts
TrusttipstersOursixexpertsrevealtheirtopfundpicks
inspired | March 2014 PB24 March 2014 | inspired
FUNDSAND
TRUSTS
One in twelve goes free on your next golf break plus every golfer receives a free pint
12thmansagimme
Book online at MarriottGolfcouk
Offer is only valid on residential golf bookings booked during the promotional dates For every 11 players booked the 12th player will be free of charge Rates are per person per night based on 2 people sharing a twindouble room and include dinner bed amp breakfast Bookings must be made by one named player and separate bookings will not qualify Each residential player aged 18 and over will receive a voucher entitling them to a complimentary pint
of Beckrsquos or Boddingtons Offer is valid on bookings made via 3rd parties Offer is available on 1 night 2 rounds or 2 night 3 rounds and excludes Sunday Driver Maximum of 2 night stay and 2 people per room Day of week availability may vary based on location Limited number of rooms may be available This offer applies to new bookings only at Marriott Hotel amp Country Clubs and offer courses and tee times are subject to availability Offer cannot
be used in conjunction with any other promotion Course terms and conditions apply Advance reservations required Book between 17th February and 29th June 2014 for stays between 4th April and 29th September 2014
The SIPP thatrsquos
fair and square
We believe in straightforward investing Thatrsquos why we donrsquot nibble at your SIPP with percentage fees For just pound144 per year you can open a SIPP and add an ISA for free After that itrsquos just pound10 to buy or sell a wide range of investments including shares funds bonds and gilts Open an account today and if you transfer your existing SIPP wersquoll give you up to pound240 as a thank you (terms apply) We believe thatrsquos fair and square
The value of investments and any income from them can fall as well as rise so you could get back less than you invest Tax treatment depends on your individual circumstances and may be subject to change If in any doubt please seek advice
iiicouksipp
Interactive Investor Trading Limited trading as ldquoInteractive Investorrdquo is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority Registered Office Standon House 21 Mansell Street London E1 8AA Tel 0845 200 3637 Registered in England with Company Registration number 3699618
SPECULATIVE GROWTHMampG RecoveryDennehy says manager Tom Dobell backs his convictions engages with companies he invests in and has delivered long-term outperformance lsquoDobellrsquos MampG Recovery fund has a clear value-style process and management stability It invests in a wide range of firms that are out of favour or in difficulty or whose prospects are not fully rec-ognised by the marketrsquo he says
Liontrust Special SituationsHusselbee says Liontrustrsquos Anthony Cross and Julian Fosh have their own unique philosophy He adds lsquoThey look for characteristics in a company that its competitors find difficult to replicate such as intellectual property or distribution channelsrsquo
Allianz Bric StarsThis fund aims for capital growth in the long term by investing mainly in Brazil Russia India and China Haynes says investors have shunned these markets recently and valuations fallen He adds lsquoFor investors looking for a recovery story this fund is worth considerationrsquo
Standard Life Equity Income subscription shareMcHattie says warrant and subscription shares are widely ignored creating opportunities for those who understand them He favours the subscrip-tion shares of Standard Life Equity Income which can be exercised at 320p a share up to the end of December 2016 lsquoThey offer gearing of 37 times and if the ordinary shares grow by more than 28 per cent a year between now and the end of 2016 the subscription shares ought to outperformrsquo
Impax Environmental MarketsMcAdam likes this trust It invests in companies seeking to provide cleaner or more-efficient energy as well as water and waste solutions to the growing problems faced by authorities around the world It offers exposure to a rapidly changing marketplace as well as to socially responsible investments
Hansa TrustJohn Newlands sees potential in the A shares of Hansa Trust which languish at a discount of more than 25 per cent He says that whereas the trustrsquos portfolio appears skewed with a third of its assets in Ocean Wilsons there is actually plenty of diversification because Ocean Wilsons has an investment portfolio that stands at a discount to underlying value lsquoOne day an attractive bid [may] be made for Ocean Wilsons that will enhance Hansarsquos NAV and sim-plify its capital structure all to the good of its market ratingrsquo Newlands says
Baker Steel Resources TrustJean Matterson hopes for good returns from this trust shares in which trade on a near 30 per cent discount lsquoIt has not had an easy run of late but we believe the underlying assets are attractive and that the mining projects in the companyrsquos portfo-lio will continue to progressrsquo she says
Prospects have improved for biotechs (left) while growing interest in sustain-able energy has boosted Impax
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
AHIGHEROILPRICEFEEDSSTRAIGHT
THROUGHTOPROFITSTony Yarrow
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
inspired | March 2014 27PB March 2014 | inspired
FUNDSANDTRUSTS
The world of funds and trusts is a confusing place with over 2300 funds and more than 300 investment trusts to choose from
Money Observerrsquos Rated Funds system narrows down the playing field to help you decide which funds and investment trusts might be best for you
Our team of experts constantly monitor the marketplace rating those funds that have delivered consistently good returns However you should be aware that there is no guarantee this performance will be repeated
With our comparison tool you can filter by whatrsquos important to you compare up to four funds and trusts side-by-side as well as view factsheets
COMPAREMONEY OBSERVER RATED FUNDS
VISIT MONEYOBSERVERCOMCOMPAREFUNDS AND LOOK OUT FOR THE RATED FUND STAMP
had spare cash or I were start-ing afresh The companies in the add category are high qual-ity judging by the strategies they follow and their finan-cial strength and are probably undervalued
Irsquom more likely to eject or reduce holdings in companies in the watch and specula-tive categories These shares are more risky either because they have risen greatly in price or because their prospects are more uncertain than usual I may think the risk is worth tak-ing but I am prepared to act should that calculation change
Every decision to increase a portfolio holding must be weighed against the potential of new candidates drawn from all companies listed in the UK and corralled into another live spreadsheet the Share Sleuth watchlist When I add a share to the watchlist or trade a share in the portfolio I explain this in the Share Sleuth blog
ccumulating income and capital gains in an index tracking fund is inexpensive takes little effort and all but guarantees an
average return so it should be the default investment for a lazy equity investor saving for the long term
To justify the work of decid-ing which shares to buy and sell and the effort and cost of placing trades an active investor must do better Consequently the first objective of the active Share Sleuth portfolio is to beat passive investments after costs over the long-term which in practice means any five-year period The second objective is to win this tussle against an unknowing and unthinking opponent transparently
At the heart of the portfolio is an online spreadsheet The first page shows the constitu-ent shares arranged into three categories lsquoaddrsquo lsquowatchrsquo and lsquospeculativersquo The categorisa-tion is updated daily based on live data in subsequent spread-sheets each of which contains a financial model for a particular company
The Share Sleuth portfo-lio shows the holdings I would add to the portfolio today if it
Share Sleuth is a simulation no money changes hands But I use prices quoted by a bro-ker and adjust the accounting to factor in notional broker fees and stamp duty However I lsquoeat my own cookingrsquo by investing my self-invested personal pen-sion in Share Sleuth companies
No doubt you are wonder-ing how the portfolio is doing Share Sleuthrsquos five-year anni-versary judgement day is on 9 September this year and I will not prejudge it now
Short-term performance watching and the knee-jerk trad-ing it encourages is I think one reason why many inves-tors fail My focus is on ensuring the portfolio remains invested in good companies at reasona-ble prices
You can see a live perfor-mance table and learn what I think of every share in the port-folio and which companies I might add to it at wwwiiicoukZkr
SHAREBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIOR
The Share Sleuth portfolio has been carefully devised to show investors how to find good companies at cheap prices and also prove the value of its investment approach says Richard Beddard
Richard Beddard an editor at Interactive Investor since 1999 has managed the Share Sleuth portfolio since 9 September 2009 Hersquos a columnist at Money Observer magazine and a private investor
AMY FOCUS IS ON ENSURING THAT THE PORTFOLIO IS INVESTED IN GOOD FIRMS AT DECENT PRICES
inspired | March 2014 29PB March 2014 | inspired
SHARESLEUTH
iiicoukstraightforward
Interactive Investor Trading Limited trading as ldquoInteractive Investorrdquo is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority Registered Office Standon House 21 Mansell Street London E1 8AA Tel 0845 200 3637 Registered in England with Company Registration number 3699618
We believe in being straightforwardthis is why we donrsquot nibble at your investment by charging percentage fees Find out how this could affect your investment performance at iiicoukstraightforward
If you transfer to us you can even get up to pound240 as a thank you (terms apply)
Donrsquot forget the value of investments and any income from them can fall as well as rise so you could get back less than you invest If in any doubt please seek advice
7784_II_QI_MONEY_OBSERVER_210x297_AWindd 1 16012014 1224
Take a closer look
at your investment
options
Discover a straightforward way to understand everything from ISAs to SIPPs and OEICs to Investment Trusts
Investing for generationsEver feel yoursquod like to know more about investing Wersquove been helping people build their wealth for over 125 years Our guide lsquoMaking sense of the investment universersquo is just one of the resources yoursquoll find on our Investment Focus hub
As well as clear simple guides therersquos a wealth of information and expert opinion all designed to help you take control of your investments Please remember that investments can go down as well as up and investors may get back less than they originally invested
Introducing your free online source of information help and expert opinion
investment-focuscouk
This has been approved as a financial promotion by Alliance Trust Investments Limited for the purpose of Section 21 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 Alliance Trust Investments Limited is a subsidiary of Alliance Trust PLC and is registered in Scotland No SC330862 registered office 8 West Marketgait Dundee DD1 1QN is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority firm reference number 479764 Alliance Trust Investments gives no financial or investment advice
TAX YEAR ENDS APRIL 5TH ndash learn more about
your options now
Investment Focus Smart Insight from Alliance Trust
Yoursquove spoken Wersquove listened Introducing your free online source of information help and expert opinion
Based on real insight we have launched a new website which focuses on investment education
We believe that we are uniquely positioned to provide this hub of information based on the reputation we have built for trust and transparency over the last 125 years
We will be publishing new content over the next few months focusing on specific themes
bull Investing from scratch
bull Products in a portfolio
bull Global diversification
bull Planning for your familyrsquos future
bull Retirement planning
bull Getting more information
There is a generation of future investors out there who have been brought up in an era of economic turmoil and banking crises which has led to disillusionment and a lack of trust in our sector and the services we offer Despite it being more important than ever for investors to take control of their financial situation this new generation of savers lacks the basic knowledge and understanding to make these very important long-term decisions
Our goal is to develop a useful resource with contributions from third-parties as well as the team at Alliance Trust which offers insights into the various life stages and challenges faced and which can be built upon and adapted to meet savers needs in the long term
Katherine Garrett-Cox CBE Chief Executive Alliance Trust PLC
ldquo
rdquo
There are too many products to make an informed decision
I donrsquot know whereto go for reliable
information
investment-focuscouk
Yoursquoll naturally take a keen interest in the performance of your investments But itrsquos just as important to understand the fees you will be paying as they can have a significant impact on the returns you achieve Knowing what the different types of costs mean and exactly what they consist of can prove rewarding
Itrsquos worth remembering that for every fee you pay (whether it is a or flat fee) your investment needs to grow by at least the same amount just to stay ahead of the game It sounds obvious but itrsquos easy to forget Broadly speaking there are three types of fees fund fees platform fees and fees for a financial adviser You can either invest directly into a fund and pay the associated fees or you can invest via a platform provider (some of which are referred to as wrap platforms others as fund supermarkets) This is a service that lets you manage and review all your investments online in one place As a general rule fund fees are lower when
bought through a platform than if you buy direct You can invest through a platform on either an execution only basis where the investor assesses the risks and makes their own investment decisions or on an advised basis
Learn more about fund platform and financial advice fees
What can you expect to seeOver the next two pages we have provided a sneak preview of just some of the information you will find on the Investment Focus hub We will be updating the site regularly so make sure you sign up for our email alerts to be informed when new topics are published
Everything you need to know about fees
Risk informationInvestments can go down as well as up You may get back less than you originally invested
Alliance Trust does not give advice You need to ensure you understand the risks and commitments before investing If you are unsure you should consult a Financial Adviser before investing
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
For the vast majority of investors the simplest cheapest and most pragmatic way to invest is through pooled funds
Sometimes called managed funds unit trusts or even Open-Ended Investment Companies (or OEICs) these are designed to give ordinary savers access to a diverse range of investments
One of the principles of investment is that diversification helps reduce risk But it is expensive and time consuming for ordinary savers to buy shares of 80 to 100 different companies and keep track of how each is performing
But with a managed fund you are pooling your money with other investors enabling the fund manager to buy a wide range of assets
Investors have the option of buying an actively managed or passive fund With an active fund the manager selects and then monitors these stocks for investors in a bid to maximise returns
In contrast a passive fund will simply follow a stock market index such as the FTSE100 up and down
Having a manager at the helm can be beneficial in a market downturn as they can take a more defensive approach buying shares that are better able to hold their value or in some cases switching to bonds or cash instead to help preserve investorsrsquo capital Managers can also research individual companies and markets and have access to forecasts and economic data that isnrsquot always available to individuals
Learn more about investing for growth or income exploring different investment remits how to invest and keeping track of your investments
Understanding funds Written by Emma Simon Personal Finance Journalist
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
What are Investment TrustsInvestment Trusts are investment vehicles that are listed on the London Stock Exchange and which invest in shares and other securities They pool together investorsrsquo money and delegate responsibility to a professional fund manager to invest in a range of companies from different sectors and regions across the world They were designed for ldquothe investor of moderate meansrdquo
A brief historybull The first Investment Trust was launched by Foreign amp
Colonial in 1868
bull Investment Trusts made it possible for individual investors to gain diversified exposure to global stock markets
bull Many Investment Trusts were formed in Scotland including Alliance Trust PLC which was formed over 125 years ago
A guide to Investment Trusts
Learn more about Investment Trusts their main features and why you should consider them for your portfolio
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
Alliance Trust is an investment and savings business with over 125 year history of building investor wealth We offer our shareholders clients and customers a unique portfolio of products and services These range from a renowned global investment trust to an innovative range of investment strategies and funds and a multi-award winning investment platform where investors can host their ISAs SIPPs or investment accounts Our mission is to provide products and services that help to ensure a more sustainable financial future for generations of investors
Alliance Trust PLC is one of the largest generalist investment trusts by market value listed on the London Stock Exchange and is the parent company to two wholly-owned subsidiaries Alliance Trust Savings and Alliance Trust Investments
The fact that many of us make irrational decisions when it comes to our finances is widely debated and is often referred to as behavioural finance In this short video we talk to Professor Phyl Johnson Consultant Psychologist and Visiting Professor of Executive Education at Strathclyde Business School about why this is and more importantly about what we can do as individuals to avoid it
About us Alliance Trust Investments is a specialist fund management business offering a range of products and services focusing on global equities fixed income and sustainable investing with an emphasis on specialist investment solutions
Alliance Trust Savings is one of the UKrsquos leading financial services providers for private investors offering customers the information and services they need to manage their investments in a way that works for them
Risk informationInvestments can go down as well as up You may get back less than you originally invested
Alliance Trust does not give advice You need to ensure you understand the risks and commitments before investing If you are unsure you should consult a Financial Adviser before investing
Unusually for a company of our size around 70 of shares
in Alliance Trust are held by private
individuals
Nobodyrsquos perfect why we all make irrational decisions
Inflation by ageThis monthrsquos official inflation report showed that the headline rate of inflation fell from 20 to 19 Our Economic Research Team analyse this data on a monthly basis to see how inflation rates affect different age groups In February 2014 the summary highlights include
bull The over 75s and the under 30s face the highest rate of inflation in January at 21
bull The over 75s suffered the highest rate of inflation for the whole of 2013 and this trend continues into 2014 as they spend a larger share of their budgets on basic goods such as gas and electricity
bull The 65 to 74 year olds have faced the lowest rate of inflation in 11 out of the last 12 months thanks to lower inflation in food petrol and package holidays
Learn more about how inflation might affect you
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
You can also sign up for our regular email alerts to be informed when new topics are published by clicking here
Wersquove been bringing clarity to investment for over 125 years
Investing for generationsWhen it comes to investing therersquos no substitute for experience And at Alliance Trust wersquove been helping people invest since 1888 Our new Investment Focus hub is full of online information and expert opinion It aims to provide real insight to help you take control of your investments
Over the next few weeks the hub will build to cover everything from taking your first steps to diversifying worldwide Please remember that investments can go down as well as up and investors may get back less than they originally invested For valuable insight from Alliance Trust visit Investment Focus today
Introducing your free online source of information help and expert opinion
investment-focuscouk
This has been approved as a financial promotion by Alliance Trust Investments Limited for the purpose of Section 21 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 Alliance Trust Investments Limited is a subsidiary of Alliance Trust PLC and is registered in Scotland No SC330862 registered office 8 West Marketgait Dundee DD1 1QN is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority firm reference number 479764 Alliance Trust Investments gives no financial or investment advice
TAX YEAR ENDS APRIL 5TH ndash learn more about
your options now
Change the way you think about stocks reap the rewardsBy Edward Page Croft CEO Stockopediacom
I remember so clearly the day when I picked my first stock for clients Managing $2 billion (pound12 billion) in assets across 100 portfolios for high-net-wealth private investors is no easy task As I was to learn when you are green
and straight out of university itrsquos even harder The stock in question was on the Goldman
Sachs US lsquobuyrsquo list It had the potential to be hot Dotcoms were bubbling It was an internet stock in education services and cheap It seemed like it had everything but we needed to get in One day it fell out of bed Down 50 per cent on no news
Irsquod been trained to call the analyst in situations like this He reiterated his buy stance Double buy On my insistence we put almost $20 million of client money into the stock within an hour The next day it fell another 50 per cent on
bad newsThere is nothing more
painful than a loss but you never forget the first
one It immedi-ately forced me to reconsider every-thing I thought I
knew From that day on I vowed to never trust anotherrsquos opin-ion and find a better
way through the market minefieldIrsquove now spent 15 years
reassessing common
wisdom about stock selection No stone has gone unturned in the quest to understand the behav-ioural flaws that lead to poor decision making But there is one finding that crops up again and again in all the research that hurts stock market investors most We as investors are suckers for stories
A 1990rsquos study of 60000 private investor broker-age accounts by Kumar and Goetzmann found that 70 per cent of portfolios held less than four stocks
The stocks held all tended to be in the same sector highly correlated and risky Think internet stocks in the 1990s China in the 2000s or resource stocks more recently The grand theme sucks everyone in The outcome rarely dif-fers Kumar and Goetzmann showed that across these
60000 accounts the average underperformance was of the order of 4 per cent annually
This massive failing across private inves-tor portfolios is repeated in nearly every market cycle and is bound to happen again in this one Benjamin Graham the great father of value invest-ing and tutor of Warren Buffett once wrote
lsquoIn the short run the stock market is a vot-ing machine but in the long run it is a weighing machinersquo
ADVERTISING FEATURE
IN THE SHORT RUN THE STOCK MARKET IS A VOTING MACHINE BUT IN THE LONG RUN IT IS A WEIGHING MACHINEBenjamin Graham
What he meant was that while stories may drive stocks in the short run statistics drive stocks in the long run When statistics reassert them-selves it can cause huge damage to investors punting their portfolios on stories
It doesnrsquot take much to learn how basic statis-tics can guide your portfolio into winning stock selections though very few seem to understand how to do it Benjamin Graham as his life wore on gradually came to the conclusion that building portfolios according to rules-based processes was a far more appropriate methodology for the typi-cal investor
lsquoTry to buy groups of stocks that meet some sim-ple criterion for being undervalued ndash regardless of
the industry and with very little attention to the indi-vidual company It seems too good to be true but all I can tell you after 60 years of experience is it seems to stand up under any of the tests I would make uprsquo
My time is now dedi-cated to helping investors practice exactly what Benjamin Graham and many other investment luminaries have preached rules-based investing For the majority itrsquos a better process and leads to bet-ter outcomes Our work at
Stockopediacom where we crunch fundamental and technical data in order to model and track the investment processes of the great investors bears this out
Portfolios composed with stocks showing the right statistical mix of value quality and momen-tum have significantly outperformed Rules-based investing beats the market But more importantly it helps promote the emotional detachment needed to stop investors from beating themselves
Irsquoll never buy a stock on a punt or an analystrsquos tip again Perhaps neither should you
For a two week free trial and pound50 discount to Stockopedia UK Premium CLICK HERE
TANK MCM A N U F A C T U R E M O V E M E N T 1 9 0 4 M C
SINCE THE CREATION OF THE FIRST TANK WATCH IN 1917 THE TANK COLLECTION HAS CONTINUED
TO BREAK NEW GROUND THE INCREDIBLY REFINED AESTHETICS OF THE NEW TANK MC WATCH ARE FITTED
WITH THE CARTIER MANUFACTURE MOVEMENT 1904 MC ESTABLISHED IN 1847 CARTIER CREATES
EXCEPTIONAL WATCHES THAT COMBINE DARING DESIGN AND WATCHMAKING SAVOIR-FAIRE
EXPLORE AND SHOP WWWCARTIERCOUK - (020) 3147 4850
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Inside
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TO THE CONNOISSEUR section of Inspired a showcase for the finer things in life for those who truly appreciate them
Enjoying the fruits of your labour away from the relentless demands of our age poses its own challenges and quandaries Would a tropical idyll restore your ebbing energy levels Might a break based around hair-raising activities revive them even more effectively Perhaps reawakening a dormant passion for fine wines or luxury cars would be the most enjoyable reward for your industry
A luxury tropical holiday is probably near the top of most peoplersquos wish lists We take a look at some of the most tantalising options
The arrival of BMWrsquos new super coupe is featured on page 50 BMW aficionados and petrolheads alike are certain to be won over by its head-turning looks and mouthwatering specs
Gems come under the microscope on page 53 A rare coloured diamond can be a joy as well an appreciating asset
Wine is on the menu on page 54 where we explore the charms of Argentinian Malbec
Watches are often treasured objects and the best can turn out to be shrewd investments We look at the secondary watch market and the growth of online retailing on page 58 Enjoy
Welcome
40 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
FIVE TOP PRIVATE ISLAND RETREATSIslandFantasy
Top-rated resorts and hotels offer a variety of temptations and services to impress even the most discerning tastes but there is no better way to escape the rigours and
stresses of daily life than cutting off from the outside world while still enjoying lavish service
in the pinnacle of all resorts the private islandThere are thousands of small islands around
the world but only a few have chosen to cater to the most discriminating travellers seeking a rarified yet perfect world of quiet and relaxed luxury We look at five of the worldrsquos top private islands destinations where your holiday is certain to be an exceptional experience
TRAVEL
Necker Island is owned by Sir Richard Branson and guests stay in his home The island has become a popular des-tination for some of the worldrsquos most prominent figures as a hideaway from lifersquos stresses and strains
Because Necker Island is a resi-dence and not a resort guests who rent the island are treated as owners and catered for in a unique way
The74-acre island is fringed with beautiful white beaches and surrounded by turquoise waters and coral reefs It boasts every resort-type amenity guests can spend their days being pampered in the spa explor-ing underwater reefs in a submarine lounging by the pool bar or swimming in one of the worldrsquos most elab-orate private pools
Haute cuisine is a highlight for most guests ndash rates are fully inclusive of all food and drink A team of chefs creates bespoke menus featuring anything from lobster and caviar to a Sunday roast And because Necker is a home first and a resort second guests decide whether dining will be formal or informal inside or outside themed or traditional
The bar is stocked with international wines top-quality spirits and beers and a world renowned house champagne while special orders can be shipped in at no extra charge ndash unless an item is particularly rare Every service and amenity is available around the clock and guests are encouraged to treat Necker as their own home
As youLike it
NECKER ISLAND
42 March 2014 | inspired
Unalloyed luxury and an impressive range of amenities make Necker one of the most desirable island destinations in the world
The Jumby Bay resort which is only accessible by boat from Antigua is a Caribbean hideaway owned by Rosewood Resorts It is perfect for those seeking either relaxation or spirited adventure
You can rent the island resort entirely for your stay or simply take a room Those opt-ing for exclusive use of the island will have the resortrsquos two pools three tennis courts fitness centre croquet field and putting green to themselves
A wide range of water sports are available and guests can indulge in as much adventure or relaxation as they want during their stay The resort is ideal for large family
reunions or corporate retreats ndash 40 guest rooms and suites are available on the island
Executive chef Sylvain Hervochon celebrates gastron-omy ndash and mixology (cocktail making) ndash with casual elegance by creating Caribbean-style dishes inspired by fresh local ingredients and incorporating international influences
Jumby Bayrsquos rates start at pound150000 for four nights based on double occupancy between May and December Visit wwwrosewoodhotelscomenjumby-bay-antigua for further information
Fine BalanceCaribbean ambiance international sophistication and adventurous activities make Jumby Bay a compelling choice
JUMBY BAY
Just laze by the pool or venture beyond to dive in the turquoise waters of the South Pacific among stunning reefs and a dazzling array of marine creatures
Isle of PlentyT
he private island of Laucala in the South Pacific is a 3500-acre site in a picturesque rainforest-laced land-scape Enchanting deserted beaches nestle among coconut plantations organic farms and lush green vol-canic mountains
The resort offers an outstanding level of refined lux-ury as well as a compelling collection of sporting and cultural activities diving among iridescent marine life in the warm turquoise waters guided rainforest tours horse riding surfing and golfing on the 18-hole cham-pionship course The island is a superb choice for an escape from civilization whether you want an adven-ture in the wild or simply to relax in one of Laucalarsquos five restaurants and bars
Rates are available on request Visit wwwlaucalacom for further details
TRAVEL
LAUCALA ISLAND
inspired | March 2014 4544 March 2014 | inspired
Lush green surroundings sensitive development and beautiful beaches help Laucala island conjure up a complete South Seas experience
Isle of Plenty
inspired | March 2014 4544 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
inspired | March 2014 4746 March 2014 | inspired
Slow LaneSlow
Pulau Joyo is a seductively serene environment of pristine beaches surrounded by clear blue sea in Indonesiarsquos Riau Archipelago Accessible from Singapore or Bintan Pulau Joyo is a true castaway island offering every resort luxury
amid untouched natural beauty Pulau Joyo is famous for its remarkable sunsets and
brightly star-lit sky The resort can host 28 guests and 20 staff are on hand to cater to their every need Guests stay in open driftwood lsquopalacesrsquo that lsquoallow the sea inrsquoDespite its desert island appeal Pulau Joyo offers every modern convenience a range of adrenaline boosting activities and more relaxing options such as spa treatments and massages
The resortrsquos cuisine focuses on western and Indonesian dishes Meals are usually served buffet style and feature grilled fish squid prawns beef and chicken as well as many curry dishes Side dishes include fresh garden salads pasta salads boiled or steamed leafy greens and grilled aubergine (an island favourite) Prawn and tofu kebabs appear from time to time as does satay The chef will often provide a selection of freshly picked fruit and homemade cakes for dessert Itrsquos worth noting that the management will not serve pork or shellfish on this private island
Pulau Joyo may not be as refined as some islands but itrsquos an excellent choice for those who want a more casual laidback island experience that replicates the castaway experience like perhaps no other
Rates start at pound1913 a night More information is available at wwwpulau-joyocom
Wannabe castaways may find Pulau Joyorsquos purer simpler take on the luxury island experience more to their taste
PULAU JOYO
inspired | March 2014 4746 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
In the Fijian island paradise of Dolphin Island a small army of staff await to meet guestsrsquo every need On arriving ndash by boat helicopter or float plane ndash visitors are invariably struck by the beauty of the island and the luxuri-ous accommodation that awaits them amid 14-acres of lush tropical gardens
Three traditional palm-thatched bures individually designed by world renowned interior designer Virginia Fisher sit in an elevated position around the resortrsquos infinity pool
Guests are brought fresh tropical fish to choose each day that are cooked to perfec-
tion within hours of leaving the water The culinary focus is on
organic produce and ingredi-ents unique to Fijian cuisine but meals are tailored to guestsrsquo personal tastes Papayas man-goes bananas and pineapples
are plentiful throughout the day When it comes to recreation the
14-acre island is an expansive play-ground offering a diverse range of watersports as well as diving opportunities on Fijirsquos coral reefs
Rates start at pound720 a night More information is avail-able at wwwdolphinislandfijicom
Fijian Paean
Traditional features modern comforts and excellent facilities make for a harmonious whole on this Fijian island
DOLPHIN ISLAND
48 March 2014 | inspired
Pictured slightly larger than actual size
Big Pilotrsquos Watch Ref 5009
Your wrist never felt this big before The
case of the top model in the IWC Pilotrsquos
Watch range is a gigantic 462 mm in diashy
meter And the technology inside it is
even more impressive the largest IWCshy
manufactured automatic movement with
its Pellaton winding system is protected
against strong magnetic fields by a softshy
iron inner case And needless to say enshy
vious glances iwc engineered for men
Mechanical IWCshymanufactured movement Pellaton
automatic winding system 7shyday power reserve
with display (figure) Date display Softshyiron inner
case for protection against magnetic fields
Antireflective sapphire glass Watershyresistant 6 bar
Stainless steel
IWC Schaffhausen Switzerland iwccom The worldrsquos finest timepieces are exclusively available from selected watch specialists
For an illustrated catalogue or list of nationwide concessionaires please contact IWC UK Tel 0845 337 1868 Eshymail infoshyukiwccom
CARS
MunichLegend
50 March 2014 | inspired
BMW fanatics can open their eyes ndash the M4 has arrived
Most BMW aficionados are proba-bly pretty sad to see production of the M3 coupe ndash quite possibly the companyrsquos most noteworthy and celebrated model ndash end after almost 30 years Ever since the first wide-body E30 M3 saw the
light of day in 1985 drivers have loved the sporty coupe for its incredible balance intoxicating power and of course solid build quality
The model never got stale in all that time and always remained the poster child for the M division so itrsquos a lit-tle weird that BMW has apparently decided to axe it In truth though they havenrsquot really dropped the M3 The M3 sedan will continue to be produced in 2014 so all
is not lost Moreover BMW seems to be adopting a pat-tern of giving its sedans odd-numbered titles only and its coupes even-numbered titles only so the 4-Series and especially the M4 concept that debuted at Pebble Beach Monterey California will fill the gap left by the M3 Many people have been awaiting the new super coupe with great expectancy but can it fill in for the M3
The journalists who swarmed over the M4 concept at Pebble Beach were obviously much more interested in it than the somewhat predictable 428i that was also there Finished in an eye-catching colour called Aurum Dust (which actually looks a lot like the old M3rsquos Phoenix Yellow colour) the car presented in California may be a concept but typically BMW M cars donrsquot change much before they finally hit the showroom
MunichLegend
inspired | March 2014 51
CARS
52 March 2014 | inspired
From front to back the bodywork is manifestly differ-ent and much more aggressive looking than a standard 4-Series car It really looks to pretty much pick up where the E92E93 M3 coupe left off especially with its undeniably cool domed hood Wide wheel arches big wheels wrapped in low-profile tyres more than enough M badges and a well-executed double-bubble roof make the already underwhelming existing 4-Series coupe look even more pedestrian
Power for the new M4 is likely to come from a three-litre twin-turbo straight-six engine While the horsepower probably wonrsquot differ much from the M3rsquos old 4-litre V-8 it will generate more than 100lbft more in torque almost 400 in total With the M4 being a lighter 3300lb in weight the M4 promises to be an excit-ing worthy car A proper six-speed manual may be in the mix alongside the now obligatory dual clutch and paddles option
The best way to look at the M4 however it ends up is not as a new car but as a new and improved M3 thatrsquos just getting a new name The decision to rename the coupe is a strange one but thankfully BMW apparently felt the 3-Series coupe had made such an identity for itself that a new model was needed albeit in a slightly different incarnation
With BMW embarking on some new-ageish ideas such as its 1-Series ActiveE and the soon-to-arrive lsquoirsquo range of cars itrsquos nice to see the company also stick to classics such as the heart-stopping sports coupe even if the latest model does come with a new name
Seductive curves and racier performance make the BMW M4 a more than acceptable replacement for the M3 super coupe
SparklingForm Coloured diamonds are making their mark
One of the main factors that deter-mines the value of what we ordinarily think of as diamonds is their purity the degree to which col-our is absent in the gem However with coloured diamonds the extent to which they are saturated with
colour is a principal determinant of their valueColoured diamonds come in 12 basic colours more
than 90 secondary hues and nine intensity levels The depth of their colour is what really differentiates these diamonds from their colourless counterparts
Natural coloured diamonds are 10000 times rarer than typical colourless diamonds one of several rea-sons why they are treasured by the rich and famous yet remain unknown to most other people ndash despite hav-ing been around for centuries
Of course some colours are rarer than others Red violet and purple stones are as rare as the proverbial hensrsquo teeth while green and blue are also rare The most popular colours are pink and yellow (or canary) They also come in white grey orange black and lsquochame-leonrsquo form
A pinkie ring encrusted with a large coloured dia-mond has become a status symbol for men in Asia That little stone is an unregistered asset that could quickly be sold for millions of dollars should the need arise
Coloured diamonds are durable and never lose their sparkle or lustre so they are assets that can be enjoyed every day unlike stocks or bonds And they have proved to be fantastic investments having steadily appreciated in price with relatively little volatility for more than a decade They even held their own during the most recent financial crisis
Coloured diamonds are auctioned by reputable
auction houses such a Sothebyrsquos and Christiersquos where prices for large unique pink red blue or yellow stones can reach in excess of $2 million (pound12 million) a carat and other stones regularly sell for $1 million a carat
They are often bought by high-net-worth individu-als as an insurance policy Instead of stashing cash in undeclared bank accounts and potentially incurring the wrath of the authorities the wealthy can purchase some loose yellow diamonds to secure their future
Clearly coloured diamonds are much more than a magnificent indulgence
GEMS
inspired | March 2014 53PB March 2014 | inspired
WINE
Make the most of the deeply
satisfying Malbec wines emerging from Argentina
and perhaps even enjoy a return on a shrewd
investment says Ewan Lacey
Finding a red wine to enjoy in spring is a delicate balancing act The shock of seeing sunlight after a dark winter fosters in us a desire to drink some-thing refreshing while the still-cool temperatures demand something with comforting depth
Increasingly Malbec wines particularly those from Argentina provide a perfect solution to this quandary And while there are plenty of delicious wines for infor-mal occasions what is most interesting is the emergence of finer Malbec wines Some are so good they may well have ageing potential raising the intriguing possibility that the wine may one day become collectable
Malbec is the most popular wine among those aged 25-34 and is now becoming a fixture on most restaurant wine lists There are several reasons for its success the word Malbec is easy to pronounce the wine goes well with red meat the Malbec grape can be turned into wines that are both relatively easy to drink and packed with flavour and decent wines are available at reason-able prices Malbec is deep fruity and charming and it delivers instant pleasure ndash claret on a motorbike
The Malbec grape originated in France and it remains one of the permitted varieties used to make Bordeaux However it has gained prominence through the work of the post-junta Argentine wine industry
I recently had the pleasure of tasting some very fine Malbecs with Laura Catena managing director at the Catena Zapata winery and president of the International Wine and Spirit Competition She opened my
Mendoza Marvels
inspired | March 2014 55
WINE
eyes to the potential of this grape variety when handled with care
Laurarsquos family business makes a range of wines but the wine that truly astonished me was the Nicasia Vineyard Malbec 2006 The wine is perfumed with floral and fruit notes and it is smooth and soft at first Like all great wines it has many layers of flavour warm bursts of cherry and black-currant cede centre stage to deeper darker caramel and mocha notes and a touch of spice Therersquos an amazing depth of flavour and the finish is long and lingering Whatrsquos more at nearly eight years old it still has a slight purple tinge and tastes extremely fresh There is every indication that it will age beautifully for at least another decade
The winersquos character is heavily influenced by the alti-tude the grapes used to make it are grown at (1180m
above sea level) At this elevation the grapes ripen in bright sun but lsquorelaxrsquo during the cool evenings The fact that the wine is made in tiny quantities (eight barrels only) means every care can be taken during the winemak-ing process to ensure the wine is allowed to show its grown-up side The cost per bot-tle of pound70 is not insubstantial but neither is the wine
We cannot know whether these wines will ever become investments in the way the wines of Bordeaux have Whatrsquos cer-tain is that Malbec wines have a very rare quality a balance of finesse and power that
can delight wine lovers and linger in their memories
Ewan Lacey is a leading wine expert and general manager of the International Wine and Spirit Competition He has appeared on BBC television and radio as well as Channel 4 and written for the national press
Laura Catena is managing director at the Catena Zapata winery (above)
THE INTERNATIONAL WINE AND SPIRIT COMPETITIONThe International Wine and Spirit Competition has been the premier drinks competition in the world for 45 years Each year it receives and reviews thousands of wines and spirits and presents qual-ity awards to producers
More than anything the IWSC exists to help
people make better deci-sions particularly when buying wines and spirits An IWSC award on a bot-tle of wine is a guarantee
of quality backed not only by a rigorous and strin-gent judging process but also by the skill of the judges who are drawn from the ranks of masters of wine master distill-ers industry leaders and commentators
Each year the IWSC honours a leading figure
in the drinks industry with the presidency of the competition The current president is Laura Catena who succeeds a nota-ble line of predecessors including Prince Robert of Luxembourg winemakers Piero Antinori and Warren Winiarski and Baroness Philippine de Rothschild
56 March 2014 | inspired
LUXURY WATCHES
Time is preciousA
t a recent watch auc-tion in Geneva at Antiquorum ndash the worldrsquos premiere auc-tion house for modern and vintage time pieces ndash a Patek Philippe
pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon watch emerged as the auctionrsquos top lot and sold for 12 million Swiss francs (pound807000)
Unlike most of the timepieces sold at auctions outside Asia this particular Patek watch ndash the most complicated wristwatch the Swiss watchmaker has ever produced ndash was not a vintage model
That Geneva auction raised intriguing
1284Clocks with weights gears and regulators start to appear mostly with no dial to strike the important moments of daily life
Around 1410The mainspring is devel-oped Combined with the fusee this innovation makes possible the truly portable domestic clock
1492The mechanical watch appears simultaneously in Italy Germany and France
1675Christian Huygens invents the spiral balance spring
for watches significantly improving their accuracy
1704The first watch with jew-els is produced by French watchmaker de Beaufreacute
1714The British parliament offers pound20000 to who-ever can a find a method to determine longitude
1766Parliament publishes the rating results for John Harrisonrsquos H4 marine timekeeper Harrisonrsquos highly accurate marine clock solution to the problem of determining logitude wins him part of the pound20000 prize
1787Pierre-Freacutedeacuteric Ingold is born an important pio-neer in mechanised timepiece production and the use of interchangea-ble parts
1790Jacquet-Droz and Leschot manufactures a watch attached to a strap
1839Vacheron amp Constantin developes a full set of machine tools for manu-facturing its watches
1875Calcium sulphate is the first luminescent sub-stance to be used for numerals and hands
TIMEKEEPING MILESTONES
questions Are modern luxury timepieces every bit as appealing as the vintage watches that typically command top prices at auc-tion And does that Geneva auction tell us anything about the contemporary watch market as a whole
Julien Schaerer Antiquorumrsquos managing director in Geneva says top-quality vintage watches often appreciate in value over the long term But he urges buyers for whom appreciation is an important consideration to be cautious about purchasing contempo-rary watches
lsquoWatch price depreciation is the cost of ownership just as it is with a luxury carrsquo he says lsquoIf the value goes up then
58 March 2014 | inspired
1880The first water- resistant watch incorpo-rating a screwed case is produced by Genevan watchmaker Franccedilois Borgel
1889The first known patent for a wristwatch is filed in Bern Switzerland
1890Dialmaker A Beyeler invents a transfer press for applying numerals and letters to dials
1892Auguste Verneuil in France produces the first synthetic jewels to be used in watchmaking
1904Wens Wilsdorf launches large-scale production of a womenrsquos wristwatch
1924John Harwood files the
first Swiss patent for a self-winding wristwatch with a central oscillating weight
1925The first known wrist-watch with a perpetual calendar is manufactured using a pendant watch movement
1926Rolex creates the Oyster wristwatch with a water-resistant case and crown
1966The first quartz wrist-watch prototype is produced
1969The first quartz watch
with an LED display appears
1978Quartz watches overtake mechanical watches in popularity
2005Creation of the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie Seiko launches the spring drive Kinetic the first self-winding mechanical watch with an electro-magnetic escapement
A Patek Philippe pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon recently sold for pound807000
inspired | March 2014 59
online retailers from the comfort of your homeSince 2006 DM London has quietly estab-
lished a powerful presence for itself in the UK retail watch market with the acquisition of The Watch Hut and The Watch Gallery DM London chairman David Coleridge says the company has capitalised on the increasing willingness of buy-ers to purchase online
lsquoHaving decided that they would like to buy a watch for themselves or someone elsersquo he says lsquopeople start to do their research More often than not this starts online nowadays where they com-pare brands performance and functions
lsquoAs trust in the online marketplace has devel-oped many want to buy online because it is convenient and saves time Shopping online becomes a habit established sites build trust and awareness with customers which gives custom-ers the confidence to buy more expensive itemsrsquo
He adds lsquoOur challenge is to make the online environment as attractive informative and enjoy-able as a high street store Then customers will decide to spend onlinersquo
Coleridge believes a multi-channel approach is the way forward for retailers He says lsquoWithout doubt the future is multi-channel selling ndash a combination of direct selling on the internet and various forms of click and collect ndash combined with beautiful stores on the high street
Over the past few years demand for luxury watches (particularly contemporary models) has spiked sharply in Asia and according to some specialists emerging affluence in the
of course thatrsquos an added benefit However he adds lsquoPrice appreciation is still quite rare with modern watches There is some poten-tial for appreciation but probably only with ultra-limited editions A purchase has to be
seen as a medium- to long-term invest-ment One should buy a timepiece first out of love for the brand or [the watchrsquos] complicationrsquo
The watch brands that offer the greatest assurance of appreci-
ation include Cartier Patek Philippe Rolex Audemars
Piguet A Lange amp Sohne Breguet and Vacheron Constantin All enjoy views from the top of
the watchmaking hierarchy thanks to their longstand-ing histories and well-established brand identities
Relative new-comers to the industry such as Richard Mille and Roger Dubuis have carved out a niche for
themselves with their revolutionary designs and
space-age technologies but it remains to be seen just how well the values of their timepieces will stand up on the secondary market
According to Nathaniel Borgelt a specialist at auction house Sothebyrsquos
some modern watches have already achieved good prices at auction but these (like the Patek Philippe Sky Moon Tourbillon) were highly exclusive models when new
lsquoSome limited edition pieces currently fetch incredible prices at auctionrsquo he says lsquoAnd there is a select group of modern mod-els that could compete with a certain sector of the vintage market based on their brand innovative features such as materials or com-plications and avant-garde designs
Buying these has now become a whole lot easier The luxury watch retailing land-scape is changing and the traditional pattern of physically walking into a luxury salon to buy a watch is gradually being replaced by a trend towards visiting the websites of the big
LUXURY WATCHES
A Lange amp Sohne (above) is a long-standing high-end watchmaker Comparative new-comer Roger Dubuis (right) is forging a strong reputation
inspired | March 2014 PB60 March 2014 | inspired
helpthewatchgallerycom
Hublot ClassiC FusiontHe WatCH Gallery exClusive
The Watch Gallery and Hublot have joined forces to create two very special limited edition watches Both are limited to just 15 pieces worldwide and have been specifically designed to feature The Watch Gallery blue brand colour on the hands and tinted open case back
SelfridgeS OxfOrd StreetWeStfield lOndOnMancheSter exchange Square
wwwthewatchgallerycomhublot-watches
Far East has kept global values strong while other markets around the world continue to recover from recession
Despite the market boost from growing prosperity in Asia there are signs that the market is becoming saturated and that globally the new watch market isnrsquot as robust as some commentators suggest
It may still be a good time to buy but its important to know what you want and what yoursquore buying Modern watchmakers such as Richard Mille Roger Dubuis and Greubel Forsey are producing beautiful timepieces but because of their limited foothold in the market itrsquos difficult to predict their long-term success and desirability They donrsquot yet have the brand power that might ensure the value of their
watches in the secondhand market remains highSuch producers might one day stand eye to
eye with the most desirable brands such as Patek Philippe and Rolex but achieving that kind of parity wonrsquot be easy Collectors looking to invest in timepieces are advised to keep an open mind about modern producers uncertainty is the one aspect of modern luxury watch market most experts tend to agree on
That said the buoyancy in the watch market suggests that plenty of buyers are unconcerned about future values For them itrsquos all about the appreciation of the watch itself People buy watches because they bring them pleasure ndash and say some-thing about who they are
LUXURY WATCHES
Contemporary watches such as those made by Hublot (left) have yet to show they will have the lasting appeal of watches such as Cartierrsquos Rotonde de Cartier Astrocalendaire (right)
inspired | March 2014 63
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rewarding such as smaller companies private equity and emerging markets
Trusts can also increase their assets by borrow-ing So long as this gearing is sensibly priced it should accelerate the trustrsquos gains in positive mar-ket conditions However gearing will exacerbate losses in any downturn The possible closing of the discount will also enhance share price returns
SOLID GROWTHBaillie Gifford Global DiscoveryThis fund picked by independent financial adviser Brian Dennehy invests globally in growth stocks especially companies operating in industries with potential for structural change and innova-tion Dennehy says manager Douglas Brodie has had considerable experience and success in iden-tifying growth opportunities particularly among exciting smaller-cap stocks
CF Lindsell Train UK EquityJohn Husselbee head of multi-asset at Liontrust Asset Management prefers investors to traders Renowned investor Warren Buffett takes a similar view and Husselbee says fund manager Nick Train invests like Buffett Train looks to buy great com-panies such as Burberry Heineken and Unilever when they are good value and hold them lsquoforeverrsquo
Cazenove UK Opportunities This fund aims to achieve long-term capital growth from a focused portfolio of large and medium-sized UK companies Gavin Haynes managing
huge variety of investment funds rang-ing from generalist funds to highly specialised versions aim to generate capital growth for investors
Investing in a specific fund entails investors accepting different degrees of risk in return for a range of potential rewards So when we asked financial advisers to predict which funds offer the best prospects for growth in 2014 we also urged them to consider which types of investor the funds would suit best
Solid growth funds will appeal to investors who prefer steady investment while higher-risk growth funds are likely to be more volatile and appeal to those with a higher risk tolerance Speculative funds could produce handsome returns this year but they could also dip sharply in value
Closed-ended status means investment trusts can invest in less liquid asset classes without having to worry about realising their holdings in a market setback This enables them to invest in areas that have historically proved particularly
A
Helen Pridham and Fiona Hamilton have rounded up a collection of investment funds and trusts experts believe will prosper in the year ahead for investors looking to cash in on an improving economic outlook
PERFECT YOUR FUND PORTFOLIOTO SEE IT
GROW
inspired | March 2014 2120 March 2014 | inspired
FUNDSAND
TRUSTS
GROW
inspired | March 2014 2120 March 2014 | inspired
A
RE Y
OU
A
GLO
BAL
INV
ESTO
R Take a global view of investment trusts expertly managed by Henderson
For over 75 years Henderson Global Investors has been at the forefront of investment trust innovation and development Now with a diverse and established range of managed investment trusts and investment companies Henderson has a global view of the market
Whether you are retirement planning investing for your children looking to take advantage of dynamic global markets or want a cautious investment approach our managed companies offer a wide range of investment objectives and strategies professionally managed by regional experts
If your priority is high income long term capital growth or a mixture of both Henderson Global Investors has a range of solutions which aims to meet your investment needs
Please remember that past performance is not a guide to future performance The value of an investment and the income from it can fall as well as rise as a result of market and currency fluctuations and you may not get back the amount originally invested
Call to receive your Investment Trust brochure or visit wwwhendersoninvestmenttrustscom
0800 856 5656
Investment Trusts managed by Henderson
Issued in the UK by Henderson Global Investors Henderson Global Investors is the name under which Henderson Global Investors Limited (reg no 906355) Henderson Fund Management Limited (reg no 2607112) Henderson Investment Funds Limited (reg no 2678531) Henderson Investment Management Limited (reg no 1795354) Henderson Alternative Investment Advisor Limited (reg no 962757) Henderson Equity Partners Limited (reg no2606646) Gartmore Investment Limited (reg no 1508030) (each incorporated and registered in England and Wales with registered office at 201 Bishopsgate London EC2M 3AE) are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority to provide investment products and services Telephone calls may be recorded and monitored H0046521113ad
Itrsquos a global marketplace
HGiTrusts
director at Whitechurch Securities says fund manager Julie Dean has built up an excellent track record
Securities Trust of ScotlandRobin McAdam likes Securities Trust of Scotland which seeks rising income and long-term capi-tal growth from global equities The trust yields 33 per cent so it provides income and growth potential lsquoThe trust has outperformed its bench-mark recently and we expect this to continuersquo says McAdam
Finsbury Growth amp Income TrustPeter Hewitt nominates Finsbury Growth amp Income Trust on the basis of its strong short- and long-term performance Manager Nick Train seeks out the highest-quality companies to hold long term The portfolio is dominated by companies Train expects to have longevity such as Diageo Unilever and Heineken lsquoThe manager looks for strong cash gen-eration and dividend growth which he believes are undervalued by the stock marketrsquo Hewitt says
RIT Capital PartnersThis multi-asset trust selected by John Newlands is the flagship financial vehicle for its chairman Lord Jacob Rothschild and his family lsquoGiven the uncertainty in the world it is no bad thing to be diversified both globally and across a range of asset classes RIT is a global growth trust that offers a combination of these benefitsrsquo Newlands says
His enthusiasm is bolstered by RITrsquos current relatively wide discount which reflects disap-pointment among investors that it was rather too cautious over the past two or three years
Perpetual Income amp Growth Trust This trust is classified as a member of the AIC UK growth and income sector but its yield tends to be below the sector average because manager Mark Barnett is more interested in income growth than immediate income Tim Cockerill classifies it as a total return trust and makes it his solid growth choice Barnett has secured excellent long-term returns dur-ing his 15 years at the helm
HIGHER-RISK GROWTHLazard Emerging MarketsMick Gilligan believes the investment case for emerging market equi-ties remains strong He says lsquoEquity markets in emerging regions are trading at their widest price-to-earnings discount to developed markets since 2006 We believe many well-capitalised businesses that have shown strong financial discipline should gener-ate good profitsrsquo The Lazard Emerging Markets fund focuses on such businesses
Rathbone Global OpportunitiesThis go-almost-anywhere bottom-up thorough stockpicking fund looks for undiscovered gems Rob Burdett fund manager at Thames River believes manager James Thomson strikes the
KEY FACTS ABOUT GROWTH FUND TIPS
Mininv pound
Ongoing Charges
1-yearreturn
Sectorrank
SOLID GROWTHBaillie Gifford Global Discovery 1000 086 5920 2248CF Lindsell Train UK Equity ndash 080 2910 53271Cazenove UK Opportunities 1000 082 3210 40271 HIGHER-RISK GROWTHInvestec Global Energy 1000 087 1420 40206Lazard Emerging Markets 2000 161 320 1668Rathbone Global Opportunities 1000 082 2150 111248 SPECULATIVE GROWTHAllianz BRIC Stars 500 122 -120 134206Liontrust Special Situations 1000 114 1450 251271MampG Recovery 500 096 1330 264271Note Ongoing charges figure refers to the least expensive retail share class Source Financial Express and companies websites as at 3 December 2013
KEY FACTS ABOUT THE TRUSTS TIPPED FOR GROWTH
Shareprice
p
Discprem to NAV
Netyield
Gearing
Net asset valuetotal return after
1 year
3 years
5 years
SOLID GROWTHFinsbury Growth amp Income 5010 (+) 12 21 50 305 767 2038Perpetual Income amp Growth 3686 10 32 120 346 714 1407RIT Capital Partners 12480 105 11 50 210 225 591Securities Trust of Scotland 1469 (+) 31 32 40 192 460 1132 HIGHER-RISK GROWTHBiotech Growth Trust 4335 72 00 70 582 1723 2968Fidelity Chinese Special Sits 1062 65 09 210 433 02 ndashGraphite Enterprise Trust 5690 170 09 -90 167 442 405Schroder Asia Pacific 2730 92 14 -20 08 201 1779 SPECULATIVE GROWTHBaker Steel Resources 470 331 00 10 -57 -137 740Hansa Trust A 8600 243 23 10 142 69 947Impax Environmental Markets 1463 112 06 -20 350 285 921Standard Life Eq Inc subscription 1070 ndash 00 3700 ndash ndash ndashNotes NAV = net asset value Annualised All data as at 1 December Source Numis Securities
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
MARK BARNETT HAS SECURED
EXCELLENT RETURNSTim Cockerill
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
inspired | March 2014 23PB March 2014 | inspired
FUNDSANDTRUSTS
right balance between taking calculated risks for high returns and investing in defensive holdings Burdett says lsquoHe likes companies undertaking gentle innovation ndash moving online for example ndash rather than game changers which have more potential to go wrongrsquo Investec Global EnergyThis fund invests in companies that produce energy and provide services to the energy sector Fund managers Tom Nelson and Charles Whall believe the consensus view on future oil prices anticipates weak demand and growing supply from US shale oil But they demur as does Tony Yarrow at Wise Investment He says lsquoOil is harder to extract from shale than gas is while demand for oil is growing as economies recover A higher oil price feeds straight through to the companiesrsquo profitsrsquo
Biotech Growth TrustPeter Hewitt favours Biotech Growth Trust which has achieved scorching gains recently ndash up 172 per cent over three years to 1 December 2013
It is managed in New York by Orbimed a specialist healthcare and biotechnology investor with $7 bil-lion (pound42 billion) under management It offers exposure to a mix of large and profitable biotech companies along-side emerging businesses Most of its holdings are US-based and they have
benefited from a much more positive approach by the Federal Drug Authority ndash new drug approvals in 2010 were the highest for 10 years
Graphite Enterprise TrustAndrew McHattie contends that just one sector offers great value private equity lsquoThese trusts were hammered in the credit crisis and discounts widened to extreme levelsrsquo he says
His selection is Graphite Enterprise Trust Its discount to net asset value remains at a level that rings alarm bells in most other sectors but it has a strong track record and a relatively mature port-folio of shares he expects to rise in value
Fidelity Chinese Special SituationslsquoWith Chinese equities looking cheap the long-term outlook for investing in China is positiversquo Cockerill says lsquoThis fund invests in medium and small caps where high growth can be achieved New manager Dale Nicholls is well qualified and the combination of Fidelity manager experience and China is compelling in the long termrsquo
Scottish Oriental Smaller Companies Trust This trust is favoured by McAdam The invest-ment team identifies quality companies offering sustainable predictable growth lsquoThe trust may underperform if the market rises strongly but the teamrsquos enviable track record and experience should be respectedrsquo he says
Tim Cockerill is investment director at Rowan Dartington
RowanDartingtonhas20investmentadvisersbasedinsevenofficesacrossthesouthofEnglandIthaspound900millionunderman-
agementInvestmenttrustshavefeaturedinitsdiscretionaryandadvisoryportfoliosformanyyears
Peter Hewittis a member of FampC Asset Managementrsquos global equities team
HehasmanagedtheFampCManagedPortfolioTrustsinceApril2008aswellasitsforerunnerFampCManagedPortfolio
Servicesince2002HewasheadofUKequitiesatMurray
Johnstonefrom1981to1983beforejoiningIvoryampSime
Jean Mattersonis a partner and chief investment officer at Rossie House Investment Management
Shejoinedthefirmin1998after20yearswithassetmanagerStewartIvory
BasedinEdinburghsheisoneoffiveinvestment
professionalsmanagingaroundpound300mil-lionallonadiscretionarybasisAroundhalfisininvestmenttrusts
Robin McAdamjoined Brooks MacDonald Asset Management in 2009 from Adam amp Company Investment Management
Hehas24yearsrsquoexperi-encemanagingprivateclientportfoliosandheadsBMrsquosEdinburghbranch
Thefirmhaspound537billionunderdiscretionarymanagementinbespokeandmanagedportfolios
Andrew McHattieis head of The McHattie Group
McHattieGroupisanauthorisedfirmthatpublishesspecialistinvestmentnewsletters
McHattiehasbeentheeditorofInvestmentTrustNewslettersince1996(wwwtipsheetscouk)andoffersafreeservicecalledthelsquoitlistrsquo(wwwtheitlistcouk)ThecompanyhasaFacebookpage(wwwfacebookcominvestmenttrusts)
John Newlandsis responsible for investment trust research at Brewin Dolphin
Heissupportedbyfouranalystswhocoverspecificsectorsresearchingopen-andclosed-endedfunds
BrewinDolphinhas35officesaroundtheUKandChannelIslandsandmanagespound28billionofwhichpound39billionisininvestmenttrusts
TrusttipstersOursixexpertsrevealtheirtopfundpicks
inspired | March 2014 PB24 March 2014 | inspired
FUNDSAND
TRUSTS
One in twelve goes free on your next golf break plus every golfer receives a free pint
12thmansagimme
Book online at MarriottGolfcouk
Offer is only valid on residential golf bookings booked during the promotional dates For every 11 players booked the 12th player will be free of charge Rates are per person per night based on 2 people sharing a twindouble room and include dinner bed amp breakfast Bookings must be made by one named player and separate bookings will not qualify Each residential player aged 18 and over will receive a voucher entitling them to a complimentary pint
of Beckrsquos or Boddingtons Offer is valid on bookings made via 3rd parties Offer is available on 1 night 2 rounds or 2 night 3 rounds and excludes Sunday Driver Maximum of 2 night stay and 2 people per room Day of week availability may vary based on location Limited number of rooms may be available This offer applies to new bookings only at Marriott Hotel amp Country Clubs and offer courses and tee times are subject to availability Offer cannot
be used in conjunction with any other promotion Course terms and conditions apply Advance reservations required Book between 17th February and 29th June 2014 for stays between 4th April and 29th September 2014
The SIPP thatrsquos
fair and square
We believe in straightforward investing Thatrsquos why we donrsquot nibble at your SIPP with percentage fees For just pound144 per year you can open a SIPP and add an ISA for free After that itrsquos just pound10 to buy or sell a wide range of investments including shares funds bonds and gilts Open an account today and if you transfer your existing SIPP wersquoll give you up to pound240 as a thank you (terms apply) We believe thatrsquos fair and square
The value of investments and any income from them can fall as well as rise so you could get back less than you invest Tax treatment depends on your individual circumstances and may be subject to change If in any doubt please seek advice
iiicouksipp
Interactive Investor Trading Limited trading as ldquoInteractive Investorrdquo is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority Registered Office Standon House 21 Mansell Street London E1 8AA Tel 0845 200 3637 Registered in England with Company Registration number 3699618
SPECULATIVE GROWTHMampG RecoveryDennehy says manager Tom Dobell backs his convictions engages with companies he invests in and has delivered long-term outperformance lsquoDobellrsquos MampG Recovery fund has a clear value-style process and management stability It invests in a wide range of firms that are out of favour or in difficulty or whose prospects are not fully rec-ognised by the marketrsquo he says
Liontrust Special SituationsHusselbee says Liontrustrsquos Anthony Cross and Julian Fosh have their own unique philosophy He adds lsquoThey look for characteristics in a company that its competitors find difficult to replicate such as intellectual property or distribution channelsrsquo
Allianz Bric StarsThis fund aims for capital growth in the long term by investing mainly in Brazil Russia India and China Haynes says investors have shunned these markets recently and valuations fallen He adds lsquoFor investors looking for a recovery story this fund is worth considerationrsquo
Standard Life Equity Income subscription shareMcHattie says warrant and subscription shares are widely ignored creating opportunities for those who understand them He favours the subscrip-tion shares of Standard Life Equity Income which can be exercised at 320p a share up to the end of December 2016 lsquoThey offer gearing of 37 times and if the ordinary shares grow by more than 28 per cent a year between now and the end of 2016 the subscription shares ought to outperformrsquo
Impax Environmental MarketsMcAdam likes this trust It invests in companies seeking to provide cleaner or more-efficient energy as well as water and waste solutions to the growing problems faced by authorities around the world It offers exposure to a rapidly changing marketplace as well as to socially responsible investments
Hansa TrustJohn Newlands sees potential in the A shares of Hansa Trust which languish at a discount of more than 25 per cent He says that whereas the trustrsquos portfolio appears skewed with a third of its assets in Ocean Wilsons there is actually plenty of diversification because Ocean Wilsons has an investment portfolio that stands at a discount to underlying value lsquoOne day an attractive bid [may] be made for Ocean Wilsons that will enhance Hansarsquos NAV and sim-plify its capital structure all to the good of its market ratingrsquo Newlands says
Baker Steel Resources TrustJean Matterson hopes for good returns from this trust shares in which trade on a near 30 per cent discount lsquoIt has not had an easy run of late but we believe the underlying assets are attractive and that the mining projects in the companyrsquos portfo-lio will continue to progressrsquo she says
Prospects have improved for biotechs (left) while growing interest in sustain-able energy has boosted Impax
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
AHIGHEROILPRICEFEEDSSTRAIGHT
THROUGHTOPROFITSTony Yarrow
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
inspired | March 2014 27PB March 2014 | inspired
FUNDSANDTRUSTS
The world of funds and trusts is a confusing place with over 2300 funds and more than 300 investment trusts to choose from
Money Observerrsquos Rated Funds system narrows down the playing field to help you decide which funds and investment trusts might be best for you
Our team of experts constantly monitor the marketplace rating those funds that have delivered consistently good returns However you should be aware that there is no guarantee this performance will be repeated
With our comparison tool you can filter by whatrsquos important to you compare up to four funds and trusts side-by-side as well as view factsheets
COMPAREMONEY OBSERVER RATED FUNDS
VISIT MONEYOBSERVERCOMCOMPAREFUNDS AND LOOK OUT FOR THE RATED FUND STAMP
had spare cash or I were start-ing afresh The companies in the add category are high qual-ity judging by the strategies they follow and their finan-cial strength and are probably undervalued
Irsquom more likely to eject or reduce holdings in companies in the watch and specula-tive categories These shares are more risky either because they have risen greatly in price or because their prospects are more uncertain than usual I may think the risk is worth tak-ing but I am prepared to act should that calculation change
Every decision to increase a portfolio holding must be weighed against the potential of new candidates drawn from all companies listed in the UK and corralled into another live spreadsheet the Share Sleuth watchlist When I add a share to the watchlist or trade a share in the portfolio I explain this in the Share Sleuth blog
ccumulating income and capital gains in an index tracking fund is inexpensive takes little effort and all but guarantees an
average return so it should be the default investment for a lazy equity investor saving for the long term
To justify the work of decid-ing which shares to buy and sell and the effort and cost of placing trades an active investor must do better Consequently the first objective of the active Share Sleuth portfolio is to beat passive investments after costs over the long-term which in practice means any five-year period The second objective is to win this tussle against an unknowing and unthinking opponent transparently
At the heart of the portfolio is an online spreadsheet The first page shows the constitu-ent shares arranged into three categories lsquoaddrsquo lsquowatchrsquo and lsquospeculativersquo The categorisa-tion is updated daily based on live data in subsequent spread-sheets each of which contains a financial model for a particular company
The Share Sleuth portfo-lio shows the holdings I would add to the portfolio today if it
Share Sleuth is a simulation no money changes hands But I use prices quoted by a bro-ker and adjust the accounting to factor in notional broker fees and stamp duty However I lsquoeat my own cookingrsquo by investing my self-invested personal pen-sion in Share Sleuth companies
No doubt you are wonder-ing how the portfolio is doing Share Sleuthrsquos five-year anni-versary judgement day is on 9 September this year and I will not prejudge it now
Short-term performance watching and the knee-jerk trad-ing it encourages is I think one reason why many inves-tors fail My focus is on ensuring the portfolio remains invested in good companies at reasona-ble prices
You can see a live perfor-mance table and learn what I think of every share in the port-folio and which companies I might add to it at wwwiiicoukZkr
SHAREBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIOR
The Share Sleuth portfolio has been carefully devised to show investors how to find good companies at cheap prices and also prove the value of its investment approach says Richard Beddard
Richard Beddard an editor at Interactive Investor since 1999 has managed the Share Sleuth portfolio since 9 September 2009 Hersquos a columnist at Money Observer magazine and a private investor
AMY FOCUS IS ON ENSURING THAT THE PORTFOLIO IS INVESTED IN GOOD FIRMS AT DECENT PRICES
inspired | March 2014 29PB March 2014 | inspired
SHARESLEUTH
iiicoukstraightforward
Interactive Investor Trading Limited trading as ldquoInteractive Investorrdquo is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority Registered Office Standon House 21 Mansell Street London E1 8AA Tel 0845 200 3637 Registered in England with Company Registration number 3699618
We believe in being straightforwardthis is why we donrsquot nibble at your investment by charging percentage fees Find out how this could affect your investment performance at iiicoukstraightforward
If you transfer to us you can even get up to pound240 as a thank you (terms apply)
Donrsquot forget the value of investments and any income from them can fall as well as rise so you could get back less than you invest If in any doubt please seek advice
7784_II_QI_MONEY_OBSERVER_210x297_AWindd 1 16012014 1224
Take a closer look
at your investment
options
Discover a straightforward way to understand everything from ISAs to SIPPs and OEICs to Investment Trusts
Investing for generationsEver feel yoursquod like to know more about investing Wersquove been helping people build their wealth for over 125 years Our guide lsquoMaking sense of the investment universersquo is just one of the resources yoursquoll find on our Investment Focus hub
As well as clear simple guides therersquos a wealth of information and expert opinion all designed to help you take control of your investments Please remember that investments can go down as well as up and investors may get back less than they originally invested
Introducing your free online source of information help and expert opinion
investment-focuscouk
This has been approved as a financial promotion by Alliance Trust Investments Limited for the purpose of Section 21 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 Alliance Trust Investments Limited is a subsidiary of Alliance Trust PLC and is registered in Scotland No SC330862 registered office 8 West Marketgait Dundee DD1 1QN is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority firm reference number 479764 Alliance Trust Investments gives no financial or investment advice
TAX YEAR ENDS APRIL 5TH ndash learn more about
your options now
Investment Focus Smart Insight from Alliance Trust
Yoursquove spoken Wersquove listened Introducing your free online source of information help and expert opinion
Based on real insight we have launched a new website which focuses on investment education
We believe that we are uniquely positioned to provide this hub of information based on the reputation we have built for trust and transparency over the last 125 years
We will be publishing new content over the next few months focusing on specific themes
bull Investing from scratch
bull Products in a portfolio
bull Global diversification
bull Planning for your familyrsquos future
bull Retirement planning
bull Getting more information
There is a generation of future investors out there who have been brought up in an era of economic turmoil and banking crises which has led to disillusionment and a lack of trust in our sector and the services we offer Despite it being more important than ever for investors to take control of their financial situation this new generation of savers lacks the basic knowledge and understanding to make these very important long-term decisions
Our goal is to develop a useful resource with contributions from third-parties as well as the team at Alliance Trust which offers insights into the various life stages and challenges faced and which can be built upon and adapted to meet savers needs in the long term
Katherine Garrett-Cox CBE Chief Executive Alliance Trust PLC
ldquo
rdquo
There are too many products to make an informed decision
I donrsquot know whereto go for reliable
information
investment-focuscouk
Yoursquoll naturally take a keen interest in the performance of your investments But itrsquos just as important to understand the fees you will be paying as they can have a significant impact on the returns you achieve Knowing what the different types of costs mean and exactly what they consist of can prove rewarding
Itrsquos worth remembering that for every fee you pay (whether it is a or flat fee) your investment needs to grow by at least the same amount just to stay ahead of the game It sounds obvious but itrsquos easy to forget Broadly speaking there are three types of fees fund fees platform fees and fees for a financial adviser You can either invest directly into a fund and pay the associated fees or you can invest via a platform provider (some of which are referred to as wrap platforms others as fund supermarkets) This is a service that lets you manage and review all your investments online in one place As a general rule fund fees are lower when
bought through a platform than if you buy direct You can invest through a platform on either an execution only basis where the investor assesses the risks and makes their own investment decisions or on an advised basis
Learn more about fund platform and financial advice fees
What can you expect to seeOver the next two pages we have provided a sneak preview of just some of the information you will find on the Investment Focus hub We will be updating the site regularly so make sure you sign up for our email alerts to be informed when new topics are published
Everything you need to know about fees
Risk informationInvestments can go down as well as up You may get back less than you originally invested
Alliance Trust does not give advice You need to ensure you understand the risks and commitments before investing If you are unsure you should consult a Financial Adviser before investing
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
For the vast majority of investors the simplest cheapest and most pragmatic way to invest is through pooled funds
Sometimes called managed funds unit trusts or even Open-Ended Investment Companies (or OEICs) these are designed to give ordinary savers access to a diverse range of investments
One of the principles of investment is that diversification helps reduce risk But it is expensive and time consuming for ordinary savers to buy shares of 80 to 100 different companies and keep track of how each is performing
But with a managed fund you are pooling your money with other investors enabling the fund manager to buy a wide range of assets
Investors have the option of buying an actively managed or passive fund With an active fund the manager selects and then monitors these stocks for investors in a bid to maximise returns
In contrast a passive fund will simply follow a stock market index such as the FTSE100 up and down
Having a manager at the helm can be beneficial in a market downturn as they can take a more defensive approach buying shares that are better able to hold their value or in some cases switching to bonds or cash instead to help preserve investorsrsquo capital Managers can also research individual companies and markets and have access to forecasts and economic data that isnrsquot always available to individuals
Learn more about investing for growth or income exploring different investment remits how to invest and keeping track of your investments
Understanding funds Written by Emma Simon Personal Finance Journalist
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
What are Investment TrustsInvestment Trusts are investment vehicles that are listed on the London Stock Exchange and which invest in shares and other securities They pool together investorsrsquo money and delegate responsibility to a professional fund manager to invest in a range of companies from different sectors and regions across the world They were designed for ldquothe investor of moderate meansrdquo
A brief historybull The first Investment Trust was launched by Foreign amp
Colonial in 1868
bull Investment Trusts made it possible for individual investors to gain diversified exposure to global stock markets
bull Many Investment Trusts were formed in Scotland including Alliance Trust PLC which was formed over 125 years ago
A guide to Investment Trusts
Learn more about Investment Trusts their main features and why you should consider them for your portfolio
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
Alliance Trust is an investment and savings business with over 125 year history of building investor wealth We offer our shareholders clients and customers a unique portfolio of products and services These range from a renowned global investment trust to an innovative range of investment strategies and funds and a multi-award winning investment platform where investors can host their ISAs SIPPs or investment accounts Our mission is to provide products and services that help to ensure a more sustainable financial future for generations of investors
Alliance Trust PLC is one of the largest generalist investment trusts by market value listed on the London Stock Exchange and is the parent company to two wholly-owned subsidiaries Alliance Trust Savings and Alliance Trust Investments
The fact that many of us make irrational decisions when it comes to our finances is widely debated and is often referred to as behavioural finance In this short video we talk to Professor Phyl Johnson Consultant Psychologist and Visiting Professor of Executive Education at Strathclyde Business School about why this is and more importantly about what we can do as individuals to avoid it
About us Alliance Trust Investments is a specialist fund management business offering a range of products and services focusing on global equities fixed income and sustainable investing with an emphasis on specialist investment solutions
Alliance Trust Savings is one of the UKrsquos leading financial services providers for private investors offering customers the information and services they need to manage their investments in a way that works for them
Risk informationInvestments can go down as well as up You may get back less than you originally invested
Alliance Trust does not give advice You need to ensure you understand the risks and commitments before investing If you are unsure you should consult a Financial Adviser before investing
Unusually for a company of our size around 70 of shares
in Alliance Trust are held by private
individuals
Nobodyrsquos perfect why we all make irrational decisions
Inflation by ageThis monthrsquos official inflation report showed that the headline rate of inflation fell from 20 to 19 Our Economic Research Team analyse this data on a monthly basis to see how inflation rates affect different age groups In February 2014 the summary highlights include
bull The over 75s and the under 30s face the highest rate of inflation in January at 21
bull The over 75s suffered the highest rate of inflation for the whole of 2013 and this trend continues into 2014 as they spend a larger share of their budgets on basic goods such as gas and electricity
bull The 65 to 74 year olds have faced the lowest rate of inflation in 11 out of the last 12 months thanks to lower inflation in food petrol and package holidays
Learn more about how inflation might affect you
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
You can also sign up for our regular email alerts to be informed when new topics are published by clicking here
Wersquove been bringing clarity to investment for over 125 years
Investing for generationsWhen it comes to investing therersquos no substitute for experience And at Alliance Trust wersquove been helping people invest since 1888 Our new Investment Focus hub is full of online information and expert opinion It aims to provide real insight to help you take control of your investments
Over the next few weeks the hub will build to cover everything from taking your first steps to diversifying worldwide Please remember that investments can go down as well as up and investors may get back less than they originally invested For valuable insight from Alliance Trust visit Investment Focus today
Introducing your free online source of information help and expert opinion
investment-focuscouk
This has been approved as a financial promotion by Alliance Trust Investments Limited for the purpose of Section 21 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 Alliance Trust Investments Limited is a subsidiary of Alliance Trust PLC and is registered in Scotland No SC330862 registered office 8 West Marketgait Dundee DD1 1QN is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority firm reference number 479764 Alliance Trust Investments gives no financial or investment advice
TAX YEAR ENDS APRIL 5TH ndash learn more about
your options now
Change the way you think about stocks reap the rewardsBy Edward Page Croft CEO Stockopediacom
I remember so clearly the day when I picked my first stock for clients Managing $2 billion (pound12 billion) in assets across 100 portfolios for high-net-wealth private investors is no easy task As I was to learn when you are green
and straight out of university itrsquos even harder The stock in question was on the Goldman
Sachs US lsquobuyrsquo list It had the potential to be hot Dotcoms were bubbling It was an internet stock in education services and cheap It seemed like it had everything but we needed to get in One day it fell out of bed Down 50 per cent on no news
Irsquod been trained to call the analyst in situations like this He reiterated his buy stance Double buy On my insistence we put almost $20 million of client money into the stock within an hour The next day it fell another 50 per cent on
bad newsThere is nothing more
painful than a loss but you never forget the first
one It immedi-ately forced me to reconsider every-thing I thought I
knew From that day on I vowed to never trust anotherrsquos opin-ion and find a better
way through the market minefieldIrsquove now spent 15 years
reassessing common
wisdom about stock selection No stone has gone unturned in the quest to understand the behav-ioural flaws that lead to poor decision making But there is one finding that crops up again and again in all the research that hurts stock market investors most We as investors are suckers for stories
A 1990rsquos study of 60000 private investor broker-age accounts by Kumar and Goetzmann found that 70 per cent of portfolios held less than four stocks
The stocks held all tended to be in the same sector highly correlated and risky Think internet stocks in the 1990s China in the 2000s or resource stocks more recently The grand theme sucks everyone in The outcome rarely dif-fers Kumar and Goetzmann showed that across these
60000 accounts the average underperformance was of the order of 4 per cent annually
This massive failing across private inves-tor portfolios is repeated in nearly every market cycle and is bound to happen again in this one Benjamin Graham the great father of value invest-ing and tutor of Warren Buffett once wrote
lsquoIn the short run the stock market is a vot-ing machine but in the long run it is a weighing machinersquo
ADVERTISING FEATURE
IN THE SHORT RUN THE STOCK MARKET IS A VOTING MACHINE BUT IN THE LONG RUN IT IS A WEIGHING MACHINEBenjamin Graham
What he meant was that while stories may drive stocks in the short run statistics drive stocks in the long run When statistics reassert them-selves it can cause huge damage to investors punting their portfolios on stories
It doesnrsquot take much to learn how basic statis-tics can guide your portfolio into winning stock selections though very few seem to understand how to do it Benjamin Graham as his life wore on gradually came to the conclusion that building portfolios according to rules-based processes was a far more appropriate methodology for the typi-cal investor
lsquoTry to buy groups of stocks that meet some sim-ple criterion for being undervalued ndash regardless of
the industry and with very little attention to the indi-vidual company It seems too good to be true but all I can tell you after 60 years of experience is it seems to stand up under any of the tests I would make uprsquo
My time is now dedi-cated to helping investors practice exactly what Benjamin Graham and many other investment luminaries have preached rules-based investing For the majority itrsquos a better process and leads to bet-ter outcomes Our work at
Stockopediacom where we crunch fundamental and technical data in order to model and track the investment processes of the great investors bears this out
Portfolios composed with stocks showing the right statistical mix of value quality and momen-tum have significantly outperformed Rules-based investing beats the market But more importantly it helps promote the emotional detachment needed to stop investors from beating themselves
Irsquoll never buy a stock on a punt or an analystrsquos tip again Perhaps neither should you
For a two week free trial and pound50 discount to Stockopedia UK Premium CLICK HERE
TANK MCM A N U F A C T U R E M O V E M E N T 1 9 0 4 M C
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TO BREAK NEW GROUND THE INCREDIBLY REFINED AESTHETICS OF THE NEW TANK MC WATCH ARE FITTED
WITH THE CARTIER MANUFACTURE MOVEMENT 1904 MC ESTABLISHED IN 1847 CARTIER CREATES
EXCEPTIONAL WATCHES THAT COMBINE DARING DESIGN AND WATCHMAKING SAVOIR-FAIRE
EXPLORE AND SHOP WWWCARTIERCOUK - (020) 3147 4850
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Inside
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TO THE CONNOISSEUR section of Inspired a showcase for the finer things in life for those who truly appreciate them
Enjoying the fruits of your labour away from the relentless demands of our age poses its own challenges and quandaries Would a tropical idyll restore your ebbing energy levels Might a break based around hair-raising activities revive them even more effectively Perhaps reawakening a dormant passion for fine wines or luxury cars would be the most enjoyable reward for your industry
A luxury tropical holiday is probably near the top of most peoplersquos wish lists We take a look at some of the most tantalising options
The arrival of BMWrsquos new super coupe is featured on page 50 BMW aficionados and petrolheads alike are certain to be won over by its head-turning looks and mouthwatering specs
Gems come under the microscope on page 53 A rare coloured diamond can be a joy as well an appreciating asset
Wine is on the menu on page 54 where we explore the charms of Argentinian Malbec
Watches are often treasured objects and the best can turn out to be shrewd investments We look at the secondary watch market and the growth of online retailing on page 58 Enjoy
Welcome
40 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
FIVE TOP PRIVATE ISLAND RETREATSIslandFantasy
Top-rated resorts and hotels offer a variety of temptations and services to impress even the most discerning tastes but there is no better way to escape the rigours and
stresses of daily life than cutting off from the outside world while still enjoying lavish service
in the pinnacle of all resorts the private islandThere are thousands of small islands around
the world but only a few have chosen to cater to the most discriminating travellers seeking a rarified yet perfect world of quiet and relaxed luxury We look at five of the worldrsquos top private islands destinations where your holiday is certain to be an exceptional experience
TRAVEL
Necker Island is owned by Sir Richard Branson and guests stay in his home The island has become a popular des-tination for some of the worldrsquos most prominent figures as a hideaway from lifersquos stresses and strains
Because Necker Island is a resi-dence and not a resort guests who rent the island are treated as owners and catered for in a unique way
The74-acre island is fringed with beautiful white beaches and surrounded by turquoise waters and coral reefs It boasts every resort-type amenity guests can spend their days being pampered in the spa explor-ing underwater reefs in a submarine lounging by the pool bar or swimming in one of the worldrsquos most elab-orate private pools
Haute cuisine is a highlight for most guests ndash rates are fully inclusive of all food and drink A team of chefs creates bespoke menus featuring anything from lobster and caviar to a Sunday roast And because Necker is a home first and a resort second guests decide whether dining will be formal or informal inside or outside themed or traditional
The bar is stocked with international wines top-quality spirits and beers and a world renowned house champagne while special orders can be shipped in at no extra charge ndash unless an item is particularly rare Every service and amenity is available around the clock and guests are encouraged to treat Necker as their own home
As youLike it
NECKER ISLAND
42 March 2014 | inspired
Unalloyed luxury and an impressive range of amenities make Necker one of the most desirable island destinations in the world
The Jumby Bay resort which is only accessible by boat from Antigua is a Caribbean hideaway owned by Rosewood Resorts It is perfect for those seeking either relaxation or spirited adventure
You can rent the island resort entirely for your stay or simply take a room Those opt-ing for exclusive use of the island will have the resortrsquos two pools three tennis courts fitness centre croquet field and putting green to themselves
A wide range of water sports are available and guests can indulge in as much adventure or relaxation as they want during their stay The resort is ideal for large family
reunions or corporate retreats ndash 40 guest rooms and suites are available on the island
Executive chef Sylvain Hervochon celebrates gastron-omy ndash and mixology (cocktail making) ndash with casual elegance by creating Caribbean-style dishes inspired by fresh local ingredients and incorporating international influences
Jumby Bayrsquos rates start at pound150000 for four nights based on double occupancy between May and December Visit wwwrosewoodhotelscomenjumby-bay-antigua for further information
Fine BalanceCaribbean ambiance international sophistication and adventurous activities make Jumby Bay a compelling choice
JUMBY BAY
Just laze by the pool or venture beyond to dive in the turquoise waters of the South Pacific among stunning reefs and a dazzling array of marine creatures
Isle of PlentyT
he private island of Laucala in the South Pacific is a 3500-acre site in a picturesque rainforest-laced land-scape Enchanting deserted beaches nestle among coconut plantations organic farms and lush green vol-canic mountains
The resort offers an outstanding level of refined lux-ury as well as a compelling collection of sporting and cultural activities diving among iridescent marine life in the warm turquoise waters guided rainforest tours horse riding surfing and golfing on the 18-hole cham-pionship course The island is a superb choice for an escape from civilization whether you want an adven-ture in the wild or simply to relax in one of Laucalarsquos five restaurants and bars
Rates are available on request Visit wwwlaucalacom for further details
TRAVEL
LAUCALA ISLAND
inspired | March 2014 4544 March 2014 | inspired
Lush green surroundings sensitive development and beautiful beaches help Laucala island conjure up a complete South Seas experience
Isle of Plenty
inspired | March 2014 4544 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
inspired | March 2014 4746 March 2014 | inspired
Slow LaneSlow
Pulau Joyo is a seductively serene environment of pristine beaches surrounded by clear blue sea in Indonesiarsquos Riau Archipelago Accessible from Singapore or Bintan Pulau Joyo is a true castaway island offering every resort luxury
amid untouched natural beauty Pulau Joyo is famous for its remarkable sunsets and
brightly star-lit sky The resort can host 28 guests and 20 staff are on hand to cater to their every need Guests stay in open driftwood lsquopalacesrsquo that lsquoallow the sea inrsquoDespite its desert island appeal Pulau Joyo offers every modern convenience a range of adrenaline boosting activities and more relaxing options such as spa treatments and massages
The resortrsquos cuisine focuses on western and Indonesian dishes Meals are usually served buffet style and feature grilled fish squid prawns beef and chicken as well as many curry dishes Side dishes include fresh garden salads pasta salads boiled or steamed leafy greens and grilled aubergine (an island favourite) Prawn and tofu kebabs appear from time to time as does satay The chef will often provide a selection of freshly picked fruit and homemade cakes for dessert Itrsquos worth noting that the management will not serve pork or shellfish on this private island
Pulau Joyo may not be as refined as some islands but itrsquos an excellent choice for those who want a more casual laidback island experience that replicates the castaway experience like perhaps no other
Rates start at pound1913 a night More information is available at wwwpulau-joyocom
Wannabe castaways may find Pulau Joyorsquos purer simpler take on the luxury island experience more to their taste
PULAU JOYO
inspired | March 2014 4746 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
In the Fijian island paradise of Dolphin Island a small army of staff await to meet guestsrsquo every need On arriving ndash by boat helicopter or float plane ndash visitors are invariably struck by the beauty of the island and the luxuri-ous accommodation that awaits them amid 14-acres of lush tropical gardens
Three traditional palm-thatched bures individually designed by world renowned interior designer Virginia Fisher sit in an elevated position around the resortrsquos infinity pool
Guests are brought fresh tropical fish to choose each day that are cooked to perfec-
tion within hours of leaving the water The culinary focus is on
organic produce and ingredi-ents unique to Fijian cuisine but meals are tailored to guestsrsquo personal tastes Papayas man-goes bananas and pineapples
are plentiful throughout the day When it comes to recreation the
14-acre island is an expansive play-ground offering a diverse range of watersports as well as diving opportunities on Fijirsquos coral reefs
Rates start at pound720 a night More information is avail-able at wwwdolphinislandfijicom
Fijian Paean
Traditional features modern comforts and excellent facilities make for a harmonious whole on this Fijian island
DOLPHIN ISLAND
48 March 2014 | inspired
Pictured slightly larger than actual size
Big Pilotrsquos Watch Ref 5009
Your wrist never felt this big before The
case of the top model in the IWC Pilotrsquos
Watch range is a gigantic 462 mm in diashy
meter And the technology inside it is
even more impressive the largest IWCshy
manufactured automatic movement with
its Pellaton winding system is protected
against strong magnetic fields by a softshy
iron inner case And needless to say enshy
vious glances iwc engineered for men
Mechanical IWCshymanufactured movement Pellaton
automatic winding system 7shyday power reserve
with display (figure) Date display Softshyiron inner
case for protection against magnetic fields
Antireflective sapphire glass Watershyresistant 6 bar
Stainless steel
IWC Schaffhausen Switzerland iwccom The worldrsquos finest timepieces are exclusively available from selected watch specialists
For an illustrated catalogue or list of nationwide concessionaires please contact IWC UK Tel 0845 337 1868 Eshymail infoshyukiwccom
CARS
MunichLegend
50 March 2014 | inspired
BMW fanatics can open their eyes ndash the M4 has arrived
Most BMW aficionados are proba-bly pretty sad to see production of the M3 coupe ndash quite possibly the companyrsquos most noteworthy and celebrated model ndash end after almost 30 years Ever since the first wide-body E30 M3 saw the
light of day in 1985 drivers have loved the sporty coupe for its incredible balance intoxicating power and of course solid build quality
The model never got stale in all that time and always remained the poster child for the M division so itrsquos a lit-tle weird that BMW has apparently decided to axe it In truth though they havenrsquot really dropped the M3 The M3 sedan will continue to be produced in 2014 so all
is not lost Moreover BMW seems to be adopting a pat-tern of giving its sedans odd-numbered titles only and its coupes even-numbered titles only so the 4-Series and especially the M4 concept that debuted at Pebble Beach Monterey California will fill the gap left by the M3 Many people have been awaiting the new super coupe with great expectancy but can it fill in for the M3
The journalists who swarmed over the M4 concept at Pebble Beach were obviously much more interested in it than the somewhat predictable 428i that was also there Finished in an eye-catching colour called Aurum Dust (which actually looks a lot like the old M3rsquos Phoenix Yellow colour) the car presented in California may be a concept but typically BMW M cars donrsquot change much before they finally hit the showroom
MunichLegend
inspired | March 2014 51
CARS
52 March 2014 | inspired
From front to back the bodywork is manifestly differ-ent and much more aggressive looking than a standard 4-Series car It really looks to pretty much pick up where the E92E93 M3 coupe left off especially with its undeniably cool domed hood Wide wheel arches big wheels wrapped in low-profile tyres more than enough M badges and a well-executed double-bubble roof make the already underwhelming existing 4-Series coupe look even more pedestrian
Power for the new M4 is likely to come from a three-litre twin-turbo straight-six engine While the horsepower probably wonrsquot differ much from the M3rsquos old 4-litre V-8 it will generate more than 100lbft more in torque almost 400 in total With the M4 being a lighter 3300lb in weight the M4 promises to be an excit-ing worthy car A proper six-speed manual may be in the mix alongside the now obligatory dual clutch and paddles option
The best way to look at the M4 however it ends up is not as a new car but as a new and improved M3 thatrsquos just getting a new name The decision to rename the coupe is a strange one but thankfully BMW apparently felt the 3-Series coupe had made such an identity for itself that a new model was needed albeit in a slightly different incarnation
With BMW embarking on some new-ageish ideas such as its 1-Series ActiveE and the soon-to-arrive lsquoirsquo range of cars itrsquos nice to see the company also stick to classics such as the heart-stopping sports coupe even if the latest model does come with a new name
Seductive curves and racier performance make the BMW M4 a more than acceptable replacement for the M3 super coupe
SparklingForm Coloured diamonds are making their mark
One of the main factors that deter-mines the value of what we ordinarily think of as diamonds is their purity the degree to which col-our is absent in the gem However with coloured diamonds the extent to which they are saturated with
colour is a principal determinant of their valueColoured diamonds come in 12 basic colours more
than 90 secondary hues and nine intensity levels The depth of their colour is what really differentiates these diamonds from their colourless counterparts
Natural coloured diamonds are 10000 times rarer than typical colourless diamonds one of several rea-sons why they are treasured by the rich and famous yet remain unknown to most other people ndash despite hav-ing been around for centuries
Of course some colours are rarer than others Red violet and purple stones are as rare as the proverbial hensrsquo teeth while green and blue are also rare The most popular colours are pink and yellow (or canary) They also come in white grey orange black and lsquochame-leonrsquo form
A pinkie ring encrusted with a large coloured dia-mond has become a status symbol for men in Asia That little stone is an unregistered asset that could quickly be sold for millions of dollars should the need arise
Coloured diamonds are durable and never lose their sparkle or lustre so they are assets that can be enjoyed every day unlike stocks or bonds And they have proved to be fantastic investments having steadily appreciated in price with relatively little volatility for more than a decade They even held their own during the most recent financial crisis
Coloured diamonds are auctioned by reputable
auction houses such a Sothebyrsquos and Christiersquos where prices for large unique pink red blue or yellow stones can reach in excess of $2 million (pound12 million) a carat and other stones regularly sell for $1 million a carat
They are often bought by high-net-worth individu-als as an insurance policy Instead of stashing cash in undeclared bank accounts and potentially incurring the wrath of the authorities the wealthy can purchase some loose yellow diamonds to secure their future
Clearly coloured diamonds are much more than a magnificent indulgence
GEMS
inspired | March 2014 53PB March 2014 | inspired
WINE
Make the most of the deeply
satisfying Malbec wines emerging from Argentina
and perhaps even enjoy a return on a shrewd
investment says Ewan Lacey
Finding a red wine to enjoy in spring is a delicate balancing act The shock of seeing sunlight after a dark winter fosters in us a desire to drink some-thing refreshing while the still-cool temperatures demand something with comforting depth
Increasingly Malbec wines particularly those from Argentina provide a perfect solution to this quandary And while there are plenty of delicious wines for infor-mal occasions what is most interesting is the emergence of finer Malbec wines Some are so good they may well have ageing potential raising the intriguing possibility that the wine may one day become collectable
Malbec is the most popular wine among those aged 25-34 and is now becoming a fixture on most restaurant wine lists There are several reasons for its success the word Malbec is easy to pronounce the wine goes well with red meat the Malbec grape can be turned into wines that are both relatively easy to drink and packed with flavour and decent wines are available at reason-able prices Malbec is deep fruity and charming and it delivers instant pleasure ndash claret on a motorbike
The Malbec grape originated in France and it remains one of the permitted varieties used to make Bordeaux However it has gained prominence through the work of the post-junta Argentine wine industry
I recently had the pleasure of tasting some very fine Malbecs with Laura Catena managing director at the Catena Zapata winery and president of the International Wine and Spirit Competition She opened my
Mendoza Marvels
inspired | March 2014 55
WINE
eyes to the potential of this grape variety when handled with care
Laurarsquos family business makes a range of wines but the wine that truly astonished me was the Nicasia Vineyard Malbec 2006 The wine is perfumed with floral and fruit notes and it is smooth and soft at first Like all great wines it has many layers of flavour warm bursts of cherry and black-currant cede centre stage to deeper darker caramel and mocha notes and a touch of spice Therersquos an amazing depth of flavour and the finish is long and lingering Whatrsquos more at nearly eight years old it still has a slight purple tinge and tastes extremely fresh There is every indication that it will age beautifully for at least another decade
The winersquos character is heavily influenced by the alti-tude the grapes used to make it are grown at (1180m
above sea level) At this elevation the grapes ripen in bright sun but lsquorelaxrsquo during the cool evenings The fact that the wine is made in tiny quantities (eight barrels only) means every care can be taken during the winemak-ing process to ensure the wine is allowed to show its grown-up side The cost per bot-tle of pound70 is not insubstantial but neither is the wine
We cannot know whether these wines will ever become investments in the way the wines of Bordeaux have Whatrsquos cer-tain is that Malbec wines have a very rare quality a balance of finesse and power that
can delight wine lovers and linger in their memories
Ewan Lacey is a leading wine expert and general manager of the International Wine and Spirit Competition He has appeared on BBC television and radio as well as Channel 4 and written for the national press
Laura Catena is managing director at the Catena Zapata winery (above)
THE INTERNATIONAL WINE AND SPIRIT COMPETITIONThe International Wine and Spirit Competition has been the premier drinks competition in the world for 45 years Each year it receives and reviews thousands of wines and spirits and presents qual-ity awards to producers
More than anything the IWSC exists to help
people make better deci-sions particularly when buying wines and spirits An IWSC award on a bot-tle of wine is a guarantee
of quality backed not only by a rigorous and strin-gent judging process but also by the skill of the judges who are drawn from the ranks of masters of wine master distill-ers industry leaders and commentators
Each year the IWSC honours a leading figure
in the drinks industry with the presidency of the competition The current president is Laura Catena who succeeds a nota-ble line of predecessors including Prince Robert of Luxembourg winemakers Piero Antinori and Warren Winiarski and Baroness Philippine de Rothschild
56 March 2014 | inspired
LUXURY WATCHES
Time is preciousA
t a recent watch auc-tion in Geneva at Antiquorum ndash the worldrsquos premiere auc-tion house for modern and vintage time pieces ndash a Patek Philippe
pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon watch emerged as the auctionrsquos top lot and sold for 12 million Swiss francs (pound807000)
Unlike most of the timepieces sold at auctions outside Asia this particular Patek watch ndash the most complicated wristwatch the Swiss watchmaker has ever produced ndash was not a vintage model
That Geneva auction raised intriguing
1284Clocks with weights gears and regulators start to appear mostly with no dial to strike the important moments of daily life
Around 1410The mainspring is devel-oped Combined with the fusee this innovation makes possible the truly portable domestic clock
1492The mechanical watch appears simultaneously in Italy Germany and France
1675Christian Huygens invents the spiral balance spring
for watches significantly improving their accuracy
1704The first watch with jew-els is produced by French watchmaker de Beaufreacute
1714The British parliament offers pound20000 to who-ever can a find a method to determine longitude
1766Parliament publishes the rating results for John Harrisonrsquos H4 marine timekeeper Harrisonrsquos highly accurate marine clock solution to the problem of determining logitude wins him part of the pound20000 prize
1787Pierre-Freacutedeacuteric Ingold is born an important pio-neer in mechanised timepiece production and the use of interchangea-ble parts
1790Jacquet-Droz and Leschot manufactures a watch attached to a strap
1839Vacheron amp Constantin developes a full set of machine tools for manu-facturing its watches
1875Calcium sulphate is the first luminescent sub-stance to be used for numerals and hands
TIMEKEEPING MILESTONES
questions Are modern luxury timepieces every bit as appealing as the vintage watches that typically command top prices at auc-tion And does that Geneva auction tell us anything about the contemporary watch market as a whole
Julien Schaerer Antiquorumrsquos managing director in Geneva says top-quality vintage watches often appreciate in value over the long term But he urges buyers for whom appreciation is an important consideration to be cautious about purchasing contempo-rary watches
lsquoWatch price depreciation is the cost of ownership just as it is with a luxury carrsquo he says lsquoIf the value goes up then
58 March 2014 | inspired
1880The first water- resistant watch incorpo-rating a screwed case is produced by Genevan watchmaker Franccedilois Borgel
1889The first known patent for a wristwatch is filed in Bern Switzerland
1890Dialmaker A Beyeler invents a transfer press for applying numerals and letters to dials
1892Auguste Verneuil in France produces the first synthetic jewels to be used in watchmaking
1904Wens Wilsdorf launches large-scale production of a womenrsquos wristwatch
1924John Harwood files the
first Swiss patent for a self-winding wristwatch with a central oscillating weight
1925The first known wrist-watch with a perpetual calendar is manufactured using a pendant watch movement
1926Rolex creates the Oyster wristwatch with a water-resistant case and crown
1966The first quartz wrist-watch prototype is produced
1969The first quartz watch
with an LED display appears
1978Quartz watches overtake mechanical watches in popularity
2005Creation of the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie Seiko launches the spring drive Kinetic the first self-winding mechanical watch with an electro-magnetic escapement
A Patek Philippe pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon recently sold for pound807000
inspired | March 2014 59
online retailers from the comfort of your homeSince 2006 DM London has quietly estab-
lished a powerful presence for itself in the UK retail watch market with the acquisition of The Watch Hut and The Watch Gallery DM London chairman David Coleridge says the company has capitalised on the increasing willingness of buy-ers to purchase online
lsquoHaving decided that they would like to buy a watch for themselves or someone elsersquo he says lsquopeople start to do their research More often than not this starts online nowadays where they com-pare brands performance and functions
lsquoAs trust in the online marketplace has devel-oped many want to buy online because it is convenient and saves time Shopping online becomes a habit established sites build trust and awareness with customers which gives custom-ers the confidence to buy more expensive itemsrsquo
He adds lsquoOur challenge is to make the online environment as attractive informative and enjoy-able as a high street store Then customers will decide to spend onlinersquo
Coleridge believes a multi-channel approach is the way forward for retailers He says lsquoWithout doubt the future is multi-channel selling ndash a combination of direct selling on the internet and various forms of click and collect ndash combined with beautiful stores on the high street
Over the past few years demand for luxury watches (particularly contemporary models) has spiked sharply in Asia and according to some specialists emerging affluence in the
of course thatrsquos an added benefit However he adds lsquoPrice appreciation is still quite rare with modern watches There is some poten-tial for appreciation but probably only with ultra-limited editions A purchase has to be
seen as a medium- to long-term invest-ment One should buy a timepiece first out of love for the brand or [the watchrsquos] complicationrsquo
The watch brands that offer the greatest assurance of appreci-
ation include Cartier Patek Philippe Rolex Audemars
Piguet A Lange amp Sohne Breguet and Vacheron Constantin All enjoy views from the top of
the watchmaking hierarchy thanks to their longstand-ing histories and well-established brand identities
Relative new-comers to the industry such as Richard Mille and Roger Dubuis have carved out a niche for
themselves with their revolutionary designs and
space-age technologies but it remains to be seen just how well the values of their timepieces will stand up on the secondary market
According to Nathaniel Borgelt a specialist at auction house Sothebyrsquos
some modern watches have already achieved good prices at auction but these (like the Patek Philippe Sky Moon Tourbillon) were highly exclusive models when new
lsquoSome limited edition pieces currently fetch incredible prices at auctionrsquo he says lsquoAnd there is a select group of modern mod-els that could compete with a certain sector of the vintage market based on their brand innovative features such as materials or com-plications and avant-garde designs
Buying these has now become a whole lot easier The luxury watch retailing land-scape is changing and the traditional pattern of physically walking into a luxury salon to buy a watch is gradually being replaced by a trend towards visiting the websites of the big
LUXURY WATCHES
A Lange amp Sohne (above) is a long-standing high-end watchmaker Comparative new-comer Roger Dubuis (right) is forging a strong reputation
inspired | March 2014 PB60 March 2014 | inspired
helpthewatchgallerycom
Hublot ClassiC FusiontHe WatCH Gallery exClusive
The Watch Gallery and Hublot have joined forces to create two very special limited edition watches Both are limited to just 15 pieces worldwide and have been specifically designed to feature The Watch Gallery blue brand colour on the hands and tinted open case back
SelfridgeS OxfOrd StreetWeStfield lOndOnMancheSter exchange Square
wwwthewatchgallerycomhublot-watches
Far East has kept global values strong while other markets around the world continue to recover from recession
Despite the market boost from growing prosperity in Asia there are signs that the market is becoming saturated and that globally the new watch market isnrsquot as robust as some commentators suggest
It may still be a good time to buy but its important to know what you want and what yoursquore buying Modern watchmakers such as Richard Mille Roger Dubuis and Greubel Forsey are producing beautiful timepieces but because of their limited foothold in the market itrsquos difficult to predict their long-term success and desirability They donrsquot yet have the brand power that might ensure the value of their
watches in the secondhand market remains highSuch producers might one day stand eye to
eye with the most desirable brands such as Patek Philippe and Rolex but achieving that kind of parity wonrsquot be easy Collectors looking to invest in timepieces are advised to keep an open mind about modern producers uncertainty is the one aspect of modern luxury watch market most experts tend to agree on
That said the buoyancy in the watch market suggests that plenty of buyers are unconcerned about future values For them itrsquos all about the appreciation of the watch itself People buy watches because they bring them pleasure ndash and say some-thing about who they are
LUXURY WATCHES
Contemporary watches such as those made by Hublot (left) have yet to show they will have the lasting appeal of watches such as Cartierrsquos Rotonde de Cartier Astrocalendaire (right)
inspired | March 2014 63
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GROW
inspired | March 2014 2120 March 2014 | inspired
A
RE Y
OU
A
GLO
BAL
INV
ESTO
R Take a global view of investment trusts expertly managed by Henderson
For over 75 years Henderson Global Investors has been at the forefront of investment trust innovation and development Now with a diverse and established range of managed investment trusts and investment companies Henderson has a global view of the market
Whether you are retirement planning investing for your children looking to take advantage of dynamic global markets or want a cautious investment approach our managed companies offer a wide range of investment objectives and strategies professionally managed by regional experts
If your priority is high income long term capital growth or a mixture of both Henderson Global Investors has a range of solutions which aims to meet your investment needs
Please remember that past performance is not a guide to future performance The value of an investment and the income from it can fall as well as rise as a result of market and currency fluctuations and you may not get back the amount originally invested
Call to receive your Investment Trust brochure or visit wwwhendersoninvestmenttrustscom
0800 856 5656
Investment Trusts managed by Henderson
Issued in the UK by Henderson Global Investors Henderson Global Investors is the name under which Henderson Global Investors Limited (reg no 906355) Henderson Fund Management Limited (reg no 2607112) Henderson Investment Funds Limited (reg no 2678531) Henderson Investment Management Limited (reg no 1795354) Henderson Alternative Investment Advisor Limited (reg no 962757) Henderson Equity Partners Limited (reg no2606646) Gartmore Investment Limited (reg no 1508030) (each incorporated and registered in England and Wales with registered office at 201 Bishopsgate London EC2M 3AE) are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority to provide investment products and services Telephone calls may be recorded and monitored H0046521113ad
Itrsquos a global marketplace
HGiTrusts
director at Whitechurch Securities says fund manager Julie Dean has built up an excellent track record
Securities Trust of ScotlandRobin McAdam likes Securities Trust of Scotland which seeks rising income and long-term capi-tal growth from global equities The trust yields 33 per cent so it provides income and growth potential lsquoThe trust has outperformed its bench-mark recently and we expect this to continuersquo says McAdam
Finsbury Growth amp Income TrustPeter Hewitt nominates Finsbury Growth amp Income Trust on the basis of its strong short- and long-term performance Manager Nick Train seeks out the highest-quality companies to hold long term The portfolio is dominated by companies Train expects to have longevity such as Diageo Unilever and Heineken lsquoThe manager looks for strong cash gen-eration and dividend growth which he believes are undervalued by the stock marketrsquo Hewitt says
RIT Capital PartnersThis multi-asset trust selected by John Newlands is the flagship financial vehicle for its chairman Lord Jacob Rothschild and his family lsquoGiven the uncertainty in the world it is no bad thing to be diversified both globally and across a range of asset classes RIT is a global growth trust that offers a combination of these benefitsrsquo Newlands says
His enthusiasm is bolstered by RITrsquos current relatively wide discount which reflects disap-pointment among investors that it was rather too cautious over the past two or three years
Perpetual Income amp Growth Trust This trust is classified as a member of the AIC UK growth and income sector but its yield tends to be below the sector average because manager Mark Barnett is more interested in income growth than immediate income Tim Cockerill classifies it as a total return trust and makes it his solid growth choice Barnett has secured excellent long-term returns dur-ing his 15 years at the helm
HIGHER-RISK GROWTHLazard Emerging MarketsMick Gilligan believes the investment case for emerging market equi-ties remains strong He says lsquoEquity markets in emerging regions are trading at their widest price-to-earnings discount to developed markets since 2006 We believe many well-capitalised businesses that have shown strong financial discipline should gener-ate good profitsrsquo The Lazard Emerging Markets fund focuses on such businesses
Rathbone Global OpportunitiesThis go-almost-anywhere bottom-up thorough stockpicking fund looks for undiscovered gems Rob Burdett fund manager at Thames River believes manager James Thomson strikes the
KEY FACTS ABOUT GROWTH FUND TIPS
Mininv pound
Ongoing Charges
1-yearreturn
Sectorrank
SOLID GROWTHBaillie Gifford Global Discovery 1000 086 5920 2248CF Lindsell Train UK Equity ndash 080 2910 53271Cazenove UK Opportunities 1000 082 3210 40271 HIGHER-RISK GROWTHInvestec Global Energy 1000 087 1420 40206Lazard Emerging Markets 2000 161 320 1668Rathbone Global Opportunities 1000 082 2150 111248 SPECULATIVE GROWTHAllianz BRIC Stars 500 122 -120 134206Liontrust Special Situations 1000 114 1450 251271MampG Recovery 500 096 1330 264271Note Ongoing charges figure refers to the least expensive retail share class Source Financial Express and companies websites as at 3 December 2013
KEY FACTS ABOUT THE TRUSTS TIPPED FOR GROWTH
Shareprice
p
Discprem to NAV
Netyield
Gearing
Net asset valuetotal return after
1 year
3 years
5 years
SOLID GROWTHFinsbury Growth amp Income 5010 (+) 12 21 50 305 767 2038Perpetual Income amp Growth 3686 10 32 120 346 714 1407RIT Capital Partners 12480 105 11 50 210 225 591Securities Trust of Scotland 1469 (+) 31 32 40 192 460 1132 HIGHER-RISK GROWTHBiotech Growth Trust 4335 72 00 70 582 1723 2968Fidelity Chinese Special Sits 1062 65 09 210 433 02 ndashGraphite Enterprise Trust 5690 170 09 -90 167 442 405Schroder Asia Pacific 2730 92 14 -20 08 201 1779 SPECULATIVE GROWTHBaker Steel Resources 470 331 00 10 -57 -137 740Hansa Trust A 8600 243 23 10 142 69 947Impax Environmental Markets 1463 112 06 -20 350 285 921Standard Life Eq Inc subscription 1070 ndash 00 3700 ndash ndash ndashNotes NAV = net asset value Annualised All data as at 1 December Source Numis Securities
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
MARK BARNETT HAS SECURED
EXCELLENT RETURNSTim Cockerill
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
inspired | March 2014 23PB March 2014 | inspired
FUNDSANDTRUSTS
right balance between taking calculated risks for high returns and investing in defensive holdings Burdett says lsquoHe likes companies undertaking gentle innovation ndash moving online for example ndash rather than game changers which have more potential to go wrongrsquo Investec Global EnergyThis fund invests in companies that produce energy and provide services to the energy sector Fund managers Tom Nelson and Charles Whall believe the consensus view on future oil prices anticipates weak demand and growing supply from US shale oil But they demur as does Tony Yarrow at Wise Investment He says lsquoOil is harder to extract from shale than gas is while demand for oil is growing as economies recover A higher oil price feeds straight through to the companiesrsquo profitsrsquo
Biotech Growth TrustPeter Hewitt favours Biotech Growth Trust which has achieved scorching gains recently ndash up 172 per cent over three years to 1 December 2013
It is managed in New York by Orbimed a specialist healthcare and biotechnology investor with $7 bil-lion (pound42 billion) under management It offers exposure to a mix of large and profitable biotech companies along-side emerging businesses Most of its holdings are US-based and they have
benefited from a much more positive approach by the Federal Drug Authority ndash new drug approvals in 2010 were the highest for 10 years
Graphite Enterprise TrustAndrew McHattie contends that just one sector offers great value private equity lsquoThese trusts were hammered in the credit crisis and discounts widened to extreme levelsrsquo he says
His selection is Graphite Enterprise Trust Its discount to net asset value remains at a level that rings alarm bells in most other sectors but it has a strong track record and a relatively mature port-folio of shares he expects to rise in value
Fidelity Chinese Special SituationslsquoWith Chinese equities looking cheap the long-term outlook for investing in China is positiversquo Cockerill says lsquoThis fund invests in medium and small caps where high growth can be achieved New manager Dale Nicholls is well qualified and the combination of Fidelity manager experience and China is compelling in the long termrsquo
Scottish Oriental Smaller Companies Trust This trust is favoured by McAdam The invest-ment team identifies quality companies offering sustainable predictable growth lsquoThe trust may underperform if the market rises strongly but the teamrsquos enviable track record and experience should be respectedrsquo he says
Tim Cockerill is investment director at Rowan Dartington
RowanDartingtonhas20investmentadvisersbasedinsevenofficesacrossthesouthofEnglandIthaspound900millionunderman-
agementInvestmenttrustshavefeaturedinitsdiscretionaryandadvisoryportfoliosformanyyears
Peter Hewittis a member of FampC Asset Managementrsquos global equities team
HehasmanagedtheFampCManagedPortfolioTrustsinceApril2008aswellasitsforerunnerFampCManagedPortfolio
Servicesince2002HewasheadofUKequitiesatMurray
Johnstonefrom1981to1983beforejoiningIvoryampSime
Jean Mattersonis a partner and chief investment officer at Rossie House Investment Management
Shejoinedthefirmin1998after20yearswithassetmanagerStewartIvory
BasedinEdinburghsheisoneoffiveinvestment
professionalsmanagingaroundpound300mil-lionallonadiscretionarybasisAroundhalfisininvestmenttrusts
Robin McAdamjoined Brooks MacDonald Asset Management in 2009 from Adam amp Company Investment Management
Hehas24yearsrsquoexperi-encemanagingprivateclientportfoliosandheadsBMrsquosEdinburghbranch
Thefirmhaspound537billionunderdiscretionarymanagementinbespokeandmanagedportfolios
Andrew McHattieis head of The McHattie Group
McHattieGroupisanauthorisedfirmthatpublishesspecialistinvestmentnewsletters
McHattiehasbeentheeditorofInvestmentTrustNewslettersince1996(wwwtipsheetscouk)andoffersafreeservicecalledthelsquoitlistrsquo(wwwtheitlistcouk)ThecompanyhasaFacebookpage(wwwfacebookcominvestmenttrusts)
John Newlandsis responsible for investment trust research at Brewin Dolphin
Heissupportedbyfouranalystswhocoverspecificsectorsresearchingopen-andclosed-endedfunds
BrewinDolphinhas35officesaroundtheUKandChannelIslandsandmanagespound28billionofwhichpound39billionisininvestmenttrusts
TrusttipstersOursixexpertsrevealtheirtopfundpicks
inspired | March 2014 PB24 March 2014 | inspired
FUNDSAND
TRUSTS
One in twelve goes free on your next golf break plus every golfer receives a free pint
12thmansagimme
Book online at MarriottGolfcouk
Offer is only valid on residential golf bookings booked during the promotional dates For every 11 players booked the 12th player will be free of charge Rates are per person per night based on 2 people sharing a twindouble room and include dinner bed amp breakfast Bookings must be made by one named player and separate bookings will not qualify Each residential player aged 18 and over will receive a voucher entitling them to a complimentary pint
of Beckrsquos or Boddingtons Offer is valid on bookings made via 3rd parties Offer is available on 1 night 2 rounds or 2 night 3 rounds and excludes Sunday Driver Maximum of 2 night stay and 2 people per room Day of week availability may vary based on location Limited number of rooms may be available This offer applies to new bookings only at Marriott Hotel amp Country Clubs and offer courses and tee times are subject to availability Offer cannot
be used in conjunction with any other promotion Course terms and conditions apply Advance reservations required Book between 17th February and 29th June 2014 for stays between 4th April and 29th September 2014
The SIPP thatrsquos
fair and square
We believe in straightforward investing Thatrsquos why we donrsquot nibble at your SIPP with percentage fees For just pound144 per year you can open a SIPP and add an ISA for free After that itrsquos just pound10 to buy or sell a wide range of investments including shares funds bonds and gilts Open an account today and if you transfer your existing SIPP wersquoll give you up to pound240 as a thank you (terms apply) We believe thatrsquos fair and square
The value of investments and any income from them can fall as well as rise so you could get back less than you invest Tax treatment depends on your individual circumstances and may be subject to change If in any doubt please seek advice
iiicouksipp
Interactive Investor Trading Limited trading as ldquoInteractive Investorrdquo is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority Registered Office Standon House 21 Mansell Street London E1 8AA Tel 0845 200 3637 Registered in England with Company Registration number 3699618
SPECULATIVE GROWTHMampG RecoveryDennehy says manager Tom Dobell backs his convictions engages with companies he invests in and has delivered long-term outperformance lsquoDobellrsquos MampG Recovery fund has a clear value-style process and management stability It invests in a wide range of firms that are out of favour or in difficulty or whose prospects are not fully rec-ognised by the marketrsquo he says
Liontrust Special SituationsHusselbee says Liontrustrsquos Anthony Cross and Julian Fosh have their own unique philosophy He adds lsquoThey look for characteristics in a company that its competitors find difficult to replicate such as intellectual property or distribution channelsrsquo
Allianz Bric StarsThis fund aims for capital growth in the long term by investing mainly in Brazil Russia India and China Haynes says investors have shunned these markets recently and valuations fallen He adds lsquoFor investors looking for a recovery story this fund is worth considerationrsquo
Standard Life Equity Income subscription shareMcHattie says warrant and subscription shares are widely ignored creating opportunities for those who understand them He favours the subscrip-tion shares of Standard Life Equity Income which can be exercised at 320p a share up to the end of December 2016 lsquoThey offer gearing of 37 times and if the ordinary shares grow by more than 28 per cent a year between now and the end of 2016 the subscription shares ought to outperformrsquo
Impax Environmental MarketsMcAdam likes this trust It invests in companies seeking to provide cleaner or more-efficient energy as well as water and waste solutions to the growing problems faced by authorities around the world It offers exposure to a rapidly changing marketplace as well as to socially responsible investments
Hansa TrustJohn Newlands sees potential in the A shares of Hansa Trust which languish at a discount of more than 25 per cent He says that whereas the trustrsquos portfolio appears skewed with a third of its assets in Ocean Wilsons there is actually plenty of diversification because Ocean Wilsons has an investment portfolio that stands at a discount to underlying value lsquoOne day an attractive bid [may] be made for Ocean Wilsons that will enhance Hansarsquos NAV and sim-plify its capital structure all to the good of its market ratingrsquo Newlands says
Baker Steel Resources TrustJean Matterson hopes for good returns from this trust shares in which trade on a near 30 per cent discount lsquoIt has not had an easy run of late but we believe the underlying assets are attractive and that the mining projects in the companyrsquos portfo-lio will continue to progressrsquo she says
Prospects have improved for biotechs (left) while growing interest in sustain-able energy has boosted Impax
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
AHIGHEROILPRICEFEEDSSTRAIGHT
THROUGHTOPROFITSTony Yarrow
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
inspired | March 2014 27PB March 2014 | inspired
FUNDSANDTRUSTS
The world of funds and trusts is a confusing place with over 2300 funds and more than 300 investment trusts to choose from
Money Observerrsquos Rated Funds system narrows down the playing field to help you decide which funds and investment trusts might be best for you
Our team of experts constantly monitor the marketplace rating those funds that have delivered consistently good returns However you should be aware that there is no guarantee this performance will be repeated
With our comparison tool you can filter by whatrsquos important to you compare up to four funds and trusts side-by-side as well as view factsheets
COMPAREMONEY OBSERVER RATED FUNDS
VISIT MONEYOBSERVERCOMCOMPAREFUNDS AND LOOK OUT FOR THE RATED FUND STAMP
had spare cash or I were start-ing afresh The companies in the add category are high qual-ity judging by the strategies they follow and their finan-cial strength and are probably undervalued
Irsquom more likely to eject or reduce holdings in companies in the watch and specula-tive categories These shares are more risky either because they have risen greatly in price or because their prospects are more uncertain than usual I may think the risk is worth tak-ing but I am prepared to act should that calculation change
Every decision to increase a portfolio holding must be weighed against the potential of new candidates drawn from all companies listed in the UK and corralled into another live spreadsheet the Share Sleuth watchlist When I add a share to the watchlist or trade a share in the portfolio I explain this in the Share Sleuth blog
ccumulating income and capital gains in an index tracking fund is inexpensive takes little effort and all but guarantees an
average return so it should be the default investment for a lazy equity investor saving for the long term
To justify the work of decid-ing which shares to buy and sell and the effort and cost of placing trades an active investor must do better Consequently the first objective of the active Share Sleuth portfolio is to beat passive investments after costs over the long-term which in practice means any five-year period The second objective is to win this tussle against an unknowing and unthinking opponent transparently
At the heart of the portfolio is an online spreadsheet The first page shows the constitu-ent shares arranged into three categories lsquoaddrsquo lsquowatchrsquo and lsquospeculativersquo The categorisa-tion is updated daily based on live data in subsequent spread-sheets each of which contains a financial model for a particular company
The Share Sleuth portfo-lio shows the holdings I would add to the portfolio today if it
Share Sleuth is a simulation no money changes hands But I use prices quoted by a bro-ker and adjust the accounting to factor in notional broker fees and stamp duty However I lsquoeat my own cookingrsquo by investing my self-invested personal pen-sion in Share Sleuth companies
No doubt you are wonder-ing how the portfolio is doing Share Sleuthrsquos five-year anni-versary judgement day is on 9 September this year and I will not prejudge it now
Short-term performance watching and the knee-jerk trad-ing it encourages is I think one reason why many inves-tors fail My focus is on ensuring the portfolio remains invested in good companies at reasona-ble prices
You can see a live perfor-mance table and learn what I think of every share in the port-folio and which companies I might add to it at wwwiiicoukZkr
SHAREBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIOR
The Share Sleuth portfolio has been carefully devised to show investors how to find good companies at cheap prices and also prove the value of its investment approach says Richard Beddard
Richard Beddard an editor at Interactive Investor since 1999 has managed the Share Sleuth portfolio since 9 September 2009 Hersquos a columnist at Money Observer magazine and a private investor
AMY FOCUS IS ON ENSURING THAT THE PORTFOLIO IS INVESTED IN GOOD FIRMS AT DECENT PRICES
inspired | March 2014 29PB March 2014 | inspired
SHARESLEUTH
iiicoukstraightforward
Interactive Investor Trading Limited trading as ldquoInteractive Investorrdquo is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority Registered Office Standon House 21 Mansell Street London E1 8AA Tel 0845 200 3637 Registered in England with Company Registration number 3699618
We believe in being straightforwardthis is why we donrsquot nibble at your investment by charging percentage fees Find out how this could affect your investment performance at iiicoukstraightforward
If you transfer to us you can even get up to pound240 as a thank you (terms apply)
Donrsquot forget the value of investments and any income from them can fall as well as rise so you could get back less than you invest If in any doubt please seek advice
7784_II_QI_MONEY_OBSERVER_210x297_AWindd 1 16012014 1224
Take a closer look
at your investment
options
Discover a straightforward way to understand everything from ISAs to SIPPs and OEICs to Investment Trusts
Investing for generationsEver feel yoursquod like to know more about investing Wersquove been helping people build their wealth for over 125 years Our guide lsquoMaking sense of the investment universersquo is just one of the resources yoursquoll find on our Investment Focus hub
As well as clear simple guides therersquos a wealth of information and expert opinion all designed to help you take control of your investments Please remember that investments can go down as well as up and investors may get back less than they originally invested
Introducing your free online source of information help and expert opinion
investment-focuscouk
This has been approved as a financial promotion by Alliance Trust Investments Limited for the purpose of Section 21 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 Alliance Trust Investments Limited is a subsidiary of Alliance Trust PLC and is registered in Scotland No SC330862 registered office 8 West Marketgait Dundee DD1 1QN is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority firm reference number 479764 Alliance Trust Investments gives no financial or investment advice
TAX YEAR ENDS APRIL 5TH ndash learn more about
your options now
Investment Focus Smart Insight from Alliance Trust
Yoursquove spoken Wersquove listened Introducing your free online source of information help and expert opinion
Based on real insight we have launched a new website which focuses on investment education
We believe that we are uniquely positioned to provide this hub of information based on the reputation we have built for trust and transparency over the last 125 years
We will be publishing new content over the next few months focusing on specific themes
bull Investing from scratch
bull Products in a portfolio
bull Global diversification
bull Planning for your familyrsquos future
bull Retirement planning
bull Getting more information
There is a generation of future investors out there who have been brought up in an era of economic turmoil and banking crises which has led to disillusionment and a lack of trust in our sector and the services we offer Despite it being more important than ever for investors to take control of their financial situation this new generation of savers lacks the basic knowledge and understanding to make these very important long-term decisions
Our goal is to develop a useful resource with contributions from third-parties as well as the team at Alliance Trust which offers insights into the various life stages and challenges faced and which can be built upon and adapted to meet savers needs in the long term
Katherine Garrett-Cox CBE Chief Executive Alliance Trust PLC
ldquo
rdquo
There are too many products to make an informed decision
I donrsquot know whereto go for reliable
information
investment-focuscouk
Yoursquoll naturally take a keen interest in the performance of your investments But itrsquos just as important to understand the fees you will be paying as they can have a significant impact on the returns you achieve Knowing what the different types of costs mean and exactly what they consist of can prove rewarding
Itrsquos worth remembering that for every fee you pay (whether it is a or flat fee) your investment needs to grow by at least the same amount just to stay ahead of the game It sounds obvious but itrsquos easy to forget Broadly speaking there are three types of fees fund fees platform fees and fees for a financial adviser You can either invest directly into a fund and pay the associated fees or you can invest via a platform provider (some of which are referred to as wrap platforms others as fund supermarkets) This is a service that lets you manage and review all your investments online in one place As a general rule fund fees are lower when
bought through a platform than if you buy direct You can invest through a platform on either an execution only basis where the investor assesses the risks and makes their own investment decisions or on an advised basis
Learn more about fund platform and financial advice fees
What can you expect to seeOver the next two pages we have provided a sneak preview of just some of the information you will find on the Investment Focus hub We will be updating the site regularly so make sure you sign up for our email alerts to be informed when new topics are published
Everything you need to know about fees
Risk informationInvestments can go down as well as up You may get back less than you originally invested
Alliance Trust does not give advice You need to ensure you understand the risks and commitments before investing If you are unsure you should consult a Financial Adviser before investing
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
For the vast majority of investors the simplest cheapest and most pragmatic way to invest is through pooled funds
Sometimes called managed funds unit trusts or even Open-Ended Investment Companies (or OEICs) these are designed to give ordinary savers access to a diverse range of investments
One of the principles of investment is that diversification helps reduce risk But it is expensive and time consuming for ordinary savers to buy shares of 80 to 100 different companies and keep track of how each is performing
But with a managed fund you are pooling your money with other investors enabling the fund manager to buy a wide range of assets
Investors have the option of buying an actively managed or passive fund With an active fund the manager selects and then monitors these stocks for investors in a bid to maximise returns
In contrast a passive fund will simply follow a stock market index such as the FTSE100 up and down
Having a manager at the helm can be beneficial in a market downturn as they can take a more defensive approach buying shares that are better able to hold their value or in some cases switching to bonds or cash instead to help preserve investorsrsquo capital Managers can also research individual companies and markets and have access to forecasts and economic data that isnrsquot always available to individuals
Learn more about investing for growth or income exploring different investment remits how to invest and keeping track of your investments
Understanding funds Written by Emma Simon Personal Finance Journalist
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
What are Investment TrustsInvestment Trusts are investment vehicles that are listed on the London Stock Exchange and which invest in shares and other securities They pool together investorsrsquo money and delegate responsibility to a professional fund manager to invest in a range of companies from different sectors and regions across the world They were designed for ldquothe investor of moderate meansrdquo
A brief historybull The first Investment Trust was launched by Foreign amp
Colonial in 1868
bull Investment Trusts made it possible for individual investors to gain diversified exposure to global stock markets
bull Many Investment Trusts were formed in Scotland including Alliance Trust PLC which was formed over 125 years ago
A guide to Investment Trusts
Learn more about Investment Trusts their main features and why you should consider them for your portfolio
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
Alliance Trust is an investment and savings business with over 125 year history of building investor wealth We offer our shareholders clients and customers a unique portfolio of products and services These range from a renowned global investment trust to an innovative range of investment strategies and funds and a multi-award winning investment platform where investors can host their ISAs SIPPs or investment accounts Our mission is to provide products and services that help to ensure a more sustainable financial future for generations of investors
Alliance Trust PLC is one of the largest generalist investment trusts by market value listed on the London Stock Exchange and is the parent company to two wholly-owned subsidiaries Alliance Trust Savings and Alliance Trust Investments
The fact that many of us make irrational decisions when it comes to our finances is widely debated and is often referred to as behavioural finance In this short video we talk to Professor Phyl Johnson Consultant Psychologist and Visiting Professor of Executive Education at Strathclyde Business School about why this is and more importantly about what we can do as individuals to avoid it
About us Alliance Trust Investments is a specialist fund management business offering a range of products and services focusing on global equities fixed income and sustainable investing with an emphasis on specialist investment solutions
Alliance Trust Savings is one of the UKrsquos leading financial services providers for private investors offering customers the information and services they need to manage their investments in a way that works for them
Risk informationInvestments can go down as well as up You may get back less than you originally invested
Alliance Trust does not give advice You need to ensure you understand the risks and commitments before investing If you are unsure you should consult a Financial Adviser before investing
Unusually for a company of our size around 70 of shares
in Alliance Trust are held by private
individuals
Nobodyrsquos perfect why we all make irrational decisions
Inflation by ageThis monthrsquos official inflation report showed that the headline rate of inflation fell from 20 to 19 Our Economic Research Team analyse this data on a monthly basis to see how inflation rates affect different age groups In February 2014 the summary highlights include
bull The over 75s and the under 30s face the highest rate of inflation in January at 21
bull The over 75s suffered the highest rate of inflation for the whole of 2013 and this trend continues into 2014 as they spend a larger share of their budgets on basic goods such as gas and electricity
bull The 65 to 74 year olds have faced the lowest rate of inflation in 11 out of the last 12 months thanks to lower inflation in food petrol and package holidays
Learn more about how inflation might affect you
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
You can also sign up for our regular email alerts to be informed when new topics are published by clicking here
Wersquove been bringing clarity to investment for over 125 years
Investing for generationsWhen it comes to investing therersquos no substitute for experience And at Alliance Trust wersquove been helping people invest since 1888 Our new Investment Focus hub is full of online information and expert opinion It aims to provide real insight to help you take control of your investments
Over the next few weeks the hub will build to cover everything from taking your first steps to diversifying worldwide Please remember that investments can go down as well as up and investors may get back less than they originally invested For valuable insight from Alliance Trust visit Investment Focus today
Introducing your free online source of information help and expert opinion
investment-focuscouk
This has been approved as a financial promotion by Alliance Trust Investments Limited for the purpose of Section 21 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 Alliance Trust Investments Limited is a subsidiary of Alliance Trust PLC and is registered in Scotland No SC330862 registered office 8 West Marketgait Dundee DD1 1QN is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority firm reference number 479764 Alliance Trust Investments gives no financial or investment advice
TAX YEAR ENDS APRIL 5TH ndash learn more about
your options now
Change the way you think about stocks reap the rewardsBy Edward Page Croft CEO Stockopediacom
I remember so clearly the day when I picked my first stock for clients Managing $2 billion (pound12 billion) in assets across 100 portfolios for high-net-wealth private investors is no easy task As I was to learn when you are green
and straight out of university itrsquos even harder The stock in question was on the Goldman
Sachs US lsquobuyrsquo list It had the potential to be hot Dotcoms were bubbling It was an internet stock in education services and cheap It seemed like it had everything but we needed to get in One day it fell out of bed Down 50 per cent on no news
Irsquod been trained to call the analyst in situations like this He reiterated his buy stance Double buy On my insistence we put almost $20 million of client money into the stock within an hour The next day it fell another 50 per cent on
bad newsThere is nothing more
painful than a loss but you never forget the first
one It immedi-ately forced me to reconsider every-thing I thought I
knew From that day on I vowed to never trust anotherrsquos opin-ion and find a better
way through the market minefieldIrsquove now spent 15 years
reassessing common
wisdom about stock selection No stone has gone unturned in the quest to understand the behav-ioural flaws that lead to poor decision making But there is one finding that crops up again and again in all the research that hurts stock market investors most We as investors are suckers for stories
A 1990rsquos study of 60000 private investor broker-age accounts by Kumar and Goetzmann found that 70 per cent of portfolios held less than four stocks
The stocks held all tended to be in the same sector highly correlated and risky Think internet stocks in the 1990s China in the 2000s or resource stocks more recently The grand theme sucks everyone in The outcome rarely dif-fers Kumar and Goetzmann showed that across these
60000 accounts the average underperformance was of the order of 4 per cent annually
This massive failing across private inves-tor portfolios is repeated in nearly every market cycle and is bound to happen again in this one Benjamin Graham the great father of value invest-ing and tutor of Warren Buffett once wrote
lsquoIn the short run the stock market is a vot-ing machine but in the long run it is a weighing machinersquo
ADVERTISING FEATURE
IN THE SHORT RUN THE STOCK MARKET IS A VOTING MACHINE BUT IN THE LONG RUN IT IS A WEIGHING MACHINEBenjamin Graham
What he meant was that while stories may drive stocks in the short run statistics drive stocks in the long run When statistics reassert them-selves it can cause huge damage to investors punting their portfolios on stories
It doesnrsquot take much to learn how basic statis-tics can guide your portfolio into winning stock selections though very few seem to understand how to do it Benjamin Graham as his life wore on gradually came to the conclusion that building portfolios according to rules-based processes was a far more appropriate methodology for the typi-cal investor
lsquoTry to buy groups of stocks that meet some sim-ple criterion for being undervalued ndash regardless of
the industry and with very little attention to the indi-vidual company It seems too good to be true but all I can tell you after 60 years of experience is it seems to stand up under any of the tests I would make uprsquo
My time is now dedi-cated to helping investors practice exactly what Benjamin Graham and many other investment luminaries have preached rules-based investing For the majority itrsquos a better process and leads to bet-ter outcomes Our work at
Stockopediacom where we crunch fundamental and technical data in order to model and track the investment processes of the great investors bears this out
Portfolios composed with stocks showing the right statistical mix of value quality and momen-tum have significantly outperformed Rules-based investing beats the market But more importantly it helps promote the emotional detachment needed to stop investors from beating themselves
Irsquoll never buy a stock on a punt or an analystrsquos tip again Perhaps neither should you
For a two week free trial and pound50 discount to Stockopedia UK Premium CLICK HERE
TANK MCM A N U F A C T U R E M O V E M E N T 1 9 0 4 M C
SINCE THE CREATION OF THE FIRST TANK WATCH IN 1917 THE TANK COLLECTION HAS CONTINUED
TO BREAK NEW GROUND THE INCREDIBLY REFINED AESTHETICS OF THE NEW TANK MC WATCH ARE FITTED
WITH THE CARTIER MANUFACTURE MOVEMENT 1904 MC ESTABLISHED IN 1847 CARTIER CREATES
EXCEPTIONAL WATCHES THAT COMBINE DARING DESIGN AND WATCHMAKING SAVOIR-FAIRE
EXPLORE AND SHOP WWWCARTIERCOUK - (020) 3147 4850
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oisseur
Conn
oisseur
Conn
oisseur
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oisseur
Inside
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oisseur
TO THE CONNOISSEUR section of Inspired a showcase for the finer things in life for those who truly appreciate them
Enjoying the fruits of your labour away from the relentless demands of our age poses its own challenges and quandaries Would a tropical idyll restore your ebbing energy levels Might a break based around hair-raising activities revive them even more effectively Perhaps reawakening a dormant passion for fine wines or luxury cars would be the most enjoyable reward for your industry
A luxury tropical holiday is probably near the top of most peoplersquos wish lists We take a look at some of the most tantalising options
The arrival of BMWrsquos new super coupe is featured on page 50 BMW aficionados and petrolheads alike are certain to be won over by its head-turning looks and mouthwatering specs
Gems come under the microscope on page 53 A rare coloured diamond can be a joy as well an appreciating asset
Wine is on the menu on page 54 where we explore the charms of Argentinian Malbec
Watches are often treasured objects and the best can turn out to be shrewd investments We look at the secondary watch market and the growth of online retailing on page 58 Enjoy
Welcome
40 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
FIVE TOP PRIVATE ISLAND RETREATSIslandFantasy
Top-rated resorts and hotels offer a variety of temptations and services to impress even the most discerning tastes but there is no better way to escape the rigours and
stresses of daily life than cutting off from the outside world while still enjoying lavish service
in the pinnacle of all resorts the private islandThere are thousands of small islands around
the world but only a few have chosen to cater to the most discriminating travellers seeking a rarified yet perfect world of quiet and relaxed luxury We look at five of the worldrsquos top private islands destinations where your holiday is certain to be an exceptional experience
TRAVEL
Necker Island is owned by Sir Richard Branson and guests stay in his home The island has become a popular des-tination for some of the worldrsquos most prominent figures as a hideaway from lifersquos stresses and strains
Because Necker Island is a resi-dence and not a resort guests who rent the island are treated as owners and catered for in a unique way
The74-acre island is fringed with beautiful white beaches and surrounded by turquoise waters and coral reefs It boasts every resort-type amenity guests can spend their days being pampered in the spa explor-ing underwater reefs in a submarine lounging by the pool bar or swimming in one of the worldrsquos most elab-orate private pools
Haute cuisine is a highlight for most guests ndash rates are fully inclusive of all food and drink A team of chefs creates bespoke menus featuring anything from lobster and caviar to a Sunday roast And because Necker is a home first and a resort second guests decide whether dining will be formal or informal inside or outside themed or traditional
The bar is stocked with international wines top-quality spirits and beers and a world renowned house champagne while special orders can be shipped in at no extra charge ndash unless an item is particularly rare Every service and amenity is available around the clock and guests are encouraged to treat Necker as their own home
As youLike it
NECKER ISLAND
42 March 2014 | inspired
Unalloyed luxury and an impressive range of amenities make Necker one of the most desirable island destinations in the world
The Jumby Bay resort which is only accessible by boat from Antigua is a Caribbean hideaway owned by Rosewood Resorts It is perfect for those seeking either relaxation or spirited adventure
You can rent the island resort entirely for your stay or simply take a room Those opt-ing for exclusive use of the island will have the resortrsquos two pools three tennis courts fitness centre croquet field and putting green to themselves
A wide range of water sports are available and guests can indulge in as much adventure or relaxation as they want during their stay The resort is ideal for large family
reunions or corporate retreats ndash 40 guest rooms and suites are available on the island
Executive chef Sylvain Hervochon celebrates gastron-omy ndash and mixology (cocktail making) ndash with casual elegance by creating Caribbean-style dishes inspired by fresh local ingredients and incorporating international influences
Jumby Bayrsquos rates start at pound150000 for four nights based on double occupancy between May and December Visit wwwrosewoodhotelscomenjumby-bay-antigua for further information
Fine BalanceCaribbean ambiance international sophistication and adventurous activities make Jumby Bay a compelling choice
JUMBY BAY
Just laze by the pool or venture beyond to dive in the turquoise waters of the South Pacific among stunning reefs and a dazzling array of marine creatures
Isle of PlentyT
he private island of Laucala in the South Pacific is a 3500-acre site in a picturesque rainforest-laced land-scape Enchanting deserted beaches nestle among coconut plantations organic farms and lush green vol-canic mountains
The resort offers an outstanding level of refined lux-ury as well as a compelling collection of sporting and cultural activities diving among iridescent marine life in the warm turquoise waters guided rainforest tours horse riding surfing and golfing on the 18-hole cham-pionship course The island is a superb choice for an escape from civilization whether you want an adven-ture in the wild or simply to relax in one of Laucalarsquos five restaurants and bars
Rates are available on request Visit wwwlaucalacom for further details
TRAVEL
LAUCALA ISLAND
inspired | March 2014 4544 March 2014 | inspired
Lush green surroundings sensitive development and beautiful beaches help Laucala island conjure up a complete South Seas experience
Isle of Plenty
inspired | March 2014 4544 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
inspired | March 2014 4746 March 2014 | inspired
Slow LaneSlow
Pulau Joyo is a seductively serene environment of pristine beaches surrounded by clear blue sea in Indonesiarsquos Riau Archipelago Accessible from Singapore or Bintan Pulau Joyo is a true castaway island offering every resort luxury
amid untouched natural beauty Pulau Joyo is famous for its remarkable sunsets and
brightly star-lit sky The resort can host 28 guests and 20 staff are on hand to cater to their every need Guests stay in open driftwood lsquopalacesrsquo that lsquoallow the sea inrsquoDespite its desert island appeal Pulau Joyo offers every modern convenience a range of adrenaline boosting activities and more relaxing options such as spa treatments and massages
The resortrsquos cuisine focuses on western and Indonesian dishes Meals are usually served buffet style and feature grilled fish squid prawns beef and chicken as well as many curry dishes Side dishes include fresh garden salads pasta salads boiled or steamed leafy greens and grilled aubergine (an island favourite) Prawn and tofu kebabs appear from time to time as does satay The chef will often provide a selection of freshly picked fruit and homemade cakes for dessert Itrsquos worth noting that the management will not serve pork or shellfish on this private island
Pulau Joyo may not be as refined as some islands but itrsquos an excellent choice for those who want a more casual laidback island experience that replicates the castaway experience like perhaps no other
Rates start at pound1913 a night More information is available at wwwpulau-joyocom
Wannabe castaways may find Pulau Joyorsquos purer simpler take on the luxury island experience more to their taste
PULAU JOYO
inspired | March 2014 4746 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
In the Fijian island paradise of Dolphin Island a small army of staff await to meet guestsrsquo every need On arriving ndash by boat helicopter or float plane ndash visitors are invariably struck by the beauty of the island and the luxuri-ous accommodation that awaits them amid 14-acres of lush tropical gardens
Three traditional palm-thatched bures individually designed by world renowned interior designer Virginia Fisher sit in an elevated position around the resortrsquos infinity pool
Guests are brought fresh tropical fish to choose each day that are cooked to perfec-
tion within hours of leaving the water The culinary focus is on
organic produce and ingredi-ents unique to Fijian cuisine but meals are tailored to guestsrsquo personal tastes Papayas man-goes bananas and pineapples
are plentiful throughout the day When it comes to recreation the
14-acre island is an expansive play-ground offering a diverse range of watersports as well as diving opportunities on Fijirsquos coral reefs
Rates start at pound720 a night More information is avail-able at wwwdolphinislandfijicom
Fijian Paean
Traditional features modern comforts and excellent facilities make for a harmonious whole on this Fijian island
DOLPHIN ISLAND
48 March 2014 | inspired
Pictured slightly larger than actual size
Big Pilotrsquos Watch Ref 5009
Your wrist never felt this big before The
case of the top model in the IWC Pilotrsquos
Watch range is a gigantic 462 mm in diashy
meter And the technology inside it is
even more impressive the largest IWCshy
manufactured automatic movement with
its Pellaton winding system is protected
against strong magnetic fields by a softshy
iron inner case And needless to say enshy
vious glances iwc engineered for men
Mechanical IWCshymanufactured movement Pellaton
automatic winding system 7shyday power reserve
with display (figure) Date display Softshyiron inner
case for protection against magnetic fields
Antireflective sapphire glass Watershyresistant 6 bar
Stainless steel
IWC Schaffhausen Switzerland iwccom The worldrsquos finest timepieces are exclusively available from selected watch specialists
For an illustrated catalogue or list of nationwide concessionaires please contact IWC UK Tel 0845 337 1868 Eshymail infoshyukiwccom
CARS
MunichLegend
50 March 2014 | inspired
BMW fanatics can open their eyes ndash the M4 has arrived
Most BMW aficionados are proba-bly pretty sad to see production of the M3 coupe ndash quite possibly the companyrsquos most noteworthy and celebrated model ndash end after almost 30 years Ever since the first wide-body E30 M3 saw the
light of day in 1985 drivers have loved the sporty coupe for its incredible balance intoxicating power and of course solid build quality
The model never got stale in all that time and always remained the poster child for the M division so itrsquos a lit-tle weird that BMW has apparently decided to axe it In truth though they havenrsquot really dropped the M3 The M3 sedan will continue to be produced in 2014 so all
is not lost Moreover BMW seems to be adopting a pat-tern of giving its sedans odd-numbered titles only and its coupes even-numbered titles only so the 4-Series and especially the M4 concept that debuted at Pebble Beach Monterey California will fill the gap left by the M3 Many people have been awaiting the new super coupe with great expectancy but can it fill in for the M3
The journalists who swarmed over the M4 concept at Pebble Beach were obviously much more interested in it than the somewhat predictable 428i that was also there Finished in an eye-catching colour called Aurum Dust (which actually looks a lot like the old M3rsquos Phoenix Yellow colour) the car presented in California may be a concept but typically BMW M cars donrsquot change much before they finally hit the showroom
MunichLegend
inspired | March 2014 51
CARS
52 March 2014 | inspired
From front to back the bodywork is manifestly differ-ent and much more aggressive looking than a standard 4-Series car It really looks to pretty much pick up where the E92E93 M3 coupe left off especially with its undeniably cool domed hood Wide wheel arches big wheels wrapped in low-profile tyres more than enough M badges and a well-executed double-bubble roof make the already underwhelming existing 4-Series coupe look even more pedestrian
Power for the new M4 is likely to come from a three-litre twin-turbo straight-six engine While the horsepower probably wonrsquot differ much from the M3rsquos old 4-litre V-8 it will generate more than 100lbft more in torque almost 400 in total With the M4 being a lighter 3300lb in weight the M4 promises to be an excit-ing worthy car A proper six-speed manual may be in the mix alongside the now obligatory dual clutch and paddles option
The best way to look at the M4 however it ends up is not as a new car but as a new and improved M3 thatrsquos just getting a new name The decision to rename the coupe is a strange one but thankfully BMW apparently felt the 3-Series coupe had made such an identity for itself that a new model was needed albeit in a slightly different incarnation
With BMW embarking on some new-ageish ideas such as its 1-Series ActiveE and the soon-to-arrive lsquoirsquo range of cars itrsquos nice to see the company also stick to classics such as the heart-stopping sports coupe even if the latest model does come with a new name
Seductive curves and racier performance make the BMW M4 a more than acceptable replacement for the M3 super coupe
SparklingForm Coloured diamonds are making their mark
One of the main factors that deter-mines the value of what we ordinarily think of as diamonds is their purity the degree to which col-our is absent in the gem However with coloured diamonds the extent to which they are saturated with
colour is a principal determinant of their valueColoured diamonds come in 12 basic colours more
than 90 secondary hues and nine intensity levels The depth of their colour is what really differentiates these diamonds from their colourless counterparts
Natural coloured diamonds are 10000 times rarer than typical colourless diamonds one of several rea-sons why they are treasured by the rich and famous yet remain unknown to most other people ndash despite hav-ing been around for centuries
Of course some colours are rarer than others Red violet and purple stones are as rare as the proverbial hensrsquo teeth while green and blue are also rare The most popular colours are pink and yellow (or canary) They also come in white grey orange black and lsquochame-leonrsquo form
A pinkie ring encrusted with a large coloured dia-mond has become a status symbol for men in Asia That little stone is an unregistered asset that could quickly be sold for millions of dollars should the need arise
Coloured diamonds are durable and never lose their sparkle or lustre so they are assets that can be enjoyed every day unlike stocks or bonds And they have proved to be fantastic investments having steadily appreciated in price with relatively little volatility for more than a decade They even held their own during the most recent financial crisis
Coloured diamonds are auctioned by reputable
auction houses such a Sothebyrsquos and Christiersquos where prices for large unique pink red blue or yellow stones can reach in excess of $2 million (pound12 million) a carat and other stones regularly sell for $1 million a carat
They are often bought by high-net-worth individu-als as an insurance policy Instead of stashing cash in undeclared bank accounts and potentially incurring the wrath of the authorities the wealthy can purchase some loose yellow diamonds to secure their future
Clearly coloured diamonds are much more than a magnificent indulgence
GEMS
inspired | March 2014 53PB March 2014 | inspired
WINE
Make the most of the deeply
satisfying Malbec wines emerging from Argentina
and perhaps even enjoy a return on a shrewd
investment says Ewan Lacey
Finding a red wine to enjoy in spring is a delicate balancing act The shock of seeing sunlight after a dark winter fosters in us a desire to drink some-thing refreshing while the still-cool temperatures demand something with comforting depth
Increasingly Malbec wines particularly those from Argentina provide a perfect solution to this quandary And while there are plenty of delicious wines for infor-mal occasions what is most interesting is the emergence of finer Malbec wines Some are so good they may well have ageing potential raising the intriguing possibility that the wine may one day become collectable
Malbec is the most popular wine among those aged 25-34 and is now becoming a fixture on most restaurant wine lists There are several reasons for its success the word Malbec is easy to pronounce the wine goes well with red meat the Malbec grape can be turned into wines that are both relatively easy to drink and packed with flavour and decent wines are available at reason-able prices Malbec is deep fruity and charming and it delivers instant pleasure ndash claret on a motorbike
The Malbec grape originated in France and it remains one of the permitted varieties used to make Bordeaux However it has gained prominence through the work of the post-junta Argentine wine industry
I recently had the pleasure of tasting some very fine Malbecs with Laura Catena managing director at the Catena Zapata winery and president of the International Wine and Spirit Competition She opened my
Mendoza Marvels
inspired | March 2014 55
WINE
eyes to the potential of this grape variety when handled with care
Laurarsquos family business makes a range of wines but the wine that truly astonished me was the Nicasia Vineyard Malbec 2006 The wine is perfumed with floral and fruit notes and it is smooth and soft at first Like all great wines it has many layers of flavour warm bursts of cherry and black-currant cede centre stage to deeper darker caramel and mocha notes and a touch of spice Therersquos an amazing depth of flavour and the finish is long and lingering Whatrsquos more at nearly eight years old it still has a slight purple tinge and tastes extremely fresh There is every indication that it will age beautifully for at least another decade
The winersquos character is heavily influenced by the alti-tude the grapes used to make it are grown at (1180m
above sea level) At this elevation the grapes ripen in bright sun but lsquorelaxrsquo during the cool evenings The fact that the wine is made in tiny quantities (eight barrels only) means every care can be taken during the winemak-ing process to ensure the wine is allowed to show its grown-up side The cost per bot-tle of pound70 is not insubstantial but neither is the wine
We cannot know whether these wines will ever become investments in the way the wines of Bordeaux have Whatrsquos cer-tain is that Malbec wines have a very rare quality a balance of finesse and power that
can delight wine lovers and linger in their memories
Ewan Lacey is a leading wine expert and general manager of the International Wine and Spirit Competition He has appeared on BBC television and radio as well as Channel 4 and written for the national press
Laura Catena is managing director at the Catena Zapata winery (above)
THE INTERNATIONAL WINE AND SPIRIT COMPETITIONThe International Wine and Spirit Competition has been the premier drinks competition in the world for 45 years Each year it receives and reviews thousands of wines and spirits and presents qual-ity awards to producers
More than anything the IWSC exists to help
people make better deci-sions particularly when buying wines and spirits An IWSC award on a bot-tle of wine is a guarantee
of quality backed not only by a rigorous and strin-gent judging process but also by the skill of the judges who are drawn from the ranks of masters of wine master distill-ers industry leaders and commentators
Each year the IWSC honours a leading figure
in the drinks industry with the presidency of the competition The current president is Laura Catena who succeeds a nota-ble line of predecessors including Prince Robert of Luxembourg winemakers Piero Antinori and Warren Winiarski and Baroness Philippine de Rothschild
56 March 2014 | inspired
LUXURY WATCHES
Time is preciousA
t a recent watch auc-tion in Geneva at Antiquorum ndash the worldrsquos premiere auc-tion house for modern and vintage time pieces ndash a Patek Philippe
pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon watch emerged as the auctionrsquos top lot and sold for 12 million Swiss francs (pound807000)
Unlike most of the timepieces sold at auctions outside Asia this particular Patek watch ndash the most complicated wristwatch the Swiss watchmaker has ever produced ndash was not a vintage model
That Geneva auction raised intriguing
1284Clocks with weights gears and regulators start to appear mostly with no dial to strike the important moments of daily life
Around 1410The mainspring is devel-oped Combined with the fusee this innovation makes possible the truly portable domestic clock
1492The mechanical watch appears simultaneously in Italy Germany and France
1675Christian Huygens invents the spiral balance spring
for watches significantly improving their accuracy
1704The first watch with jew-els is produced by French watchmaker de Beaufreacute
1714The British parliament offers pound20000 to who-ever can a find a method to determine longitude
1766Parliament publishes the rating results for John Harrisonrsquos H4 marine timekeeper Harrisonrsquos highly accurate marine clock solution to the problem of determining logitude wins him part of the pound20000 prize
1787Pierre-Freacutedeacuteric Ingold is born an important pio-neer in mechanised timepiece production and the use of interchangea-ble parts
1790Jacquet-Droz and Leschot manufactures a watch attached to a strap
1839Vacheron amp Constantin developes a full set of machine tools for manu-facturing its watches
1875Calcium sulphate is the first luminescent sub-stance to be used for numerals and hands
TIMEKEEPING MILESTONES
questions Are modern luxury timepieces every bit as appealing as the vintage watches that typically command top prices at auc-tion And does that Geneva auction tell us anything about the contemporary watch market as a whole
Julien Schaerer Antiquorumrsquos managing director in Geneva says top-quality vintage watches often appreciate in value over the long term But he urges buyers for whom appreciation is an important consideration to be cautious about purchasing contempo-rary watches
lsquoWatch price depreciation is the cost of ownership just as it is with a luxury carrsquo he says lsquoIf the value goes up then
58 March 2014 | inspired
1880The first water- resistant watch incorpo-rating a screwed case is produced by Genevan watchmaker Franccedilois Borgel
1889The first known patent for a wristwatch is filed in Bern Switzerland
1890Dialmaker A Beyeler invents a transfer press for applying numerals and letters to dials
1892Auguste Verneuil in France produces the first synthetic jewels to be used in watchmaking
1904Wens Wilsdorf launches large-scale production of a womenrsquos wristwatch
1924John Harwood files the
first Swiss patent for a self-winding wristwatch with a central oscillating weight
1925The first known wrist-watch with a perpetual calendar is manufactured using a pendant watch movement
1926Rolex creates the Oyster wristwatch with a water-resistant case and crown
1966The first quartz wrist-watch prototype is produced
1969The first quartz watch
with an LED display appears
1978Quartz watches overtake mechanical watches in popularity
2005Creation of the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie Seiko launches the spring drive Kinetic the first self-winding mechanical watch with an electro-magnetic escapement
A Patek Philippe pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon recently sold for pound807000
inspired | March 2014 59
online retailers from the comfort of your homeSince 2006 DM London has quietly estab-
lished a powerful presence for itself in the UK retail watch market with the acquisition of The Watch Hut and The Watch Gallery DM London chairman David Coleridge says the company has capitalised on the increasing willingness of buy-ers to purchase online
lsquoHaving decided that they would like to buy a watch for themselves or someone elsersquo he says lsquopeople start to do their research More often than not this starts online nowadays where they com-pare brands performance and functions
lsquoAs trust in the online marketplace has devel-oped many want to buy online because it is convenient and saves time Shopping online becomes a habit established sites build trust and awareness with customers which gives custom-ers the confidence to buy more expensive itemsrsquo
He adds lsquoOur challenge is to make the online environment as attractive informative and enjoy-able as a high street store Then customers will decide to spend onlinersquo
Coleridge believes a multi-channel approach is the way forward for retailers He says lsquoWithout doubt the future is multi-channel selling ndash a combination of direct selling on the internet and various forms of click and collect ndash combined with beautiful stores on the high street
Over the past few years demand for luxury watches (particularly contemporary models) has spiked sharply in Asia and according to some specialists emerging affluence in the
of course thatrsquos an added benefit However he adds lsquoPrice appreciation is still quite rare with modern watches There is some poten-tial for appreciation but probably only with ultra-limited editions A purchase has to be
seen as a medium- to long-term invest-ment One should buy a timepiece first out of love for the brand or [the watchrsquos] complicationrsquo
The watch brands that offer the greatest assurance of appreci-
ation include Cartier Patek Philippe Rolex Audemars
Piguet A Lange amp Sohne Breguet and Vacheron Constantin All enjoy views from the top of
the watchmaking hierarchy thanks to their longstand-ing histories and well-established brand identities
Relative new-comers to the industry such as Richard Mille and Roger Dubuis have carved out a niche for
themselves with their revolutionary designs and
space-age technologies but it remains to be seen just how well the values of their timepieces will stand up on the secondary market
According to Nathaniel Borgelt a specialist at auction house Sothebyrsquos
some modern watches have already achieved good prices at auction but these (like the Patek Philippe Sky Moon Tourbillon) were highly exclusive models when new
lsquoSome limited edition pieces currently fetch incredible prices at auctionrsquo he says lsquoAnd there is a select group of modern mod-els that could compete with a certain sector of the vintage market based on their brand innovative features such as materials or com-plications and avant-garde designs
Buying these has now become a whole lot easier The luxury watch retailing land-scape is changing and the traditional pattern of physically walking into a luxury salon to buy a watch is gradually being replaced by a trend towards visiting the websites of the big
LUXURY WATCHES
A Lange amp Sohne (above) is a long-standing high-end watchmaker Comparative new-comer Roger Dubuis (right) is forging a strong reputation
inspired | March 2014 PB60 March 2014 | inspired
helpthewatchgallerycom
Hublot ClassiC FusiontHe WatCH Gallery exClusive
The Watch Gallery and Hublot have joined forces to create two very special limited edition watches Both are limited to just 15 pieces worldwide and have been specifically designed to feature The Watch Gallery blue brand colour on the hands and tinted open case back
SelfridgeS OxfOrd StreetWeStfield lOndOnMancheSter exchange Square
wwwthewatchgallerycomhublot-watches
Far East has kept global values strong while other markets around the world continue to recover from recession
Despite the market boost from growing prosperity in Asia there are signs that the market is becoming saturated and that globally the new watch market isnrsquot as robust as some commentators suggest
It may still be a good time to buy but its important to know what you want and what yoursquore buying Modern watchmakers such as Richard Mille Roger Dubuis and Greubel Forsey are producing beautiful timepieces but because of their limited foothold in the market itrsquos difficult to predict their long-term success and desirability They donrsquot yet have the brand power that might ensure the value of their
watches in the secondhand market remains highSuch producers might one day stand eye to
eye with the most desirable brands such as Patek Philippe and Rolex but achieving that kind of parity wonrsquot be easy Collectors looking to invest in timepieces are advised to keep an open mind about modern producers uncertainty is the one aspect of modern luxury watch market most experts tend to agree on
That said the buoyancy in the watch market suggests that plenty of buyers are unconcerned about future values For them itrsquos all about the appreciation of the watch itself People buy watches because they bring them pleasure ndash and say some-thing about who they are
LUXURY WATCHES
Contemporary watches such as those made by Hublot (left) have yet to show they will have the lasting appeal of watches such as Cartierrsquos Rotonde de Cartier Astrocalendaire (right)
inspired | March 2014 63
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-
A
RE Y
OU
A
GLO
BAL
INV
ESTO
R Take a global view of investment trusts expertly managed by Henderson
For over 75 years Henderson Global Investors has been at the forefront of investment trust innovation and development Now with a diverse and established range of managed investment trusts and investment companies Henderson has a global view of the market
Whether you are retirement planning investing for your children looking to take advantage of dynamic global markets or want a cautious investment approach our managed companies offer a wide range of investment objectives and strategies professionally managed by regional experts
If your priority is high income long term capital growth or a mixture of both Henderson Global Investors has a range of solutions which aims to meet your investment needs
Please remember that past performance is not a guide to future performance The value of an investment and the income from it can fall as well as rise as a result of market and currency fluctuations and you may not get back the amount originally invested
Call to receive your Investment Trust brochure or visit wwwhendersoninvestmenttrustscom
0800 856 5656
Investment Trusts managed by Henderson
Issued in the UK by Henderson Global Investors Henderson Global Investors is the name under which Henderson Global Investors Limited (reg no 906355) Henderson Fund Management Limited (reg no 2607112) Henderson Investment Funds Limited (reg no 2678531) Henderson Investment Management Limited (reg no 1795354) Henderson Alternative Investment Advisor Limited (reg no 962757) Henderson Equity Partners Limited (reg no2606646) Gartmore Investment Limited (reg no 1508030) (each incorporated and registered in England and Wales with registered office at 201 Bishopsgate London EC2M 3AE) are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority to provide investment products and services Telephone calls may be recorded and monitored H0046521113ad
Itrsquos a global marketplace
HGiTrusts
director at Whitechurch Securities says fund manager Julie Dean has built up an excellent track record
Securities Trust of ScotlandRobin McAdam likes Securities Trust of Scotland which seeks rising income and long-term capi-tal growth from global equities The trust yields 33 per cent so it provides income and growth potential lsquoThe trust has outperformed its bench-mark recently and we expect this to continuersquo says McAdam
Finsbury Growth amp Income TrustPeter Hewitt nominates Finsbury Growth amp Income Trust on the basis of its strong short- and long-term performance Manager Nick Train seeks out the highest-quality companies to hold long term The portfolio is dominated by companies Train expects to have longevity such as Diageo Unilever and Heineken lsquoThe manager looks for strong cash gen-eration and dividend growth which he believes are undervalued by the stock marketrsquo Hewitt says
RIT Capital PartnersThis multi-asset trust selected by John Newlands is the flagship financial vehicle for its chairman Lord Jacob Rothschild and his family lsquoGiven the uncertainty in the world it is no bad thing to be diversified both globally and across a range of asset classes RIT is a global growth trust that offers a combination of these benefitsrsquo Newlands says
His enthusiasm is bolstered by RITrsquos current relatively wide discount which reflects disap-pointment among investors that it was rather too cautious over the past two or three years
Perpetual Income amp Growth Trust This trust is classified as a member of the AIC UK growth and income sector but its yield tends to be below the sector average because manager Mark Barnett is more interested in income growth than immediate income Tim Cockerill classifies it as a total return trust and makes it his solid growth choice Barnett has secured excellent long-term returns dur-ing his 15 years at the helm
HIGHER-RISK GROWTHLazard Emerging MarketsMick Gilligan believes the investment case for emerging market equi-ties remains strong He says lsquoEquity markets in emerging regions are trading at their widest price-to-earnings discount to developed markets since 2006 We believe many well-capitalised businesses that have shown strong financial discipline should gener-ate good profitsrsquo The Lazard Emerging Markets fund focuses on such businesses
Rathbone Global OpportunitiesThis go-almost-anywhere bottom-up thorough stockpicking fund looks for undiscovered gems Rob Burdett fund manager at Thames River believes manager James Thomson strikes the
KEY FACTS ABOUT GROWTH FUND TIPS
Mininv pound
Ongoing Charges
1-yearreturn
Sectorrank
SOLID GROWTHBaillie Gifford Global Discovery 1000 086 5920 2248CF Lindsell Train UK Equity ndash 080 2910 53271Cazenove UK Opportunities 1000 082 3210 40271 HIGHER-RISK GROWTHInvestec Global Energy 1000 087 1420 40206Lazard Emerging Markets 2000 161 320 1668Rathbone Global Opportunities 1000 082 2150 111248 SPECULATIVE GROWTHAllianz BRIC Stars 500 122 -120 134206Liontrust Special Situations 1000 114 1450 251271MampG Recovery 500 096 1330 264271Note Ongoing charges figure refers to the least expensive retail share class Source Financial Express and companies websites as at 3 December 2013
KEY FACTS ABOUT THE TRUSTS TIPPED FOR GROWTH
Shareprice
p
Discprem to NAV
Netyield
Gearing
Net asset valuetotal return after
1 year
3 years
5 years
SOLID GROWTHFinsbury Growth amp Income 5010 (+) 12 21 50 305 767 2038Perpetual Income amp Growth 3686 10 32 120 346 714 1407RIT Capital Partners 12480 105 11 50 210 225 591Securities Trust of Scotland 1469 (+) 31 32 40 192 460 1132 HIGHER-RISK GROWTHBiotech Growth Trust 4335 72 00 70 582 1723 2968Fidelity Chinese Special Sits 1062 65 09 210 433 02 ndashGraphite Enterprise Trust 5690 170 09 -90 167 442 405Schroder Asia Pacific 2730 92 14 -20 08 201 1779 SPECULATIVE GROWTHBaker Steel Resources 470 331 00 10 -57 -137 740Hansa Trust A 8600 243 23 10 142 69 947Impax Environmental Markets 1463 112 06 -20 350 285 921Standard Life Eq Inc subscription 1070 ndash 00 3700 ndash ndash ndashNotes NAV = net asset value Annualised All data as at 1 December Source Numis Securities
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
MARK BARNETT HAS SECURED
EXCELLENT RETURNSTim Cockerill
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
inspired | March 2014 23PB March 2014 | inspired
FUNDSANDTRUSTS
right balance between taking calculated risks for high returns and investing in defensive holdings Burdett says lsquoHe likes companies undertaking gentle innovation ndash moving online for example ndash rather than game changers which have more potential to go wrongrsquo Investec Global EnergyThis fund invests in companies that produce energy and provide services to the energy sector Fund managers Tom Nelson and Charles Whall believe the consensus view on future oil prices anticipates weak demand and growing supply from US shale oil But they demur as does Tony Yarrow at Wise Investment He says lsquoOil is harder to extract from shale than gas is while demand for oil is growing as economies recover A higher oil price feeds straight through to the companiesrsquo profitsrsquo
Biotech Growth TrustPeter Hewitt favours Biotech Growth Trust which has achieved scorching gains recently ndash up 172 per cent over three years to 1 December 2013
It is managed in New York by Orbimed a specialist healthcare and biotechnology investor with $7 bil-lion (pound42 billion) under management It offers exposure to a mix of large and profitable biotech companies along-side emerging businesses Most of its holdings are US-based and they have
benefited from a much more positive approach by the Federal Drug Authority ndash new drug approvals in 2010 were the highest for 10 years
Graphite Enterprise TrustAndrew McHattie contends that just one sector offers great value private equity lsquoThese trusts were hammered in the credit crisis and discounts widened to extreme levelsrsquo he says
His selection is Graphite Enterprise Trust Its discount to net asset value remains at a level that rings alarm bells in most other sectors but it has a strong track record and a relatively mature port-folio of shares he expects to rise in value
Fidelity Chinese Special SituationslsquoWith Chinese equities looking cheap the long-term outlook for investing in China is positiversquo Cockerill says lsquoThis fund invests in medium and small caps where high growth can be achieved New manager Dale Nicholls is well qualified and the combination of Fidelity manager experience and China is compelling in the long termrsquo
Scottish Oriental Smaller Companies Trust This trust is favoured by McAdam The invest-ment team identifies quality companies offering sustainable predictable growth lsquoThe trust may underperform if the market rises strongly but the teamrsquos enviable track record and experience should be respectedrsquo he says
Tim Cockerill is investment director at Rowan Dartington
RowanDartingtonhas20investmentadvisersbasedinsevenofficesacrossthesouthofEnglandIthaspound900millionunderman-
agementInvestmenttrustshavefeaturedinitsdiscretionaryandadvisoryportfoliosformanyyears
Peter Hewittis a member of FampC Asset Managementrsquos global equities team
HehasmanagedtheFampCManagedPortfolioTrustsinceApril2008aswellasitsforerunnerFampCManagedPortfolio
Servicesince2002HewasheadofUKequitiesatMurray
Johnstonefrom1981to1983beforejoiningIvoryampSime
Jean Mattersonis a partner and chief investment officer at Rossie House Investment Management
Shejoinedthefirmin1998after20yearswithassetmanagerStewartIvory
BasedinEdinburghsheisoneoffiveinvestment
professionalsmanagingaroundpound300mil-lionallonadiscretionarybasisAroundhalfisininvestmenttrusts
Robin McAdamjoined Brooks MacDonald Asset Management in 2009 from Adam amp Company Investment Management
Hehas24yearsrsquoexperi-encemanagingprivateclientportfoliosandheadsBMrsquosEdinburghbranch
Thefirmhaspound537billionunderdiscretionarymanagementinbespokeandmanagedportfolios
Andrew McHattieis head of The McHattie Group
McHattieGroupisanauthorisedfirmthatpublishesspecialistinvestmentnewsletters
McHattiehasbeentheeditorofInvestmentTrustNewslettersince1996(wwwtipsheetscouk)andoffersafreeservicecalledthelsquoitlistrsquo(wwwtheitlistcouk)ThecompanyhasaFacebookpage(wwwfacebookcominvestmenttrusts)
John Newlandsis responsible for investment trust research at Brewin Dolphin
Heissupportedbyfouranalystswhocoverspecificsectorsresearchingopen-andclosed-endedfunds
BrewinDolphinhas35officesaroundtheUKandChannelIslandsandmanagespound28billionofwhichpound39billionisininvestmenttrusts
TrusttipstersOursixexpertsrevealtheirtopfundpicks
inspired | March 2014 PB24 March 2014 | inspired
FUNDSAND
TRUSTS
One in twelve goes free on your next golf break plus every golfer receives a free pint
12thmansagimme
Book online at MarriottGolfcouk
Offer is only valid on residential golf bookings booked during the promotional dates For every 11 players booked the 12th player will be free of charge Rates are per person per night based on 2 people sharing a twindouble room and include dinner bed amp breakfast Bookings must be made by one named player and separate bookings will not qualify Each residential player aged 18 and over will receive a voucher entitling them to a complimentary pint
of Beckrsquos or Boddingtons Offer is valid on bookings made via 3rd parties Offer is available on 1 night 2 rounds or 2 night 3 rounds and excludes Sunday Driver Maximum of 2 night stay and 2 people per room Day of week availability may vary based on location Limited number of rooms may be available This offer applies to new bookings only at Marriott Hotel amp Country Clubs and offer courses and tee times are subject to availability Offer cannot
be used in conjunction with any other promotion Course terms and conditions apply Advance reservations required Book between 17th February and 29th June 2014 for stays between 4th April and 29th September 2014
The SIPP thatrsquos
fair and square
We believe in straightforward investing Thatrsquos why we donrsquot nibble at your SIPP with percentage fees For just pound144 per year you can open a SIPP and add an ISA for free After that itrsquos just pound10 to buy or sell a wide range of investments including shares funds bonds and gilts Open an account today and if you transfer your existing SIPP wersquoll give you up to pound240 as a thank you (terms apply) We believe thatrsquos fair and square
The value of investments and any income from them can fall as well as rise so you could get back less than you invest Tax treatment depends on your individual circumstances and may be subject to change If in any doubt please seek advice
iiicouksipp
Interactive Investor Trading Limited trading as ldquoInteractive Investorrdquo is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority Registered Office Standon House 21 Mansell Street London E1 8AA Tel 0845 200 3637 Registered in England with Company Registration number 3699618
SPECULATIVE GROWTHMampG RecoveryDennehy says manager Tom Dobell backs his convictions engages with companies he invests in and has delivered long-term outperformance lsquoDobellrsquos MampG Recovery fund has a clear value-style process and management stability It invests in a wide range of firms that are out of favour or in difficulty or whose prospects are not fully rec-ognised by the marketrsquo he says
Liontrust Special SituationsHusselbee says Liontrustrsquos Anthony Cross and Julian Fosh have their own unique philosophy He adds lsquoThey look for characteristics in a company that its competitors find difficult to replicate such as intellectual property or distribution channelsrsquo
Allianz Bric StarsThis fund aims for capital growth in the long term by investing mainly in Brazil Russia India and China Haynes says investors have shunned these markets recently and valuations fallen He adds lsquoFor investors looking for a recovery story this fund is worth considerationrsquo
Standard Life Equity Income subscription shareMcHattie says warrant and subscription shares are widely ignored creating opportunities for those who understand them He favours the subscrip-tion shares of Standard Life Equity Income which can be exercised at 320p a share up to the end of December 2016 lsquoThey offer gearing of 37 times and if the ordinary shares grow by more than 28 per cent a year between now and the end of 2016 the subscription shares ought to outperformrsquo
Impax Environmental MarketsMcAdam likes this trust It invests in companies seeking to provide cleaner or more-efficient energy as well as water and waste solutions to the growing problems faced by authorities around the world It offers exposure to a rapidly changing marketplace as well as to socially responsible investments
Hansa TrustJohn Newlands sees potential in the A shares of Hansa Trust which languish at a discount of more than 25 per cent He says that whereas the trustrsquos portfolio appears skewed with a third of its assets in Ocean Wilsons there is actually plenty of diversification because Ocean Wilsons has an investment portfolio that stands at a discount to underlying value lsquoOne day an attractive bid [may] be made for Ocean Wilsons that will enhance Hansarsquos NAV and sim-plify its capital structure all to the good of its market ratingrsquo Newlands says
Baker Steel Resources TrustJean Matterson hopes for good returns from this trust shares in which trade on a near 30 per cent discount lsquoIt has not had an easy run of late but we believe the underlying assets are attractive and that the mining projects in the companyrsquos portfo-lio will continue to progressrsquo she says
Prospects have improved for biotechs (left) while growing interest in sustain-able energy has boosted Impax
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
AHIGHEROILPRICEFEEDSSTRAIGHT
THROUGHTOPROFITSTony Yarrow
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
inspired | March 2014 27PB March 2014 | inspired
FUNDSANDTRUSTS
The world of funds and trusts is a confusing place with over 2300 funds and more than 300 investment trusts to choose from
Money Observerrsquos Rated Funds system narrows down the playing field to help you decide which funds and investment trusts might be best for you
Our team of experts constantly monitor the marketplace rating those funds that have delivered consistently good returns However you should be aware that there is no guarantee this performance will be repeated
With our comparison tool you can filter by whatrsquos important to you compare up to four funds and trusts side-by-side as well as view factsheets
COMPAREMONEY OBSERVER RATED FUNDS
VISIT MONEYOBSERVERCOMCOMPAREFUNDS AND LOOK OUT FOR THE RATED FUND STAMP
had spare cash or I were start-ing afresh The companies in the add category are high qual-ity judging by the strategies they follow and their finan-cial strength and are probably undervalued
Irsquom more likely to eject or reduce holdings in companies in the watch and specula-tive categories These shares are more risky either because they have risen greatly in price or because their prospects are more uncertain than usual I may think the risk is worth tak-ing but I am prepared to act should that calculation change
Every decision to increase a portfolio holding must be weighed against the potential of new candidates drawn from all companies listed in the UK and corralled into another live spreadsheet the Share Sleuth watchlist When I add a share to the watchlist or trade a share in the portfolio I explain this in the Share Sleuth blog
ccumulating income and capital gains in an index tracking fund is inexpensive takes little effort and all but guarantees an
average return so it should be the default investment for a lazy equity investor saving for the long term
To justify the work of decid-ing which shares to buy and sell and the effort and cost of placing trades an active investor must do better Consequently the first objective of the active Share Sleuth portfolio is to beat passive investments after costs over the long-term which in practice means any five-year period The second objective is to win this tussle against an unknowing and unthinking opponent transparently
At the heart of the portfolio is an online spreadsheet The first page shows the constitu-ent shares arranged into three categories lsquoaddrsquo lsquowatchrsquo and lsquospeculativersquo The categorisa-tion is updated daily based on live data in subsequent spread-sheets each of which contains a financial model for a particular company
The Share Sleuth portfo-lio shows the holdings I would add to the portfolio today if it
Share Sleuth is a simulation no money changes hands But I use prices quoted by a bro-ker and adjust the accounting to factor in notional broker fees and stamp duty However I lsquoeat my own cookingrsquo by investing my self-invested personal pen-sion in Share Sleuth companies
No doubt you are wonder-ing how the portfolio is doing Share Sleuthrsquos five-year anni-versary judgement day is on 9 September this year and I will not prejudge it now
Short-term performance watching and the knee-jerk trad-ing it encourages is I think one reason why many inves-tors fail My focus is on ensuring the portfolio remains invested in good companies at reasona-ble prices
You can see a live perfor-mance table and learn what I think of every share in the port-folio and which companies I might add to it at wwwiiicoukZkr
SHAREBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIOR
The Share Sleuth portfolio has been carefully devised to show investors how to find good companies at cheap prices and also prove the value of its investment approach says Richard Beddard
Richard Beddard an editor at Interactive Investor since 1999 has managed the Share Sleuth portfolio since 9 September 2009 Hersquos a columnist at Money Observer magazine and a private investor
AMY FOCUS IS ON ENSURING THAT THE PORTFOLIO IS INVESTED IN GOOD FIRMS AT DECENT PRICES
inspired | March 2014 29PB March 2014 | inspired
SHARESLEUTH
iiicoukstraightforward
Interactive Investor Trading Limited trading as ldquoInteractive Investorrdquo is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority Registered Office Standon House 21 Mansell Street London E1 8AA Tel 0845 200 3637 Registered in England with Company Registration number 3699618
We believe in being straightforwardthis is why we donrsquot nibble at your investment by charging percentage fees Find out how this could affect your investment performance at iiicoukstraightforward
If you transfer to us you can even get up to pound240 as a thank you (terms apply)
Donrsquot forget the value of investments and any income from them can fall as well as rise so you could get back less than you invest If in any doubt please seek advice
7784_II_QI_MONEY_OBSERVER_210x297_AWindd 1 16012014 1224
Take a closer look
at your investment
options
Discover a straightforward way to understand everything from ISAs to SIPPs and OEICs to Investment Trusts
Investing for generationsEver feel yoursquod like to know more about investing Wersquove been helping people build their wealth for over 125 years Our guide lsquoMaking sense of the investment universersquo is just one of the resources yoursquoll find on our Investment Focus hub
As well as clear simple guides therersquos a wealth of information and expert opinion all designed to help you take control of your investments Please remember that investments can go down as well as up and investors may get back less than they originally invested
Introducing your free online source of information help and expert opinion
investment-focuscouk
This has been approved as a financial promotion by Alliance Trust Investments Limited for the purpose of Section 21 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 Alliance Trust Investments Limited is a subsidiary of Alliance Trust PLC and is registered in Scotland No SC330862 registered office 8 West Marketgait Dundee DD1 1QN is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority firm reference number 479764 Alliance Trust Investments gives no financial or investment advice
TAX YEAR ENDS APRIL 5TH ndash learn more about
your options now
Investment Focus Smart Insight from Alliance Trust
Yoursquove spoken Wersquove listened Introducing your free online source of information help and expert opinion
Based on real insight we have launched a new website which focuses on investment education
We believe that we are uniquely positioned to provide this hub of information based on the reputation we have built for trust and transparency over the last 125 years
We will be publishing new content over the next few months focusing on specific themes
bull Investing from scratch
bull Products in a portfolio
bull Global diversification
bull Planning for your familyrsquos future
bull Retirement planning
bull Getting more information
There is a generation of future investors out there who have been brought up in an era of economic turmoil and banking crises which has led to disillusionment and a lack of trust in our sector and the services we offer Despite it being more important than ever for investors to take control of their financial situation this new generation of savers lacks the basic knowledge and understanding to make these very important long-term decisions
Our goal is to develop a useful resource with contributions from third-parties as well as the team at Alliance Trust which offers insights into the various life stages and challenges faced and which can be built upon and adapted to meet savers needs in the long term
Katherine Garrett-Cox CBE Chief Executive Alliance Trust PLC
ldquo
rdquo
There are too many products to make an informed decision
I donrsquot know whereto go for reliable
information
investment-focuscouk
Yoursquoll naturally take a keen interest in the performance of your investments But itrsquos just as important to understand the fees you will be paying as they can have a significant impact on the returns you achieve Knowing what the different types of costs mean and exactly what they consist of can prove rewarding
Itrsquos worth remembering that for every fee you pay (whether it is a or flat fee) your investment needs to grow by at least the same amount just to stay ahead of the game It sounds obvious but itrsquos easy to forget Broadly speaking there are three types of fees fund fees platform fees and fees for a financial adviser You can either invest directly into a fund and pay the associated fees or you can invest via a platform provider (some of which are referred to as wrap platforms others as fund supermarkets) This is a service that lets you manage and review all your investments online in one place As a general rule fund fees are lower when
bought through a platform than if you buy direct You can invest through a platform on either an execution only basis where the investor assesses the risks and makes their own investment decisions or on an advised basis
Learn more about fund platform and financial advice fees
What can you expect to seeOver the next two pages we have provided a sneak preview of just some of the information you will find on the Investment Focus hub We will be updating the site regularly so make sure you sign up for our email alerts to be informed when new topics are published
Everything you need to know about fees
Risk informationInvestments can go down as well as up You may get back less than you originally invested
Alliance Trust does not give advice You need to ensure you understand the risks and commitments before investing If you are unsure you should consult a Financial Adviser before investing
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
For the vast majority of investors the simplest cheapest and most pragmatic way to invest is through pooled funds
Sometimes called managed funds unit trusts or even Open-Ended Investment Companies (or OEICs) these are designed to give ordinary savers access to a diverse range of investments
One of the principles of investment is that diversification helps reduce risk But it is expensive and time consuming for ordinary savers to buy shares of 80 to 100 different companies and keep track of how each is performing
But with a managed fund you are pooling your money with other investors enabling the fund manager to buy a wide range of assets
Investors have the option of buying an actively managed or passive fund With an active fund the manager selects and then monitors these stocks for investors in a bid to maximise returns
In contrast a passive fund will simply follow a stock market index such as the FTSE100 up and down
Having a manager at the helm can be beneficial in a market downturn as they can take a more defensive approach buying shares that are better able to hold their value or in some cases switching to bonds or cash instead to help preserve investorsrsquo capital Managers can also research individual companies and markets and have access to forecasts and economic data that isnrsquot always available to individuals
Learn more about investing for growth or income exploring different investment remits how to invest and keeping track of your investments
Understanding funds Written by Emma Simon Personal Finance Journalist
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
What are Investment TrustsInvestment Trusts are investment vehicles that are listed on the London Stock Exchange and which invest in shares and other securities They pool together investorsrsquo money and delegate responsibility to a professional fund manager to invest in a range of companies from different sectors and regions across the world They were designed for ldquothe investor of moderate meansrdquo
A brief historybull The first Investment Trust was launched by Foreign amp
Colonial in 1868
bull Investment Trusts made it possible for individual investors to gain diversified exposure to global stock markets
bull Many Investment Trusts were formed in Scotland including Alliance Trust PLC which was formed over 125 years ago
A guide to Investment Trusts
Learn more about Investment Trusts their main features and why you should consider them for your portfolio
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
Alliance Trust is an investment and savings business with over 125 year history of building investor wealth We offer our shareholders clients and customers a unique portfolio of products and services These range from a renowned global investment trust to an innovative range of investment strategies and funds and a multi-award winning investment platform where investors can host their ISAs SIPPs or investment accounts Our mission is to provide products and services that help to ensure a more sustainable financial future for generations of investors
Alliance Trust PLC is one of the largest generalist investment trusts by market value listed on the London Stock Exchange and is the parent company to two wholly-owned subsidiaries Alliance Trust Savings and Alliance Trust Investments
The fact that many of us make irrational decisions when it comes to our finances is widely debated and is often referred to as behavioural finance In this short video we talk to Professor Phyl Johnson Consultant Psychologist and Visiting Professor of Executive Education at Strathclyde Business School about why this is and more importantly about what we can do as individuals to avoid it
About us Alliance Trust Investments is a specialist fund management business offering a range of products and services focusing on global equities fixed income and sustainable investing with an emphasis on specialist investment solutions
Alliance Trust Savings is one of the UKrsquos leading financial services providers for private investors offering customers the information and services they need to manage their investments in a way that works for them
Risk informationInvestments can go down as well as up You may get back less than you originally invested
Alliance Trust does not give advice You need to ensure you understand the risks and commitments before investing If you are unsure you should consult a Financial Adviser before investing
Unusually for a company of our size around 70 of shares
in Alliance Trust are held by private
individuals
Nobodyrsquos perfect why we all make irrational decisions
Inflation by ageThis monthrsquos official inflation report showed that the headline rate of inflation fell from 20 to 19 Our Economic Research Team analyse this data on a monthly basis to see how inflation rates affect different age groups In February 2014 the summary highlights include
bull The over 75s and the under 30s face the highest rate of inflation in January at 21
bull The over 75s suffered the highest rate of inflation for the whole of 2013 and this trend continues into 2014 as they spend a larger share of their budgets on basic goods such as gas and electricity
bull The 65 to 74 year olds have faced the lowest rate of inflation in 11 out of the last 12 months thanks to lower inflation in food petrol and package holidays
Learn more about how inflation might affect you
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
You can also sign up for our regular email alerts to be informed when new topics are published by clicking here
Wersquove been bringing clarity to investment for over 125 years
Investing for generationsWhen it comes to investing therersquos no substitute for experience And at Alliance Trust wersquove been helping people invest since 1888 Our new Investment Focus hub is full of online information and expert opinion It aims to provide real insight to help you take control of your investments
Over the next few weeks the hub will build to cover everything from taking your first steps to diversifying worldwide Please remember that investments can go down as well as up and investors may get back less than they originally invested For valuable insight from Alliance Trust visit Investment Focus today
Introducing your free online source of information help and expert opinion
investment-focuscouk
This has been approved as a financial promotion by Alliance Trust Investments Limited for the purpose of Section 21 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 Alliance Trust Investments Limited is a subsidiary of Alliance Trust PLC and is registered in Scotland No SC330862 registered office 8 West Marketgait Dundee DD1 1QN is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority firm reference number 479764 Alliance Trust Investments gives no financial or investment advice
TAX YEAR ENDS APRIL 5TH ndash learn more about
your options now
Change the way you think about stocks reap the rewardsBy Edward Page Croft CEO Stockopediacom
I remember so clearly the day when I picked my first stock for clients Managing $2 billion (pound12 billion) in assets across 100 portfolios for high-net-wealth private investors is no easy task As I was to learn when you are green
and straight out of university itrsquos even harder The stock in question was on the Goldman
Sachs US lsquobuyrsquo list It had the potential to be hot Dotcoms were bubbling It was an internet stock in education services and cheap It seemed like it had everything but we needed to get in One day it fell out of bed Down 50 per cent on no news
Irsquod been trained to call the analyst in situations like this He reiterated his buy stance Double buy On my insistence we put almost $20 million of client money into the stock within an hour The next day it fell another 50 per cent on
bad newsThere is nothing more
painful than a loss but you never forget the first
one It immedi-ately forced me to reconsider every-thing I thought I
knew From that day on I vowed to never trust anotherrsquos opin-ion and find a better
way through the market minefieldIrsquove now spent 15 years
reassessing common
wisdom about stock selection No stone has gone unturned in the quest to understand the behav-ioural flaws that lead to poor decision making But there is one finding that crops up again and again in all the research that hurts stock market investors most We as investors are suckers for stories
A 1990rsquos study of 60000 private investor broker-age accounts by Kumar and Goetzmann found that 70 per cent of portfolios held less than four stocks
The stocks held all tended to be in the same sector highly correlated and risky Think internet stocks in the 1990s China in the 2000s or resource stocks more recently The grand theme sucks everyone in The outcome rarely dif-fers Kumar and Goetzmann showed that across these
60000 accounts the average underperformance was of the order of 4 per cent annually
This massive failing across private inves-tor portfolios is repeated in nearly every market cycle and is bound to happen again in this one Benjamin Graham the great father of value invest-ing and tutor of Warren Buffett once wrote
lsquoIn the short run the stock market is a vot-ing machine but in the long run it is a weighing machinersquo
ADVERTISING FEATURE
IN THE SHORT RUN THE STOCK MARKET IS A VOTING MACHINE BUT IN THE LONG RUN IT IS A WEIGHING MACHINEBenjamin Graham
What he meant was that while stories may drive stocks in the short run statistics drive stocks in the long run When statistics reassert them-selves it can cause huge damage to investors punting their portfolios on stories
It doesnrsquot take much to learn how basic statis-tics can guide your portfolio into winning stock selections though very few seem to understand how to do it Benjamin Graham as his life wore on gradually came to the conclusion that building portfolios according to rules-based processes was a far more appropriate methodology for the typi-cal investor
lsquoTry to buy groups of stocks that meet some sim-ple criterion for being undervalued ndash regardless of
the industry and with very little attention to the indi-vidual company It seems too good to be true but all I can tell you after 60 years of experience is it seems to stand up under any of the tests I would make uprsquo
My time is now dedi-cated to helping investors practice exactly what Benjamin Graham and many other investment luminaries have preached rules-based investing For the majority itrsquos a better process and leads to bet-ter outcomes Our work at
Stockopediacom where we crunch fundamental and technical data in order to model and track the investment processes of the great investors bears this out
Portfolios composed with stocks showing the right statistical mix of value quality and momen-tum have significantly outperformed Rules-based investing beats the market But more importantly it helps promote the emotional detachment needed to stop investors from beating themselves
Irsquoll never buy a stock on a punt or an analystrsquos tip again Perhaps neither should you
For a two week free trial and pound50 discount to Stockopedia UK Premium CLICK HERE
TANK MCM A N U F A C T U R E M O V E M E N T 1 9 0 4 M C
SINCE THE CREATION OF THE FIRST TANK WATCH IN 1917 THE TANK COLLECTION HAS CONTINUED
TO BREAK NEW GROUND THE INCREDIBLY REFINED AESTHETICS OF THE NEW TANK MC WATCH ARE FITTED
WITH THE CARTIER MANUFACTURE MOVEMENT 1904 MC ESTABLISHED IN 1847 CARTIER CREATES
EXCEPTIONAL WATCHES THAT COMBINE DARING DESIGN AND WATCHMAKING SAVOIR-FAIRE
EXPLORE AND SHOP WWWCARTIERCOUK - (020) 3147 4850
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oisseur
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Inside
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TO THE CONNOISSEUR section of Inspired a showcase for the finer things in life for those who truly appreciate them
Enjoying the fruits of your labour away from the relentless demands of our age poses its own challenges and quandaries Would a tropical idyll restore your ebbing energy levels Might a break based around hair-raising activities revive them even more effectively Perhaps reawakening a dormant passion for fine wines or luxury cars would be the most enjoyable reward for your industry
A luxury tropical holiday is probably near the top of most peoplersquos wish lists We take a look at some of the most tantalising options
The arrival of BMWrsquos new super coupe is featured on page 50 BMW aficionados and petrolheads alike are certain to be won over by its head-turning looks and mouthwatering specs
Gems come under the microscope on page 53 A rare coloured diamond can be a joy as well an appreciating asset
Wine is on the menu on page 54 where we explore the charms of Argentinian Malbec
Watches are often treasured objects and the best can turn out to be shrewd investments We look at the secondary watch market and the growth of online retailing on page 58 Enjoy
Welcome
40 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
FIVE TOP PRIVATE ISLAND RETREATSIslandFantasy
Top-rated resorts and hotels offer a variety of temptations and services to impress even the most discerning tastes but there is no better way to escape the rigours and
stresses of daily life than cutting off from the outside world while still enjoying lavish service
in the pinnacle of all resorts the private islandThere are thousands of small islands around
the world but only a few have chosen to cater to the most discriminating travellers seeking a rarified yet perfect world of quiet and relaxed luxury We look at five of the worldrsquos top private islands destinations where your holiday is certain to be an exceptional experience
TRAVEL
Necker Island is owned by Sir Richard Branson and guests stay in his home The island has become a popular des-tination for some of the worldrsquos most prominent figures as a hideaway from lifersquos stresses and strains
Because Necker Island is a resi-dence and not a resort guests who rent the island are treated as owners and catered for in a unique way
The74-acre island is fringed with beautiful white beaches and surrounded by turquoise waters and coral reefs It boasts every resort-type amenity guests can spend their days being pampered in the spa explor-ing underwater reefs in a submarine lounging by the pool bar or swimming in one of the worldrsquos most elab-orate private pools
Haute cuisine is a highlight for most guests ndash rates are fully inclusive of all food and drink A team of chefs creates bespoke menus featuring anything from lobster and caviar to a Sunday roast And because Necker is a home first and a resort second guests decide whether dining will be formal or informal inside or outside themed or traditional
The bar is stocked with international wines top-quality spirits and beers and a world renowned house champagne while special orders can be shipped in at no extra charge ndash unless an item is particularly rare Every service and amenity is available around the clock and guests are encouraged to treat Necker as their own home
As youLike it
NECKER ISLAND
42 March 2014 | inspired
Unalloyed luxury and an impressive range of amenities make Necker one of the most desirable island destinations in the world
The Jumby Bay resort which is only accessible by boat from Antigua is a Caribbean hideaway owned by Rosewood Resorts It is perfect for those seeking either relaxation or spirited adventure
You can rent the island resort entirely for your stay or simply take a room Those opt-ing for exclusive use of the island will have the resortrsquos two pools three tennis courts fitness centre croquet field and putting green to themselves
A wide range of water sports are available and guests can indulge in as much adventure or relaxation as they want during their stay The resort is ideal for large family
reunions or corporate retreats ndash 40 guest rooms and suites are available on the island
Executive chef Sylvain Hervochon celebrates gastron-omy ndash and mixology (cocktail making) ndash with casual elegance by creating Caribbean-style dishes inspired by fresh local ingredients and incorporating international influences
Jumby Bayrsquos rates start at pound150000 for four nights based on double occupancy between May and December Visit wwwrosewoodhotelscomenjumby-bay-antigua for further information
Fine BalanceCaribbean ambiance international sophistication and adventurous activities make Jumby Bay a compelling choice
JUMBY BAY
Just laze by the pool or venture beyond to dive in the turquoise waters of the South Pacific among stunning reefs and a dazzling array of marine creatures
Isle of PlentyT
he private island of Laucala in the South Pacific is a 3500-acre site in a picturesque rainforest-laced land-scape Enchanting deserted beaches nestle among coconut plantations organic farms and lush green vol-canic mountains
The resort offers an outstanding level of refined lux-ury as well as a compelling collection of sporting and cultural activities diving among iridescent marine life in the warm turquoise waters guided rainforest tours horse riding surfing and golfing on the 18-hole cham-pionship course The island is a superb choice for an escape from civilization whether you want an adven-ture in the wild or simply to relax in one of Laucalarsquos five restaurants and bars
Rates are available on request Visit wwwlaucalacom for further details
TRAVEL
LAUCALA ISLAND
inspired | March 2014 4544 March 2014 | inspired
Lush green surroundings sensitive development and beautiful beaches help Laucala island conjure up a complete South Seas experience
Isle of Plenty
inspired | March 2014 4544 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
inspired | March 2014 4746 March 2014 | inspired
Slow LaneSlow
Pulau Joyo is a seductively serene environment of pristine beaches surrounded by clear blue sea in Indonesiarsquos Riau Archipelago Accessible from Singapore or Bintan Pulau Joyo is a true castaway island offering every resort luxury
amid untouched natural beauty Pulau Joyo is famous for its remarkable sunsets and
brightly star-lit sky The resort can host 28 guests and 20 staff are on hand to cater to their every need Guests stay in open driftwood lsquopalacesrsquo that lsquoallow the sea inrsquoDespite its desert island appeal Pulau Joyo offers every modern convenience a range of adrenaline boosting activities and more relaxing options such as spa treatments and massages
The resortrsquos cuisine focuses on western and Indonesian dishes Meals are usually served buffet style and feature grilled fish squid prawns beef and chicken as well as many curry dishes Side dishes include fresh garden salads pasta salads boiled or steamed leafy greens and grilled aubergine (an island favourite) Prawn and tofu kebabs appear from time to time as does satay The chef will often provide a selection of freshly picked fruit and homemade cakes for dessert Itrsquos worth noting that the management will not serve pork or shellfish on this private island
Pulau Joyo may not be as refined as some islands but itrsquos an excellent choice for those who want a more casual laidback island experience that replicates the castaway experience like perhaps no other
Rates start at pound1913 a night More information is available at wwwpulau-joyocom
Wannabe castaways may find Pulau Joyorsquos purer simpler take on the luxury island experience more to their taste
PULAU JOYO
inspired | March 2014 4746 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
In the Fijian island paradise of Dolphin Island a small army of staff await to meet guestsrsquo every need On arriving ndash by boat helicopter or float plane ndash visitors are invariably struck by the beauty of the island and the luxuri-ous accommodation that awaits them amid 14-acres of lush tropical gardens
Three traditional palm-thatched bures individually designed by world renowned interior designer Virginia Fisher sit in an elevated position around the resortrsquos infinity pool
Guests are brought fresh tropical fish to choose each day that are cooked to perfec-
tion within hours of leaving the water The culinary focus is on
organic produce and ingredi-ents unique to Fijian cuisine but meals are tailored to guestsrsquo personal tastes Papayas man-goes bananas and pineapples
are plentiful throughout the day When it comes to recreation the
14-acre island is an expansive play-ground offering a diverse range of watersports as well as diving opportunities on Fijirsquos coral reefs
Rates start at pound720 a night More information is avail-able at wwwdolphinislandfijicom
Fijian Paean
Traditional features modern comforts and excellent facilities make for a harmonious whole on this Fijian island
DOLPHIN ISLAND
48 March 2014 | inspired
Pictured slightly larger than actual size
Big Pilotrsquos Watch Ref 5009
Your wrist never felt this big before The
case of the top model in the IWC Pilotrsquos
Watch range is a gigantic 462 mm in diashy
meter And the technology inside it is
even more impressive the largest IWCshy
manufactured automatic movement with
its Pellaton winding system is protected
against strong magnetic fields by a softshy
iron inner case And needless to say enshy
vious glances iwc engineered for men
Mechanical IWCshymanufactured movement Pellaton
automatic winding system 7shyday power reserve
with display (figure) Date display Softshyiron inner
case for protection against magnetic fields
Antireflective sapphire glass Watershyresistant 6 bar
Stainless steel
IWC Schaffhausen Switzerland iwccom The worldrsquos finest timepieces are exclusively available from selected watch specialists
For an illustrated catalogue or list of nationwide concessionaires please contact IWC UK Tel 0845 337 1868 Eshymail infoshyukiwccom
CARS
MunichLegend
50 March 2014 | inspired
BMW fanatics can open their eyes ndash the M4 has arrived
Most BMW aficionados are proba-bly pretty sad to see production of the M3 coupe ndash quite possibly the companyrsquos most noteworthy and celebrated model ndash end after almost 30 years Ever since the first wide-body E30 M3 saw the
light of day in 1985 drivers have loved the sporty coupe for its incredible balance intoxicating power and of course solid build quality
The model never got stale in all that time and always remained the poster child for the M division so itrsquos a lit-tle weird that BMW has apparently decided to axe it In truth though they havenrsquot really dropped the M3 The M3 sedan will continue to be produced in 2014 so all
is not lost Moreover BMW seems to be adopting a pat-tern of giving its sedans odd-numbered titles only and its coupes even-numbered titles only so the 4-Series and especially the M4 concept that debuted at Pebble Beach Monterey California will fill the gap left by the M3 Many people have been awaiting the new super coupe with great expectancy but can it fill in for the M3
The journalists who swarmed over the M4 concept at Pebble Beach were obviously much more interested in it than the somewhat predictable 428i that was also there Finished in an eye-catching colour called Aurum Dust (which actually looks a lot like the old M3rsquos Phoenix Yellow colour) the car presented in California may be a concept but typically BMW M cars donrsquot change much before they finally hit the showroom
MunichLegend
inspired | March 2014 51
CARS
52 March 2014 | inspired
From front to back the bodywork is manifestly differ-ent and much more aggressive looking than a standard 4-Series car It really looks to pretty much pick up where the E92E93 M3 coupe left off especially with its undeniably cool domed hood Wide wheel arches big wheels wrapped in low-profile tyres more than enough M badges and a well-executed double-bubble roof make the already underwhelming existing 4-Series coupe look even more pedestrian
Power for the new M4 is likely to come from a three-litre twin-turbo straight-six engine While the horsepower probably wonrsquot differ much from the M3rsquos old 4-litre V-8 it will generate more than 100lbft more in torque almost 400 in total With the M4 being a lighter 3300lb in weight the M4 promises to be an excit-ing worthy car A proper six-speed manual may be in the mix alongside the now obligatory dual clutch and paddles option
The best way to look at the M4 however it ends up is not as a new car but as a new and improved M3 thatrsquos just getting a new name The decision to rename the coupe is a strange one but thankfully BMW apparently felt the 3-Series coupe had made such an identity for itself that a new model was needed albeit in a slightly different incarnation
With BMW embarking on some new-ageish ideas such as its 1-Series ActiveE and the soon-to-arrive lsquoirsquo range of cars itrsquos nice to see the company also stick to classics such as the heart-stopping sports coupe even if the latest model does come with a new name
Seductive curves and racier performance make the BMW M4 a more than acceptable replacement for the M3 super coupe
SparklingForm Coloured diamonds are making their mark
One of the main factors that deter-mines the value of what we ordinarily think of as diamonds is their purity the degree to which col-our is absent in the gem However with coloured diamonds the extent to which they are saturated with
colour is a principal determinant of their valueColoured diamonds come in 12 basic colours more
than 90 secondary hues and nine intensity levels The depth of their colour is what really differentiates these diamonds from their colourless counterparts
Natural coloured diamonds are 10000 times rarer than typical colourless diamonds one of several rea-sons why they are treasured by the rich and famous yet remain unknown to most other people ndash despite hav-ing been around for centuries
Of course some colours are rarer than others Red violet and purple stones are as rare as the proverbial hensrsquo teeth while green and blue are also rare The most popular colours are pink and yellow (or canary) They also come in white grey orange black and lsquochame-leonrsquo form
A pinkie ring encrusted with a large coloured dia-mond has become a status symbol for men in Asia That little stone is an unregistered asset that could quickly be sold for millions of dollars should the need arise
Coloured diamonds are durable and never lose their sparkle or lustre so they are assets that can be enjoyed every day unlike stocks or bonds And they have proved to be fantastic investments having steadily appreciated in price with relatively little volatility for more than a decade They even held their own during the most recent financial crisis
Coloured diamonds are auctioned by reputable
auction houses such a Sothebyrsquos and Christiersquos where prices for large unique pink red blue or yellow stones can reach in excess of $2 million (pound12 million) a carat and other stones regularly sell for $1 million a carat
They are often bought by high-net-worth individu-als as an insurance policy Instead of stashing cash in undeclared bank accounts and potentially incurring the wrath of the authorities the wealthy can purchase some loose yellow diamonds to secure their future
Clearly coloured diamonds are much more than a magnificent indulgence
GEMS
inspired | March 2014 53PB March 2014 | inspired
WINE
Make the most of the deeply
satisfying Malbec wines emerging from Argentina
and perhaps even enjoy a return on a shrewd
investment says Ewan Lacey
Finding a red wine to enjoy in spring is a delicate balancing act The shock of seeing sunlight after a dark winter fosters in us a desire to drink some-thing refreshing while the still-cool temperatures demand something with comforting depth
Increasingly Malbec wines particularly those from Argentina provide a perfect solution to this quandary And while there are plenty of delicious wines for infor-mal occasions what is most interesting is the emergence of finer Malbec wines Some are so good they may well have ageing potential raising the intriguing possibility that the wine may one day become collectable
Malbec is the most popular wine among those aged 25-34 and is now becoming a fixture on most restaurant wine lists There are several reasons for its success the word Malbec is easy to pronounce the wine goes well with red meat the Malbec grape can be turned into wines that are both relatively easy to drink and packed with flavour and decent wines are available at reason-able prices Malbec is deep fruity and charming and it delivers instant pleasure ndash claret on a motorbike
The Malbec grape originated in France and it remains one of the permitted varieties used to make Bordeaux However it has gained prominence through the work of the post-junta Argentine wine industry
I recently had the pleasure of tasting some very fine Malbecs with Laura Catena managing director at the Catena Zapata winery and president of the International Wine and Spirit Competition She opened my
Mendoza Marvels
inspired | March 2014 55
WINE
eyes to the potential of this grape variety when handled with care
Laurarsquos family business makes a range of wines but the wine that truly astonished me was the Nicasia Vineyard Malbec 2006 The wine is perfumed with floral and fruit notes and it is smooth and soft at first Like all great wines it has many layers of flavour warm bursts of cherry and black-currant cede centre stage to deeper darker caramel and mocha notes and a touch of spice Therersquos an amazing depth of flavour and the finish is long and lingering Whatrsquos more at nearly eight years old it still has a slight purple tinge and tastes extremely fresh There is every indication that it will age beautifully for at least another decade
The winersquos character is heavily influenced by the alti-tude the grapes used to make it are grown at (1180m
above sea level) At this elevation the grapes ripen in bright sun but lsquorelaxrsquo during the cool evenings The fact that the wine is made in tiny quantities (eight barrels only) means every care can be taken during the winemak-ing process to ensure the wine is allowed to show its grown-up side The cost per bot-tle of pound70 is not insubstantial but neither is the wine
We cannot know whether these wines will ever become investments in the way the wines of Bordeaux have Whatrsquos cer-tain is that Malbec wines have a very rare quality a balance of finesse and power that
can delight wine lovers and linger in their memories
Ewan Lacey is a leading wine expert and general manager of the International Wine and Spirit Competition He has appeared on BBC television and radio as well as Channel 4 and written for the national press
Laura Catena is managing director at the Catena Zapata winery (above)
THE INTERNATIONAL WINE AND SPIRIT COMPETITIONThe International Wine and Spirit Competition has been the premier drinks competition in the world for 45 years Each year it receives and reviews thousands of wines and spirits and presents qual-ity awards to producers
More than anything the IWSC exists to help
people make better deci-sions particularly when buying wines and spirits An IWSC award on a bot-tle of wine is a guarantee
of quality backed not only by a rigorous and strin-gent judging process but also by the skill of the judges who are drawn from the ranks of masters of wine master distill-ers industry leaders and commentators
Each year the IWSC honours a leading figure
in the drinks industry with the presidency of the competition The current president is Laura Catena who succeeds a nota-ble line of predecessors including Prince Robert of Luxembourg winemakers Piero Antinori and Warren Winiarski and Baroness Philippine de Rothschild
56 March 2014 | inspired
LUXURY WATCHES
Time is preciousA
t a recent watch auc-tion in Geneva at Antiquorum ndash the worldrsquos premiere auc-tion house for modern and vintage time pieces ndash a Patek Philippe
pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon watch emerged as the auctionrsquos top lot and sold for 12 million Swiss francs (pound807000)
Unlike most of the timepieces sold at auctions outside Asia this particular Patek watch ndash the most complicated wristwatch the Swiss watchmaker has ever produced ndash was not a vintage model
That Geneva auction raised intriguing
1284Clocks with weights gears and regulators start to appear mostly with no dial to strike the important moments of daily life
Around 1410The mainspring is devel-oped Combined with the fusee this innovation makes possible the truly portable domestic clock
1492The mechanical watch appears simultaneously in Italy Germany and France
1675Christian Huygens invents the spiral balance spring
for watches significantly improving their accuracy
1704The first watch with jew-els is produced by French watchmaker de Beaufreacute
1714The British parliament offers pound20000 to who-ever can a find a method to determine longitude
1766Parliament publishes the rating results for John Harrisonrsquos H4 marine timekeeper Harrisonrsquos highly accurate marine clock solution to the problem of determining logitude wins him part of the pound20000 prize
1787Pierre-Freacutedeacuteric Ingold is born an important pio-neer in mechanised timepiece production and the use of interchangea-ble parts
1790Jacquet-Droz and Leschot manufactures a watch attached to a strap
1839Vacheron amp Constantin developes a full set of machine tools for manu-facturing its watches
1875Calcium sulphate is the first luminescent sub-stance to be used for numerals and hands
TIMEKEEPING MILESTONES
questions Are modern luxury timepieces every bit as appealing as the vintage watches that typically command top prices at auc-tion And does that Geneva auction tell us anything about the contemporary watch market as a whole
Julien Schaerer Antiquorumrsquos managing director in Geneva says top-quality vintage watches often appreciate in value over the long term But he urges buyers for whom appreciation is an important consideration to be cautious about purchasing contempo-rary watches
lsquoWatch price depreciation is the cost of ownership just as it is with a luxury carrsquo he says lsquoIf the value goes up then
58 March 2014 | inspired
1880The first water- resistant watch incorpo-rating a screwed case is produced by Genevan watchmaker Franccedilois Borgel
1889The first known patent for a wristwatch is filed in Bern Switzerland
1890Dialmaker A Beyeler invents a transfer press for applying numerals and letters to dials
1892Auguste Verneuil in France produces the first synthetic jewels to be used in watchmaking
1904Wens Wilsdorf launches large-scale production of a womenrsquos wristwatch
1924John Harwood files the
first Swiss patent for a self-winding wristwatch with a central oscillating weight
1925The first known wrist-watch with a perpetual calendar is manufactured using a pendant watch movement
1926Rolex creates the Oyster wristwatch with a water-resistant case and crown
1966The first quartz wrist-watch prototype is produced
1969The first quartz watch
with an LED display appears
1978Quartz watches overtake mechanical watches in popularity
2005Creation of the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie Seiko launches the spring drive Kinetic the first self-winding mechanical watch with an electro-magnetic escapement
A Patek Philippe pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon recently sold for pound807000
inspired | March 2014 59
online retailers from the comfort of your homeSince 2006 DM London has quietly estab-
lished a powerful presence for itself in the UK retail watch market with the acquisition of The Watch Hut and The Watch Gallery DM London chairman David Coleridge says the company has capitalised on the increasing willingness of buy-ers to purchase online
lsquoHaving decided that they would like to buy a watch for themselves or someone elsersquo he says lsquopeople start to do their research More often than not this starts online nowadays where they com-pare brands performance and functions
lsquoAs trust in the online marketplace has devel-oped many want to buy online because it is convenient and saves time Shopping online becomes a habit established sites build trust and awareness with customers which gives custom-ers the confidence to buy more expensive itemsrsquo
He adds lsquoOur challenge is to make the online environment as attractive informative and enjoy-able as a high street store Then customers will decide to spend onlinersquo
Coleridge believes a multi-channel approach is the way forward for retailers He says lsquoWithout doubt the future is multi-channel selling ndash a combination of direct selling on the internet and various forms of click and collect ndash combined with beautiful stores on the high street
Over the past few years demand for luxury watches (particularly contemporary models) has spiked sharply in Asia and according to some specialists emerging affluence in the
of course thatrsquos an added benefit However he adds lsquoPrice appreciation is still quite rare with modern watches There is some poten-tial for appreciation but probably only with ultra-limited editions A purchase has to be
seen as a medium- to long-term invest-ment One should buy a timepiece first out of love for the brand or [the watchrsquos] complicationrsquo
The watch brands that offer the greatest assurance of appreci-
ation include Cartier Patek Philippe Rolex Audemars
Piguet A Lange amp Sohne Breguet and Vacheron Constantin All enjoy views from the top of
the watchmaking hierarchy thanks to their longstand-ing histories and well-established brand identities
Relative new-comers to the industry such as Richard Mille and Roger Dubuis have carved out a niche for
themselves with their revolutionary designs and
space-age technologies but it remains to be seen just how well the values of their timepieces will stand up on the secondary market
According to Nathaniel Borgelt a specialist at auction house Sothebyrsquos
some modern watches have already achieved good prices at auction but these (like the Patek Philippe Sky Moon Tourbillon) were highly exclusive models when new
lsquoSome limited edition pieces currently fetch incredible prices at auctionrsquo he says lsquoAnd there is a select group of modern mod-els that could compete with a certain sector of the vintage market based on their brand innovative features such as materials or com-plications and avant-garde designs
Buying these has now become a whole lot easier The luxury watch retailing land-scape is changing and the traditional pattern of physically walking into a luxury salon to buy a watch is gradually being replaced by a trend towards visiting the websites of the big
LUXURY WATCHES
A Lange amp Sohne (above) is a long-standing high-end watchmaker Comparative new-comer Roger Dubuis (right) is forging a strong reputation
inspired | March 2014 PB60 March 2014 | inspired
helpthewatchgallerycom
Hublot ClassiC FusiontHe WatCH Gallery exClusive
The Watch Gallery and Hublot have joined forces to create two very special limited edition watches Both are limited to just 15 pieces worldwide and have been specifically designed to feature The Watch Gallery blue brand colour on the hands and tinted open case back
SelfridgeS OxfOrd StreetWeStfield lOndOnMancheSter exchange Square
wwwthewatchgallerycomhublot-watches
Far East has kept global values strong while other markets around the world continue to recover from recession
Despite the market boost from growing prosperity in Asia there are signs that the market is becoming saturated and that globally the new watch market isnrsquot as robust as some commentators suggest
It may still be a good time to buy but its important to know what you want and what yoursquore buying Modern watchmakers such as Richard Mille Roger Dubuis and Greubel Forsey are producing beautiful timepieces but because of their limited foothold in the market itrsquos difficult to predict their long-term success and desirability They donrsquot yet have the brand power that might ensure the value of their
watches in the secondhand market remains highSuch producers might one day stand eye to
eye with the most desirable brands such as Patek Philippe and Rolex but achieving that kind of parity wonrsquot be easy Collectors looking to invest in timepieces are advised to keep an open mind about modern producers uncertainty is the one aspect of modern luxury watch market most experts tend to agree on
That said the buoyancy in the watch market suggests that plenty of buyers are unconcerned about future values For them itrsquos all about the appreciation of the watch itself People buy watches because they bring them pleasure ndash and say some-thing about who they are
LUXURY WATCHES
Contemporary watches such as those made by Hublot (left) have yet to show they will have the lasting appeal of watches such as Cartierrsquos Rotonde de Cartier Astrocalendaire (right)
inspired | March 2014 63
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-
director at Whitechurch Securities says fund manager Julie Dean has built up an excellent track record
Securities Trust of ScotlandRobin McAdam likes Securities Trust of Scotland which seeks rising income and long-term capi-tal growth from global equities The trust yields 33 per cent so it provides income and growth potential lsquoThe trust has outperformed its bench-mark recently and we expect this to continuersquo says McAdam
Finsbury Growth amp Income TrustPeter Hewitt nominates Finsbury Growth amp Income Trust on the basis of its strong short- and long-term performance Manager Nick Train seeks out the highest-quality companies to hold long term The portfolio is dominated by companies Train expects to have longevity such as Diageo Unilever and Heineken lsquoThe manager looks for strong cash gen-eration and dividend growth which he believes are undervalued by the stock marketrsquo Hewitt says
RIT Capital PartnersThis multi-asset trust selected by John Newlands is the flagship financial vehicle for its chairman Lord Jacob Rothschild and his family lsquoGiven the uncertainty in the world it is no bad thing to be diversified both globally and across a range of asset classes RIT is a global growth trust that offers a combination of these benefitsrsquo Newlands says
His enthusiasm is bolstered by RITrsquos current relatively wide discount which reflects disap-pointment among investors that it was rather too cautious over the past two or three years
Perpetual Income amp Growth Trust This trust is classified as a member of the AIC UK growth and income sector but its yield tends to be below the sector average because manager Mark Barnett is more interested in income growth than immediate income Tim Cockerill classifies it as a total return trust and makes it his solid growth choice Barnett has secured excellent long-term returns dur-ing his 15 years at the helm
HIGHER-RISK GROWTHLazard Emerging MarketsMick Gilligan believes the investment case for emerging market equi-ties remains strong He says lsquoEquity markets in emerging regions are trading at their widest price-to-earnings discount to developed markets since 2006 We believe many well-capitalised businesses that have shown strong financial discipline should gener-ate good profitsrsquo The Lazard Emerging Markets fund focuses on such businesses
Rathbone Global OpportunitiesThis go-almost-anywhere bottom-up thorough stockpicking fund looks for undiscovered gems Rob Burdett fund manager at Thames River believes manager James Thomson strikes the
KEY FACTS ABOUT GROWTH FUND TIPS
Mininv pound
Ongoing Charges
1-yearreturn
Sectorrank
SOLID GROWTHBaillie Gifford Global Discovery 1000 086 5920 2248CF Lindsell Train UK Equity ndash 080 2910 53271Cazenove UK Opportunities 1000 082 3210 40271 HIGHER-RISK GROWTHInvestec Global Energy 1000 087 1420 40206Lazard Emerging Markets 2000 161 320 1668Rathbone Global Opportunities 1000 082 2150 111248 SPECULATIVE GROWTHAllianz BRIC Stars 500 122 -120 134206Liontrust Special Situations 1000 114 1450 251271MampG Recovery 500 096 1330 264271Note Ongoing charges figure refers to the least expensive retail share class Source Financial Express and companies websites as at 3 December 2013
KEY FACTS ABOUT THE TRUSTS TIPPED FOR GROWTH
Shareprice
p
Discprem to NAV
Netyield
Gearing
Net asset valuetotal return after
1 year
3 years
5 years
SOLID GROWTHFinsbury Growth amp Income 5010 (+) 12 21 50 305 767 2038Perpetual Income amp Growth 3686 10 32 120 346 714 1407RIT Capital Partners 12480 105 11 50 210 225 591Securities Trust of Scotland 1469 (+) 31 32 40 192 460 1132 HIGHER-RISK GROWTHBiotech Growth Trust 4335 72 00 70 582 1723 2968Fidelity Chinese Special Sits 1062 65 09 210 433 02 ndashGraphite Enterprise Trust 5690 170 09 -90 167 442 405Schroder Asia Pacific 2730 92 14 -20 08 201 1779 SPECULATIVE GROWTHBaker Steel Resources 470 331 00 10 -57 -137 740Hansa Trust A 8600 243 23 10 142 69 947Impax Environmental Markets 1463 112 06 -20 350 285 921Standard Life Eq Inc subscription 1070 ndash 00 3700 ndash ndash ndashNotes NAV = net asset value Annualised All data as at 1 December Source Numis Securities
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
MARK BARNETT HAS SECURED
EXCELLENT RETURNSTim Cockerill
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
inspired | March 2014 23PB March 2014 | inspired
FUNDSANDTRUSTS
right balance between taking calculated risks for high returns and investing in defensive holdings Burdett says lsquoHe likes companies undertaking gentle innovation ndash moving online for example ndash rather than game changers which have more potential to go wrongrsquo Investec Global EnergyThis fund invests in companies that produce energy and provide services to the energy sector Fund managers Tom Nelson and Charles Whall believe the consensus view on future oil prices anticipates weak demand and growing supply from US shale oil But they demur as does Tony Yarrow at Wise Investment He says lsquoOil is harder to extract from shale than gas is while demand for oil is growing as economies recover A higher oil price feeds straight through to the companiesrsquo profitsrsquo
Biotech Growth TrustPeter Hewitt favours Biotech Growth Trust which has achieved scorching gains recently ndash up 172 per cent over three years to 1 December 2013
It is managed in New York by Orbimed a specialist healthcare and biotechnology investor with $7 bil-lion (pound42 billion) under management It offers exposure to a mix of large and profitable biotech companies along-side emerging businesses Most of its holdings are US-based and they have
benefited from a much more positive approach by the Federal Drug Authority ndash new drug approvals in 2010 were the highest for 10 years
Graphite Enterprise TrustAndrew McHattie contends that just one sector offers great value private equity lsquoThese trusts were hammered in the credit crisis and discounts widened to extreme levelsrsquo he says
His selection is Graphite Enterprise Trust Its discount to net asset value remains at a level that rings alarm bells in most other sectors but it has a strong track record and a relatively mature port-folio of shares he expects to rise in value
Fidelity Chinese Special SituationslsquoWith Chinese equities looking cheap the long-term outlook for investing in China is positiversquo Cockerill says lsquoThis fund invests in medium and small caps where high growth can be achieved New manager Dale Nicholls is well qualified and the combination of Fidelity manager experience and China is compelling in the long termrsquo
Scottish Oriental Smaller Companies Trust This trust is favoured by McAdam The invest-ment team identifies quality companies offering sustainable predictable growth lsquoThe trust may underperform if the market rises strongly but the teamrsquos enviable track record and experience should be respectedrsquo he says
Tim Cockerill is investment director at Rowan Dartington
RowanDartingtonhas20investmentadvisersbasedinsevenofficesacrossthesouthofEnglandIthaspound900millionunderman-
agementInvestmenttrustshavefeaturedinitsdiscretionaryandadvisoryportfoliosformanyyears
Peter Hewittis a member of FampC Asset Managementrsquos global equities team
HehasmanagedtheFampCManagedPortfolioTrustsinceApril2008aswellasitsforerunnerFampCManagedPortfolio
Servicesince2002HewasheadofUKequitiesatMurray
Johnstonefrom1981to1983beforejoiningIvoryampSime
Jean Mattersonis a partner and chief investment officer at Rossie House Investment Management
Shejoinedthefirmin1998after20yearswithassetmanagerStewartIvory
BasedinEdinburghsheisoneoffiveinvestment
professionalsmanagingaroundpound300mil-lionallonadiscretionarybasisAroundhalfisininvestmenttrusts
Robin McAdamjoined Brooks MacDonald Asset Management in 2009 from Adam amp Company Investment Management
Hehas24yearsrsquoexperi-encemanagingprivateclientportfoliosandheadsBMrsquosEdinburghbranch
Thefirmhaspound537billionunderdiscretionarymanagementinbespokeandmanagedportfolios
Andrew McHattieis head of The McHattie Group
McHattieGroupisanauthorisedfirmthatpublishesspecialistinvestmentnewsletters
McHattiehasbeentheeditorofInvestmentTrustNewslettersince1996(wwwtipsheetscouk)andoffersafreeservicecalledthelsquoitlistrsquo(wwwtheitlistcouk)ThecompanyhasaFacebookpage(wwwfacebookcominvestmenttrusts)
John Newlandsis responsible for investment trust research at Brewin Dolphin
Heissupportedbyfouranalystswhocoverspecificsectorsresearchingopen-andclosed-endedfunds
BrewinDolphinhas35officesaroundtheUKandChannelIslandsandmanagespound28billionofwhichpound39billionisininvestmenttrusts
TrusttipstersOursixexpertsrevealtheirtopfundpicks
inspired | March 2014 PB24 March 2014 | inspired
FUNDSAND
TRUSTS
One in twelve goes free on your next golf break plus every golfer receives a free pint
12thmansagimme
Book online at MarriottGolfcouk
Offer is only valid on residential golf bookings booked during the promotional dates For every 11 players booked the 12th player will be free of charge Rates are per person per night based on 2 people sharing a twindouble room and include dinner bed amp breakfast Bookings must be made by one named player and separate bookings will not qualify Each residential player aged 18 and over will receive a voucher entitling them to a complimentary pint
of Beckrsquos or Boddingtons Offer is valid on bookings made via 3rd parties Offer is available on 1 night 2 rounds or 2 night 3 rounds and excludes Sunday Driver Maximum of 2 night stay and 2 people per room Day of week availability may vary based on location Limited number of rooms may be available This offer applies to new bookings only at Marriott Hotel amp Country Clubs and offer courses and tee times are subject to availability Offer cannot
be used in conjunction with any other promotion Course terms and conditions apply Advance reservations required Book between 17th February and 29th June 2014 for stays between 4th April and 29th September 2014
The SIPP thatrsquos
fair and square
We believe in straightforward investing Thatrsquos why we donrsquot nibble at your SIPP with percentage fees For just pound144 per year you can open a SIPP and add an ISA for free After that itrsquos just pound10 to buy or sell a wide range of investments including shares funds bonds and gilts Open an account today and if you transfer your existing SIPP wersquoll give you up to pound240 as a thank you (terms apply) We believe thatrsquos fair and square
The value of investments and any income from them can fall as well as rise so you could get back less than you invest Tax treatment depends on your individual circumstances and may be subject to change If in any doubt please seek advice
iiicouksipp
Interactive Investor Trading Limited trading as ldquoInteractive Investorrdquo is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority Registered Office Standon House 21 Mansell Street London E1 8AA Tel 0845 200 3637 Registered in England with Company Registration number 3699618
SPECULATIVE GROWTHMampG RecoveryDennehy says manager Tom Dobell backs his convictions engages with companies he invests in and has delivered long-term outperformance lsquoDobellrsquos MampG Recovery fund has a clear value-style process and management stability It invests in a wide range of firms that are out of favour or in difficulty or whose prospects are not fully rec-ognised by the marketrsquo he says
Liontrust Special SituationsHusselbee says Liontrustrsquos Anthony Cross and Julian Fosh have their own unique philosophy He adds lsquoThey look for characteristics in a company that its competitors find difficult to replicate such as intellectual property or distribution channelsrsquo
Allianz Bric StarsThis fund aims for capital growth in the long term by investing mainly in Brazil Russia India and China Haynes says investors have shunned these markets recently and valuations fallen He adds lsquoFor investors looking for a recovery story this fund is worth considerationrsquo
Standard Life Equity Income subscription shareMcHattie says warrant and subscription shares are widely ignored creating opportunities for those who understand them He favours the subscrip-tion shares of Standard Life Equity Income which can be exercised at 320p a share up to the end of December 2016 lsquoThey offer gearing of 37 times and if the ordinary shares grow by more than 28 per cent a year between now and the end of 2016 the subscription shares ought to outperformrsquo
Impax Environmental MarketsMcAdam likes this trust It invests in companies seeking to provide cleaner or more-efficient energy as well as water and waste solutions to the growing problems faced by authorities around the world It offers exposure to a rapidly changing marketplace as well as to socially responsible investments
Hansa TrustJohn Newlands sees potential in the A shares of Hansa Trust which languish at a discount of more than 25 per cent He says that whereas the trustrsquos portfolio appears skewed with a third of its assets in Ocean Wilsons there is actually plenty of diversification because Ocean Wilsons has an investment portfolio that stands at a discount to underlying value lsquoOne day an attractive bid [may] be made for Ocean Wilsons that will enhance Hansarsquos NAV and sim-plify its capital structure all to the good of its market ratingrsquo Newlands says
Baker Steel Resources TrustJean Matterson hopes for good returns from this trust shares in which trade on a near 30 per cent discount lsquoIt has not had an easy run of late but we believe the underlying assets are attractive and that the mining projects in the companyrsquos portfo-lio will continue to progressrsquo she says
Prospects have improved for biotechs (left) while growing interest in sustain-able energy has boosted Impax
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
AHIGHEROILPRICEFEEDSSTRAIGHT
THROUGHTOPROFITSTony Yarrow
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
inspired | March 2014 27PB March 2014 | inspired
FUNDSANDTRUSTS
The world of funds and trusts is a confusing place with over 2300 funds and more than 300 investment trusts to choose from
Money Observerrsquos Rated Funds system narrows down the playing field to help you decide which funds and investment trusts might be best for you
Our team of experts constantly monitor the marketplace rating those funds that have delivered consistently good returns However you should be aware that there is no guarantee this performance will be repeated
With our comparison tool you can filter by whatrsquos important to you compare up to four funds and trusts side-by-side as well as view factsheets
COMPAREMONEY OBSERVER RATED FUNDS
VISIT MONEYOBSERVERCOMCOMPAREFUNDS AND LOOK OUT FOR THE RATED FUND STAMP
had spare cash or I were start-ing afresh The companies in the add category are high qual-ity judging by the strategies they follow and their finan-cial strength and are probably undervalued
Irsquom more likely to eject or reduce holdings in companies in the watch and specula-tive categories These shares are more risky either because they have risen greatly in price or because their prospects are more uncertain than usual I may think the risk is worth tak-ing but I am prepared to act should that calculation change
Every decision to increase a portfolio holding must be weighed against the potential of new candidates drawn from all companies listed in the UK and corralled into another live spreadsheet the Share Sleuth watchlist When I add a share to the watchlist or trade a share in the portfolio I explain this in the Share Sleuth blog
ccumulating income and capital gains in an index tracking fund is inexpensive takes little effort and all but guarantees an
average return so it should be the default investment for a lazy equity investor saving for the long term
To justify the work of decid-ing which shares to buy and sell and the effort and cost of placing trades an active investor must do better Consequently the first objective of the active Share Sleuth portfolio is to beat passive investments after costs over the long-term which in practice means any five-year period The second objective is to win this tussle against an unknowing and unthinking opponent transparently
At the heart of the portfolio is an online spreadsheet The first page shows the constitu-ent shares arranged into three categories lsquoaddrsquo lsquowatchrsquo and lsquospeculativersquo The categorisa-tion is updated daily based on live data in subsequent spread-sheets each of which contains a financial model for a particular company
The Share Sleuth portfo-lio shows the holdings I would add to the portfolio today if it
Share Sleuth is a simulation no money changes hands But I use prices quoted by a bro-ker and adjust the accounting to factor in notional broker fees and stamp duty However I lsquoeat my own cookingrsquo by investing my self-invested personal pen-sion in Share Sleuth companies
No doubt you are wonder-ing how the portfolio is doing Share Sleuthrsquos five-year anni-versary judgement day is on 9 September this year and I will not prejudge it now
Short-term performance watching and the knee-jerk trad-ing it encourages is I think one reason why many inves-tors fail My focus is on ensuring the portfolio remains invested in good companies at reasona-ble prices
You can see a live perfor-mance table and learn what I think of every share in the port-folio and which companies I might add to it at wwwiiicoukZkr
SHAREBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIOR
The Share Sleuth portfolio has been carefully devised to show investors how to find good companies at cheap prices and also prove the value of its investment approach says Richard Beddard
Richard Beddard an editor at Interactive Investor since 1999 has managed the Share Sleuth portfolio since 9 September 2009 Hersquos a columnist at Money Observer magazine and a private investor
AMY FOCUS IS ON ENSURING THAT THE PORTFOLIO IS INVESTED IN GOOD FIRMS AT DECENT PRICES
inspired | March 2014 29PB March 2014 | inspired
SHARESLEUTH
iiicoukstraightforward
Interactive Investor Trading Limited trading as ldquoInteractive Investorrdquo is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority Registered Office Standon House 21 Mansell Street London E1 8AA Tel 0845 200 3637 Registered in England with Company Registration number 3699618
We believe in being straightforwardthis is why we donrsquot nibble at your investment by charging percentage fees Find out how this could affect your investment performance at iiicoukstraightforward
If you transfer to us you can even get up to pound240 as a thank you (terms apply)
Donrsquot forget the value of investments and any income from them can fall as well as rise so you could get back less than you invest If in any doubt please seek advice
7784_II_QI_MONEY_OBSERVER_210x297_AWindd 1 16012014 1224
Take a closer look
at your investment
options
Discover a straightforward way to understand everything from ISAs to SIPPs and OEICs to Investment Trusts
Investing for generationsEver feel yoursquod like to know more about investing Wersquove been helping people build their wealth for over 125 years Our guide lsquoMaking sense of the investment universersquo is just one of the resources yoursquoll find on our Investment Focus hub
As well as clear simple guides therersquos a wealth of information and expert opinion all designed to help you take control of your investments Please remember that investments can go down as well as up and investors may get back less than they originally invested
Introducing your free online source of information help and expert opinion
investment-focuscouk
This has been approved as a financial promotion by Alliance Trust Investments Limited for the purpose of Section 21 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 Alliance Trust Investments Limited is a subsidiary of Alliance Trust PLC and is registered in Scotland No SC330862 registered office 8 West Marketgait Dundee DD1 1QN is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority firm reference number 479764 Alliance Trust Investments gives no financial or investment advice
TAX YEAR ENDS APRIL 5TH ndash learn more about
your options now
Investment Focus Smart Insight from Alliance Trust
Yoursquove spoken Wersquove listened Introducing your free online source of information help and expert opinion
Based on real insight we have launched a new website which focuses on investment education
We believe that we are uniquely positioned to provide this hub of information based on the reputation we have built for trust and transparency over the last 125 years
We will be publishing new content over the next few months focusing on specific themes
bull Investing from scratch
bull Products in a portfolio
bull Global diversification
bull Planning for your familyrsquos future
bull Retirement planning
bull Getting more information
There is a generation of future investors out there who have been brought up in an era of economic turmoil and banking crises which has led to disillusionment and a lack of trust in our sector and the services we offer Despite it being more important than ever for investors to take control of their financial situation this new generation of savers lacks the basic knowledge and understanding to make these very important long-term decisions
Our goal is to develop a useful resource with contributions from third-parties as well as the team at Alliance Trust which offers insights into the various life stages and challenges faced and which can be built upon and adapted to meet savers needs in the long term
Katherine Garrett-Cox CBE Chief Executive Alliance Trust PLC
ldquo
rdquo
There are too many products to make an informed decision
I donrsquot know whereto go for reliable
information
investment-focuscouk
Yoursquoll naturally take a keen interest in the performance of your investments But itrsquos just as important to understand the fees you will be paying as they can have a significant impact on the returns you achieve Knowing what the different types of costs mean and exactly what they consist of can prove rewarding
Itrsquos worth remembering that for every fee you pay (whether it is a or flat fee) your investment needs to grow by at least the same amount just to stay ahead of the game It sounds obvious but itrsquos easy to forget Broadly speaking there are three types of fees fund fees platform fees and fees for a financial adviser You can either invest directly into a fund and pay the associated fees or you can invest via a platform provider (some of which are referred to as wrap platforms others as fund supermarkets) This is a service that lets you manage and review all your investments online in one place As a general rule fund fees are lower when
bought through a platform than if you buy direct You can invest through a platform on either an execution only basis where the investor assesses the risks and makes their own investment decisions or on an advised basis
Learn more about fund platform and financial advice fees
What can you expect to seeOver the next two pages we have provided a sneak preview of just some of the information you will find on the Investment Focus hub We will be updating the site regularly so make sure you sign up for our email alerts to be informed when new topics are published
Everything you need to know about fees
Risk informationInvestments can go down as well as up You may get back less than you originally invested
Alliance Trust does not give advice You need to ensure you understand the risks and commitments before investing If you are unsure you should consult a Financial Adviser before investing
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
For the vast majority of investors the simplest cheapest and most pragmatic way to invest is through pooled funds
Sometimes called managed funds unit trusts or even Open-Ended Investment Companies (or OEICs) these are designed to give ordinary savers access to a diverse range of investments
One of the principles of investment is that diversification helps reduce risk But it is expensive and time consuming for ordinary savers to buy shares of 80 to 100 different companies and keep track of how each is performing
But with a managed fund you are pooling your money with other investors enabling the fund manager to buy a wide range of assets
Investors have the option of buying an actively managed or passive fund With an active fund the manager selects and then monitors these stocks for investors in a bid to maximise returns
In contrast a passive fund will simply follow a stock market index such as the FTSE100 up and down
Having a manager at the helm can be beneficial in a market downturn as they can take a more defensive approach buying shares that are better able to hold their value or in some cases switching to bonds or cash instead to help preserve investorsrsquo capital Managers can also research individual companies and markets and have access to forecasts and economic data that isnrsquot always available to individuals
Learn more about investing for growth or income exploring different investment remits how to invest and keeping track of your investments
Understanding funds Written by Emma Simon Personal Finance Journalist
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
What are Investment TrustsInvestment Trusts are investment vehicles that are listed on the London Stock Exchange and which invest in shares and other securities They pool together investorsrsquo money and delegate responsibility to a professional fund manager to invest in a range of companies from different sectors and regions across the world They were designed for ldquothe investor of moderate meansrdquo
A brief historybull The first Investment Trust was launched by Foreign amp
Colonial in 1868
bull Investment Trusts made it possible for individual investors to gain diversified exposure to global stock markets
bull Many Investment Trusts were formed in Scotland including Alliance Trust PLC which was formed over 125 years ago
A guide to Investment Trusts
Learn more about Investment Trusts their main features and why you should consider them for your portfolio
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
Alliance Trust is an investment and savings business with over 125 year history of building investor wealth We offer our shareholders clients and customers a unique portfolio of products and services These range from a renowned global investment trust to an innovative range of investment strategies and funds and a multi-award winning investment platform where investors can host their ISAs SIPPs or investment accounts Our mission is to provide products and services that help to ensure a more sustainable financial future for generations of investors
Alliance Trust PLC is one of the largest generalist investment trusts by market value listed on the London Stock Exchange and is the parent company to two wholly-owned subsidiaries Alliance Trust Savings and Alliance Trust Investments
The fact that many of us make irrational decisions when it comes to our finances is widely debated and is often referred to as behavioural finance In this short video we talk to Professor Phyl Johnson Consultant Psychologist and Visiting Professor of Executive Education at Strathclyde Business School about why this is and more importantly about what we can do as individuals to avoid it
About us Alliance Trust Investments is a specialist fund management business offering a range of products and services focusing on global equities fixed income and sustainable investing with an emphasis on specialist investment solutions
Alliance Trust Savings is one of the UKrsquos leading financial services providers for private investors offering customers the information and services they need to manage their investments in a way that works for them
Risk informationInvestments can go down as well as up You may get back less than you originally invested
Alliance Trust does not give advice You need to ensure you understand the risks and commitments before investing If you are unsure you should consult a Financial Adviser before investing
Unusually for a company of our size around 70 of shares
in Alliance Trust are held by private
individuals
Nobodyrsquos perfect why we all make irrational decisions
Inflation by ageThis monthrsquos official inflation report showed that the headline rate of inflation fell from 20 to 19 Our Economic Research Team analyse this data on a monthly basis to see how inflation rates affect different age groups In February 2014 the summary highlights include
bull The over 75s and the under 30s face the highest rate of inflation in January at 21
bull The over 75s suffered the highest rate of inflation for the whole of 2013 and this trend continues into 2014 as they spend a larger share of their budgets on basic goods such as gas and electricity
bull The 65 to 74 year olds have faced the lowest rate of inflation in 11 out of the last 12 months thanks to lower inflation in food petrol and package holidays
Learn more about how inflation might affect you
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
You can also sign up for our regular email alerts to be informed when new topics are published by clicking here
Wersquove been bringing clarity to investment for over 125 years
Investing for generationsWhen it comes to investing therersquos no substitute for experience And at Alliance Trust wersquove been helping people invest since 1888 Our new Investment Focus hub is full of online information and expert opinion It aims to provide real insight to help you take control of your investments
Over the next few weeks the hub will build to cover everything from taking your first steps to diversifying worldwide Please remember that investments can go down as well as up and investors may get back less than they originally invested For valuable insight from Alliance Trust visit Investment Focus today
Introducing your free online source of information help and expert opinion
investment-focuscouk
This has been approved as a financial promotion by Alliance Trust Investments Limited for the purpose of Section 21 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 Alliance Trust Investments Limited is a subsidiary of Alliance Trust PLC and is registered in Scotland No SC330862 registered office 8 West Marketgait Dundee DD1 1QN is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority firm reference number 479764 Alliance Trust Investments gives no financial or investment advice
TAX YEAR ENDS APRIL 5TH ndash learn more about
your options now
Change the way you think about stocks reap the rewardsBy Edward Page Croft CEO Stockopediacom
I remember so clearly the day when I picked my first stock for clients Managing $2 billion (pound12 billion) in assets across 100 portfolios for high-net-wealth private investors is no easy task As I was to learn when you are green
and straight out of university itrsquos even harder The stock in question was on the Goldman
Sachs US lsquobuyrsquo list It had the potential to be hot Dotcoms were bubbling It was an internet stock in education services and cheap It seemed like it had everything but we needed to get in One day it fell out of bed Down 50 per cent on no news
Irsquod been trained to call the analyst in situations like this He reiterated his buy stance Double buy On my insistence we put almost $20 million of client money into the stock within an hour The next day it fell another 50 per cent on
bad newsThere is nothing more
painful than a loss but you never forget the first
one It immedi-ately forced me to reconsider every-thing I thought I
knew From that day on I vowed to never trust anotherrsquos opin-ion and find a better
way through the market minefieldIrsquove now spent 15 years
reassessing common
wisdom about stock selection No stone has gone unturned in the quest to understand the behav-ioural flaws that lead to poor decision making But there is one finding that crops up again and again in all the research that hurts stock market investors most We as investors are suckers for stories
A 1990rsquos study of 60000 private investor broker-age accounts by Kumar and Goetzmann found that 70 per cent of portfolios held less than four stocks
The stocks held all tended to be in the same sector highly correlated and risky Think internet stocks in the 1990s China in the 2000s or resource stocks more recently The grand theme sucks everyone in The outcome rarely dif-fers Kumar and Goetzmann showed that across these
60000 accounts the average underperformance was of the order of 4 per cent annually
This massive failing across private inves-tor portfolios is repeated in nearly every market cycle and is bound to happen again in this one Benjamin Graham the great father of value invest-ing and tutor of Warren Buffett once wrote
lsquoIn the short run the stock market is a vot-ing machine but in the long run it is a weighing machinersquo
ADVERTISING FEATURE
IN THE SHORT RUN THE STOCK MARKET IS A VOTING MACHINE BUT IN THE LONG RUN IT IS A WEIGHING MACHINEBenjamin Graham
What he meant was that while stories may drive stocks in the short run statistics drive stocks in the long run When statistics reassert them-selves it can cause huge damage to investors punting their portfolios on stories
It doesnrsquot take much to learn how basic statis-tics can guide your portfolio into winning stock selections though very few seem to understand how to do it Benjamin Graham as his life wore on gradually came to the conclusion that building portfolios according to rules-based processes was a far more appropriate methodology for the typi-cal investor
lsquoTry to buy groups of stocks that meet some sim-ple criterion for being undervalued ndash regardless of
the industry and with very little attention to the indi-vidual company It seems too good to be true but all I can tell you after 60 years of experience is it seems to stand up under any of the tests I would make uprsquo
My time is now dedi-cated to helping investors practice exactly what Benjamin Graham and many other investment luminaries have preached rules-based investing For the majority itrsquos a better process and leads to bet-ter outcomes Our work at
Stockopediacom where we crunch fundamental and technical data in order to model and track the investment processes of the great investors bears this out
Portfolios composed with stocks showing the right statistical mix of value quality and momen-tum have significantly outperformed Rules-based investing beats the market But more importantly it helps promote the emotional detachment needed to stop investors from beating themselves
Irsquoll never buy a stock on a punt or an analystrsquos tip again Perhaps neither should you
For a two week free trial and pound50 discount to Stockopedia UK Premium CLICK HERE
TANK MCM A N U F A C T U R E M O V E M E N T 1 9 0 4 M C
SINCE THE CREATION OF THE FIRST TANK WATCH IN 1917 THE TANK COLLECTION HAS CONTINUED
TO BREAK NEW GROUND THE INCREDIBLY REFINED AESTHETICS OF THE NEW TANK MC WATCH ARE FITTED
WITH THE CARTIER MANUFACTURE MOVEMENT 1904 MC ESTABLISHED IN 1847 CARTIER CREATES
EXCEPTIONAL WATCHES THAT COMBINE DARING DESIGN AND WATCHMAKING SAVOIR-FAIRE
EXPLORE AND SHOP WWWCARTIERCOUK - (020) 3147 4850
Conn
oisseur
Conn
oisseur
Conn
oisseur
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Conn
oisseur
Inside
Conn
oisseur
TO THE CONNOISSEUR section of Inspired a showcase for the finer things in life for those who truly appreciate them
Enjoying the fruits of your labour away from the relentless demands of our age poses its own challenges and quandaries Would a tropical idyll restore your ebbing energy levels Might a break based around hair-raising activities revive them even more effectively Perhaps reawakening a dormant passion for fine wines or luxury cars would be the most enjoyable reward for your industry
A luxury tropical holiday is probably near the top of most peoplersquos wish lists We take a look at some of the most tantalising options
The arrival of BMWrsquos new super coupe is featured on page 50 BMW aficionados and petrolheads alike are certain to be won over by its head-turning looks and mouthwatering specs
Gems come under the microscope on page 53 A rare coloured diamond can be a joy as well an appreciating asset
Wine is on the menu on page 54 where we explore the charms of Argentinian Malbec
Watches are often treasured objects and the best can turn out to be shrewd investments We look at the secondary watch market and the growth of online retailing on page 58 Enjoy
Welcome
40 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
FIVE TOP PRIVATE ISLAND RETREATSIslandFantasy
Top-rated resorts and hotels offer a variety of temptations and services to impress even the most discerning tastes but there is no better way to escape the rigours and
stresses of daily life than cutting off from the outside world while still enjoying lavish service
in the pinnacle of all resorts the private islandThere are thousands of small islands around
the world but only a few have chosen to cater to the most discriminating travellers seeking a rarified yet perfect world of quiet and relaxed luxury We look at five of the worldrsquos top private islands destinations where your holiday is certain to be an exceptional experience
TRAVEL
Necker Island is owned by Sir Richard Branson and guests stay in his home The island has become a popular des-tination for some of the worldrsquos most prominent figures as a hideaway from lifersquos stresses and strains
Because Necker Island is a resi-dence and not a resort guests who rent the island are treated as owners and catered for in a unique way
The74-acre island is fringed with beautiful white beaches and surrounded by turquoise waters and coral reefs It boasts every resort-type amenity guests can spend their days being pampered in the spa explor-ing underwater reefs in a submarine lounging by the pool bar or swimming in one of the worldrsquos most elab-orate private pools
Haute cuisine is a highlight for most guests ndash rates are fully inclusive of all food and drink A team of chefs creates bespoke menus featuring anything from lobster and caviar to a Sunday roast And because Necker is a home first and a resort second guests decide whether dining will be formal or informal inside or outside themed or traditional
The bar is stocked with international wines top-quality spirits and beers and a world renowned house champagne while special orders can be shipped in at no extra charge ndash unless an item is particularly rare Every service and amenity is available around the clock and guests are encouraged to treat Necker as their own home
As youLike it
NECKER ISLAND
42 March 2014 | inspired
Unalloyed luxury and an impressive range of amenities make Necker one of the most desirable island destinations in the world
The Jumby Bay resort which is only accessible by boat from Antigua is a Caribbean hideaway owned by Rosewood Resorts It is perfect for those seeking either relaxation or spirited adventure
You can rent the island resort entirely for your stay or simply take a room Those opt-ing for exclusive use of the island will have the resortrsquos two pools three tennis courts fitness centre croquet field and putting green to themselves
A wide range of water sports are available and guests can indulge in as much adventure or relaxation as they want during their stay The resort is ideal for large family
reunions or corporate retreats ndash 40 guest rooms and suites are available on the island
Executive chef Sylvain Hervochon celebrates gastron-omy ndash and mixology (cocktail making) ndash with casual elegance by creating Caribbean-style dishes inspired by fresh local ingredients and incorporating international influences
Jumby Bayrsquos rates start at pound150000 for four nights based on double occupancy between May and December Visit wwwrosewoodhotelscomenjumby-bay-antigua for further information
Fine BalanceCaribbean ambiance international sophistication and adventurous activities make Jumby Bay a compelling choice
JUMBY BAY
Just laze by the pool or venture beyond to dive in the turquoise waters of the South Pacific among stunning reefs and a dazzling array of marine creatures
Isle of PlentyT
he private island of Laucala in the South Pacific is a 3500-acre site in a picturesque rainforest-laced land-scape Enchanting deserted beaches nestle among coconut plantations organic farms and lush green vol-canic mountains
The resort offers an outstanding level of refined lux-ury as well as a compelling collection of sporting and cultural activities diving among iridescent marine life in the warm turquoise waters guided rainforest tours horse riding surfing and golfing on the 18-hole cham-pionship course The island is a superb choice for an escape from civilization whether you want an adven-ture in the wild or simply to relax in one of Laucalarsquos five restaurants and bars
Rates are available on request Visit wwwlaucalacom for further details
TRAVEL
LAUCALA ISLAND
inspired | March 2014 4544 March 2014 | inspired
Lush green surroundings sensitive development and beautiful beaches help Laucala island conjure up a complete South Seas experience
Isle of Plenty
inspired | March 2014 4544 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
inspired | March 2014 4746 March 2014 | inspired
Slow LaneSlow
Pulau Joyo is a seductively serene environment of pristine beaches surrounded by clear blue sea in Indonesiarsquos Riau Archipelago Accessible from Singapore or Bintan Pulau Joyo is a true castaway island offering every resort luxury
amid untouched natural beauty Pulau Joyo is famous for its remarkable sunsets and
brightly star-lit sky The resort can host 28 guests and 20 staff are on hand to cater to their every need Guests stay in open driftwood lsquopalacesrsquo that lsquoallow the sea inrsquoDespite its desert island appeal Pulau Joyo offers every modern convenience a range of adrenaline boosting activities and more relaxing options such as spa treatments and massages
The resortrsquos cuisine focuses on western and Indonesian dishes Meals are usually served buffet style and feature grilled fish squid prawns beef and chicken as well as many curry dishes Side dishes include fresh garden salads pasta salads boiled or steamed leafy greens and grilled aubergine (an island favourite) Prawn and tofu kebabs appear from time to time as does satay The chef will often provide a selection of freshly picked fruit and homemade cakes for dessert Itrsquos worth noting that the management will not serve pork or shellfish on this private island
Pulau Joyo may not be as refined as some islands but itrsquos an excellent choice for those who want a more casual laidback island experience that replicates the castaway experience like perhaps no other
Rates start at pound1913 a night More information is available at wwwpulau-joyocom
Wannabe castaways may find Pulau Joyorsquos purer simpler take on the luxury island experience more to their taste
PULAU JOYO
inspired | March 2014 4746 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
In the Fijian island paradise of Dolphin Island a small army of staff await to meet guestsrsquo every need On arriving ndash by boat helicopter or float plane ndash visitors are invariably struck by the beauty of the island and the luxuri-ous accommodation that awaits them amid 14-acres of lush tropical gardens
Three traditional palm-thatched bures individually designed by world renowned interior designer Virginia Fisher sit in an elevated position around the resortrsquos infinity pool
Guests are brought fresh tropical fish to choose each day that are cooked to perfec-
tion within hours of leaving the water The culinary focus is on
organic produce and ingredi-ents unique to Fijian cuisine but meals are tailored to guestsrsquo personal tastes Papayas man-goes bananas and pineapples
are plentiful throughout the day When it comes to recreation the
14-acre island is an expansive play-ground offering a diverse range of watersports as well as diving opportunities on Fijirsquos coral reefs
Rates start at pound720 a night More information is avail-able at wwwdolphinislandfijicom
Fijian Paean
Traditional features modern comforts and excellent facilities make for a harmonious whole on this Fijian island
DOLPHIN ISLAND
48 March 2014 | inspired
Pictured slightly larger than actual size
Big Pilotrsquos Watch Ref 5009
Your wrist never felt this big before The
case of the top model in the IWC Pilotrsquos
Watch range is a gigantic 462 mm in diashy
meter And the technology inside it is
even more impressive the largest IWCshy
manufactured automatic movement with
its Pellaton winding system is protected
against strong magnetic fields by a softshy
iron inner case And needless to say enshy
vious glances iwc engineered for men
Mechanical IWCshymanufactured movement Pellaton
automatic winding system 7shyday power reserve
with display (figure) Date display Softshyiron inner
case for protection against magnetic fields
Antireflective sapphire glass Watershyresistant 6 bar
Stainless steel
IWC Schaffhausen Switzerland iwccom The worldrsquos finest timepieces are exclusively available from selected watch specialists
For an illustrated catalogue or list of nationwide concessionaires please contact IWC UK Tel 0845 337 1868 Eshymail infoshyukiwccom
CARS
MunichLegend
50 March 2014 | inspired
BMW fanatics can open their eyes ndash the M4 has arrived
Most BMW aficionados are proba-bly pretty sad to see production of the M3 coupe ndash quite possibly the companyrsquos most noteworthy and celebrated model ndash end after almost 30 years Ever since the first wide-body E30 M3 saw the
light of day in 1985 drivers have loved the sporty coupe for its incredible balance intoxicating power and of course solid build quality
The model never got stale in all that time and always remained the poster child for the M division so itrsquos a lit-tle weird that BMW has apparently decided to axe it In truth though they havenrsquot really dropped the M3 The M3 sedan will continue to be produced in 2014 so all
is not lost Moreover BMW seems to be adopting a pat-tern of giving its sedans odd-numbered titles only and its coupes even-numbered titles only so the 4-Series and especially the M4 concept that debuted at Pebble Beach Monterey California will fill the gap left by the M3 Many people have been awaiting the new super coupe with great expectancy but can it fill in for the M3
The journalists who swarmed over the M4 concept at Pebble Beach were obviously much more interested in it than the somewhat predictable 428i that was also there Finished in an eye-catching colour called Aurum Dust (which actually looks a lot like the old M3rsquos Phoenix Yellow colour) the car presented in California may be a concept but typically BMW M cars donrsquot change much before they finally hit the showroom
MunichLegend
inspired | March 2014 51
CARS
52 March 2014 | inspired
From front to back the bodywork is manifestly differ-ent and much more aggressive looking than a standard 4-Series car It really looks to pretty much pick up where the E92E93 M3 coupe left off especially with its undeniably cool domed hood Wide wheel arches big wheels wrapped in low-profile tyres more than enough M badges and a well-executed double-bubble roof make the already underwhelming existing 4-Series coupe look even more pedestrian
Power for the new M4 is likely to come from a three-litre twin-turbo straight-six engine While the horsepower probably wonrsquot differ much from the M3rsquos old 4-litre V-8 it will generate more than 100lbft more in torque almost 400 in total With the M4 being a lighter 3300lb in weight the M4 promises to be an excit-ing worthy car A proper six-speed manual may be in the mix alongside the now obligatory dual clutch and paddles option
The best way to look at the M4 however it ends up is not as a new car but as a new and improved M3 thatrsquos just getting a new name The decision to rename the coupe is a strange one but thankfully BMW apparently felt the 3-Series coupe had made such an identity for itself that a new model was needed albeit in a slightly different incarnation
With BMW embarking on some new-ageish ideas such as its 1-Series ActiveE and the soon-to-arrive lsquoirsquo range of cars itrsquos nice to see the company also stick to classics such as the heart-stopping sports coupe even if the latest model does come with a new name
Seductive curves and racier performance make the BMW M4 a more than acceptable replacement for the M3 super coupe
SparklingForm Coloured diamonds are making their mark
One of the main factors that deter-mines the value of what we ordinarily think of as diamonds is their purity the degree to which col-our is absent in the gem However with coloured diamonds the extent to which they are saturated with
colour is a principal determinant of their valueColoured diamonds come in 12 basic colours more
than 90 secondary hues and nine intensity levels The depth of their colour is what really differentiates these diamonds from their colourless counterparts
Natural coloured diamonds are 10000 times rarer than typical colourless diamonds one of several rea-sons why they are treasured by the rich and famous yet remain unknown to most other people ndash despite hav-ing been around for centuries
Of course some colours are rarer than others Red violet and purple stones are as rare as the proverbial hensrsquo teeth while green and blue are also rare The most popular colours are pink and yellow (or canary) They also come in white grey orange black and lsquochame-leonrsquo form
A pinkie ring encrusted with a large coloured dia-mond has become a status symbol for men in Asia That little stone is an unregistered asset that could quickly be sold for millions of dollars should the need arise
Coloured diamonds are durable and never lose their sparkle or lustre so they are assets that can be enjoyed every day unlike stocks or bonds And they have proved to be fantastic investments having steadily appreciated in price with relatively little volatility for more than a decade They even held their own during the most recent financial crisis
Coloured diamonds are auctioned by reputable
auction houses such a Sothebyrsquos and Christiersquos where prices for large unique pink red blue or yellow stones can reach in excess of $2 million (pound12 million) a carat and other stones regularly sell for $1 million a carat
They are often bought by high-net-worth individu-als as an insurance policy Instead of stashing cash in undeclared bank accounts and potentially incurring the wrath of the authorities the wealthy can purchase some loose yellow diamonds to secure their future
Clearly coloured diamonds are much more than a magnificent indulgence
GEMS
inspired | March 2014 53PB March 2014 | inspired
WINE
Make the most of the deeply
satisfying Malbec wines emerging from Argentina
and perhaps even enjoy a return on a shrewd
investment says Ewan Lacey
Finding a red wine to enjoy in spring is a delicate balancing act The shock of seeing sunlight after a dark winter fosters in us a desire to drink some-thing refreshing while the still-cool temperatures demand something with comforting depth
Increasingly Malbec wines particularly those from Argentina provide a perfect solution to this quandary And while there are plenty of delicious wines for infor-mal occasions what is most interesting is the emergence of finer Malbec wines Some are so good they may well have ageing potential raising the intriguing possibility that the wine may one day become collectable
Malbec is the most popular wine among those aged 25-34 and is now becoming a fixture on most restaurant wine lists There are several reasons for its success the word Malbec is easy to pronounce the wine goes well with red meat the Malbec grape can be turned into wines that are both relatively easy to drink and packed with flavour and decent wines are available at reason-able prices Malbec is deep fruity and charming and it delivers instant pleasure ndash claret on a motorbike
The Malbec grape originated in France and it remains one of the permitted varieties used to make Bordeaux However it has gained prominence through the work of the post-junta Argentine wine industry
I recently had the pleasure of tasting some very fine Malbecs with Laura Catena managing director at the Catena Zapata winery and president of the International Wine and Spirit Competition She opened my
Mendoza Marvels
inspired | March 2014 55
WINE
eyes to the potential of this grape variety when handled with care
Laurarsquos family business makes a range of wines but the wine that truly astonished me was the Nicasia Vineyard Malbec 2006 The wine is perfumed with floral and fruit notes and it is smooth and soft at first Like all great wines it has many layers of flavour warm bursts of cherry and black-currant cede centre stage to deeper darker caramel and mocha notes and a touch of spice Therersquos an amazing depth of flavour and the finish is long and lingering Whatrsquos more at nearly eight years old it still has a slight purple tinge and tastes extremely fresh There is every indication that it will age beautifully for at least another decade
The winersquos character is heavily influenced by the alti-tude the grapes used to make it are grown at (1180m
above sea level) At this elevation the grapes ripen in bright sun but lsquorelaxrsquo during the cool evenings The fact that the wine is made in tiny quantities (eight barrels only) means every care can be taken during the winemak-ing process to ensure the wine is allowed to show its grown-up side The cost per bot-tle of pound70 is not insubstantial but neither is the wine
We cannot know whether these wines will ever become investments in the way the wines of Bordeaux have Whatrsquos cer-tain is that Malbec wines have a very rare quality a balance of finesse and power that
can delight wine lovers and linger in their memories
Ewan Lacey is a leading wine expert and general manager of the International Wine and Spirit Competition He has appeared on BBC television and radio as well as Channel 4 and written for the national press
Laura Catena is managing director at the Catena Zapata winery (above)
THE INTERNATIONAL WINE AND SPIRIT COMPETITIONThe International Wine and Spirit Competition has been the premier drinks competition in the world for 45 years Each year it receives and reviews thousands of wines and spirits and presents qual-ity awards to producers
More than anything the IWSC exists to help
people make better deci-sions particularly when buying wines and spirits An IWSC award on a bot-tle of wine is a guarantee
of quality backed not only by a rigorous and strin-gent judging process but also by the skill of the judges who are drawn from the ranks of masters of wine master distill-ers industry leaders and commentators
Each year the IWSC honours a leading figure
in the drinks industry with the presidency of the competition The current president is Laura Catena who succeeds a nota-ble line of predecessors including Prince Robert of Luxembourg winemakers Piero Antinori and Warren Winiarski and Baroness Philippine de Rothschild
56 March 2014 | inspired
LUXURY WATCHES
Time is preciousA
t a recent watch auc-tion in Geneva at Antiquorum ndash the worldrsquos premiere auc-tion house for modern and vintage time pieces ndash a Patek Philippe
pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon watch emerged as the auctionrsquos top lot and sold for 12 million Swiss francs (pound807000)
Unlike most of the timepieces sold at auctions outside Asia this particular Patek watch ndash the most complicated wristwatch the Swiss watchmaker has ever produced ndash was not a vintage model
That Geneva auction raised intriguing
1284Clocks with weights gears and regulators start to appear mostly with no dial to strike the important moments of daily life
Around 1410The mainspring is devel-oped Combined with the fusee this innovation makes possible the truly portable domestic clock
1492The mechanical watch appears simultaneously in Italy Germany and France
1675Christian Huygens invents the spiral balance spring
for watches significantly improving their accuracy
1704The first watch with jew-els is produced by French watchmaker de Beaufreacute
1714The British parliament offers pound20000 to who-ever can a find a method to determine longitude
1766Parliament publishes the rating results for John Harrisonrsquos H4 marine timekeeper Harrisonrsquos highly accurate marine clock solution to the problem of determining logitude wins him part of the pound20000 prize
1787Pierre-Freacutedeacuteric Ingold is born an important pio-neer in mechanised timepiece production and the use of interchangea-ble parts
1790Jacquet-Droz and Leschot manufactures a watch attached to a strap
1839Vacheron amp Constantin developes a full set of machine tools for manu-facturing its watches
1875Calcium sulphate is the first luminescent sub-stance to be used for numerals and hands
TIMEKEEPING MILESTONES
questions Are modern luxury timepieces every bit as appealing as the vintage watches that typically command top prices at auc-tion And does that Geneva auction tell us anything about the contemporary watch market as a whole
Julien Schaerer Antiquorumrsquos managing director in Geneva says top-quality vintage watches often appreciate in value over the long term But he urges buyers for whom appreciation is an important consideration to be cautious about purchasing contempo-rary watches
lsquoWatch price depreciation is the cost of ownership just as it is with a luxury carrsquo he says lsquoIf the value goes up then
58 March 2014 | inspired
1880The first water- resistant watch incorpo-rating a screwed case is produced by Genevan watchmaker Franccedilois Borgel
1889The first known patent for a wristwatch is filed in Bern Switzerland
1890Dialmaker A Beyeler invents a transfer press for applying numerals and letters to dials
1892Auguste Verneuil in France produces the first synthetic jewels to be used in watchmaking
1904Wens Wilsdorf launches large-scale production of a womenrsquos wristwatch
1924John Harwood files the
first Swiss patent for a self-winding wristwatch with a central oscillating weight
1925The first known wrist-watch with a perpetual calendar is manufactured using a pendant watch movement
1926Rolex creates the Oyster wristwatch with a water-resistant case and crown
1966The first quartz wrist-watch prototype is produced
1969The first quartz watch
with an LED display appears
1978Quartz watches overtake mechanical watches in popularity
2005Creation of the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie Seiko launches the spring drive Kinetic the first self-winding mechanical watch with an electro-magnetic escapement
A Patek Philippe pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon recently sold for pound807000
inspired | March 2014 59
online retailers from the comfort of your homeSince 2006 DM London has quietly estab-
lished a powerful presence for itself in the UK retail watch market with the acquisition of The Watch Hut and The Watch Gallery DM London chairman David Coleridge says the company has capitalised on the increasing willingness of buy-ers to purchase online
lsquoHaving decided that they would like to buy a watch for themselves or someone elsersquo he says lsquopeople start to do their research More often than not this starts online nowadays where they com-pare brands performance and functions
lsquoAs trust in the online marketplace has devel-oped many want to buy online because it is convenient and saves time Shopping online becomes a habit established sites build trust and awareness with customers which gives custom-ers the confidence to buy more expensive itemsrsquo
He adds lsquoOur challenge is to make the online environment as attractive informative and enjoy-able as a high street store Then customers will decide to spend onlinersquo
Coleridge believes a multi-channel approach is the way forward for retailers He says lsquoWithout doubt the future is multi-channel selling ndash a combination of direct selling on the internet and various forms of click and collect ndash combined with beautiful stores on the high street
Over the past few years demand for luxury watches (particularly contemporary models) has spiked sharply in Asia and according to some specialists emerging affluence in the
of course thatrsquos an added benefit However he adds lsquoPrice appreciation is still quite rare with modern watches There is some poten-tial for appreciation but probably only with ultra-limited editions A purchase has to be
seen as a medium- to long-term invest-ment One should buy a timepiece first out of love for the brand or [the watchrsquos] complicationrsquo
The watch brands that offer the greatest assurance of appreci-
ation include Cartier Patek Philippe Rolex Audemars
Piguet A Lange amp Sohne Breguet and Vacheron Constantin All enjoy views from the top of
the watchmaking hierarchy thanks to their longstand-ing histories and well-established brand identities
Relative new-comers to the industry such as Richard Mille and Roger Dubuis have carved out a niche for
themselves with their revolutionary designs and
space-age technologies but it remains to be seen just how well the values of their timepieces will stand up on the secondary market
According to Nathaniel Borgelt a specialist at auction house Sothebyrsquos
some modern watches have already achieved good prices at auction but these (like the Patek Philippe Sky Moon Tourbillon) were highly exclusive models when new
lsquoSome limited edition pieces currently fetch incredible prices at auctionrsquo he says lsquoAnd there is a select group of modern mod-els that could compete with a certain sector of the vintage market based on their brand innovative features such as materials or com-plications and avant-garde designs
Buying these has now become a whole lot easier The luxury watch retailing land-scape is changing and the traditional pattern of physically walking into a luxury salon to buy a watch is gradually being replaced by a trend towards visiting the websites of the big
LUXURY WATCHES
A Lange amp Sohne (above) is a long-standing high-end watchmaker Comparative new-comer Roger Dubuis (right) is forging a strong reputation
inspired | March 2014 PB60 March 2014 | inspired
helpthewatchgallerycom
Hublot ClassiC FusiontHe WatCH Gallery exClusive
The Watch Gallery and Hublot have joined forces to create two very special limited edition watches Both are limited to just 15 pieces worldwide and have been specifically designed to feature The Watch Gallery blue brand colour on the hands and tinted open case back
SelfridgeS OxfOrd StreetWeStfield lOndOnMancheSter exchange Square
wwwthewatchgallerycomhublot-watches
Far East has kept global values strong while other markets around the world continue to recover from recession
Despite the market boost from growing prosperity in Asia there are signs that the market is becoming saturated and that globally the new watch market isnrsquot as robust as some commentators suggest
It may still be a good time to buy but its important to know what you want and what yoursquore buying Modern watchmakers such as Richard Mille Roger Dubuis and Greubel Forsey are producing beautiful timepieces but because of their limited foothold in the market itrsquos difficult to predict their long-term success and desirability They donrsquot yet have the brand power that might ensure the value of their
watches in the secondhand market remains highSuch producers might one day stand eye to
eye with the most desirable brands such as Patek Philippe and Rolex but achieving that kind of parity wonrsquot be easy Collectors looking to invest in timepieces are advised to keep an open mind about modern producers uncertainty is the one aspect of modern luxury watch market most experts tend to agree on
That said the buoyancy in the watch market suggests that plenty of buyers are unconcerned about future values For them itrsquos all about the appreciation of the watch itself People buy watches because they bring them pleasure ndash and say some-thing about who they are
LUXURY WATCHES
Contemporary watches such as those made by Hublot (left) have yet to show they will have the lasting appeal of watches such as Cartierrsquos Rotonde de Cartier Astrocalendaire (right)
inspired | March 2014 63
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-
right balance between taking calculated risks for high returns and investing in defensive holdings Burdett says lsquoHe likes companies undertaking gentle innovation ndash moving online for example ndash rather than game changers which have more potential to go wrongrsquo Investec Global EnergyThis fund invests in companies that produce energy and provide services to the energy sector Fund managers Tom Nelson and Charles Whall believe the consensus view on future oil prices anticipates weak demand and growing supply from US shale oil But they demur as does Tony Yarrow at Wise Investment He says lsquoOil is harder to extract from shale than gas is while demand for oil is growing as economies recover A higher oil price feeds straight through to the companiesrsquo profitsrsquo
Biotech Growth TrustPeter Hewitt favours Biotech Growth Trust which has achieved scorching gains recently ndash up 172 per cent over three years to 1 December 2013
It is managed in New York by Orbimed a specialist healthcare and biotechnology investor with $7 bil-lion (pound42 billion) under management It offers exposure to a mix of large and profitable biotech companies along-side emerging businesses Most of its holdings are US-based and they have
benefited from a much more positive approach by the Federal Drug Authority ndash new drug approvals in 2010 were the highest for 10 years
Graphite Enterprise TrustAndrew McHattie contends that just one sector offers great value private equity lsquoThese trusts were hammered in the credit crisis and discounts widened to extreme levelsrsquo he says
His selection is Graphite Enterprise Trust Its discount to net asset value remains at a level that rings alarm bells in most other sectors but it has a strong track record and a relatively mature port-folio of shares he expects to rise in value
Fidelity Chinese Special SituationslsquoWith Chinese equities looking cheap the long-term outlook for investing in China is positiversquo Cockerill says lsquoThis fund invests in medium and small caps where high growth can be achieved New manager Dale Nicholls is well qualified and the combination of Fidelity manager experience and China is compelling in the long termrsquo
Scottish Oriental Smaller Companies Trust This trust is favoured by McAdam The invest-ment team identifies quality companies offering sustainable predictable growth lsquoThe trust may underperform if the market rises strongly but the teamrsquos enviable track record and experience should be respectedrsquo he says
Tim Cockerill is investment director at Rowan Dartington
RowanDartingtonhas20investmentadvisersbasedinsevenofficesacrossthesouthofEnglandIthaspound900millionunderman-
agementInvestmenttrustshavefeaturedinitsdiscretionaryandadvisoryportfoliosformanyyears
Peter Hewittis a member of FampC Asset Managementrsquos global equities team
HehasmanagedtheFampCManagedPortfolioTrustsinceApril2008aswellasitsforerunnerFampCManagedPortfolio
Servicesince2002HewasheadofUKequitiesatMurray
Johnstonefrom1981to1983beforejoiningIvoryampSime
Jean Mattersonis a partner and chief investment officer at Rossie House Investment Management
Shejoinedthefirmin1998after20yearswithassetmanagerStewartIvory
BasedinEdinburghsheisoneoffiveinvestment
professionalsmanagingaroundpound300mil-lionallonadiscretionarybasisAroundhalfisininvestmenttrusts
Robin McAdamjoined Brooks MacDonald Asset Management in 2009 from Adam amp Company Investment Management
Hehas24yearsrsquoexperi-encemanagingprivateclientportfoliosandheadsBMrsquosEdinburghbranch
Thefirmhaspound537billionunderdiscretionarymanagementinbespokeandmanagedportfolios
Andrew McHattieis head of The McHattie Group
McHattieGroupisanauthorisedfirmthatpublishesspecialistinvestmentnewsletters
McHattiehasbeentheeditorofInvestmentTrustNewslettersince1996(wwwtipsheetscouk)andoffersafreeservicecalledthelsquoitlistrsquo(wwwtheitlistcouk)ThecompanyhasaFacebookpage(wwwfacebookcominvestmenttrusts)
John Newlandsis responsible for investment trust research at Brewin Dolphin
Heissupportedbyfouranalystswhocoverspecificsectorsresearchingopen-andclosed-endedfunds
BrewinDolphinhas35officesaroundtheUKandChannelIslandsandmanagespound28billionofwhichpound39billionisininvestmenttrusts
TrusttipstersOursixexpertsrevealtheirtopfundpicks
inspired | March 2014 PB24 March 2014 | inspired
FUNDSAND
TRUSTS
One in twelve goes free on your next golf break plus every golfer receives a free pint
12thmansagimme
Book online at MarriottGolfcouk
Offer is only valid on residential golf bookings booked during the promotional dates For every 11 players booked the 12th player will be free of charge Rates are per person per night based on 2 people sharing a twindouble room and include dinner bed amp breakfast Bookings must be made by one named player and separate bookings will not qualify Each residential player aged 18 and over will receive a voucher entitling them to a complimentary pint
of Beckrsquos or Boddingtons Offer is valid on bookings made via 3rd parties Offer is available on 1 night 2 rounds or 2 night 3 rounds and excludes Sunday Driver Maximum of 2 night stay and 2 people per room Day of week availability may vary based on location Limited number of rooms may be available This offer applies to new bookings only at Marriott Hotel amp Country Clubs and offer courses and tee times are subject to availability Offer cannot
be used in conjunction with any other promotion Course terms and conditions apply Advance reservations required Book between 17th February and 29th June 2014 for stays between 4th April and 29th September 2014
The SIPP thatrsquos
fair and square
We believe in straightforward investing Thatrsquos why we donrsquot nibble at your SIPP with percentage fees For just pound144 per year you can open a SIPP and add an ISA for free After that itrsquos just pound10 to buy or sell a wide range of investments including shares funds bonds and gilts Open an account today and if you transfer your existing SIPP wersquoll give you up to pound240 as a thank you (terms apply) We believe thatrsquos fair and square
The value of investments and any income from them can fall as well as rise so you could get back less than you invest Tax treatment depends on your individual circumstances and may be subject to change If in any doubt please seek advice
iiicouksipp
Interactive Investor Trading Limited trading as ldquoInteractive Investorrdquo is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority Registered Office Standon House 21 Mansell Street London E1 8AA Tel 0845 200 3637 Registered in England with Company Registration number 3699618
SPECULATIVE GROWTHMampG RecoveryDennehy says manager Tom Dobell backs his convictions engages with companies he invests in and has delivered long-term outperformance lsquoDobellrsquos MampG Recovery fund has a clear value-style process and management stability It invests in a wide range of firms that are out of favour or in difficulty or whose prospects are not fully rec-ognised by the marketrsquo he says
Liontrust Special SituationsHusselbee says Liontrustrsquos Anthony Cross and Julian Fosh have their own unique philosophy He adds lsquoThey look for characteristics in a company that its competitors find difficult to replicate such as intellectual property or distribution channelsrsquo
Allianz Bric StarsThis fund aims for capital growth in the long term by investing mainly in Brazil Russia India and China Haynes says investors have shunned these markets recently and valuations fallen He adds lsquoFor investors looking for a recovery story this fund is worth considerationrsquo
Standard Life Equity Income subscription shareMcHattie says warrant and subscription shares are widely ignored creating opportunities for those who understand them He favours the subscrip-tion shares of Standard Life Equity Income which can be exercised at 320p a share up to the end of December 2016 lsquoThey offer gearing of 37 times and if the ordinary shares grow by more than 28 per cent a year between now and the end of 2016 the subscription shares ought to outperformrsquo
Impax Environmental MarketsMcAdam likes this trust It invests in companies seeking to provide cleaner or more-efficient energy as well as water and waste solutions to the growing problems faced by authorities around the world It offers exposure to a rapidly changing marketplace as well as to socially responsible investments
Hansa TrustJohn Newlands sees potential in the A shares of Hansa Trust which languish at a discount of more than 25 per cent He says that whereas the trustrsquos portfolio appears skewed with a third of its assets in Ocean Wilsons there is actually plenty of diversification because Ocean Wilsons has an investment portfolio that stands at a discount to underlying value lsquoOne day an attractive bid [may] be made for Ocean Wilsons that will enhance Hansarsquos NAV and sim-plify its capital structure all to the good of its market ratingrsquo Newlands says
Baker Steel Resources TrustJean Matterson hopes for good returns from this trust shares in which trade on a near 30 per cent discount lsquoIt has not had an easy run of late but we believe the underlying assets are attractive and that the mining projects in the companyrsquos portfo-lio will continue to progressrsquo she says
Prospects have improved for biotechs (left) while growing interest in sustain-able energy has boosted Impax
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
AHIGHEROILPRICEFEEDSSTRAIGHT
THROUGHTOPROFITSTony Yarrow
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
inspired | March 2014 27PB March 2014 | inspired
FUNDSANDTRUSTS
The world of funds and trusts is a confusing place with over 2300 funds and more than 300 investment trusts to choose from
Money Observerrsquos Rated Funds system narrows down the playing field to help you decide which funds and investment trusts might be best for you
Our team of experts constantly monitor the marketplace rating those funds that have delivered consistently good returns However you should be aware that there is no guarantee this performance will be repeated
With our comparison tool you can filter by whatrsquos important to you compare up to four funds and trusts side-by-side as well as view factsheets
COMPAREMONEY OBSERVER RATED FUNDS
VISIT MONEYOBSERVERCOMCOMPAREFUNDS AND LOOK OUT FOR THE RATED FUND STAMP
had spare cash or I were start-ing afresh The companies in the add category are high qual-ity judging by the strategies they follow and their finan-cial strength and are probably undervalued
Irsquom more likely to eject or reduce holdings in companies in the watch and specula-tive categories These shares are more risky either because they have risen greatly in price or because their prospects are more uncertain than usual I may think the risk is worth tak-ing but I am prepared to act should that calculation change
Every decision to increase a portfolio holding must be weighed against the potential of new candidates drawn from all companies listed in the UK and corralled into another live spreadsheet the Share Sleuth watchlist When I add a share to the watchlist or trade a share in the portfolio I explain this in the Share Sleuth blog
ccumulating income and capital gains in an index tracking fund is inexpensive takes little effort and all but guarantees an
average return so it should be the default investment for a lazy equity investor saving for the long term
To justify the work of decid-ing which shares to buy and sell and the effort and cost of placing trades an active investor must do better Consequently the first objective of the active Share Sleuth portfolio is to beat passive investments after costs over the long-term which in practice means any five-year period The second objective is to win this tussle against an unknowing and unthinking opponent transparently
At the heart of the portfolio is an online spreadsheet The first page shows the constitu-ent shares arranged into three categories lsquoaddrsquo lsquowatchrsquo and lsquospeculativersquo The categorisa-tion is updated daily based on live data in subsequent spread-sheets each of which contains a financial model for a particular company
The Share Sleuth portfo-lio shows the holdings I would add to the portfolio today if it
Share Sleuth is a simulation no money changes hands But I use prices quoted by a bro-ker and adjust the accounting to factor in notional broker fees and stamp duty However I lsquoeat my own cookingrsquo by investing my self-invested personal pen-sion in Share Sleuth companies
No doubt you are wonder-ing how the portfolio is doing Share Sleuthrsquos five-year anni-versary judgement day is on 9 September this year and I will not prejudge it now
Short-term performance watching and the knee-jerk trad-ing it encourages is I think one reason why many inves-tors fail My focus is on ensuring the portfolio remains invested in good companies at reasona-ble prices
You can see a live perfor-mance table and learn what I think of every share in the port-folio and which companies I might add to it at wwwiiicoukZkr
SHAREBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIOR
The Share Sleuth portfolio has been carefully devised to show investors how to find good companies at cheap prices and also prove the value of its investment approach says Richard Beddard
Richard Beddard an editor at Interactive Investor since 1999 has managed the Share Sleuth portfolio since 9 September 2009 Hersquos a columnist at Money Observer magazine and a private investor
AMY FOCUS IS ON ENSURING THAT THE PORTFOLIO IS INVESTED IN GOOD FIRMS AT DECENT PRICES
inspired | March 2014 29PB March 2014 | inspired
SHARESLEUTH
iiicoukstraightforward
Interactive Investor Trading Limited trading as ldquoInteractive Investorrdquo is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority Registered Office Standon House 21 Mansell Street London E1 8AA Tel 0845 200 3637 Registered in England with Company Registration number 3699618
We believe in being straightforwardthis is why we donrsquot nibble at your investment by charging percentage fees Find out how this could affect your investment performance at iiicoukstraightforward
If you transfer to us you can even get up to pound240 as a thank you (terms apply)
Donrsquot forget the value of investments and any income from them can fall as well as rise so you could get back less than you invest If in any doubt please seek advice
7784_II_QI_MONEY_OBSERVER_210x297_AWindd 1 16012014 1224
Take a closer look
at your investment
options
Discover a straightforward way to understand everything from ISAs to SIPPs and OEICs to Investment Trusts
Investing for generationsEver feel yoursquod like to know more about investing Wersquove been helping people build their wealth for over 125 years Our guide lsquoMaking sense of the investment universersquo is just one of the resources yoursquoll find on our Investment Focus hub
As well as clear simple guides therersquos a wealth of information and expert opinion all designed to help you take control of your investments Please remember that investments can go down as well as up and investors may get back less than they originally invested
Introducing your free online source of information help and expert opinion
investment-focuscouk
This has been approved as a financial promotion by Alliance Trust Investments Limited for the purpose of Section 21 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 Alliance Trust Investments Limited is a subsidiary of Alliance Trust PLC and is registered in Scotland No SC330862 registered office 8 West Marketgait Dundee DD1 1QN is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority firm reference number 479764 Alliance Trust Investments gives no financial or investment advice
TAX YEAR ENDS APRIL 5TH ndash learn more about
your options now
Investment Focus Smart Insight from Alliance Trust
Yoursquove spoken Wersquove listened Introducing your free online source of information help and expert opinion
Based on real insight we have launched a new website which focuses on investment education
We believe that we are uniquely positioned to provide this hub of information based on the reputation we have built for trust and transparency over the last 125 years
We will be publishing new content over the next few months focusing on specific themes
bull Investing from scratch
bull Products in a portfolio
bull Global diversification
bull Planning for your familyrsquos future
bull Retirement planning
bull Getting more information
There is a generation of future investors out there who have been brought up in an era of economic turmoil and banking crises which has led to disillusionment and a lack of trust in our sector and the services we offer Despite it being more important than ever for investors to take control of their financial situation this new generation of savers lacks the basic knowledge and understanding to make these very important long-term decisions
Our goal is to develop a useful resource with contributions from third-parties as well as the team at Alliance Trust which offers insights into the various life stages and challenges faced and which can be built upon and adapted to meet savers needs in the long term
Katherine Garrett-Cox CBE Chief Executive Alliance Trust PLC
ldquo
rdquo
There are too many products to make an informed decision
I donrsquot know whereto go for reliable
information
investment-focuscouk
Yoursquoll naturally take a keen interest in the performance of your investments But itrsquos just as important to understand the fees you will be paying as they can have a significant impact on the returns you achieve Knowing what the different types of costs mean and exactly what they consist of can prove rewarding
Itrsquos worth remembering that for every fee you pay (whether it is a or flat fee) your investment needs to grow by at least the same amount just to stay ahead of the game It sounds obvious but itrsquos easy to forget Broadly speaking there are three types of fees fund fees platform fees and fees for a financial adviser You can either invest directly into a fund and pay the associated fees or you can invest via a platform provider (some of which are referred to as wrap platforms others as fund supermarkets) This is a service that lets you manage and review all your investments online in one place As a general rule fund fees are lower when
bought through a platform than if you buy direct You can invest through a platform on either an execution only basis where the investor assesses the risks and makes their own investment decisions or on an advised basis
Learn more about fund platform and financial advice fees
What can you expect to seeOver the next two pages we have provided a sneak preview of just some of the information you will find on the Investment Focus hub We will be updating the site regularly so make sure you sign up for our email alerts to be informed when new topics are published
Everything you need to know about fees
Risk informationInvestments can go down as well as up You may get back less than you originally invested
Alliance Trust does not give advice You need to ensure you understand the risks and commitments before investing If you are unsure you should consult a Financial Adviser before investing
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
For the vast majority of investors the simplest cheapest and most pragmatic way to invest is through pooled funds
Sometimes called managed funds unit trusts or even Open-Ended Investment Companies (or OEICs) these are designed to give ordinary savers access to a diverse range of investments
One of the principles of investment is that diversification helps reduce risk But it is expensive and time consuming for ordinary savers to buy shares of 80 to 100 different companies and keep track of how each is performing
But with a managed fund you are pooling your money with other investors enabling the fund manager to buy a wide range of assets
Investors have the option of buying an actively managed or passive fund With an active fund the manager selects and then monitors these stocks for investors in a bid to maximise returns
In contrast a passive fund will simply follow a stock market index such as the FTSE100 up and down
Having a manager at the helm can be beneficial in a market downturn as they can take a more defensive approach buying shares that are better able to hold their value or in some cases switching to bonds or cash instead to help preserve investorsrsquo capital Managers can also research individual companies and markets and have access to forecasts and economic data that isnrsquot always available to individuals
Learn more about investing for growth or income exploring different investment remits how to invest and keeping track of your investments
Understanding funds Written by Emma Simon Personal Finance Journalist
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
What are Investment TrustsInvestment Trusts are investment vehicles that are listed on the London Stock Exchange and which invest in shares and other securities They pool together investorsrsquo money and delegate responsibility to a professional fund manager to invest in a range of companies from different sectors and regions across the world They were designed for ldquothe investor of moderate meansrdquo
A brief historybull The first Investment Trust was launched by Foreign amp
Colonial in 1868
bull Investment Trusts made it possible for individual investors to gain diversified exposure to global stock markets
bull Many Investment Trusts were formed in Scotland including Alliance Trust PLC which was formed over 125 years ago
A guide to Investment Trusts
Learn more about Investment Trusts their main features and why you should consider them for your portfolio
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
Alliance Trust is an investment and savings business with over 125 year history of building investor wealth We offer our shareholders clients and customers a unique portfolio of products and services These range from a renowned global investment trust to an innovative range of investment strategies and funds and a multi-award winning investment platform where investors can host their ISAs SIPPs or investment accounts Our mission is to provide products and services that help to ensure a more sustainable financial future for generations of investors
Alliance Trust PLC is one of the largest generalist investment trusts by market value listed on the London Stock Exchange and is the parent company to two wholly-owned subsidiaries Alliance Trust Savings and Alliance Trust Investments
The fact that many of us make irrational decisions when it comes to our finances is widely debated and is often referred to as behavioural finance In this short video we talk to Professor Phyl Johnson Consultant Psychologist and Visiting Professor of Executive Education at Strathclyde Business School about why this is and more importantly about what we can do as individuals to avoid it
About us Alliance Trust Investments is a specialist fund management business offering a range of products and services focusing on global equities fixed income and sustainable investing with an emphasis on specialist investment solutions
Alliance Trust Savings is one of the UKrsquos leading financial services providers for private investors offering customers the information and services they need to manage their investments in a way that works for them
Risk informationInvestments can go down as well as up You may get back less than you originally invested
Alliance Trust does not give advice You need to ensure you understand the risks and commitments before investing If you are unsure you should consult a Financial Adviser before investing
Unusually for a company of our size around 70 of shares
in Alliance Trust are held by private
individuals
Nobodyrsquos perfect why we all make irrational decisions
Inflation by ageThis monthrsquos official inflation report showed that the headline rate of inflation fell from 20 to 19 Our Economic Research Team analyse this data on a monthly basis to see how inflation rates affect different age groups In February 2014 the summary highlights include
bull The over 75s and the under 30s face the highest rate of inflation in January at 21
bull The over 75s suffered the highest rate of inflation for the whole of 2013 and this trend continues into 2014 as they spend a larger share of their budgets on basic goods such as gas and electricity
bull The 65 to 74 year olds have faced the lowest rate of inflation in 11 out of the last 12 months thanks to lower inflation in food petrol and package holidays
Learn more about how inflation might affect you
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
You can also sign up for our regular email alerts to be informed when new topics are published by clicking here
Wersquove been bringing clarity to investment for over 125 years
Investing for generationsWhen it comes to investing therersquos no substitute for experience And at Alliance Trust wersquove been helping people invest since 1888 Our new Investment Focus hub is full of online information and expert opinion It aims to provide real insight to help you take control of your investments
Over the next few weeks the hub will build to cover everything from taking your first steps to diversifying worldwide Please remember that investments can go down as well as up and investors may get back less than they originally invested For valuable insight from Alliance Trust visit Investment Focus today
Introducing your free online source of information help and expert opinion
investment-focuscouk
This has been approved as a financial promotion by Alliance Trust Investments Limited for the purpose of Section 21 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 Alliance Trust Investments Limited is a subsidiary of Alliance Trust PLC and is registered in Scotland No SC330862 registered office 8 West Marketgait Dundee DD1 1QN is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority firm reference number 479764 Alliance Trust Investments gives no financial or investment advice
TAX YEAR ENDS APRIL 5TH ndash learn more about
your options now
Change the way you think about stocks reap the rewardsBy Edward Page Croft CEO Stockopediacom
I remember so clearly the day when I picked my first stock for clients Managing $2 billion (pound12 billion) in assets across 100 portfolios for high-net-wealth private investors is no easy task As I was to learn when you are green
and straight out of university itrsquos even harder The stock in question was on the Goldman
Sachs US lsquobuyrsquo list It had the potential to be hot Dotcoms were bubbling It was an internet stock in education services and cheap It seemed like it had everything but we needed to get in One day it fell out of bed Down 50 per cent on no news
Irsquod been trained to call the analyst in situations like this He reiterated his buy stance Double buy On my insistence we put almost $20 million of client money into the stock within an hour The next day it fell another 50 per cent on
bad newsThere is nothing more
painful than a loss but you never forget the first
one It immedi-ately forced me to reconsider every-thing I thought I
knew From that day on I vowed to never trust anotherrsquos opin-ion and find a better
way through the market minefieldIrsquove now spent 15 years
reassessing common
wisdom about stock selection No stone has gone unturned in the quest to understand the behav-ioural flaws that lead to poor decision making But there is one finding that crops up again and again in all the research that hurts stock market investors most We as investors are suckers for stories
A 1990rsquos study of 60000 private investor broker-age accounts by Kumar and Goetzmann found that 70 per cent of portfolios held less than four stocks
The stocks held all tended to be in the same sector highly correlated and risky Think internet stocks in the 1990s China in the 2000s or resource stocks more recently The grand theme sucks everyone in The outcome rarely dif-fers Kumar and Goetzmann showed that across these
60000 accounts the average underperformance was of the order of 4 per cent annually
This massive failing across private inves-tor portfolios is repeated in nearly every market cycle and is bound to happen again in this one Benjamin Graham the great father of value invest-ing and tutor of Warren Buffett once wrote
lsquoIn the short run the stock market is a vot-ing machine but in the long run it is a weighing machinersquo
ADVERTISING FEATURE
IN THE SHORT RUN THE STOCK MARKET IS A VOTING MACHINE BUT IN THE LONG RUN IT IS A WEIGHING MACHINEBenjamin Graham
What he meant was that while stories may drive stocks in the short run statistics drive stocks in the long run When statistics reassert them-selves it can cause huge damage to investors punting their portfolios on stories
It doesnrsquot take much to learn how basic statis-tics can guide your portfolio into winning stock selections though very few seem to understand how to do it Benjamin Graham as his life wore on gradually came to the conclusion that building portfolios according to rules-based processes was a far more appropriate methodology for the typi-cal investor
lsquoTry to buy groups of stocks that meet some sim-ple criterion for being undervalued ndash regardless of
the industry and with very little attention to the indi-vidual company It seems too good to be true but all I can tell you after 60 years of experience is it seems to stand up under any of the tests I would make uprsquo
My time is now dedi-cated to helping investors practice exactly what Benjamin Graham and many other investment luminaries have preached rules-based investing For the majority itrsquos a better process and leads to bet-ter outcomes Our work at
Stockopediacom where we crunch fundamental and technical data in order to model and track the investment processes of the great investors bears this out
Portfolios composed with stocks showing the right statistical mix of value quality and momen-tum have significantly outperformed Rules-based investing beats the market But more importantly it helps promote the emotional detachment needed to stop investors from beating themselves
Irsquoll never buy a stock on a punt or an analystrsquos tip again Perhaps neither should you
For a two week free trial and pound50 discount to Stockopedia UK Premium CLICK HERE
TANK MCM A N U F A C T U R E M O V E M E N T 1 9 0 4 M C
SINCE THE CREATION OF THE FIRST TANK WATCH IN 1917 THE TANK COLLECTION HAS CONTINUED
TO BREAK NEW GROUND THE INCREDIBLY REFINED AESTHETICS OF THE NEW TANK MC WATCH ARE FITTED
WITH THE CARTIER MANUFACTURE MOVEMENT 1904 MC ESTABLISHED IN 1847 CARTIER CREATES
EXCEPTIONAL WATCHES THAT COMBINE DARING DESIGN AND WATCHMAKING SAVOIR-FAIRE
EXPLORE AND SHOP WWWCARTIERCOUK - (020) 3147 4850
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Inside
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TO THE CONNOISSEUR section of Inspired a showcase for the finer things in life for those who truly appreciate them
Enjoying the fruits of your labour away from the relentless demands of our age poses its own challenges and quandaries Would a tropical idyll restore your ebbing energy levels Might a break based around hair-raising activities revive them even more effectively Perhaps reawakening a dormant passion for fine wines or luxury cars would be the most enjoyable reward for your industry
A luxury tropical holiday is probably near the top of most peoplersquos wish lists We take a look at some of the most tantalising options
The arrival of BMWrsquos new super coupe is featured on page 50 BMW aficionados and petrolheads alike are certain to be won over by its head-turning looks and mouthwatering specs
Gems come under the microscope on page 53 A rare coloured diamond can be a joy as well an appreciating asset
Wine is on the menu on page 54 where we explore the charms of Argentinian Malbec
Watches are often treasured objects and the best can turn out to be shrewd investments We look at the secondary watch market and the growth of online retailing on page 58 Enjoy
Welcome
40 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
FIVE TOP PRIVATE ISLAND RETREATSIslandFantasy
Top-rated resorts and hotels offer a variety of temptations and services to impress even the most discerning tastes but there is no better way to escape the rigours and
stresses of daily life than cutting off from the outside world while still enjoying lavish service
in the pinnacle of all resorts the private islandThere are thousands of small islands around
the world but only a few have chosen to cater to the most discriminating travellers seeking a rarified yet perfect world of quiet and relaxed luxury We look at five of the worldrsquos top private islands destinations where your holiday is certain to be an exceptional experience
TRAVEL
Necker Island is owned by Sir Richard Branson and guests stay in his home The island has become a popular des-tination for some of the worldrsquos most prominent figures as a hideaway from lifersquos stresses and strains
Because Necker Island is a resi-dence and not a resort guests who rent the island are treated as owners and catered for in a unique way
The74-acre island is fringed with beautiful white beaches and surrounded by turquoise waters and coral reefs It boasts every resort-type amenity guests can spend their days being pampered in the spa explor-ing underwater reefs in a submarine lounging by the pool bar or swimming in one of the worldrsquos most elab-orate private pools
Haute cuisine is a highlight for most guests ndash rates are fully inclusive of all food and drink A team of chefs creates bespoke menus featuring anything from lobster and caviar to a Sunday roast And because Necker is a home first and a resort second guests decide whether dining will be formal or informal inside or outside themed or traditional
The bar is stocked with international wines top-quality spirits and beers and a world renowned house champagne while special orders can be shipped in at no extra charge ndash unless an item is particularly rare Every service and amenity is available around the clock and guests are encouraged to treat Necker as their own home
As youLike it
NECKER ISLAND
42 March 2014 | inspired
Unalloyed luxury and an impressive range of amenities make Necker one of the most desirable island destinations in the world
The Jumby Bay resort which is only accessible by boat from Antigua is a Caribbean hideaway owned by Rosewood Resorts It is perfect for those seeking either relaxation or spirited adventure
You can rent the island resort entirely for your stay or simply take a room Those opt-ing for exclusive use of the island will have the resortrsquos two pools three tennis courts fitness centre croquet field and putting green to themselves
A wide range of water sports are available and guests can indulge in as much adventure or relaxation as they want during their stay The resort is ideal for large family
reunions or corporate retreats ndash 40 guest rooms and suites are available on the island
Executive chef Sylvain Hervochon celebrates gastron-omy ndash and mixology (cocktail making) ndash with casual elegance by creating Caribbean-style dishes inspired by fresh local ingredients and incorporating international influences
Jumby Bayrsquos rates start at pound150000 for four nights based on double occupancy between May and December Visit wwwrosewoodhotelscomenjumby-bay-antigua for further information
Fine BalanceCaribbean ambiance international sophistication and adventurous activities make Jumby Bay a compelling choice
JUMBY BAY
Just laze by the pool or venture beyond to dive in the turquoise waters of the South Pacific among stunning reefs and a dazzling array of marine creatures
Isle of PlentyT
he private island of Laucala in the South Pacific is a 3500-acre site in a picturesque rainforest-laced land-scape Enchanting deserted beaches nestle among coconut plantations organic farms and lush green vol-canic mountains
The resort offers an outstanding level of refined lux-ury as well as a compelling collection of sporting and cultural activities diving among iridescent marine life in the warm turquoise waters guided rainforest tours horse riding surfing and golfing on the 18-hole cham-pionship course The island is a superb choice for an escape from civilization whether you want an adven-ture in the wild or simply to relax in one of Laucalarsquos five restaurants and bars
Rates are available on request Visit wwwlaucalacom for further details
TRAVEL
LAUCALA ISLAND
inspired | March 2014 4544 March 2014 | inspired
Lush green surroundings sensitive development and beautiful beaches help Laucala island conjure up a complete South Seas experience
Isle of Plenty
inspired | March 2014 4544 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
inspired | March 2014 4746 March 2014 | inspired
Slow LaneSlow
Pulau Joyo is a seductively serene environment of pristine beaches surrounded by clear blue sea in Indonesiarsquos Riau Archipelago Accessible from Singapore or Bintan Pulau Joyo is a true castaway island offering every resort luxury
amid untouched natural beauty Pulau Joyo is famous for its remarkable sunsets and
brightly star-lit sky The resort can host 28 guests and 20 staff are on hand to cater to their every need Guests stay in open driftwood lsquopalacesrsquo that lsquoallow the sea inrsquoDespite its desert island appeal Pulau Joyo offers every modern convenience a range of adrenaline boosting activities and more relaxing options such as spa treatments and massages
The resortrsquos cuisine focuses on western and Indonesian dishes Meals are usually served buffet style and feature grilled fish squid prawns beef and chicken as well as many curry dishes Side dishes include fresh garden salads pasta salads boiled or steamed leafy greens and grilled aubergine (an island favourite) Prawn and tofu kebabs appear from time to time as does satay The chef will often provide a selection of freshly picked fruit and homemade cakes for dessert Itrsquos worth noting that the management will not serve pork or shellfish on this private island
Pulau Joyo may not be as refined as some islands but itrsquos an excellent choice for those who want a more casual laidback island experience that replicates the castaway experience like perhaps no other
Rates start at pound1913 a night More information is available at wwwpulau-joyocom
Wannabe castaways may find Pulau Joyorsquos purer simpler take on the luxury island experience more to their taste
PULAU JOYO
inspired | March 2014 4746 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
In the Fijian island paradise of Dolphin Island a small army of staff await to meet guestsrsquo every need On arriving ndash by boat helicopter or float plane ndash visitors are invariably struck by the beauty of the island and the luxuri-ous accommodation that awaits them amid 14-acres of lush tropical gardens
Three traditional palm-thatched bures individually designed by world renowned interior designer Virginia Fisher sit in an elevated position around the resortrsquos infinity pool
Guests are brought fresh tropical fish to choose each day that are cooked to perfec-
tion within hours of leaving the water The culinary focus is on
organic produce and ingredi-ents unique to Fijian cuisine but meals are tailored to guestsrsquo personal tastes Papayas man-goes bananas and pineapples
are plentiful throughout the day When it comes to recreation the
14-acre island is an expansive play-ground offering a diverse range of watersports as well as diving opportunities on Fijirsquos coral reefs
Rates start at pound720 a night More information is avail-able at wwwdolphinislandfijicom
Fijian Paean
Traditional features modern comforts and excellent facilities make for a harmonious whole on this Fijian island
DOLPHIN ISLAND
48 March 2014 | inspired
Pictured slightly larger than actual size
Big Pilotrsquos Watch Ref 5009
Your wrist never felt this big before The
case of the top model in the IWC Pilotrsquos
Watch range is a gigantic 462 mm in diashy
meter And the technology inside it is
even more impressive the largest IWCshy
manufactured automatic movement with
its Pellaton winding system is protected
against strong magnetic fields by a softshy
iron inner case And needless to say enshy
vious glances iwc engineered for men
Mechanical IWCshymanufactured movement Pellaton
automatic winding system 7shyday power reserve
with display (figure) Date display Softshyiron inner
case for protection against magnetic fields
Antireflective sapphire glass Watershyresistant 6 bar
Stainless steel
IWC Schaffhausen Switzerland iwccom The worldrsquos finest timepieces are exclusively available from selected watch specialists
For an illustrated catalogue or list of nationwide concessionaires please contact IWC UK Tel 0845 337 1868 Eshymail infoshyukiwccom
CARS
MunichLegend
50 March 2014 | inspired
BMW fanatics can open their eyes ndash the M4 has arrived
Most BMW aficionados are proba-bly pretty sad to see production of the M3 coupe ndash quite possibly the companyrsquos most noteworthy and celebrated model ndash end after almost 30 years Ever since the first wide-body E30 M3 saw the
light of day in 1985 drivers have loved the sporty coupe for its incredible balance intoxicating power and of course solid build quality
The model never got stale in all that time and always remained the poster child for the M division so itrsquos a lit-tle weird that BMW has apparently decided to axe it In truth though they havenrsquot really dropped the M3 The M3 sedan will continue to be produced in 2014 so all
is not lost Moreover BMW seems to be adopting a pat-tern of giving its sedans odd-numbered titles only and its coupes even-numbered titles only so the 4-Series and especially the M4 concept that debuted at Pebble Beach Monterey California will fill the gap left by the M3 Many people have been awaiting the new super coupe with great expectancy but can it fill in for the M3
The journalists who swarmed over the M4 concept at Pebble Beach were obviously much more interested in it than the somewhat predictable 428i that was also there Finished in an eye-catching colour called Aurum Dust (which actually looks a lot like the old M3rsquos Phoenix Yellow colour) the car presented in California may be a concept but typically BMW M cars donrsquot change much before they finally hit the showroom
MunichLegend
inspired | March 2014 51
CARS
52 March 2014 | inspired
From front to back the bodywork is manifestly differ-ent and much more aggressive looking than a standard 4-Series car It really looks to pretty much pick up where the E92E93 M3 coupe left off especially with its undeniably cool domed hood Wide wheel arches big wheels wrapped in low-profile tyres more than enough M badges and a well-executed double-bubble roof make the already underwhelming existing 4-Series coupe look even more pedestrian
Power for the new M4 is likely to come from a three-litre twin-turbo straight-six engine While the horsepower probably wonrsquot differ much from the M3rsquos old 4-litre V-8 it will generate more than 100lbft more in torque almost 400 in total With the M4 being a lighter 3300lb in weight the M4 promises to be an excit-ing worthy car A proper six-speed manual may be in the mix alongside the now obligatory dual clutch and paddles option
The best way to look at the M4 however it ends up is not as a new car but as a new and improved M3 thatrsquos just getting a new name The decision to rename the coupe is a strange one but thankfully BMW apparently felt the 3-Series coupe had made such an identity for itself that a new model was needed albeit in a slightly different incarnation
With BMW embarking on some new-ageish ideas such as its 1-Series ActiveE and the soon-to-arrive lsquoirsquo range of cars itrsquos nice to see the company also stick to classics such as the heart-stopping sports coupe even if the latest model does come with a new name
Seductive curves and racier performance make the BMW M4 a more than acceptable replacement for the M3 super coupe
SparklingForm Coloured diamonds are making their mark
One of the main factors that deter-mines the value of what we ordinarily think of as diamonds is their purity the degree to which col-our is absent in the gem However with coloured diamonds the extent to which they are saturated with
colour is a principal determinant of their valueColoured diamonds come in 12 basic colours more
than 90 secondary hues and nine intensity levels The depth of their colour is what really differentiates these diamonds from their colourless counterparts
Natural coloured diamonds are 10000 times rarer than typical colourless diamonds one of several rea-sons why they are treasured by the rich and famous yet remain unknown to most other people ndash despite hav-ing been around for centuries
Of course some colours are rarer than others Red violet and purple stones are as rare as the proverbial hensrsquo teeth while green and blue are also rare The most popular colours are pink and yellow (or canary) They also come in white grey orange black and lsquochame-leonrsquo form
A pinkie ring encrusted with a large coloured dia-mond has become a status symbol for men in Asia That little stone is an unregistered asset that could quickly be sold for millions of dollars should the need arise
Coloured diamonds are durable and never lose their sparkle or lustre so they are assets that can be enjoyed every day unlike stocks or bonds And they have proved to be fantastic investments having steadily appreciated in price with relatively little volatility for more than a decade They even held their own during the most recent financial crisis
Coloured diamonds are auctioned by reputable
auction houses such a Sothebyrsquos and Christiersquos where prices for large unique pink red blue or yellow stones can reach in excess of $2 million (pound12 million) a carat and other stones regularly sell for $1 million a carat
They are often bought by high-net-worth individu-als as an insurance policy Instead of stashing cash in undeclared bank accounts and potentially incurring the wrath of the authorities the wealthy can purchase some loose yellow diamonds to secure their future
Clearly coloured diamonds are much more than a magnificent indulgence
GEMS
inspired | March 2014 53PB March 2014 | inspired
WINE
Make the most of the deeply
satisfying Malbec wines emerging from Argentina
and perhaps even enjoy a return on a shrewd
investment says Ewan Lacey
Finding a red wine to enjoy in spring is a delicate balancing act The shock of seeing sunlight after a dark winter fosters in us a desire to drink some-thing refreshing while the still-cool temperatures demand something with comforting depth
Increasingly Malbec wines particularly those from Argentina provide a perfect solution to this quandary And while there are plenty of delicious wines for infor-mal occasions what is most interesting is the emergence of finer Malbec wines Some are so good they may well have ageing potential raising the intriguing possibility that the wine may one day become collectable
Malbec is the most popular wine among those aged 25-34 and is now becoming a fixture on most restaurant wine lists There are several reasons for its success the word Malbec is easy to pronounce the wine goes well with red meat the Malbec grape can be turned into wines that are both relatively easy to drink and packed with flavour and decent wines are available at reason-able prices Malbec is deep fruity and charming and it delivers instant pleasure ndash claret on a motorbike
The Malbec grape originated in France and it remains one of the permitted varieties used to make Bordeaux However it has gained prominence through the work of the post-junta Argentine wine industry
I recently had the pleasure of tasting some very fine Malbecs with Laura Catena managing director at the Catena Zapata winery and president of the International Wine and Spirit Competition She opened my
Mendoza Marvels
inspired | March 2014 55
WINE
eyes to the potential of this grape variety when handled with care
Laurarsquos family business makes a range of wines but the wine that truly astonished me was the Nicasia Vineyard Malbec 2006 The wine is perfumed with floral and fruit notes and it is smooth and soft at first Like all great wines it has many layers of flavour warm bursts of cherry and black-currant cede centre stage to deeper darker caramel and mocha notes and a touch of spice Therersquos an amazing depth of flavour and the finish is long and lingering Whatrsquos more at nearly eight years old it still has a slight purple tinge and tastes extremely fresh There is every indication that it will age beautifully for at least another decade
The winersquos character is heavily influenced by the alti-tude the grapes used to make it are grown at (1180m
above sea level) At this elevation the grapes ripen in bright sun but lsquorelaxrsquo during the cool evenings The fact that the wine is made in tiny quantities (eight barrels only) means every care can be taken during the winemak-ing process to ensure the wine is allowed to show its grown-up side The cost per bot-tle of pound70 is not insubstantial but neither is the wine
We cannot know whether these wines will ever become investments in the way the wines of Bordeaux have Whatrsquos cer-tain is that Malbec wines have a very rare quality a balance of finesse and power that
can delight wine lovers and linger in their memories
Ewan Lacey is a leading wine expert and general manager of the International Wine and Spirit Competition He has appeared on BBC television and radio as well as Channel 4 and written for the national press
Laura Catena is managing director at the Catena Zapata winery (above)
THE INTERNATIONAL WINE AND SPIRIT COMPETITIONThe International Wine and Spirit Competition has been the premier drinks competition in the world for 45 years Each year it receives and reviews thousands of wines and spirits and presents qual-ity awards to producers
More than anything the IWSC exists to help
people make better deci-sions particularly when buying wines and spirits An IWSC award on a bot-tle of wine is a guarantee
of quality backed not only by a rigorous and strin-gent judging process but also by the skill of the judges who are drawn from the ranks of masters of wine master distill-ers industry leaders and commentators
Each year the IWSC honours a leading figure
in the drinks industry with the presidency of the competition The current president is Laura Catena who succeeds a nota-ble line of predecessors including Prince Robert of Luxembourg winemakers Piero Antinori and Warren Winiarski and Baroness Philippine de Rothschild
56 March 2014 | inspired
LUXURY WATCHES
Time is preciousA
t a recent watch auc-tion in Geneva at Antiquorum ndash the worldrsquos premiere auc-tion house for modern and vintage time pieces ndash a Patek Philippe
pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon watch emerged as the auctionrsquos top lot and sold for 12 million Swiss francs (pound807000)
Unlike most of the timepieces sold at auctions outside Asia this particular Patek watch ndash the most complicated wristwatch the Swiss watchmaker has ever produced ndash was not a vintage model
That Geneva auction raised intriguing
1284Clocks with weights gears and regulators start to appear mostly with no dial to strike the important moments of daily life
Around 1410The mainspring is devel-oped Combined with the fusee this innovation makes possible the truly portable domestic clock
1492The mechanical watch appears simultaneously in Italy Germany and France
1675Christian Huygens invents the spiral balance spring
for watches significantly improving their accuracy
1704The first watch with jew-els is produced by French watchmaker de Beaufreacute
1714The British parliament offers pound20000 to who-ever can a find a method to determine longitude
1766Parliament publishes the rating results for John Harrisonrsquos H4 marine timekeeper Harrisonrsquos highly accurate marine clock solution to the problem of determining logitude wins him part of the pound20000 prize
1787Pierre-Freacutedeacuteric Ingold is born an important pio-neer in mechanised timepiece production and the use of interchangea-ble parts
1790Jacquet-Droz and Leschot manufactures a watch attached to a strap
1839Vacheron amp Constantin developes a full set of machine tools for manu-facturing its watches
1875Calcium sulphate is the first luminescent sub-stance to be used for numerals and hands
TIMEKEEPING MILESTONES
questions Are modern luxury timepieces every bit as appealing as the vintage watches that typically command top prices at auc-tion And does that Geneva auction tell us anything about the contemporary watch market as a whole
Julien Schaerer Antiquorumrsquos managing director in Geneva says top-quality vintage watches often appreciate in value over the long term But he urges buyers for whom appreciation is an important consideration to be cautious about purchasing contempo-rary watches
lsquoWatch price depreciation is the cost of ownership just as it is with a luxury carrsquo he says lsquoIf the value goes up then
58 March 2014 | inspired
1880The first water- resistant watch incorpo-rating a screwed case is produced by Genevan watchmaker Franccedilois Borgel
1889The first known patent for a wristwatch is filed in Bern Switzerland
1890Dialmaker A Beyeler invents a transfer press for applying numerals and letters to dials
1892Auguste Verneuil in France produces the first synthetic jewels to be used in watchmaking
1904Wens Wilsdorf launches large-scale production of a womenrsquos wristwatch
1924John Harwood files the
first Swiss patent for a self-winding wristwatch with a central oscillating weight
1925The first known wrist-watch with a perpetual calendar is manufactured using a pendant watch movement
1926Rolex creates the Oyster wristwatch with a water-resistant case and crown
1966The first quartz wrist-watch prototype is produced
1969The first quartz watch
with an LED display appears
1978Quartz watches overtake mechanical watches in popularity
2005Creation of the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie Seiko launches the spring drive Kinetic the first self-winding mechanical watch with an electro-magnetic escapement
A Patek Philippe pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon recently sold for pound807000
inspired | March 2014 59
online retailers from the comfort of your homeSince 2006 DM London has quietly estab-
lished a powerful presence for itself in the UK retail watch market with the acquisition of The Watch Hut and The Watch Gallery DM London chairman David Coleridge says the company has capitalised on the increasing willingness of buy-ers to purchase online
lsquoHaving decided that they would like to buy a watch for themselves or someone elsersquo he says lsquopeople start to do their research More often than not this starts online nowadays where they com-pare brands performance and functions
lsquoAs trust in the online marketplace has devel-oped many want to buy online because it is convenient and saves time Shopping online becomes a habit established sites build trust and awareness with customers which gives custom-ers the confidence to buy more expensive itemsrsquo
He adds lsquoOur challenge is to make the online environment as attractive informative and enjoy-able as a high street store Then customers will decide to spend onlinersquo
Coleridge believes a multi-channel approach is the way forward for retailers He says lsquoWithout doubt the future is multi-channel selling ndash a combination of direct selling on the internet and various forms of click and collect ndash combined with beautiful stores on the high street
Over the past few years demand for luxury watches (particularly contemporary models) has spiked sharply in Asia and according to some specialists emerging affluence in the
of course thatrsquos an added benefit However he adds lsquoPrice appreciation is still quite rare with modern watches There is some poten-tial for appreciation but probably only with ultra-limited editions A purchase has to be
seen as a medium- to long-term invest-ment One should buy a timepiece first out of love for the brand or [the watchrsquos] complicationrsquo
The watch brands that offer the greatest assurance of appreci-
ation include Cartier Patek Philippe Rolex Audemars
Piguet A Lange amp Sohne Breguet and Vacheron Constantin All enjoy views from the top of
the watchmaking hierarchy thanks to their longstand-ing histories and well-established brand identities
Relative new-comers to the industry such as Richard Mille and Roger Dubuis have carved out a niche for
themselves with their revolutionary designs and
space-age technologies but it remains to be seen just how well the values of their timepieces will stand up on the secondary market
According to Nathaniel Borgelt a specialist at auction house Sothebyrsquos
some modern watches have already achieved good prices at auction but these (like the Patek Philippe Sky Moon Tourbillon) were highly exclusive models when new
lsquoSome limited edition pieces currently fetch incredible prices at auctionrsquo he says lsquoAnd there is a select group of modern mod-els that could compete with a certain sector of the vintage market based on their brand innovative features such as materials or com-plications and avant-garde designs
Buying these has now become a whole lot easier The luxury watch retailing land-scape is changing and the traditional pattern of physically walking into a luxury salon to buy a watch is gradually being replaced by a trend towards visiting the websites of the big
LUXURY WATCHES
A Lange amp Sohne (above) is a long-standing high-end watchmaker Comparative new-comer Roger Dubuis (right) is forging a strong reputation
inspired | March 2014 PB60 March 2014 | inspired
helpthewatchgallerycom
Hublot ClassiC FusiontHe WatCH Gallery exClusive
The Watch Gallery and Hublot have joined forces to create two very special limited edition watches Both are limited to just 15 pieces worldwide and have been specifically designed to feature The Watch Gallery blue brand colour on the hands and tinted open case back
SelfridgeS OxfOrd StreetWeStfield lOndOnMancheSter exchange Square
wwwthewatchgallerycomhublot-watches
Far East has kept global values strong while other markets around the world continue to recover from recession
Despite the market boost from growing prosperity in Asia there are signs that the market is becoming saturated and that globally the new watch market isnrsquot as robust as some commentators suggest
It may still be a good time to buy but its important to know what you want and what yoursquore buying Modern watchmakers such as Richard Mille Roger Dubuis and Greubel Forsey are producing beautiful timepieces but because of their limited foothold in the market itrsquos difficult to predict their long-term success and desirability They donrsquot yet have the brand power that might ensure the value of their
watches in the secondhand market remains highSuch producers might one day stand eye to
eye with the most desirable brands such as Patek Philippe and Rolex but achieving that kind of parity wonrsquot be easy Collectors looking to invest in timepieces are advised to keep an open mind about modern producers uncertainty is the one aspect of modern luxury watch market most experts tend to agree on
That said the buoyancy in the watch market suggests that plenty of buyers are unconcerned about future values For them itrsquos all about the appreciation of the watch itself People buy watches because they bring them pleasure ndash and say some-thing about who they are
LUXURY WATCHES
Contemporary watches such as those made by Hublot (left) have yet to show they will have the lasting appeal of watches such as Cartierrsquos Rotonde de Cartier Astrocalendaire (right)
inspired | March 2014 63
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- inspirep14
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-
One in twelve goes free on your next golf break plus every golfer receives a free pint
12thmansagimme
Book online at MarriottGolfcouk
Offer is only valid on residential golf bookings booked during the promotional dates For every 11 players booked the 12th player will be free of charge Rates are per person per night based on 2 people sharing a twindouble room and include dinner bed amp breakfast Bookings must be made by one named player and separate bookings will not qualify Each residential player aged 18 and over will receive a voucher entitling them to a complimentary pint
of Beckrsquos or Boddingtons Offer is valid on bookings made via 3rd parties Offer is available on 1 night 2 rounds or 2 night 3 rounds and excludes Sunday Driver Maximum of 2 night stay and 2 people per room Day of week availability may vary based on location Limited number of rooms may be available This offer applies to new bookings only at Marriott Hotel amp Country Clubs and offer courses and tee times are subject to availability Offer cannot
be used in conjunction with any other promotion Course terms and conditions apply Advance reservations required Book between 17th February and 29th June 2014 for stays between 4th April and 29th September 2014
The SIPP thatrsquos
fair and square
We believe in straightforward investing Thatrsquos why we donrsquot nibble at your SIPP with percentage fees For just pound144 per year you can open a SIPP and add an ISA for free After that itrsquos just pound10 to buy or sell a wide range of investments including shares funds bonds and gilts Open an account today and if you transfer your existing SIPP wersquoll give you up to pound240 as a thank you (terms apply) We believe thatrsquos fair and square
The value of investments and any income from them can fall as well as rise so you could get back less than you invest Tax treatment depends on your individual circumstances and may be subject to change If in any doubt please seek advice
iiicouksipp
Interactive Investor Trading Limited trading as ldquoInteractive Investorrdquo is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority Registered Office Standon House 21 Mansell Street London E1 8AA Tel 0845 200 3637 Registered in England with Company Registration number 3699618
SPECULATIVE GROWTHMampG RecoveryDennehy says manager Tom Dobell backs his convictions engages with companies he invests in and has delivered long-term outperformance lsquoDobellrsquos MampG Recovery fund has a clear value-style process and management stability It invests in a wide range of firms that are out of favour or in difficulty or whose prospects are not fully rec-ognised by the marketrsquo he says
Liontrust Special SituationsHusselbee says Liontrustrsquos Anthony Cross and Julian Fosh have their own unique philosophy He adds lsquoThey look for characteristics in a company that its competitors find difficult to replicate such as intellectual property or distribution channelsrsquo
Allianz Bric StarsThis fund aims for capital growth in the long term by investing mainly in Brazil Russia India and China Haynes says investors have shunned these markets recently and valuations fallen He adds lsquoFor investors looking for a recovery story this fund is worth considerationrsquo
Standard Life Equity Income subscription shareMcHattie says warrant and subscription shares are widely ignored creating opportunities for those who understand them He favours the subscrip-tion shares of Standard Life Equity Income which can be exercised at 320p a share up to the end of December 2016 lsquoThey offer gearing of 37 times and if the ordinary shares grow by more than 28 per cent a year between now and the end of 2016 the subscription shares ought to outperformrsquo
Impax Environmental MarketsMcAdam likes this trust It invests in companies seeking to provide cleaner or more-efficient energy as well as water and waste solutions to the growing problems faced by authorities around the world It offers exposure to a rapidly changing marketplace as well as to socially responsible investments
Hansa TrustJohn Newlands sees potential in the A shares of Hansa Trust which languish at a discount of more than 25 per cent He says that whereas the trustrsquos portfolio appears skewed with a third of its assets in Ocean Wilsons there is actually plenty of diversification because Ocean Wilsons has an investment portfolio that stands at a discount to underlying value lsquoOne day an attractive bid [may] be made for Ocean Wilsons that will enhance Hansarsquos NAV and sim-plify its capital structure all to the good of its market ratingrsquo Newlands says
Baker Steel Resources TrustJean Matterson hopes for good returns from this trust shares in which trade on a near 30 per cent discount lsquoIt has not had an easy run of late but we believe the underlying assets are attractive and that the mining projects in the companyrsquos portfo-lio will continue to progressrsquo she says
Prospects have improved for biotechs (left) while growing interest in sustain-able energy has boosted Impax
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
AHIGHEROILPRICEFEEDSSTRAIGHT
THROUGHTOPROFITSTony Yarrow
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
inspired | March 2014 27PB March 2014 | inspired
FUNDSANDTRUSTS
The world of funds and trusts is a confusing place with over 2300 funds and more than 300 investment trusts to choose from
Money Observerrsquos Rated Funds system narrows down the playing field to help you decide which funds and investment trusts might be best for you
Our team of experts constantly monitor the marketplace rating those funds that have delivered consistently good returns However you should be aware that there is no guarantee this performance will be repeated
With our comparison tool you can filter by whatrsquos important to you compare up to four funds and trusts side-by-side as well as view factsheets
COMPAREMONEY OBSERVER RATED FUNDS
VISIT MONEYOBSERVERCOMCOMPAREFUNDS AND LOOK OUT FOR THE RATED FUND STAMP
had spare cash or I were start-ing afresh The companies in the add category are high qual-ity judging by the strategies they follow and their finan-cial strength and are probably undervalued
Irsquom more likely to eject or reduce holdings in companies in the watch and specula-tive categories These shares are more risky either because they have risen greatly in price or because their prospects are more uncertain than usual I may think the risk is worth tak-ing but I am prepared to act should that calculation change
Every decision to increase a portfolio holding must be weighed against the potential of new candidates drawn from all companies listed in the UK and corralled into another live spreadsheet the Share Sleuth watchlist When I add a share to the watchlist or trade a share in the portfolio I explain this in the Share Sleuth blog
ccumulating income and capital gains in an index tracking fund is inexpensive takes little effort and all but guarantees an
average return so it should be the default investment for a lazy equity investor saving for the long term
To justify the work of decid-ing which shares to buy and sell and the effort and cost of placing trades an active investor must do better Consequently the first objective of the active Share Sleuth portfolio is to beat passive investments after costs over the long-term which in practice means any five-year period The second objective is to win this tussle against an unknowing and unthinking opponent transparently
At the heart of the portfolio is an online spreadsheet The first page shows the constitu-ent shares arranged into three categories lsquoaddrsquo lsquowatchrsquo and lsquospeculativersquo The categorisa-tion is updated daily based on live data in subsequent spread-sheets each of which contains a financial model for a particular company
The Share Sleuth portfo-lio shows the holdings I would add to the portfolio today if it
Share Sleuth is a simulation no money changes hands But I use prices quoted by a bro-ker and adjust the accounting to factor in notional broker fees and stamp duty However I lsquoeat my own cookingrsquo by investing my self-invested personal pen-sion in Share Sleuth companies
No doubt you are wonder-ing how the portfolio is doing Share Sleuthrsquos five-year anni-versary judgement day is on 9 September this year and I will not prejudge it now
Short-term performance watching and the knee-jerk trad-ing it encourages is I think one reason why many inves-tors fail My focus is on ensuring the portfolio remains invested in good companies at reasona-ble prices
You can see a live perfor-mance table and learn what I think of every share in the port-folio and which companies I might add to it at wwwiiicoukZkr
SHAREBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIOR
The Share Sleuth portfolio has been carefully devised to show investors how to find good companies at cheap prices and also prove the value of its investment approach says Richard Beddard
Richard Beddard an editor at Interactive Investor since 1999 has managed the Share Sleuth portfolio since 9 September 2009 Hersquos a columnist at Money Observer magazine and a private investor
AMY FOCUS IS ON ENSURING THAT THE PORTFOLIO IS INVESTED IN GOOD FIRMS AT DECENT PRICES
inspired | March 2014 29PB March 2014 | inspired
SHARESLEUTH
iiicoukstraightforward
Interactive Investor Trading Limited trading as ldquoInteractive Investorrdquo is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority Registered Office Standon House 21 Mansell Street London E1 8AA Tel 0845 200 3637 Registered in England with Company Registration number 3699618
We believe in being straightforwardthis is why we donrsquot nibble at your investment by charging percentage fees Find out how this could affect your investment performance at iiicoukstraightforward
If you transfer to us you can even get up to pound240 as a thank you (terms apply)
Donrsquot forget the value of investments and any income from them can fall as well as rise so you could get back less than you invest If in any doubt please seek advice
7784_II_QI_MONEY_OBSERVER_210x297_AWindd 1 16012014 1224
Take a closer look
at your investment
options
Discover a straightforward way to understand everything from ISAs to SIPPs and OEICs to Investment Trusts
Investing for generationsEver feel yoursquod like to know more about investing Wersquove been helping people build their wealth for over 125 years Our guide lsquoMaking sense of the investment universersquo is just one of the resources yoursquoll find on our Investment Focus hub
As well as clear simple guides therersquos a wealth of information and expert opinion all designed to help you take control of your investments Please remember that investments can go down as well as up and investors may get back less than they originally invested
Introducing your free online source of information help and expert opinion
investment-focuscouk
This has been approved as a financial promotion by Alliance Trust Investments Limited for the purpose of Section 21 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 Alliance Trust Investments Limited is a subsidiary of Alliance Trust PLC and is registered in Scotland No SC330862 registered office 8 West Marketgait Dundee DD1 1QN is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority firm reference number 479764 Alliance Trust Investments gives no financial or investment advice
TAX YEAR ENDS APRIL 5TH ndash learn more about
your options now
Investment Focus Smart Insight from Alliance Trust
Yoursquove spoken Wersquove listened Introducing your free online source of information help and expert opinion
Based on real insight we have launched a new website which focuses on investment education
We believe that we are uniquely positioned to provide this hub of information based on the reputation we have built for trust and transparency over the last 125 years
We will be publishing new content over the next few months focusing on specific themes
bull Investing from scratch
bull Products in a portfolio
bull Global diversification
bull Planning for your familyrsquos future
bull Retirement planning
bull Getting more information
There is a generation of future investors out there who have been brought up in an era of economic turmoil and banking crises which has led to disillusionment and a lack of trust in our sector and the services we offer Despite it being more important than ever for investors to take control of their financial situation this new generation of savers lacks the basic knowledge and understanding to make these very important long-term decisions
Our goal is to develop a useful resource with contributions from third-parties as well as the team at Alliance Trust which offers insights into the various life stages and challenges faced and which can be built upon and adapted to meet savers needs in the long term
Katherine Garrett-Cox CBE Chief Executive Alliance Trust PLC
ldquo
rdquo
There are too many products to make an informed decision
I donrsquot know whereto go for reliable
information
investment-focuscouk
Yoursquoll naturally take a keen interest in the performance of your investments But itrsquos just as important to understand the fees you will be paying as they can have a significant impact on the returns you achieve Knowing what the different types of costs mean and exactly what they consist of can prove rewarding
Itrsquos worth remembering that for every fee you pay (whether it is a or flat fee) your investment needs to grow by at least the same amount just to stay ahead of the game It sounds obvious but itrsquos easy to forget Broadly speaking there are three types of fees fund fees platform fees and fees for a financial adviser You can either invest directly into a fund and pay the associated fees or you can invest via a platform provider (some of which are referred to as wrap platforms others as fund supermarkets) This is a service that lets you manage and review all your investments online in one place As a general rule fund fees are lower when
bought through a platform than if you buy direct You can invest through a platform on either an execution only basis where the investor assesses the risks and makes their own investment decisions or on an advised basis
Learn more about fund platform and financial advice fees
What can you expect to seeOver the next two pages we have provided a sneak preview of just some of the information you will find on the Investment Focus hub We will be updating the site regularly so make sure you sign up for our email alerts to be informed when new topics are published
Everything you need to know about fees
Risk informationInvestments can go down as well as up You may get back less than you originally invested
Alliance Trust does not give advice You need to ensure you understand the risks and commitments before investing If you are unsure you should consult a Financial Adviser before investing
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
For the vast majority of investors the simplest cheapest and most pragmatic way to invest is through pooled funds
Sometimes called managed funds unit trusts or even Open-Ended Investment Companies (or OEICs) these are designed to give ordinary savers access to a diverse range of investments
One of the principles of investment is that diversification helps reduce risk But it is expensive and time consuming for ordinary savers to buy shares of 80 to 100 different companies and keep track of how each is performing
But with a managed fund you are pooling your money with other investors enabling the fund manager to buy a wide range of assets
Investors have the option of buying an actively managed or passive fund With an active fund the manager selects and then monitors these stocks for investors in a bid to maximise returns
In contrast a passive fund will simply follow a stock market index such as the FTSE100 up and down
Having a manager at the helm can be beneficial in a market downturn as they can take a more defensive approach buying shares that are better able to hold their value or in some cases switching to bonds or cash instead to help preserve investorsrsquo capital Managers can also research individual companies and markets and have access to forecasts and economic data that isnrsquot always available to individuals
Learn more about investing for growth or income exploring different investment remits how to invest and keeping track of your investments
Understanding funds Written by Emma Simon Personal Finance Journalist
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
What are Investment TrustsInvestment Trusts are investment vehicles that are listed on the London Stock Exchange and which invest in shares and other securities They pool together investorsrsquo money and delegate responsibility to a professional fund manager to invest in a range of companies from different sectors and regions across the world They were designed for ldquothe investor of moderate meansrdquo
A brief historybull The first Investment Trust was launched by Foreign amp
Colonial in 1868
bull Investment Trusts made it possible for individual investors to gain diversified exposure to global stock markets
bull Many Investment Trusts were formed in Scotland including Alliance Trust PLC which was formed over 125 years ago
A guide to Investment Trusts
Learn more about Investment Trusts their main features and why you should consider them for your portfolio
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
Alliance Trust is an investment and savings business with over 125 year history of building investor wealth We offer our shareholders clients and customers a unique portfolio of products and services These range from a renowned global investment trust to an innovative range of investment strategies and funds and a multi-award winning investment platform where investors can host their ISAs SIPPs or investment accounts Our mission is to provide products and services that help to ensure a more sustainable financial future for generations of investors
Alliance Trust PLC is one of the largest generalist investment trusts by market value listed on the London Stock Exchange and is the parent company to two wholly-owned subsidiaries Alliance Trust Savings and Alliance Trust Investments
The fact that many of us make irrational decisions when it comes to our finances is widely debated and is often referred to as behavioural finance In this short video we talk to Professor Phyl Johnson Consultant Psychologist and Visiting Professor of Executive Education at Strathclyde Business School about why this is and more importantly about what we can do as individuals to avoid it
About us Alliance Trust Investments is a specialist fund management business offering a range of products and services focusing on global equities fixed income and sustainable investing with an emphasis on specialist investment solutions
Alliance Trust Savings is one of the UKrsquos leading financial services providers for private investors offering customers the information and services they need to manage their investments in a way that works for them
Risk informationInvestments can go down as well as up You may get back less than you originally invested
Alliance Trust does not give advice You need to ensure you understand the risks and commitments before investing If you are unsure you should consult a Financial Adviser before investing
Unusually for a company of our size around 70 of shares
in Alliance Trust are held by private
individuals
Nobodyrsquos perfect why we all make irrational decisions
Inflation by ageThis monthrsquos official inflation report showed that the headline rate of inflation fell from 20 to 19 Our Economic Research Team analyse this data on a monthly basis to see how inflation rates affect different age groups In February 2014 the summary highlights include
bull The over 75s and the under 30s face the highest rate of inflation in January at 21
bull The over 75s suffered the highest rate of inflation for the whole of 2013 and this trend continues into 2014 as they spend a larger share of their budgets on basic goods such as gas and electricity
bull The 65 to 74 year olds have faced the lowest rate of inflation in 11 out of the last 12 months thanks to lower inflation in food petrol and package holidays
Learn more about how inflation might affect you
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
You can also sign up for our regular email alerts to be informed when new topics are published by clicking here
Wersquove been bringing clarity to investment for over 125 years
Investing for generationsWhen it comes to investing therersquos no substitute for experience And at Alliance Trust wersquove been helping people invest since 1888 Our new Investment Focus hub is full of online information and expert opinion It aims to provide real insight to help you take control of your investments
Over the next few weeks the hub will build to cover everything from taking your first steps to diversifying worldwide Please remember that investments can go down as well as up and investors may get back less than they originally invested For valuable insight from Alliance Trust visit Investment Focus today
Introducing your free online source of information help and expert opinion
investment-focuscouk
This has been approved as a financial promotion by Alliance Trust Investments Limited for the purpose of Section 21 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 Alliance Trust Investments Limited is a subsidiary of Alliance Trust PLC and is registered in Scotland No SC330862 registered office 8 West Marketgait Dundee DD1 1QN is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority firm reference number 479764 Alliance Trust Investments gives no financial or investment advice
TAX YEAR ENDS APRIL 5TH ndash learn more about
your options now
Change the way you think about stocks reap the rewardsBy Edward Page Croft CEO Stockopediacom
I remember so clearly the day when I picked my first stock for clients Managing $2 billion (pound12 billion) in assets across 100 portfolios for high-net-wealth private investors is no easy task As I was to learn when you are green
and straight out of university itrsquos even harder The stock in question was on the Goldman
Sachs US lsquobuyrsquo list It had the potential to be hot Dotcoms were bubbling It was an internet stock in education services and cheap It seemed like it had everything but we needed to get in One day it fell out of bed Down 50 per cent on no news
Irsquod been trained to call the analyst in situations like this He reiterated his buy stance Double buy On my insistence we put almost $20 million of client money into the stock within an hour The next day it fell another 50 per cent on
bad newsThere is nothing more
painful than a loss but you never forget the first
one It immedi-ately forced me to reconsider every-thing I thought I
knew From that day on I vowed to never trust anotherrsquos opin-ion and find a better
way through the market minefieldIrsquove now spent 15 years
reassessing common
wisdom about stock selection No stone has gone unturned in the quest to understand the behav-ioural flaws that lead to poor decision making But there is one finding that crops up again and again in all the research that hurts stock market investors most We as investors are suckers for stories
A 1990rsquos study of 60000 private investor broker-age accounts by Kumar and Goetzmann found that 70 per cent of portfolios held less than four stocks
The stocks held all tended to be in the same sector highly correlated and risky Think internet stocks in the 1990s China in the 2000s or resource stocks more recently The grand theme sucks everyone in The outcome rarely dif-fers Kumar and Goetzmann showed that across these
60000 accounts the average underperformance was of the order of 4 per cent annually
This massive failing across private inves-tor portfolios is repeated in nearly every market cycle and is bound to happen again in this one Benjamin Graham the great father of value invest-ing and tutor of Warren Buffett once wrote
lsquoIn the short run the stock market is a vot-ing machine but in the long run it is a weighing machinersquo
ADVERTISING FEATURE
IN THE SHORT RUN THE STOCK MARKET IS A VOTING MACHINE BUT IN THE LONG RUN IT IS A WEIGHING MACHINEBenjamin Graham
What he meant was that while stories may drive stocks in the short run statistics drive stocks in the long run When statistics reassert them-selves it can cause huge damage to investors punting their portfolios on stories
It doesnrsquot take much to learn how basic statis-tics can guide your portfolio into winning stock selections though very few seem to understand how to do it Benjamin Graham as his life wore on gradually came to the conclusion that building portfolios according to rules-based processes was a far more appropriate methodology for the typi-cal investor
lsquoTry to buy groups of stocks that meet some sim-ple criterion for being undervalued ndash regardless of
the industry and with very little attention to the indi-vidual company It seems too good to be true but all I can tell you after 60 years of experience is it seems to stand up under any of the tests I would make uprsquo
My time is now dedi-cated to helping investors practice exactly what Benjamin Graham and many other investment luminaries have preached rules-based investing For the majority itrsquos a better process and leads to bet-ter outcomes Our work at
Stockopediacom where we crunch fundamental and technical data in order to model and track the investment processes of the great investors bears this out
Portfolios composed with stocks showing the right statistical mix of value quality and momen-tum have significantly outperformed Rules-based investing beats the market But more importantly it helps promote the emotional detachment needed to stop investors from beating themselves
Irsquoll never buy a stock on a punt or an analystrsquos tip again Perhaps neither should you
For a two week free trial and pound50 discount to Stockopedia UK Premium CLICK HERE
TANK MCM A N U F A C T U R E M O V E M E N T 1 9 0 4 M C
SINCE THE CREATION OF THE FIRST TANK WATCH IN 1917 THE TANK COLLECTION HAS CONTINUED
TO BREAK NEW GROUND THE INCREDIBLY REFINED AESTHETICS OF THE NEW TANK MC WATCH ARE FITTED
WITH THE CARTIER MANUFACTURE MOVEMENT 1904 MC ESTABLISHED IN 1847 CARTIER CREATES
EXCEPTIONAL WATCHES THAT COMBINE DARING DESIGN AND WATCHMAKING SAVOIR-FAIRE
EXPLORE AND SHOP WWWCARTIERCOUK - (020) 3147 4850
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TO THE CONNOISSEUR section of Inspired a showcase for the finer things in life for those who truly appreciate them
Enjoying the fruits of your labour away from the relentless demands of our age poses its own challenges and quandaries Would a tropical idyll restore your ebbing energy levels Might a break based around hair-raising activities revive them even more effectively Perhaps reawakening a dormant passion for fine wines or luxury cars would be the most enjoyable reward for your industry
A luxury tropical holiday is probably near the top of most peoplersquos wish lists We take a look at some of the most tantalising options
The arrival of BMWrsquos new super coupe is featured on page 50 BMW aficionados and petrolheads alike are certain to be won over by its head-turning looks and mouthwatering specs
Gems come under the microscope on page 53 A rare coloured diamond can be a joy as well an appreciating asset
Wine is on the menu on page 54 where we explore the charms of Argentinian Malbec
Watches are often treasured objects and the best can turn out to be shrewd investments We look at the secondary watch market and the growth of online retailing on page 58 Enjoy
Welcome
40 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
FIVE TOP PRIVATE ISLAND RETREATSIslandFantasy
Top-rated resorts and hotels offer a variety of temptations and services to impress even the most discerning tastes but there is no better way to escape the rigours and
stresses of daily life than cutting off from the outside world while still enjoying lavish service
in the pinnacle of all resorts the private islandThere are thousands of small islands around
the world but only a few have chosen to cater to the most discriminating travellers seeking a rarified yet perfect world of quiet and relaxed luxury We look at five of the worldrsquos top private islands destinations where your holiday is certain to be an exceptional experience
TRAVEL
Necker Island is owned by Sir Richard Branson and guests stay in his home The island has become a popular des-tination for some of the worldrsquos most prominent figures as a hideaway from lifersquos stresses and strains
Because Necker Island is a resi-dence and not a resort guests who rent the island are treated as owners and catered for in a unique way
The74-acre island is fringed with beautiful white beaches and surrounded by turquoise waters and coral reefs It boasts every resort-type amenity guests can spend their days being pampered in the spa explor-ing underwater reefs in a submarine lounging by the pool bar or swimming in one of the worldrsquos most elab-orate private pools
Haute cuisine is a highlight for most guests ndash rates are fully inclusive of all food and drink A team of chefs creates bespoke menus featuring anything from lobster and caviar to a Sunday roast And because Necker is a home first and a resort second guests decide whether dining will be formal or informal inside or outside themed or traditional
The bar is stocked with international wines top-quality spirits and beers and a world renowned house champagne while special orders can be shipped in at no extra charge ndash unless an item is particularly rare Every service and amenity is available around the clock and guests are encouraged to treat Necker as their own home
As youLike it
NECKER ISLAND
42 March 2014 | inspired
Unalloyed luxury and an impressive range of amenities make Necker one of the most desirable island destinations in the world
The Jumby Bay resort which is only accessible by boat from Antigua is a Caribbean hideaway owned by Rosewood Resorts It is perfect for those seeking either relaxation or spirited adventure
You can rent the island resort entirely for your stay or simply take a room Those opt-ing for exclusive use of the island will have the resortrsquos two pools three tennis courts fitness centre croquet field and putting green to themselves
A wide range of water sports are available and guests can indulge in as much adventure or relaxation as they want during their stay The resort is ideal for large family
reunions or corporate retreats ndash 40 guest rooms and suites are available on the island
Executive chef Sylvain Hervochon celebrates gastron-omy ndash and mixology (cocktail making) ndash with casual elegance by creating Caribbean-style dishes inspired by fresh local ingredients and incorporating international influences
Jumby Bayrsquos rates start at pound150000 for four nights based on double occupancy between May and December Visit wwwrosewoodhotelscomenjumby-bay-antigua for further information
Fine BalanceCaribbean ambiance international sophistication and adventurous activities make Jumby Bay a compelling choice
JUMBY BAY
Just laze by the pool or venture beyond to dive in the turquoise waters of the South Pacific among stunning reefs and a dazzling array of marine creatures
Isle of PlentyT
he private island of Laucala in the South Pacific is a 3500-acre site in a picturesque rainforest-laced land-scape Enchanting deserted beaches nestle among coconut plantations organic farms and lush green vol-canic mountains
The resort offers an outstanding level of refined lux-ury as well as a compelling collection of sporting and cultural activities diving among iridescent marine life in the warm turquoise waters guided rainforest tours horse riding surfing and golfing on the 18-hole cham-pionship course The island is a superb choice for an escape from civilization whether you want an adven-ture in the wild or simply to relax in one of Laucalarsquos five restaurants and bars
Rates are available on request Visit wwwlaucalacom for further details
TRAVEL
LAUCALA ISLAND
inspired | March 2014 4544 March 2014 | inspired
Lush green surroundings sensitive development and beautiful beaches help Laucala island conjure up a complete South Seas experience
Isle of Plenty
inspired | March 2014 4544 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
inspired | March 2014 4746 March 2014 | inspired
Slow LaneSlow
Pulau Joyo is a seductively serene environment of pristine beaches surrounded by clear blue sea in Indonesiarsquos Riau Archipelago Accessible from Singapore or Bintan Pulau Joyo is a true castaway island offering every resort luxury
amid untouched natural beauty Pulau Joyo is famous for its remarkable sunsets and
brightly star-lit sky The resort can host 28 guests and 20 staff are on hand to cater to their every need Guests stay in open driftwood lsquopalacesrsquo that lsquoallow the sea inrsquoDespite its desert island appeal Pulau Joyo offers every modern convenience a range of adrenaline boosting activities and more relaxing options such as spa treatments and massages
The resortrsquos cuisine focuses on western and Indonesian dishes Meals are usually served buffet style and feature grilled fish squid prawns beef and chicken as well as many curry dishes Side dishes include fresh garden salads pasta salads boiled or steamed leafy greens and grilled aubergine (an island favourite) Prawn and tofu kebabs appear from time to time as does satay The chef will often provide a selection of freshly picked fruit and homemade cakes for dessert Itrsquos worth noting that the management will not serve pork or shellfish on this private island
Pulau Joyo may not be as refined as some islands but itrsquos an excellent choice for those who want a more casual laidback island experience that replicates the castaway experience like perhaps no other
Rates start at pound1913 a night More information is available at wwwpulau-joyocom
Wannabe castaways may find Pulau Joyorsquos purer simpler take on the luxury island experience more to their taste
PULAU JOYO
inspired | March 2014 4746 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
In the Fijian island paradise of Dolphin Island a small army of staff await to meet guestsrsquo every need On arriving ndash by boat helicopter or float plane ndash visitors are invariably struck by the beauty of the island and the luxuri-ous accommodation that awaits them amid 14-acres of lush tropical gardens
Three traditional palm-thatched bures individually designed by world renowned interior designer Virginia Fisher sit in an elevated position around the resortrsquos infinity pool
Guests are brought fresh tropical fish to choose each day that are cooked to perfec-
tion within hours of leaving the water The culinary focus is on
organic produce and ingredi-ents unique to Fijian cuisine but meals are tailored to guestsrsquo personal tastes Papayas man-goes bananas and pineapples
are plentiful throughout the day When it comes to recreation the
14-acre island is an expansive play-ground offering a diverse range of watersports as well as diving opportunities on Fijirsquos coral reefs
Rates start at pound720 a night More information is avail-able at wwwdolphinislandfijicom
Fijian Paean
Traditional features modern comforts and excellent facilities make for a harmonious whole on this Fijian island
DOLPHIN ISLAND
48 March 2014 | inspired
Pictured slightly larger than actual size
Big Pilotrsquos Watch Ref 5009
Your wrist never felt this big before The
case of the top model in the IWC Pilotrsquos
Watch range is a gigantic 462 mm in diashy
meter And the technology inside it is
even more impressive the largest IWCshy
manufactured automatic movement with
its Pellaton winding system is protected
against strong magnetic fields by a softshy
iron inner case And needless to say enshy
vious glances iwc engineered for men
Mechanical IWCshymanufactured movement Pellaton
automatic winding system 7shyday power reserve
with display (figure) Date display Softshyiron inner
case for protection against magnetic fields
Antireflective sapphire glass Watershyresistant 6 bar
Stainless steel
IWC Schaffhausen Switzerland iwccom The worldrsquos finest timepieces are exclusively available from selected watch specialists
For an illustrated catalogue or list of nationwide concessionaires please contact IWC UK Tel 0845 337 1868 Eshymail infoshyukiwccom
CARS
MunichLegend
50 March 2014 | inspired
BMW fanatics can open their eyes ndash the M4 has arrived
Most BMW aficionados are proba-bly pretty sad to see production of the M3 coupe ndash quite possibly the companyrsquos most noteworthy and celebrated model ndash end after almost 30 years Ever since the first wide-body E30 M3 saw the
light of day in 1985 drivers have loved the sporty coupe for its incredible balance intoxicating power and of course solid build quality
The model never got stale in all that time and always remained the poster child for the M division so itrsquos a lit-tle weird that BMW has apparently decided to axe it In truth though they havenrsquot really dropped the M3 The M3 sedan will continue to be produced in 2014 so all
is not lost Moreover BMW seems to be adopting a pat-tern of giving its sedans odd-numbered titles only and its coupes even-numbered titles only so the 4-Series and especially the M4 concept that debuted at Pebble Beach Monterey California will fill the gap left by the M3 Many people have been awaiting the new super coupe with great expectancy but can it fill in for the M3
The journalists who swarmed over the M4 concept at Pebble Beach were obviously much more interested in it than the somewhat predictable 428i that was also there Finished in an eye-catching colour called Aurum Dust (which actually looks a lot like the old M3rsquos Phoenix Yellow colour) the car presented in California may be a concept but typically BMW M cars donrsquot change much before they finally hit the showroom
MunichLegend
inspired | March 2014 51
CARS
52 March 2014 | inspired
From front to back the bodywork is manifestly differ-ent and much more aggressive looking than a standard 4-Series car It really looks to pretty much pick up where the E92E93 M3 coupe left off especially with its undeniably cool domed hood Wide wheel arches big wheels wrapped in low-profile tyres more than enough M badges and a well-executed double-bubble roof make the already underwhelming existing 4-Series coupe look even more pedestrian
Power for the new M4 is likely to come from a three-litre twin-turbo straight-six engine While the horsepower probably wonrsquot differ much from the M3rsquos old 4-litre V-8 it will generate more than 100lbft more in torque almost 400 in total With the M4 being a lighter 3300lb in weight the M4 promises to be an excit-ing worthy car A proper six-speed manual may be in the mix alongside the now obligatory dual clutch and paddles option
The best way to look at the M4 however it ends up is not as a new car but as a new and improved M3 thatrsquos just getting a new name The decision to rename the coupe is a strange one but thankfully BMW apparently felt the 3-Series coupe had made such an identity for itself that a new model was needed albeit in a slightly different incarnation
With BMW embarking on some new-ageish ideas such as its 1-Series ActiveE and the soon-to-arrive lsquoirsquo range of cars itrsquos nice to see the company also stick to classics such as the heart-stopping sports coupe even if the latest model does come with a new name
Seductive curves and racier performance make the BMW M4 a more than acceptable replacement for the M3 super coupe
SparklingForm Coloured diamonds are making their mark
One of the main factors that deter-mines the value of what we ordinarily think of as diamonds is their purity the degree to which col-our is absent in the gem However with coloured diamonds the extent to which they are saturated with
colour is a principal determinant of their valueColoured diamonds come in 12 basic colours more
than 90 secondary hues and nine intensity levels The depth of their colour is what really differentiates these diamonds from their colourless counterparts
Natural coloured diamonds are 10000 times rarer than typical colourless diamonds one of several rea-sons why they are treasured by the rich and famous yet remain unknown to most other people ndash despite hav-ing been around for centuries
Of course some colours are rarer than others Red violet and purple stones are as rare as the proverbial hensrsquo teeth while green and blue are also rare The most popular colours are pink and yellow (or canary) They also come in white grey orange black and lsquochame-leonrsquo form
A pinkie ring encrusted with a large coloured dia-mond has become a status symbol for men in Asia That little stone is an unregistered asset that could quickly be sold for millions of dollars should the need arise
Coloured diamonds are durable and never lose their sparkle or lustre so they are assets that can be enjoyed every day unlike stocks or bonds And they have proved to be fantastic investments having steadily appreciated in price with relatively little volatility for more than a decade They even held their own during the most recent financial crisis
Coloured diamonds are auctioned by reputable
auction houses such a Sothebyrsquos and Christiersquos where prices for large unique pink red blue or yellow stones can reach in excess of $2 million (pound12 million) a carat and other stones regularly sell for $1 million a carat
They are often bought by high-net-worth individu-als as an insurance policy Instead of stashing cash in undeclared bank accounts and potentially incurring the wrath of the authorities the wealthy can purchase some loose yellow diamonds to secure their future
Clearly coloured diamonds are much more than a magnificent indulgence
GEMS
inspired | March 2014 53PB March 2014 | inspired
WINE
Make the most of the deeply
satisfying Malbec wines emerging from Argentina
and perhaps even enjoy a return on a shrewd
investment says Ewan Lacey
Finding a red wine to enjoy in spring is a delicate balancing act The shock of seeing sunlight after a dark winter fosters in us a desire to drink some-thing refreshing while the still-cool temperatures demand something with comforting depth
Increasingly Malbec wines particularly those from Argentina provide a perfect solution to this quandary And while there are plenty of delicious wines for infor-mal occasions what is most interesting is the emergence of finer Malbec wines Some are so good they may well have ageing potential raising the intriguing possibility that the wine may one day become collectable
Malbec is the most popular wine among those aged 25-34 and is now becoming a fixture on most restaurant wine lists There are several reasons for its success the word Malbec is easy to pronounce the wine goes well with red meat the Malbec grape can be turned into wines that are both relatively easy to drink and packed with flavour and decent wines are available at reason-able prices Malbec is deep fruity and charming and it delivers instant pleasure ndash claret on a motorbike
The Malbec grape originated in France and it remains one of the permitted varieties used to make Bordeaux However it has gained prominence through the work of the post-junta Argentine wine industry
I recently had the pleasure of tasting some very fine Malbecs with Laura Catena managing director at the Catena Zapata winery and president of the International Wine and Spirit Competition She opened my
Mendoza Marvels
inspired | March 2014 55
WINE
eyes to the potential of this grape variety when handled with care
Laurarsquos family business makes a range of wines but the wine that truly astonished me was the Nicasia Vineyard Malbec 2006 The wine is perfumed with floral and fruit notes and it is smooth and soft at first Like all great wines it has many layers of flavour warm bursts of cherry and black-currant cede centre stage to deeper darker caramel and mocha notes and a touch of spice Therersquos an amazing depth of flavour and the finish is long and lingering Whatrsquos more at nearly eight years old it still has a slight purple tinge and tastes extremely fresh There is every indication that it will age beautifully for at least another decade
The winersquos character is heavily influenced by the alti-tude the grapes used to make it are grown at (1180m
above sea level) At this elevation the grapes ripen in bright sun but lsquorelaxrsquo during the cool evenings The fact that the wine is made in tiny quantities (eight barrels only) means every care can be taken during the winemak-ing process to ensure the wine is allowed to show its grown-up side The cost per bot-tle of pound70 is not insubstantial but neither is the wine
We cannot know whether these wines will ever become investments in the way the wines of Bordeaux have Whatrsquos cer-tain is that Malbec wines have a very rare quality a balance of finesse and power that
can delight wine lovers and linger in their memories
Ewan Lacey is a leading wine expert and general manager of the International Wine and Spirit Competition He has appeared on BBC television and radio as well as Channel 4 and written for the national press
Laura Catena is managing director at the Catena Zapata winery (above)
THE INTERNATIONAL WINE AND SPIRIT COMPETITIONThe International Wine and Spirit Competition has been the premier drinks competition in the world for 45 years Each year it receives and reviews thousands of wines and spirits and presents qual-ity awards to producers
More than anything the IWSC exists to help
people make better deci-sions particularly when buying wines and spirits An IWSC award on a bot-tle of wine is a guarantee
of quality backed not only by a rigorous and strin-gent judging process but also by the skill of the judges who are drawn from the ranks of masters of wine master distill-ers industry leaders and commentators
Each year the IWSC honours a leading figure
in the drinks industry with the presidency of the competition The current president is Laura Catena who succeeds a nota-ble line of predecessors including Prince Robert of Luxembourg winemakers Piero Antinori and Warren Winiarski and Baroness Philippine de Rothschild
56 March 2014 | inspired
LUXURY WATCHES
Time is preciousA
t a recent watch auc-tion in Geneva at Antiquorum ndash the worldrsquos premiere auc-tion house for modern and vintage time pieces ndash a Patek Philippe
pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon watch emerged as the auctionrsquos top lot and sold for 12 million Swiss francs (pound807000)
Unlike most of the timepieces sold at auctions outside Asia this particular Patek watch ndash the most complicated wristwatch the Swiss watchmaker has ever produced ndash was not a vintage model
That Geneva auction raised intriguing
1284Clocks with weights gears and regulators start to appear mostly with no dial to strike the important moments of daily life
Around 1410The mainspring is devel-oped Combined with the fusee this innovation makes possible the truly portable domestic clock
1492The mechanical watch appears simultaneously in Italy Germany and France
1675Christian Huygens invents the spiral balance spring
for watches significantly improving their accuracy
1704The first watch with jew-els is produced by French watchmaker de Beaufreacute
1714The British parliament offers pound20000 to who-ever can a find a method to determine longitude
1766Parliament publishes the rating results for John Harrisonrsquos H4 marine timekeeper Harrisonrsquos highly accurate marine clock solution to the problem of determining logitude wins him part of the pound20000 prize
1787Pierre-Freacutedeacuteric Ingold is born an important pio-neer in mechanised timepiece production and the use of interchangea-ble parts
1790Jacquet-Droz and Leschot manufactures a watch attached to a strap
1839Vacheron amp Constantin developes a full set of machine tools for manu-facturing its watches
1875Calcium sulphate is the first luminescent sub-stance to be used for numerals and hands
TIMEKEEPING MILESTONES
questions Are modern luxury timepieces every bit as appealing as the vintage watches that typically command top prices at auc-tion And does that Geneva auction tell us anything about the contemporary watch market as a whole
Julien Schaerer Antiquorumrsquos managing director in Geneva says top-quality vintage watches often appreciate in value over the long term But he urges buyers for whom appreciation is an important consideration to be cautious about purchasing contempo-rary watches
lsquoWatch price depreciation is the cost of ownership just as it is with a luxury carrsquo he says lsquoIf the value goes up then
58 March 2014 | inspired
1880The first water- resistant watch incorpo-rating a screwed case is produced by Genevan watchmaker Franccedilois Borgel
1889The first known patent for a wristwatch is filed in Bern Switzerland
1890Dialmaker A Beyeler invents a transfer press for applying numerals and letters to dials
1892Auguste Verneuil in France produces the first synthetic jewels to be used in watchmaking
1904Wens Wilsdorf launches large-scale production of a womenrsquos wristwatch
1924John Harwood files the
first Swiss patent for a self-winding wristwatch with a central oscillating weight
1925The first known wrist-watch with a perpetual calendar is manufactured using a pendant watch movement
1926Rolex creates the Oyster wristwatch with a water-resistant case and crown
1966The first quartz wrist-watch prototype is produced
1969The first quartz watch
with an LED display appears
1978Quartz watches overtake mechanical watches in popularity
2005Creation of the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie Seiko launches the spring drive Kinetic the first self-winding mechanical watch with an electro-magnetic escapement
A Patek Philippe pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon recently sold for pound807000
inspired | March 2014 59
online retailers from the comfort of your homeSince 2006 DM London has quietly estab-
lished a powerful presence for itself in the UK retail watch market with the acquisition of The Watch Hut and The Watch Gallery DM London chairman David Coleridge says the company has capitalised on the increasing willingness of buy-ers to purchase online
lsquoHaving decided that they would like to buy a watch for themselves or someone elsersquo he says lsquopeople start to do their research More often than not this starts online nowadays where they com-pare brands performance and functions
lsquoAs trust in the online marketplace has devel-oped many want to buy online because it is convenient and saves time Shopping online becomes a habit established sites build trust and awareness with customers which gives custom-ers the confidence to buy more expensive itemsrsquo
He adds lsquoOur challenge is to make the online environment as attractive informative and enjoy-able as a high street store Then customers will decide to spend onlinersquo
Coleridge believes a multi-channel approach is the way forward for retailers He says lsquoWithout doubt the future is multi-channel selling ndash a combination of direct selling on the internet and various forms of click and collect ndash combined with beautiful stores on the high street
Over the past few years demand for luxury watches (particularly contemporary models) has spiked sharply in Asia and according to some specialists emerging affluence in the
of course thatrsquos an added benefit However he adds lsquoPrice appreciation is still quite rare with modern watches There is some poten-tial for appreciation but probably only with ultra-limited editions A purchase has to be
seen as a medium- to long-term invest-ment One should buy a timepiece first out of love for the brand or [the watchrsquos] complicationrsquo
The watch brands that offer the greatest assurance of appreci-
ation include Cartier Patek Philippe Rolex Audemars
Piguet A Lange amp Sohne Breguet and Vacheron Constantin All enjoy views from the top of
the watchmaking hierarchy thanks to their longstand-ing histories and well-established brand identities
Relative new-comers to the industry such as Richard Mille and Roger Dubuis have carved out a niche for
themselves with their revolutionary designs and
space-age technologies but it remains to be seen just how well the values of their timepieces will stand up on the secondary market
According to Nathaniel Borgelt a specialist at auction house Sothebyrsquos
some modern watches have already achieved good prices at auction but these (like the Patek Philippe Sky Moon Tourbillon) were highly exclusive models when new
lsquoSome limited edition pieces currently fetch incredible prices at auctionrsquo he says lsquoAnd there is a select group of modern mod-els that could compete with a certain sector of the vintage market based on their brand innovative features such as materials or com-plications and avant-garde designs
Buying these has now become a whole lot easier The luxury watch retailing land-scape is changing and the traditional pattern of physically walking into a luxury salon to buy a watch is gradually being replaced by a trend towards visiting the websites of the big
LUXURY WATCHES
A Lange amp Sohne (above) is a long-standing high-end watchmaker Comparative new-comer Roger Dubuis (right) is forging a strong reputation
inspired | March 2014 PB60 March 2014 | inspired
helpthewatchgallerycom
Hublot ClassiC FusiontHe WatCH Gallery exClusive
The Watch Gallery and Hublot have joined forces to create two very special limited edition watches Both are limited to just 15 pieces worldwide and have been specifically designed to feature The Watch Gallery blue brand colour on the hands and tinted open case back
SelfridgeS OxfOrd StreetWeStfield lOndOnMancheSter exchange Square
wwwthewatchgallerycomhublot-watches
Far East has kept global values strong while other markets around the world continue to recover from recession
Despite the market boost from growing prosperity in Asia there are signs that the market is becoming saturated and that globally the new watch market isnrsquot as robust as some commentators suggest
It may still be a good time to buy but its important to know what you want and what yoursquore buying Modern watchmakers such as Richard Mille Roger Dubuis and Greubel Forsey are producing beautiful timepieces but because of their limited foothold in the market itrsquos difficult to predict their long-term success and desirability They donrsquot yet have the brand power that might ensure the value of their
watches in the secondhand market remains highSuch producers might one day stand eye to
eye with the most desirable brands such as Patek Philippe and Rolex but achieving that kind of parity wonrsquot be easy Collectors looking to invest in timepieces are advised to keep an open mind about modern producers uncertainty is the one aspect of modern luxury watch market most experts tend to agree on
That said the buoyancy in the watch market suggests that plenty of buyers are unconcerned about future values For them itrsquos all about the appreciation of the watch itself People buy watches because they bring them pleasure ndash and say some-thing about who they are
LUXURY WATCHES
Contemporary watches such as those made by Hublot (left) have yet to show they will have the lasting appeal of watches such as Cartierrsquos Rotonde de Cartier Astrocalendaire (right)
inspired | March 2014 63
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-
The SIPP thatrsquos
fair and square
We believe in straightforward investing Thatrsquos why we donrsquot nibble at your SIPP with percentage fees For just pound144 per year you can open a SIPP and add an ISA for free After that itrsquos just pound10 to buy or sell a wide range of investments including shares funds bonds and gilts Open an account today and if you transfer your existing SIPP wersquoll give you up to pound240 as a thank you (terms apply) We believe thatrsquos fair and square
The value of investments and any income from them can fall as well as rise so you could get back less than you invest Tax treatment depends on your individual circumstances and may be subject to change If in any doubt please seek advice
iiicouksipp
Interactive Investor Trading Limited trading as ldquoInteractive Investorrdquo is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority Registered Office Standon House 21 Mansell Street London E1 8AA Tel 0845 200 3637 Registered in England with Company Registration number 3699618
SPECULATIVE GROWTHMampG RecoveryDennehy says manager Tom Dobell backs his convictions engages with companies he invests in and has delivered long-term outperformance lsquoDobellrsquos MampG Recovery fund has a clear value-style process and management stability It invests in a wide range of firms that are out of favour or in difficulty or whose prospects are not fully rec-ognised by the marketrsquo he says
Liontrust Special SituationsHusselbee says Liontrustrsquos Anthony Cross and Julian Fosh have their own unique philosophy He adds lsquoThey look for characteristics in a company that its competitors find difficult to replicate such as intellectual property or distribution channelsrsquo
Allianz Bric StarsThis fund aims for capital growth in the long term by investing mainly in Brazil Russia India and China Haynes says investors have shunned these markets recently and valuations fallen He adds lsquoFor investors looking for a recovery story this fund is worth considerationrsquo
Standard Life Equity Income subscription shareMcHattie says warrant and subscription shares are widely ignored creating opportunities for those who understand them He favours the subscrip-tion shares of Standard Life Equity Income which can be exercised at 320p a share up to the end of December 2016 lsquoThey offer gearing of 37 times and if the ordinary shares grow by more than 28 per cent a year between now and the end of 2016 the subscription shares ought to outperformrsquo
Impax Environmental MarketsMcAdam likes this trust It invests in companies seeking to provide cleaner or more-efficient energy as well as water and waste solutions to the growing problems faced by authorities around the world It offers exposure to a rapidly changing marketplace as well as to socially responsible investments
Hansa TrustJohn Newlands sees potential in the A shares of Hansa Trust which languish at a discount of more than 25 per cent He says that whereas the trustrsquos portfolio appears skewed with a third of its assets in Ocean Wilsons there is actually plenty of diversification because Ocean Wilsons has an investment portfolio that stands at a discount to underlying value lsquoOne day an attractive bid [may] be made for Ocean Wilsons that will enhance Hansarsquos NAV and sim-plify its capital structure all to the good of its market ratingrsquo Newlands says
Baker Steel Resources TrustJean Matterson hopes for good returns from this trust shares in which trade on a near 30 per cent discount lsquoIt has not had an easy run of late but we believe the underlying assets are attractive and that the mining projects in the companyrsquos portfo-lio will continue to progressrsquo she says
Prospects have improved for biotechs (left) while growing interest in sustain-able energy has boosted Impax
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
AHIGHEROILPRICEFEEDSSTRAIGHT
THROUGHTOPROFITSTony Yarrow
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
inspired | March 2014 27PB March 2014 | inspired
FUNDSANDTRUSTS
The world of funds and trusts is a confusing place with over 2300 funds and more than 300 investment trusts to choose from
Money Observerrsquos Rated Funds system narrows down the playing field to help you decide which funds and investment trusts might be best for you
Our team of experts constantly monitor the marketplace rating those funds that have delivered consistently good returns However you should be aware that there is no guarantee this performance will be repeated
With our comparison tool you can filter by whatrsquos important to you compare up to four funds and trusts side-by-side as well as view factsheets
COMPAREMONEY OBSERVER RATED FUNDS
VISIT MONEYOBSERVERCOMCOMPAREFUNDS AND LOOK OUT FOR THE RATED FUND STAMP
had spare cash or I were start-ing afresh The companies in the add category are high qual-ity judging by the strategies they follow and their finan-cial strength and are probably undervalued
Irsquom more likely to eject or reduce holdings in companies in the watch and specula-tive categories These shares are more risky either because they have risen greatly in price or because their prospects are more uncertain than usual I may think the risk is worth tak-ing but I am prepared to act should that calculation change
Every decision to increase a portfolio holding must be weighed against the potential of new candidates drawn from all companies listed in the UK and corralled into another live spreadsheet the Share Sleuth watchlist When I add a share to the watchlist or trade a share in the portfolio I explain this in the Share Sleuth blog
ccumulating income and capital gains in an index tracking fund is inexpensive takes little effort and all but guarantees an
average return so it should be the default investment for a lazy equity investor saving for the long term
To justify the work of decid-ing which shares to buy and sell and the effort and cost of placing trades an active investor must do better Consequently the first objective of the active Share Sleuth portfolio is to beat passive investments after costs over the long-term which in practice means any five-year period The second objective is to win this tussle against an unknowing and unthinking opponent transparently
At the heart of the portfolio is an online spreadsheet The first page shows the constitu-ent shares arranged into three categories lsquoaddrsquo lsquowatchrsquo and lsquospeculativersquo The categorisa-tion is updated daily based on live data in subsequent spread-sheets each of which contains a financial model for a particular company
The Share Sleuth portfo-lio shows the holdings I would add to the portfolio today if it
Share Sleuth is a simulation no money changes hands But I use prices quoted by a bro-ker and adjust the accounting to factor in notional broker fees and stamp duty However I lsquoeat my own cookingrsquo by investing my self-invested personal pen-sion in Share Sleuth companies
No doubt you are wonder-ing how the portfolio is doing Share Sleuthrsquos five-year anni-versary judgement day is on 9 September this year and I will not prejudge it now
Short-term performance watching and the knee-jerk trad-ing it encourages is I think one reason why many inves-tors fail My focus is on ensuring the portfolio remains invested in good companies at reasona-ble prices
You can see a live perfor-mance table and learn what I think of every share in the port-folio and which companies I might add to it at wwwiiicoukZkr
SHAREBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIOR
The Share Sleuth portfolio has been carefully devised to show investors how to find good companies at cheap prices and also prove the value of its investment approach says Richard Beddard
Richard Beddard an editor at Interactive Investor since 1999 has managed the Share Sleuth portfolio since 9 September 2009 Hersquos a columnist at Money Observer magazine and a private investor
AMY FOCUS IS ON ENSURING THAT THE PORTFOLIO IS INVESTED IN GOOD FIRMS AT DECENT PRICES
inspired | March 2014 29PB March 2014 | inspired
SHARESLEUTH
iiicoukstraightforward
Interactive Investor Trading Limited trading as ldquoInteractive Investorrdquo is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority Registered Office Standon House 21 Mansell Street London E1 8AA Tel 0845 200 3637 Registered in England with Company Registration number 3699618
We believe in being straightforwardthis is why we donrsquot nibble at your investment by charging percentage fees Find out how this could affect your investment performance at iiicoukstraightforward
If you transfer to us you can even get up to pound240 as a thank you (terms apply)
Donrsquot forget the value of investments and any income from them can fall as well as rise so you could get back less than you invest If in any doubt please seek advice
7784_II_QI_MONEY_OBSERVER_210x297_AWindd 1 16012014 1224
Take a closer look
at your investment
options
Discover a straightforward way to understand everything from ISAs to SIPPs and OEICs to Investment Trusts
Investing for generationsEver feel yoursquod like to know more about investing Wersquove been helping people build their wealth for over 125 years Our guide lsquoMaking sense of the investment universersquo is just one of the resources yoursquoll find on our Investment Focus hub
As well as clear simple guides therersquos a wealth of information and expert opinion all designed to help you take control of your investments Please remember that investments can go down as well as up and investors may get back less than they originally invested
Introducing your free online source of information help and expert opinion
investment-focuscouk
This has been approved as a financial promotion by Alliance Trust Investments Limited for the purpose of Section 21 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 Alliance Trust Investments Limited is a subsidiary of Alliance Trust PLC and is registered in Scotland No SC330862 registered office 8 West Marketgait Dundee DD1 1QN is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority firm reference number 479764 Alliance Trust Investments gives no financial or investment advice
TAX YEAR ENDS APRIL 5TH ndash learn more about
your options now
Investment Focus Smart Insight from Alliance Trust
Yoursquove spoken Wersquove listened Introducing your free online source of information help and expert opinion
Based on real insight we have launched a new website which focuses on investment education
We believe that we are uniquely positioned to provide this hub of information based on the reputation we have built for trust and transparency over the last 125 years
We will be publishing new content over the next few months focusing on specific themes
bull Investing from scratch
bull Products in a portfolio
bull Global diversification
bull Planning for your familyrsquos future
bull Retirement planning
bull Getting more information
There is a generation of future investors out there who have been brought up in an era of economic turmoil and banking crises which has led to disillusionment and a lack of trust in our sector and the services we offer Despite it being more important than ever for investors to take control of their financial situation this new generation of savers lacks the basic knowledge and understanding to make these very important long-term decisions
Our goal is to develop a useful resource with contributions from third-parties as well as the team at Alliance Trust which offers insights into the various life stages and challenges faced and which can be built upon and adapted to meet savers needs in the long term
Katherine Garrett-Cox CBE Chief Executive Alliance Trust PLC
ldquo
rdquo
There are too many products to make an informed decision
I donrsquot know whereto go for reliable
information
investment-focuscouk
Yoursquoll naturally take a keen interest in the performance of your investments But itrsquos just as important to understand the fees you will be paying as they can have a significant impact on the returns you achieve Knowing what the different types of costs mean and exactly what they consist of can prove rewarding
Itrsquos worth remembering that for every fee you pay (whether it is a or flat fee) your investment needs to grow by at least the same amount just to stay ahead of the game It sounds obvious but itrsquos easy to forget Broadly speaking there are three types of fees fund fees platform fees and fees for a financial adviser You can either invest directly into a fund and pay the associated fees or you can invest via a platform provider (some of which are referred to as wrap platforms others as fund supermarkets) This is a service that lets you manage and review all your investments online in one place As a general rule fund fees are lower when
bought through a platform than if you buy direct You can invest through a platform on either an execution only basis where the investor assesses the risks and makes their own investment decisions or on an advised basis
Learn more about fund platform and financial advice fees
What can you expect to seeOver the next two pages we have provided a sneak preview of just some of the information you will find on the Investment Focus hub We will be updating the site regularly so make sure you sign up for our email alerts to be informed when new topics are published
Everything you need to know about fees
Risk informationInvestments can go down as well as up You may get back less than you originally invested
Alliance Trust does not give advice You need to ensure you understand the risks and commitments before investing If you are unsure you should consult a Financial Adviser before investing
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
For the vast majority of investors the simplest cheapest and most pragmatic way to invest is through pooled funds
Sometimes called managed funds unit trusts or even Open-Ended Investment Companies (or OEICs) these are designed to give ordinary savers access to a diverse range of investments
One of the principles of investment is that diversification helps reduce risk But it is expensive and time consuming for ordinary savers to buy shares of 80 to 100 different companies and keep track of how each is performing
But with a managed fund you are pooling your money with other investors enabling the fund manager to buy a wide range of assets
Investors have the option of buying an actively managed or passive fund With an active fund the manager selects and then monitors these stocks for investors in a bid to maximise returns
In contrast a passive fund will simply follow a stock market index such as the FTSE100 up and down
Having a manager at the helm can be beneficial in a market downturn as they can take a more defensive approach buying shares that are better able to hold their value or in some cases switching to bonds or cash instead to help preserve investorsrsquo capital Managers can also research individual companies and markets and have access to forecasts and economic data that isnrsquot always available to individuals
Learn more about investing for growth or income exploring different investment remits how to invest and keeping track of your investments
Understanding funds Written by Emma Simon Personal Finance Journalist
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
What are Investment TrustsInvestment Trusts are investment vehicles that are listed on the London Stock Exchange and which invest in shares and other securities They pool together investorsrsquo money and delegate responsibility to a professional fund manager to invest in a range of companies from different sectors and regions across the world They were designed for ldquothe investor of moderate meansrdquo
A brief historybull The first Investment Trust was launched by Foreign amp
Colonial in 1868
bull Investment Trusts made it possible for individual investors to gain diversified exposure to global stock markets
bull Many Investment Trusts were formed in Scotland including Alliance Trust PLC which was formed over 125 years ago
A guide to Investment Trusts
Learn more about Investment Trusts their main features and why you should consider them for your portfolio
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
Alliance Trust is an investment and savings business with over 125 year history of building investor wealth We offer our shareholders clients and customers a unique portfolio of products and services These range from a renowned global investment trust to an innovative range of investment strategies and funds and a multi-award winning investment platform where investors can host their ISAs SIPPs or investment accounts Our mission is to provide products and services that help to ensure a more sustainable financial future for generations of investors
Alliance Trust PLC is one of the largest generalist investment trusts by market value listed on the London Stock Exchange and is the parent company to two wholly-owned subsidiaries Alliance Trust Savings and Alliance Trust Investments
The fact that many of us make irrational decisions when it comes to our finances is widely debated and is often referred to as behavioural finance In this short video we talk to Professor Phyl Johnson Consultant Psychologist and Visiting Professor of Executive Education at Strathclyde Business School about why this is and more importantly about what we can do as individuals to avoid it
About us Alliance Trust Investments is a specialist fund management business offering a range of products and services focusing on global equities fixed income and sustainable investing with an emphasis on specialist investment solutions
Alliance Trust Savings is one of the UKrsquos leading financial services providers for private investors offering customers the information and services they need to manage their investments in a way that works for them
Risk informationInvestments can go down as well as up You may get back less than you originally invested
Alliance Trust does not give advice You need to ensure you understand the risks and commitments before investing If you are unsure you should consult a Financial Adviser before investing
Unusually for a company of our size around 70 of shares
in Alliance Trust are held by private
individuals
Nobodyrsquos perfect why we all make irrational decisions
Inflation by ageThis monthrsquos official inflation report showed that the headline rate of inflation fell from 20 to 19 Our Economic Research Team analyse this data on a monthly basis to see how inflation rates affect different age groups In February 2014 the summary highlights include
bull The over 75s and the under 30s face the highest rate of inflation in January at 21
bull The over 75s suffered the highest rate of inflation for the whole of 2013 and this trend continues into 2014 as they spend a larger share of their budgets on basic goods such as gas and electricity
bull The 65 to 74 year olds have faced the lowest rate of inflation in 11 out of the last 12 months thanks to lower inflation in food petrol and package holidays
Learn more about how inflation might affect you
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
You can also sign up for our regular email alerts to be informed when new topics are published by clicking here
Wersquove been bringing clarity to investment for over 125 years
Investing for generationsWhen it comes to investing therersquos no substitute for experience And at Alliance Trust wersquove been helping people invest since 1888 Our new Investment Focus hub is full of online information and expert opinion It aims to provide real insight to help you take control of your investments
Over the next few weeks the hub will build to cover everything from taking your first steps to diversifying worldwide Please remember that investments can go down as well as up and investors may get back less than they originally invested For valuable insight from Alliance Trust visit Investment Focus today
Introducing your free online source of information help and expert opinion
investment-focuscouk
This has been approved as a financial promotion by Alliance Trust Investments Limited for the purpose of Section 21 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 Alliance Trust Investments Limited is a subsidiary of Alliance Trust PLC and is registered in Scotland No SC330862 registered office 8 West Marketgait Dundee DD1 1QN is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority firm reference number 479764 Alliance Trust Investments gives no financial or investment advice
TAX YEAR ENDS APRIL 5TH ndash learn more about
your options now
Change the way you think about stocks reap the rewardsBy Edward Page Croft CEO Stockopediacom
I remember so clearly the day when I picked my first stock for clients Managing $2 billion (pound12 billion) in assets across 100 portfolios for high-net-wealth private investors is no easy task As I was to learn when you are green
and straight out of university itrsquos even harder The stock in question was on the Goldman
Sachs US lsquobuyrsquo list It had the potential to be hot Dotcoms were bubbling It was an internet stock in education services and cheap It seemed like it had everything but we needed to get in One day it fell out of bed Down 50 per cent on no news
Irsquod been trained to call the analyst in situations like this He reiterated his buy stance Double buy On my insistence we put almost $20 million of client money into the stock within an hour The next day it fell another 50 per cent on
bad newsThere is nothing more
painful than a loss but you never forget the first
one It immedi-ately forced me to reconsider every-thing I thought I
knew From that day on I vowed to never trust anotherrsquos opin-ion and find a better
way through the market minefieldIrsquove now spent 15 years
reassessing common
wisdom about stock selection No stone has gone unturned in the quest to understand the behav-ioural flaws that lead to poor decision making But there is one finding that crops up again and again in all the research that hurts stock market investors most We as investors are suckers for stories
A 1990rsquos study of 60000 private investor broker-age accounts by Kumar and Goetzmann found that 70 per cent of portfolios held less than four stocks
The stocks held all tended to be in the same sector highly correlated and risky Think internet stocks in the 1990s China in the 2000s or resource stocks more recently The grand theme sucks everyone in The outcome rarely dif-fers Kumar and Goetzmann showed that across these
60000 accounts the average underperformance was of the order of 4 per cent annually
This massive failing across private inves-tor portfolios is repeated in nearly every market cycle and is bound to happen again in this one Benjamin Graham the great father of value invest-ing and tutor of Warren Buffett once wrote
lsquoIn the short run the stock market is a vot-ing machine but in the long run it is a weighing machinersquo
ADVERTISING FEATURE
IN THE SHORT RUN THE STOCK MARKET IS A VOTING MACHINE BUT IN THE LONG RUN IT IS A WEIGHING MACHINEBenjamin Graham
What he meant was that while stories may drive stocks in the short run statistics drive stocks in the long run When statistics reassert them-selves it can cause huge damage to investors punting their portfolios on stories
It doesnrsquot take much to learn how basic statis-tics can guide your portfolio into winning stock selections though very few seem to understand how to do it Benjamin Graham as his life wore on gradually came to the conclusion that building portfolios according to rules-based processes was a far more appropriate methodology for the typi-cal investor
lsquoTry to buy groups of stocks that meet some sim-ple criterion for being undervalued ndash regardless of
the industry and with very little attention to the indi-vidual company It seems too good to be true but all I can tell you after 60 years of experience is it seems to stand up under any of the tests I would make uprsquo
My time is now dedi-cated to helping investors practice exactly what Benjamin Graham and many other investment luminaries have preached rules-based investing For the majority itrsquos a better process and leads to bet-ter outcomes Our work at
Stockopediacom where we crunch fundamental and technical data in order to model and track the investment processes of the great investors bears this out
Portfolios composed with stocks showing the right statistical mix of value quality and momen-tum have significantly outperformed Rules-based investing beats the market But more importantly it helps promote the emotional detachment needed to stop investors from beating themselves
Irsquoll never buy a stock on a punt or an analystrsquos tip again Perhaps neither should you
For a two week free trial and pound50 discount to Stockopedia UK Premium CLICK HERE
TANK MCM A N U F A C T U R E M O V E M E N T 1 9 0 4 M C
SINCE THE CREATION OF THE FIRST TANK WATCH IN 1917 THE TANK COLLECTION HAS CONTINUED
TO BREAK NEW GROUND THE INCREDIBLY REFINED AESTHETICS OF THE NEW TANK MC WATCH ARE FITTED
WITH THE CARTIER MANUFACTURE MOVEMENT 1904 MC ESTABLISHED IN 1847 CARTIER CREATES
EXCEPTIONAL WATCHES THAT COMBINE DARING DESIGN AND WATCHMAKING SAVOIR-FAIRE
EXPLORE AND SHOP WWWCARTIERCOUK - (020) 3147 4850
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oisseur
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Inside
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TO THE CONNOISSEUR section of Inspired a showcase for the finer things in life for those who truly appreciate them
Enjoying the fruits of your labour away from the relentless demands of our age poses its own challenges and quandaries Would a tropical idyll restore your ebbing energy levels Might a break based around hair-raising activities revive them even more effectively Perhaps reawakening a dormant passion for fine wines or luxury cars would be the most enjoyable reward for your industry
A luxury tropical holiday is probably near the top of most peoplersquos wish lists We take a look at some of the most tantalising options
The arrival of BMWrsquos new super coupe is featured on page 50 BMW aficionados and petrolheads alike are certain to be won over by its head-turning looks and mouthwatering specs
Gems come under the microscope on page 53 A rare coloured diamond can be a joy as well an appreciating asset
Wine is on the menu on page 54 where we explore the charms of Argentinian Malbec
Watches are often treasured objects and the best can turn out to be shrewd investments We look at the secondary watch market and the growth of online retailing on page 58 Enjoy
Welcome
40 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
FIVE TOP PRIVATE ISLAND RETREATSIslandFantasy
Top-rated resorts and hotels offer a variety of temptations and services to impress even the most discerning tastes but there is no better way to escape the rigours and
stresses of daily life than cutting off from the outside world while still enjoying lavish service
in the pinnacle of all resorts the private islandThere are thousands of small islands around
the world but only a few have chosen to cater to the most discriminating travellers seeking a rarified yet perfect world of quiet and relaxed luxury We look at five of the worldrsquos top private islands destinations where your holiday is certain to be an exceptional experience
TRAVEL
Necker Island is owned by Sir Richard Branson and guests stay in his home The island has become a popular des-tination for some of the worldrsquos most prominent figures as a hideaway from lifersquos stresses and strains
Because Necker Island is a resi-dence and not a resort guests who rent the island are treated as owners and catered for in a unique way
The74-acre island is fringed with beautiful white beaches and surrounded by turquoise waters and coral reefs It boasts every resort-type amenity guests can spend their days being pampered in the spa explor-ing underwater reefs in a submarine lounging by the pool bar or swimming in one of the worldrsquos most elab-orate private pools
Haute cuisine is a highlight for most guests ndash rates are fully inclusive of all food and drink A team of chefs creates bespoke menus featuring anything from lobster and caviar to a Sunday roast And because Necker is a home first and a resort second guests decide whether dining will be formal or informal inside or outside themed or traditional
The bar is stocked with international wines top-quality spirits and beers and a world renowned house champagne while special orders can be shipped in at no extra charge ndash unless an item is particularly rare Every service and amenity is available around the clock and guests are encouraged to treat Necker as their own home
As youLike it
NECKER ISLAND
42 March 2014 | inspired
Unalloyed luxury and an impressive range of amenities make Necker one of the most desirable island destinations in the world
The Jumby Bay resort which is only accessible by boat from Antigua is a Caribbean hideaway owned by Rosewood Resorts It is perfect for those seeking either relaxation or spirited adventure
You can rent the island resort entirely for your stay or simply take a room Those opt-ing for exclusive use of the island will have the resortrsquos two pools three tennis courts fitness centre croquet field and putting green to themselves
A wide range of water sports are available and guests can indulge in as much adventure or relaxation as they want during their stay The resort is ideal for large family
reunions or corporate retreats ndash 40 guest rooms and suites are available on the island
Executive chef Sylvain Hervochon celebrates gastron-omy ndash and mixology (cocktail making) ndash with casual elegance by creating Caribbean-style dishes inspired by fresh local ingredients and incorporating international influences
Jumby Bayrsquos rates start at pound150000 for four nights based on double occupancy between May and December Visit wwwrosewoodhotelscomenjumby-bay-antigua for further information
Fine BalanceCaribbean ambiance international sophistication and adventurous activities make Jumby Bay a compelling choice
JUMBY BAY
Just laze by the pool or venture beyond to dive in the turquoise waters of the South Pacific among stunning reefs and a dazzling array of marine creatures
Isle of PlentyT
he private island of Laucala in the South Pacific is a 3500-acre site in a picturesque rainforest-laced land-scape Enchanting deserted beaches nestle among coconut plantations organic farms and lush green vol-canic mountains
The resort offers an outstanding level of refined lux-ury as well as a compelling collection of sporting and cultural activities diving among iridescent marine life in the warm turquoise waters guided rainforest tours horse riding surfing and golfing on the 18-hole cham-pionship course The island is a superb choice for an escape from civilization whether you want an adven-ture in the wild or simply to relax in one of Laucalarsquos five restaurants and bars
Rates are available on request Visit wwwlaucalacom for further details
TRAVEL
LAUCALA ISLAND
inspired | March 2014 4544 March 2014 | inspired
Lush green surroundings sensitive development and beautiful beaches help Laucala island conjure up a complete South Seas experience
Isle of Plenty
inspired | March 2014 4544 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
inspired | March 2014 4746 March 2014 | inspired
Slow LaneSlow
Pulau Joyo is a seductively serene environment of pristine beaches surrounded by clear blue sea in Indonesiarsquos Riau Archipelago Accessible from Singapore or Bintan Pulau Joyo is a true castaway island offering every resort luxury
amid untouched natural beauty Pulau Joyo is famous for its remarkable sunsets and
brightly star-lit sky The resort can host 28 guests and 20 staff are on hand to cater to their every need Guests stay in open driftwood lsquopalacesrsquo that lsquoallow the sea inrsquoDespite its desert island appeal Pulau Joyo offers every modern convenience a range of adrenaline boosting activities and more relaxing options such as spa treatments and massages
The resortrsquos cuisine focuses on western and Indonesian dishes Meals are usually served buffet style and feature grilled fish squid prawns beef and chicken as well as many curry dishes Side dishes include fresh garden salads pasta salads boiled or steamed leafy greens and grilled aubergine (an island favourite) Prawn and tofu kebabs appear from time to time as does satay The chef will often provide a selection of freshly picked fruit and homemade cakes for dessert Itrsquos worth noting that the management will not serve pork or shellfish on this private island
Pulau Joyo may not be as refined as some islands but itrsquos an excellent choice for those who want a more casual laidback island experience that replicates the castaway experience like perhaps no other
Rates start at pound1913 a night More information is available at wwwpulau-joyocom
Wannabe castaways may find Pulau Joyorsquos purer simpler take on the luxury island experience more to their taste
PULAU JOYO
inspired | March 2014 4746 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
In the Fijian island paradise of Dolphin Island a small army of staff await to meet guestsrsquo every need On arriving ndash by boat helicopter or float plane ndash visitors are invariably struck by the beauty of the island and the luxuri-ous accommodation that awaits them amid 14-acres of lush tropical gardens
Three traditional palm-thatched bures individually designed by world renowned interior designer Virginia Fisher sit in an elevated position around the resortrsquos infinity pool
Guests are brought fresh tropical fish to choose each day that are cooked to perfec-
tion within hours of leaving the water The culinary focus is on
organic produce and ingredi-ents unique to Fijian cuisine but meals are tailored to guestsrsquo personal tastes Papayas man-goes bananas and pineapples
are plentiful throughout the day When it comes to recreation the
14-acre island is an expansive play-ground offering a diverse range of watersports as well as diving opportunities on Fijirsquos coral reefs
Rates start at pound720 a night More information is avail-able at wwwdolphinislandfijicom
Fijian Paean
Traditional features modern comforts and excellent facilities make for a harmonious whole on this Fijian island
DOLPHIN ISLAND
48 March 2014 | inspired
Pictured slightly larger than actual size
Big Pilotrsquos Watch Ref 5009
Your wrist never felt this big before The
case of the top model in the IWC Pilotrsquos
Watch range is a gigantic 462 mm in diashy
meter And the technology inside it is
even more impressive the largest IWCshy
manufactured automatic movement with
its Pellaton winding system is protected
against strong magnetic fields by a softshy
iron inner case And needless to say enshy
vious glances iwc engineered for men
Mechanical IWCshymanufactured movement Pellaton
automatic winding system 7shyday power reserve
with display (figure) Date display Softshyiron inner
case for protection against magnetic fields
Antireflective sapphire glass Watershyresistant 6 bar
Stainless steel
IWC Schaffhausen Switzerland iwccom The worldrsquos finest timepieces are exclusively available from selected watch specialists
For an illustrated catalogue or list of nationwide concessionaires please contact IWC UK Tel 0845 337 1868 Eshymail infoshyukiwccom
CARS
MunichLegend
50 March 2014 | inspired
BMW fanatics can open their eyes ndash the M4 has arrived
Most BMW aficionados are proba-bly pretty sad to see production of the M3 coupe ndash quite possibly the companyrsquos most noteworthy and celebrated model ndash end after almost 30 years Ever since the first wide-body E30 M3 saw the
light of day in 1985 drivers have loved the sporty coupe for its incredible balance intoxicating power and of course solid build quality
The model never got stale in all that time and always remained the poster child for the M division so itrsquos a lit-tle weird that BMW has apparently decided to axe it In truth though they havenrsquot really dropped the M3 The M3 sedan will continue to be produced in 2014 so all
is not lost Moreover BMW seems to be adopting a pat-tern of giving its sedans odd-numbered titles only and its coupes even-numbered titles only so the 4-Series and especially the M4 concept that debuted at Pebble Beach Monterey California will fill the gap left by the M3 Many people have been awaiting the new super coupe with great expectancy but can it fill in for the M3
The journalists who swarmed over the M4 concept at Pebble Beach were obviously much more interested in it than the somewhat predictable 428i that was also there Finished in an eye-catching colour called Aurum Dust (which actually looks a lot like the old M3rsquos Phoenix Yellow colour) the car presented in California may be a concept but typically BMW M cars donrsquot change much before they finally hit the showroom
MunichLegend
inspired | March 2014 51
CARS
52 March 2014 | inspired
From front to back the bodywork is manifestly differ-ent and much more aggressive looking than a standard 4-Series car It really looks to pretty much pick up where the E92E93 M3 coupe left off especially with its undeniably cool domed hood Wide wheel arches big wheels wrapped in low-profile tyres more than enough M badges and a well-executed double-bubble roof make the already underwhelming existing 4-Series coupe look even more pedestrian
Power for the new M4 is likely to come from a three-litre twin-turbo straight-six engine While the horsepower probably wonrsquot differ much from the M3rsquos old 4-litre V-8 it will generate more than 100lbft more in torque almost 400 in total With the M4 being a lighter 3300lb in weight the M4 promises to be an excit-ing worthy car A proper six-speed manual may be in the mix alongside the now obligatory dual clutch and paddles option
The best way to look at the M4 however it ends up is not as a new car but as a new and improved M3 thatrsquos just getting a new name The decision to rename the coupe is a strange one but thankfully BMW apparently felt the 3-Series coupe had made such an identity for itself that a new model was needed albeit in a slightly different incarnation
With BMW embarking on some new-ageish ideas such as its 1-Series ActiveE and the soon-to-arrive lsquoirsquo range of cars itrsquos nice to see the company also stick to classics such as the heart-stopping sports coupe even if the latest model does come with a new name
Seductive curves and racier performance make the BMW M4 a more than acceptable replacement for the M3 super coupe
SparklingForm Coloured diamonds are making their mark
One of the main factors that deter-mines the value of what we ordinarily think of as diamonds is their purity the degree to which col-our is absent in the gem However with coloured diamonds the extent to which they are saturated with
colour is a principal determinant of their valueColoured diamonds come in 12 basic colours more
than 90 secondary hues and nine intensity levels The depth of their colour is what really differentiates these diamonds from their colourless counterparts
Natural coloured diamonds are 10000 times rarer than typical colourless diamonds one of several rea-sons why they are treasured by the rich and famous yet remain unknown to most other people ndash despite hav-ing been around for centuries
Of course some colours are rarer than others Red violet and purple stones are as rare as the proverbial hensrsquo teeth while green and blue are also rare The most popular colours are pink and yellow (or canary) They also come in white grey orange black and lsquochame-leonrsquo form
A pinkie ring encrusted with a large coloured dia-mond has become a status symbol for men in Asia That little stone is an unregistered asset that could quickly be sold for millions of dollars should the need arise
Coloured diamonds are durable and never lose their sparkle or lustre so they are assets that can be enjoyed every day unlike stocks or bonds And they have proved to be fantastic investments having steadily appreciated in price with relatively little volatility for more than a decade They even held their own during the most recent financial crisis
Coloured diamonds are auctioned by reputable
auction houses such a Sothebyrsquos and Christiersquos where prices for large unique pink red blue or yellow stones can reach in excess of $2 million (pound12 million) a carat and other stones regularly sell for $1 million a carat
They are often bought by high-net-worth individu-als as an insurance policy Instead of stashing cash in undeclared bank accounts and potentially incurring the wrath of the authorities the wealthy can purchase some loose yellow diamonds to secure their future
Clearly coloured diamonds are much more than a magnificent indulgence
GEMS
inspired | March 2014 53PB March 2014 | inspired
WINE
Make the most of the deeply
satisfying Malbec wines emerging from Argentina
and perhaps even enjoy a return on a shrewd
investment says Ewan Lacey
Finding a red wine to enjoy in spring is a delicate balancing act The shock of seeing sunlight after a dark winter fosters in us a desire to drink some-thing refreshing while the still-cool temperatures demand something with comforting depth
Increasingly Malbec wines particularly those from Argentina provide a perfect solution to this quandary And while there are plenty of delicious wines for infor-mal occasions what is most interesting is the emergence of finer Malbec wines Some are so good they may well have ageing potential raising the intriguing possibility that the wine may one day become collectable
Malbec is the most popular wine among those aged 25-34 and is now becoming a fixture on most restaurant wine lists There are several reasons for its success the word Malbec is easy to pronounce the wine goes well with red meat the Malbec grape can be turned into wines that are both relatively easy to drink and packed with flavour and decent wines are available at reason-able prices Malbec is deep fruity and charming and it delivers instant pleasure ndash claret on a motorbike
The Malbec grape originated in France and it remains one of the permitted varieties used to make Bordeaux However it has gained prominence through the work of the post-junta Argentine wine industry
I recently had the pleasure of tasting some very fine Malbecs with Laura Catena managing director at the Catena Zapata winery and president of the International Wine and Spirit Competition She opened my
Mendoza Marvels
inspired | March 2014 55
WINE
eyes to the potential of this grape variety when handled with care
Laurarsquos family business makes a range of wines but the wine that truly astonished me was the Nicasia Vineyard Malbec 2006 The wine is perfumed with floral and fruit notes and it is smooth and soft at first Like all great wines it has many layers of flavour warm bursts of cherry and black-currant cede centre stage to deeper darker caramel and mocha notes and a touch of spice Therersquos an amazing depth of flavour and the finish is long and lingering Whatrsquos more at nearly eight years old it still has a slight purple tinge and tastes extremely fresh There is every indication that it will age beautifully for at least another decade
The winersquos character is heavily influenced by the alti-tude the grapes used to make it are grown at (1180m
above sea level) At this elevation the grapes ripen in bright sun but lsquorelaxrsquo during the cool evenings The fact that the wine is made in tiny quantities (eight barrels only) means every care can be taken during the winemak-ing process to ensure the wine is allowed to show its grown-up side The cost per bot-tle of pound70 is not insubstantial but neither is the wine
We cannot know whether these wines will ever become investments in the way the wines of Bordeaux have Whatrsquos cer-tain is that Malbec wines have a very rare quality a balance of finesse and power that
can delight wine lovers and linger in their memories
Ewan Lacey is a leading wine expert and general manager of the International Wine and Spirit Competition He has appeared on BBC television and radio as well as Channel 4 and written for the national press
Laura Catena is managing director at the Catena Zapata winery (above)
THE INTERNATIONAL WINE AND SPIRIT COMPETITIONThe International Wine and Spirit Competition has been the premier drinks competition in the world for 45 years Each year it receives and reviews thousands of wines and spirits and presents qual-ity awards to producers
More than anything the IWSC exists to help
people make better deci-sions particularly when buying wines and spirits An IWSC award on a bot-tle of wine is a guarantee
of quality backed not only by a rigorous and strin-gent judging process but also by the skill of the judges who are drawn from the ranks of masters of wine master distill-ers industry leaders and commentators
Each year the IWSC honours a leading figure
in the drinks industry with the presidency of the competition The current president is Laura Catena who succeeds a nota-ble line of predecessors including Prince Robert of Luxembourg winemakers Piero Antinori and Warren Winiarski and Baroness Philippine de Rothschild
56 March 2014 | inspired
LUXURY WATCHES
Time is preciousA
t a recent watch auc-tion in Geneva at Antiquorum ndash the worldrsquos premiere auc-tion house for modern and vintage time pieces ndash a Patek Philippe
pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon watch emerged as the auctionrsquos top lot and sold for 12 million Swiss francs (pound807000)
Unlike most of the timepieces sold at auctions outside Asia this particular Patek watch ndash the most complicated wristwatch the Swiss watchmaker has ever produced ndash was not a vintage model
That Geneva auction raised intriguing
1284Clocks with weights gears and regulators start to appear mostly with no dial to strike the important moments of daily life
Around 1410The mainspring is devel-oped Combined with the fusee this innovation makes possible the truly portable domestic clock
1492The mechanical watch appears simultaneously in Italy Germany and France
1675Christian Huygens invents the spiral balance spring
for watches significantly improving their accuracy
1704The first watch with jew-els is produced by French watchmaker de Beaufreacute
1714The British parliament offers pound20000 to who-ever can a find a method to determine longitude
1766Parliament publishes the rating results for John Harrisonrsquos H4 marine timekeeper Harrisonrsquos highly accurate marine clock solution to the problem of determining logitude wins him part of the pound20000 prize
1787Pierre-Freacutedeacuteric Ingold is born an important pio-neer in mechanised timepiece production and the use of interchangea-ble parts
1790Jacquet-Droz and Leschot manufactures a watch attached to a strap
1839Vacheron amp Constantin developes a full set of machine tools for manu-facturing its watches
1875Calcium sulphate is the first luminescent sub-stance to be used for numerals and hands
TIMEKEEPING MILESTONES
questions Are modern luxury timepieces every bit as appealing as the vintage watches that typically command top prices at auc-tion And does that Geneva auction tell us anything about the contemporary watch market as a whole
Julien Schaerer Antiquorumrsquos managing director in Geneva says top-quality vintage watches often appreciate in value over the long term But he urges buyers for whom appreciation is an important consideration to be cautious about purchasing contempo-rary watches
lsquoWatch price depreciation is the cost of ownership just as it is with a luxury carrsquo he says lsquoIf the value goes up then
58 March 2014 | inspired
1880The first water- resistant watch incorpo-rating a screwed case is produced by Genevan watchmaker Franccedilois Borgel
1889The first known patent for a wristwatch is filed in Bern Switzerland
1890Dialmaker A Beyeler invents a transfer press for applying numerals and letters to dials
1892Auguste Verneuil in France produces the first synthetic jewels to be used in watchmaking
1904Wens Wilsdorf launches large-scale production of a womenrsquos wristwatch
1924John Harwood files the
first Swiss patent for a self-winding wristwatch with a central oscillating weight
1925The first known wrist-watch with a perpetual calendar is manufactured using a pendant watch movement
1926Rolex creates the Oyster wristwatch with a water-resistant case and crown
1966The first quartz wrist-watch prototype is produced
1969The first quartz watch
with an LED display appears
1978Quartz watches overtake mechanical watches in popularity
2005Creation of the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie Seiko launches the spring drive Kinetic the first self-winding mechanical watch with an electro-magnetic escapement
A Patek Philippe pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon recently sold for pound807000
inspired | March 2014 59
online retailers from the comfort of your homeSince 2006 DM London has quietly estab-
lished a powerful presence for itself in the UK retail watch market with the acquisition of The Watch Hut and The Watch Gallery DM London chairman David Coleridge says the company has capitalised on the increasing willingness of buy-ers to purchase online
lsquoHaving decided that they would like to buy a watch for themselves or someone elsersquo he says lsquopeople start to do their research More often than not this starts online nowadays where they com-pare brands performance and functions
lsquoAs trust in the online marketplace has devel-oped many want to buy online because it is convenient and saves time Shopping online becomes a habit established sites build trust and awareness with customers which gives custom-ers the confidence to buy more expensive itemsrsquo
He adds lsquoOur challenge is to make the online environment as attractive informative and enjoy-able as a high street store Then customers will decide to spend onlinersquo
Coleridge believes a multi-channel approach is the way forward for retailers He says lsquoWithout doubt the future is multi-channel selling ndash a combination of direct selling on the internet and various forms of click and collect ndash combined with beautiful stores on the high street
Over the past few years demand for luxury watches (particularly contemporary models) has spiked sharply in Asia and according to some specialists emerging affluence in the
of course thatrsquos an added benefit However he adds lsquoPrice appreciation is still quite rare with modern watches There is some poten-tial for appreciation but probably only with ultra-limited editions A purchase has to be
seen as a medium- to long-term invest-ment One should buy a timepiece first out of love for the brand or [the watchrsquos] complicationrsquo
The watch brands that offer the greatest assurance of appreci-
ation include Cartier Patek Philippe Rolex Audemars
Piguet A Lange amp Sohne Breguet and Vacheron Constantin All enjoy views from the top of
the watchmaking hierarchy thanks to their longstand-ing histories and well-established brand identities
Relative new-comers to the industry such as Richard Mille and Roger Dubuis have carved out a niche for
themselves with their revolutionary designs and
space-age technologies but it remains to be seen just how well the values of their timepieces will stand up on the secondary market
According to Nathaniel Borgelt a specialist at auction house Sothebyrsquos
some modern watches have already achieved good prices at auction but these (like the Patek Philippe Sky Moon Tourbillon) were highly exclusive models when new
lsquoSome limited edition pieces currently fetch incredible prices at auctionrsquo he says lsquoAnd there is a select group of modern mod-els that could compete with a certain sector of the vintage market based on their brand innovative features such as materials or com-plications and avant-garde designs
Buying these has now become a whole lot easier The luxury watch retailing land-scape is changing and the traditional pattern of physically walking into a luxury salon to buy a watch is gradually being replaced by a trend towards visiting the websites of the big
LUXURY WATCHES
A Lange amp Sohne (above) is a long-standing high-end watchmaker Comparative new-comer Roger Dubuis (right) is forging a strong reputation
inspired | March 2014 PB60 March 2014 | inspired
helpthewatchgallerycom
Hublot ClassiC FusiontHe WatCH Gallery exClusive
The Watch Gallery and Hublot have joined forces to create two very special limited edition watches Both are limited to just 15 pieces worldwide and have been specifically designed to feature The Watch Gallery blue brand colour on the hands and tinted open case back
SelfridgeS OxfOrd StreetWeStfield lOndOnMancheSter exchange Square
wwwthewatchgallerycomhublot-watches
Far East has kept global values strong while other markets around the world continue to recover from recession
Despite the market boost from growing prosperity in Asia there are signs that the market is becoming saturated and that globally the new watch market isnrsquot as robust as some commentators suggest
It may still be a good time to buy but its important to know what you want and what yoursquore buying Modern watchmakers such as Richard Mille Roger Dubuis and Greubel Forsey are producing beautiful timepieces but because of their limited foothold in the market itrsquos difficult to predict their long-term success and desirability They donrsquot yet have the brand power that might ensure the value of their
watches in the secondhand market remains highSuch producers might one day stand eye to
eye with the most desirable brands such as Patek Philippe and Rolex but achieving that kind of parity wonrsquot be easy Collectors looking to invest in timepieces are advised to keep an open mind about modern producers uncertainty is the one aspect of modern luxury watch market most experts tend to agree on
That said the buoyancy in the watch market suggests that plenty of buyers are unconcerned about future values For them itrsquos all about the appreciation of the watch itself People buy watches because they bring them pleasure ndash and say some-thing about who they are
LUXURY WATCHES
Contemporary watches such as those made by Hublot (left) have yet to show they will have the lasting appeal of watches such as Cartierrsquos Rotonde de Cartier Astrocalendaire (right)
inspired | March 2014 63
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SPECULATIVE GROWTHMampG RecoveryDennehy says manager Tom Dobell backs his convictions engages with companies he invests in and has delivered long-term outperformance lsquoDobellrsquos MampG Recovery fund has a clear value-style process and management stability It invests in a wide range of firms that are out of favour or in difficulty or whose prospects are not fully rec-ognised by the marketrsquo he says
Liontrust Special SituationsHusselbee says Liontrustrsquos Anthony Cross and Julian Fosh have their own unique philosophy He adds lsquoThey look for characteristics in a company that its competitors find difficult to replicate such as intellectual property or distribution channelsrsquo
Allianz Bric StarsThis fund aims for capital growth in the long term by investing mainly in Brazil Russia India and China Haynes says investors have shunned these markets recently and valuations fallen He adds lsquoFor investors looking for a recovery story this fund is worth considerationrsquo
Standard Life Equity Income subscription shareMcHattie says warrant and subscription shares are widely ignored creating opportunities for those who understand them He favours the subscrip-tion shares of Standard Life Equity Income which can be exercised at 320p a share up to the end of December 2016 lsquoThey offer gearing of 37 times and if the ordinary shares grow by more than 28 per cent a year between now and the end of 2016 the subscription shares ought to outperformrsquo
Impax Environmental MarketsMcAdam likes this trust It invests in companies seeking to provide cleaner or more-efficient energy as well as water and waste solutions to the growing problems faced by authorities around the world It offers exposure to a rapidly changing marketplace as well as to socially responsible investments
Hansa TrustJohn Newlands sees potential in the A shares of Hansa Trust which languish at a discount of more than 25 per cent He says that whereas the trustrsquos portfolio appears skewed with a third of its assets in Ocean Wilsons there is actually plenty of diversification because Ocean Wilsons has an investment portfolio that stands at a discount to underlying value lsquoOne day an attractive bid [may] be made for Ocean Wilsons that will enhance Hansarsquos NAV and sim-plify its capital structure all to the good of its market ratingrsquo Newlands says
Baker Steel Resources TrustJean Matterson hopes for good returns from this trust shares in which trade on a near 30 per cent discount lsquoIt has not had an easy run of late but we believe the underlying assets are attractive and that the mining projects in the companyrsquos portfo-lio will continue to progressrsquo she says
Prospects have improved for biotechs (left) while growing interest in sustain-able energy has boosted Impax
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
AHIGHEROILPRICEFEEDSSTRAIGHT
THROUGHTOPROFITSTony Yarrow
ANT ORANGE
GEM BLUE
GROWTH GREEN
ISA BLUE
inspired | March 2014 27PB March 2014 | inspired
FUNDSANDTRUSTS
The world of funds and trusts is a confusing place with over 2300 funds and more than 300 investment trusts to choose from
Money Observerrsquos Rated Funds system narrows down the playing field to help you decide which funds and investment trusts might be best for you
Our team of experts constantly monitor the marketplace rating those funds that have delivered consistently good returns However you should be aware that there is no guarantee this performance will be repeated
With our comparison tool you can filter by whatrsquos important to you compare up to four funds and trusts side-by-side as well as view factsheets
COMPAREMONEY OBSERVER RATED FUNDS
VISIT MONEYOBSERVERCOMCOMPAREFUNDS AND LOOK OUT FOR THE RATED FUND STAMP
had spare cash or I were start-ing afresh The companies in the add category are high qual-ity judging by the strategies they follow and their finan-cial strength and are probably undervalued
Irsquom more likely to eject or reduce holdings in companies in the watch and specula-tive categories These shares are more risky either because they have risen greatly in price or because their prospects are more uncertain than usual I may think the risk is worth tak-ing but I am prepared to act should that calculation change
Every decision to increase a portfolio holding must be weighed against the potential of new candidates drawn from all companies listed in the UK and corralled into another live spreadsheet the Share Sleuth watchlist When I add a share to the watchlist or trade a share in the portfolio I explain this in the Share Sleuth blog
ccumulating income and capital gains in an index tracking fund is inexpensive takes little effort and all but guarantees an
average return so it should be the default investment for a lazy equity investor saving for the long term
To justify the work of decid-ing which shares to buy and sell and the effort and cost of placing trades an active investor must do better Consequently the first objective of the active Share Sleuth portfolio is to beat passive investments after costs over the long-term which in practice means any five-year period The second objective is to win this tussle against an unknowing and unthinking opponent transparently
At the heart of the portfolio is an online spreadsheet The first page shows the constitu-ent shares arranged into three categories lsquoaddrsquo lsquowatchrsquo and lsquospeculativersquo The categorisa-tion is updated daily based on live data in subsequent spread-sheets each of which contains a financial model for a particular company
The Share Sleuth portfo-lio shows the holdings I would add to the portfolio today if it
Share Sleuth is a simulation no money changes hands But I use prices quoted by a bro-ker and adjust the accounting to factor in notional broker fees and stamp duty However I lsquoeat my own cookingrsquo by investing my self-invested personal pen-sion in Share Sleuth companies
No doubt you are wonder-ing how the portfolio is doing Share Sleuthrsquos five-year anni-versary judgement day is on 9 September this year and I will not prejudge it now
Short-term performance watching and the knee-jerk trad-ing it encourages is I think one reason why many inves-tors fail My focus is on ensuring the portfolio remains invested in good companies at reasona-ble prices
You can see a live perfor-mance table and learn what I think of every share in the port-folio and which companies I might add to it at wwwiiicoukZkr
SHAREBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIOR
The Share Sleuth portfolio has been carefully devised to show investors how to find good companies at cheap prices and also prove the value of its investment approach says Richard Beddard
Richard Beddard an editor at Interactive Investor since 1999 has managed the Share Sleuth portfolio since 9 September 2009 Hersquos a columnist at Money Observer magazine and a private investor
AMY FOCUS IS ON ENSURING THAT THE PORTFOLIO IS INVESTED IN GOOD FIRMS AT DECENT PRICES
inspired | March 2014 29PB March 2014 | inspired
SHARESLEUTH
iiicoukstraightforward
Interactive Investor Trading Limited trading as ldquoInteractive Investorrdquo is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority Registered Office Standon House 21 Mansell Street London E1 8AA Tel 0845 200 3637 Registered in England with Company Registration number 3699618
We believe in being straightforwardthis is why we donrsquot nibble at your investment by charging percentage fees Find out how this could affect your investment performance at iiicoukstraightforward
If you transfer to us you can even get up to pound240 as a thank you (terms apply)
Donrsquot forget the value of investments and any income from them can fall as well as rise so you could get back less than you invest If in any doubt please seek advice
7784_II_QI_MONEY_OBSERVER_210x297_AWindd 1 16012014 1224
Take a closer look
at your investment
options
Discover a straightforward way to understand everything from ISAs to SIPPs and OEICs to Investment Trusts
Investing for generationsEver feel yoursquod like to know more about investing Wersquove been helping people build their wealth for over 125 years Our guide lsquoMaking sense of the investment universersquo is just one of the resources yoursquoll find on our Investment Focus hub
As well as clear simple guides therersquos a wealth of information and expert opinion all designed to help you take control of your investments Please remember that investments can go down as well as up and investors may get back less than they originally invested
Introducing your free online source of information help and expert opinion
investment-focuscouk
This has been approved as a financial promotion by Alliance Trust Investments Limited for the purpose of Section 21 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 Alliance Trust Investments Limited is a subsidiary of Alliance Trust PLC and is registered in Scotland No SC330862 registered office 8 West Marketgait Dundee DD1 1QN is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority firm reference number 479764 Alliance Trust Investments gives no financial or investment advice
TAX YEAR ENDS APRIL 5TH ndash learn more about
your options now
Investment Focus Smart Insight from Alliance Trust
Yoursquove spoken Wersquove listened Introducing your free online source of information help and expert opinion
Based on real insight we have launched a new website which focuses on investment education
We believe that we are uniquely positioned to provide this hub of information based on the reputation we have built for trust and transparency over the last 125 years
We will be publishing new content over the next few months focusing on specific themes
bull Investing from scratch
bull Products in a portfolio
bull Global diversification
bull Planning for your familyrsquos future
bull Retirement planning
bull Getting more information
There is a generation of future investors out there who have been brought up in an era of economic turmoil and banking crises which has led to disillusionment and a lack of trust in our sector and the services we offer Despite it being more important than ever for investors to take control of their financial situation this new generation of savers lacks the basic knowledge and understanding to make these very important long-term decisions
Our goal is to develop a useful resource with contributions from third-parties as well as the team at Alliance Trust which offers insights into the various life stages and challenges faced and which can be built upon and adapted to meet savers needs in the long term
Katherine Garrett-Cox CBE Chief Executive Alliance Trust PLC
ldquo
rdquo
There are too many products to make an informed decision
I donrsquot know whereto go for reliable
information
investment-focuscouk
Yoursquoll naturally take a keen interest in the performance of your investments But itrsquos just as important to understand the fees you will be paying as they can have a significant impact on the returns you achieve Knowing what the different types of costs mean and exactly what they consist of can prove rewarding
Itrsquos worth remembering that for every fee you pay (whether it is a or flat fee) your investment needs to grow by at least the same amount just to stay ahead of the game It sounds obvious but itrsquos easy to forget Broadly speaking there are three types of fees fund fees platform fees and fees for a financial adviser You can either invest directly into a fund and pay the associated fees or you can invest via a platform provider (some of which are referred to as wrap platforms others as fund supermarkets) This is a service that lets you manage and review all your investments online in one place As a general rule fund fees are lower when
bought through a platform than if you buy direct You can invest through a platform on either an execution only basis where the investor assesses the risks and makes their own investment decisions or on an advised basis
Learn more about fund platform and financial advice fees
What can you expect to seeOver the next two pages we have provided a sneak preview of just some of the information you will find on the Investment Focus hub We will be updating the site regularly so make sure you sign up for our email alerts to be informed when new topics are published
Everything you need to know about fees
Risk informationInvestments can go down as well as up You may get back less than you originally invested
Alliance Trust does not give advice You need to ensure you understand the risks and commitments before investing If you are unsure you should consult a Financial Adviser before investing
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
For the vast majority of investors the simplest cheapest and most pragmatic way to invest is through pooled funds
Sometimes called managed funds unit trusts or even Open-Ended Investment Companies (or OEICs) these are designed to give ordinary savers access to a diverse range of investments
One of the principles of investment is that diversification helps reduce risk But it is expensive and time consuming for ordinary savers to buy shares of 80 to 100 different companies and keep track of how each is performing
But with a managed fund you are pooling your money with other investors enabling the fund manager to buy a wide range of assets
Investors have the option of buying an actively managed or passive fund With an active fund the manager selects and then monitors these stocks for investors in a bid to maximise returns
In contrast a passive fund will simply follow a stock market index such as the FTSE100 up and down
Having a manager at the helm can be beneficial in a market downturn as they can take a more defensive approach buying shares that are better able to hold their value or in some cases switching to bonds or cash instead to help preserve investorsrsquo capital Managers can also research individual companies and markets and have access to forecasts and economic data that isnrsquot always available to individuals
Learn more about investing for growth or income exploring different investment remits how to invest and keeping track of your investments
Understanding funds Written by Emma Simon Personal Finance Journalist
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
What are Investment TrustsInvestment Trusts are investment vehicles that are listed on the London Stock Exchange and which invest in shares and other securities They pool together investorsrsquo money and delegate responsibility to a professional fund manager to invest in a range of companies from different sectors and regions across the world They were designed for ldquothe investor of moderate meansrdquo
A brief historybull The first Investment Trust was launched by Foreign amp
Colonial in 1868
bull Investment Trusts made it possible for individual investors to gain diversified exposure to global stock markets
bull Many Investment Trusts were formed in Scotland including Alliance Trust PLC which was formed over 125 years ago
A guide to Investment Trusts
Learn more about Investment Trusts their main features and why you should consider them for your portfolio
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
Alliance Trust is an investment and savings business with over 125 year history of building investor wealth We offer our shareholders clients and customers a unique portfolio of products and services These range from a renowned global investment trust to an innovative range of investment strategies and funds and a multi-award winning investment platform where investors can host their ISAs SIPPs or investment accounts Our mission is to provide products and services that help to ensure a more sustainable financial future for generations of investors
Alliance Trust PLC is one of the largest generalist investment trusts by market value listed on the London Stock Exchange and is the parent company to two wholly-owned subsidiaries Alliance Trust Savings and Alliance Trust Investments
The fact that many of us make irrational decisions when it comes to our finances is widely debated and is often referred to as behavioural finance In this short video we talk to Professor Phyl Johnson Consultant Psychologist and Visiting Professor of Executive Education at Strathclyde Business School about why this is and more importantly about what we can do as individuals to avoid it
About us Alliance Trust Investments is a specialist fund management business offering a range of products and services focusing on global equities fixed income and sustainable investing with an emphasis on specialist investment solutions
Alliance Trust Savings is one of the UKrsquos leading financial services providers for private investors offering customers the information and services they need to manage their investments in a way that works for them
Risk informationInvestments can go down as well as up You may get back less than you originally invested
Alliance Trust does not give advice You need to ensure you understand the risks and commitments before investing If you are unsure you should consult a Financial Adviser before investing
Unusually for a company of our size around 70 of shares
in Alliance Trust are held by private
individuals
Nobodyrsquos perfect why we all make irrational decisions
Inflation by ageThis monthrsquos official inflation report showed that the headline rate of inflation fell from 20 to 19 Our Economic Research Team analyse this data on a monthly basis to see how inflation rates affect different age groups In February 2014 the summary highlights include
bull The over 75s and the under 30s face the highest rate of inflation in January at 21
bull The over 75s suffered the highest rate of inflation for the whole of 2013 and this trend continues into 2014 as they spend a larger share of their budgets on basic goods such as gas and electricity
bull The 65 to 74 year olds have faced the lowest rate of inflation in 11 out of the last 12 months thanks to lower inflation in food petrol and package holidays
Learn more about how inflation might affect you
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
You can also sign up for our regular email alerts to be informed when new topics are published by clicking here
Wersquove been bringing clarity to investment for over 125 years
Investing for generationsWhen it comes to investing therersquos no substitute for experience And at Alliance Trust wersquove been helping people invest since 1888 Our new Investment Focus hub is full of online information and expert opinion It aims to provide real insight to help you take control of your investments
Over the next few weeks the hub will build to cover everything from taking your first steps to diversifying worldwide Please remember that investments can go down as well as up and investors may get back less than they originally invested For valuable insight from Alliance Trust visit Investment Focus today
Introducing your free online source of information help and expert opinion
investment-focuscouk
This has been approved as a financial promotion by Alliance Trust Investments Limited for the purpose of Section 21 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 Alliance Trust Investments Limited is a subsidiary of Alliance Trust PLC and is registered in Scotland No SC330862 registered office 8 West Marketgait Dundee DD1 1QN is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority firm reference number 479764 Alliance Trust Investments gives no financial or investment advice
TAX YEAR ENDS APRIL 5TH ndash learn more about
your options now
Change the way you think about stocks reap the rewardsBy Edward Page Croft CEO Stockopediacom
I remember so clearly the day when I picked my first stock for clients Managing $2 billion (pound12 billion) in assets across 100 portfolios for high-net-wealth private investors is no easy task As I was to learn when you are green
and straight out of university itrsquos even harder The stock in question was on the Goldman
Sachs US lsquobuyrsquo list It had the potential to be hot Dotcoms were bubbling It was an internet stock in education services and cheap It seemed like it had everything but we needed to get in One day it fell out of bed Down 50 per cent on no news
Irsquod been trained to call the analyst in situations like this He reiterated his buy stance Double buy On my insistence we put almost $20 million of client money into the stock within an hour The next day it fell another 50 per cent on
bad newsThere is nothing more
painful than a loss but you never forget the first
one It immedi-ately forced me to reconsider every-thing I thought I
knew From that day on I vowed to never trust anotherrsquos opin-ion and find a better
way through the market minefieldIrsquove now spent 15 years
reassessing common
wisdom about stock selection No stone has gone unturned in the quest to understand the behav-ioural flaws that lead to poor decision making But there is one finding that crops up again and again in all the research that hurts stock market investors most We as investors are suckers for stories
A 1990rsquos study of 60000 private investor broker-age accounts by Kumar and Goetzmann found that 70 per cent of portfolios held less than four stocks
The stocks held all tended to be in the same sector highly correlated and risky Think internet stocks in the 1990s China in the 2000s or resource stocks more recently The grand theme sucks everyone in The outcome rarely dif-fers Kumar and Goetzmann showed that across these
60000 accounts the average underperformance was of the order of 4 per cent annually
This massive failing across private inves-tor portfolios is repeated in nearly every market cycle and is bound to happen again in this one Benjamin Graham the great father of value invest-ing and tutor of Warren Buffett once wrote
lsquoIn the short run the stock market is a vot-ing machine but in the long run it is a weighing machinersquo
ADVERTISING FEATURE
IN THE SHORT RUN THE STOCK MARKET IS A VOTING MACHINE BUT IN THE LONG RUN IT IS A WEIGHING MACHINEBenjamin Graham
What he meant was that while stories may drive stocks in the short run statistics drive stocks in the long run When statistics reassert them-selves it can cause huge damage to investors punting their portfolios on stories
It doesnrsquot take much to learn how basic statis-tics can guide your portfolio into winning stock selections though very few seem to understand how to do it Benjamin Graham as his life wore on gradually came to the conclusion that building portfolios according to rules-based processes was a far more appropriate methodology for the typi-cal investor
lsquoTry to buy groups of stocks that meet some sim-ple criterion for being undervalued ndash regardless of
the industry and with very little attention to the indi-vidual company It seems too good to be true but all I can tell you after 60 years of experience is it seems to stand up under any of the tests I would make uprsquo
My time is now dedi-cated to helping investors practice exactly what Benjamin Graham and many other investment luminaries have preached rules-based investing For the majority itrsquos a better process and leads to bet-ter outcomes Our work at
Stockopediacom where we crunch fundamental and technical data in order to model and track the investment processes of the great investors bears this out
Portfolios composed with stocks showing the right statistical mix of value quality and momen-tum have significantly outperformed Rules-based investing beats the market But more importantly it helps promote the emotional detachment needed to stop investors from beating themselves
Irsquoll never buy a stock on a punt or an analystrsquos tip again Perhaps neither should you
For a two week free trial and pound50 discount to Stockopedia UK Premium CLICK HERE
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TO THE CONNOISSEUR section of Inspired a showcase for the finer things in life for those who truly appreciate them
Enjoying the fruits of your labour away from the relentless demands of our age poses its own challenges and quandaries Would a tropical idyll restore your ebbing energy levels Might a break based around hair-raising activities revive them even more effectively Perhaps reawakening a dormant passion for fine wines or luxury cars would be the most enjoyable reward for your industry
A luxury tropical holiday is probably near the top of most peoplersquos wish lists We take a look at some of the most tantalising options
The arrival of BMWrsquos new super coupe is featured on page 50 BMW aficionados and petrolheads alike are certain to be won over by its head-turning looks and mouthwatering specs
Gems come under the microscope on page 53 A rare coloured diamond can be a joy as well an appreciating asset
Wine is on the menu on page 54 where we explore the charms of Argentinian Malbec
Watches are often treasured objects and the best can turn out to be shrewd investments We look at the secondary watch market and the growth of online retailing on page 58 Enjoy
Welcome
40 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
FIVE TOP PRIVATE ISLAND RETREATSIslandFantasy
Top-rated resorts and hotels offer a variety of temptations and services to impress even the most discerning tastes but there is no better way to escape the rigours and
stresses of daily life than cutting off from the outside world while still enjoying lavish service
in the pinnacle of all resorts the private islandThere are thousands of small islands around
the world but only a few have chosen to cater to the most discriminating travellers seeking a rarified yet perfect world of quiet and relaxed luxury We look at five of the worldrsquos top private islands destinations where your holiday is certain to be an exceptional experience
TRAVEL
Necker Island is owned by Sir Richard Branson and guests stay in his home The island has become a popular des-tination for some of the worldrsquos most prominent figures as a hideaway from lifersquos stresses and strains
Because Necker Island is a resi-dence and not a resort guests who rent the island are treated as owners and catered for in a unique way
The74-acre island is fringed with beautiful white beaches and surrounded by turquoise waters and coral reefs It boasts every resort-type amenity guests can spend their days being pampered in the spa explor-ing underwater reefs in a submarine lounging by the pool bar or swimming in one of the worldrsquos most elab-orate private pools
Haute cuisine is a highlight for most guests ndash rates are fully inclusive of all food and drink A team of chefs creates bespoke menus featuring anything from lobster and caviar to a Sunday roast And because Necker is a home first and a resort second guests decide whether dining will be formal or informal inside or outside themed or traditional
The bar is stocked with international wines top-quality spirits and beers and a world renowned house champagne while special orders can be shipped in at no extra charge ndash unless an item is particularly rare Every service and amenity is available around the clock and guests are encouraged to treat Necker as their own home
As youLike it
NECKER ISLAND
42 March 2014 | inspired
Unalloyed luxury and an impressive range of amenities make Necker one of the most desirable island destinations in the world
The Jumby Bay resort which is only accessible by boat from Antigua is a Caribbean hideaway owned by Rosewood Resorts It is perfect for those seeking either relaxation or spirited adventure
You can rent the island resort entirely for your stay or simply take a room Those opt-ing for exclusive use of the island will have the resortrsquos two pools three tennis courts fitness centre croquet field and putting green to themselves
A wide range of water sports are available and guests can indulge in as much adventure or relaxation as they want during their stay The resort is ideal for large family
reunions or corporate retreats ndash 40 guest rooms and suites are available on the island
Executive chef Sylvain Hervochon celebrates gastron-omy ndash and mixology (cocktail making) ndash with casual elegance by creating Caribbean-style dishes inspired by fresh local ingredients and incorporating international influences
Jumby Bayrsquos rates start at pound150000 for four nights based on double occupancy between May and December Visit wwwrosewoodhotelscomenjumby-bay-antigua for further information
Fine BalanceCaribbean ambiance international sophistication and adventurous activities make Jumby Bay a compelling choice
JUMBY BAY
Just laze by the pool or venture beyond to dive in the turquoise waters of the South Pacific among stunning reefs and a dazzling array of marine creatures
Isle of PlentyT
he private island of Laucala in the South Pacific is a 3500-acre site in a picturesque rainforest-laced land-scape Enchanting deserted beaches nestle among coconut plantations organic farms and lush green vol-canic mountains
The resort offers an outstanding level of refined lux-ury as well as a compelling collection of sporting and cultural activities diving among iridescent marine life in the warm turquoise waters guided rainforest tours horse riding surfing and golfing on the 18-hole cham-pionship course The island is a superb choice for an escape from civilization whether you want an adven-ture in the wild or simply to relax in one of Laucalarsquos five restaurants and bars
Rates are available on request Visit wwwlaucalacom for further details
TRAVEL
LAUCALA ISLAND
inspired | March 2014 4544 March 2014 | inspired
Lush green surroundings sensitive development and beautiful beaches help Laucala island conjure up a complete South Seas experience
Isle of Plenty
inspired | March 2014 4544 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
inspired | March 2014 4746 March 2014 | inspired
Slow LaneSlow
Pulau Joyo is a seductively serene environment of pristine beaches surrounded by clear blue sea in Indonesiarsquos Riau Archipelago Accessible from Singapore or Bintan Pulau Joyo is a true castaway island offering every resort luxury
amid untouched natural beauty Pulau Joyo is famous for its remarkable sunsets and
brightly star-lit sky The resort can host 28 guests and 20 staff are on hand to cater to their every need Guests stay in open driftwood lsquopalacesrsquo that lsquoallow the sea inrsquoDespite its desert island appeal Pulau Joyo offers every modern convenience a range of adrenaline boosting activities and more relaxing options such as spa treatments and massages
The resortrsquos cuisine focuses on western and Indonesian dishes Meals are usually served buffet style and feature grilled fish squid prawns beef and chicken as well as many curry dishes Side dishes include fresh garden salads pasta salads boiled or steamed leafy greens and grilled aubergine (an island favourite) Prawn and tofu kebabs appear from time to time as does satay The chef will often provide a selection of freshly picked fruit and homemade cakes for dessert Itrsquos worth noting that the management will not serve pork or shellfish on this private island
Pulau Joyo may not be as refined as some islands but itrsquos an excellent choice for those who want a more casual laidback island experience that replicates the castaway experience like perhaps no other
Rates start at pound1913 a night More information is available at wwwpulau-joyocom
Wannabe castaways may find Pulau Joyorsquos purer simpler take on the luxury island experience more to their taste
PULAU JOYO
inspired | March 2014 4746 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
In the Fijian island paradise of Dolphin Island a small army of staff await to meet guestsrsquo every need On arriving ndash by boat helicopter or float plane ndash visitors are invariably struck by the beauty of the island and the luxuri-ous accommodation that awaits them amid 14-acres of lush tropical gardens
Three traditional palm-thatched bures individually designed by world renowned interior designer Virginia Fisher sit in an elevated position around the resortrsquos infinity pool
Guests are brought fresh tropical fish to choose each day that are cooked to perfec-
tion within hours of leaving the water The culinary focus is on
organic produce and ingredi-ents unique to Fijian cuisine but meals are tailored to guestsrsquo personal tastes Papayas man-goes bananas and pineapples
are plentiful throughout the day When it comes to recreation the
14-acre island is an expansive play-ground offering a diverse range of watersports as well as diving opportunities on Fijirsquos coral reefs
Rates start at pound720 a night More information is avail-able at wwwdolphinislandfijicom
Fijian Paean
Traditional features modern comforts and excellent facilities make for a harmonious whole on this Fijian island
DOLPHIN ISLAND
48 March 2014 | inspired
Pictured slightly larger than actual size
Big Pilotrsquos Watch Ref 5009
Your wrist never felt this big before The
case of the top model in the IWC Pilotrsquos
Watch range is a gigantic 462 mm in diashy
meter And the technology inside it is
even more impressive the largest IWCshy
manufactured automatic movement with
its Pellaton winding system is protected
against strong magnetic fields by a softshy
iron inner case And needless to say enshy
vious glances iwc engineered for men
Mechanical IWCshymanufactured movement Pellaton
automatic winding system 7shyday power reserve
with display (figure) Date display Softshyiron inner
case for protection against magnetic fields
Antireflective sapphire glass Watershyresistant 6 bar
Stainless steel
IWC Schaffhausen Switzerland iwccom The worldrsquos finest timepieces are exclusively available from selected watch specialists
For an illustrated catalogue or list of nationwide concessionaires please contact IWC UK Tel 0845 337 1868 Eshymail infoshyukiwccom
CARS
MunichLegend
50 March 2014 | inspired
BMW fanatics can open their eyes ndash the M4 has arrived
Most BMW aficionados are proba-bly pretty sad to see production of the M3 coupe ndash quite possibly the companyrsquos most noteworthy and celebrated model ndash end after almost 30 years Ever since the first wide-body E30 M3 saw the
light of day in 1985 drivers have loved the sporty coupe for its incredible balance intoxicating power and of course solid build quality
The model never got stale in all that time and always remained the poster child for the M division so itrsquos a lit-tle weird that BMW has apparently decided to axe it In truth though they havenrsquot really dropped the M3 The M3 sedan will continue to be produced in 2014 so all
is not lost Moreover BMW seems to be adopting a pat-tern of giving its sedans odd-numbered titles only and its coupes even-numbered titles only so the 4-Series and especially the M4 concept that debuted at Pebble Beach Monterey California will fill the gap left by the M3 Many people have been awaiting the new super coupe with great expectancy but can it fill in for the M3
The journalists who swarmed over the M4 concept at Pebble Beach were obviously much more interested in it than the somewhat predictable 428i that was also there Finished in an eye-catching colour called Aurum Dust (which actually looks a lot like the old M3rsquos Phoenix Yellow colour) the car presented in California may be a concept but typically BMW M cars donrsquot change much before they finally hit the showroom
MunichLegend
inspired | March 2014 51
CARS
52 March 2014 | inspired
From front to back the bodywork is manifestly differ-ent and much more aggressive looking than a standard 4-Series car It really looks to pretty much pick up where the E92E93 M3 coupe left off especially with its undeniably cool domed hood Wide wheel arches big wheels wrapped in low-profile tyres more than enough M badges and a well-executed double-bubble roof make the already underwhelming existing 4-Series coupe look even more pedestrian
Power for the new M4 is likely to come from a three-litre twin-turbo straight-six engine While the horsepower probably wonrsquot differ much from the M3rsquos old 4-litre V-8 it will generate more than 100lbft more in torque almost 400 in total With the M4 being a lighter 3300lb in weight the M4 promises to be an excit-ing worthy car A proper six-speed manual may be in the mix alongside the now obligatory dual clutch and paddles option
The best way to look at the M4 however it ends up is not as a new car but as a new and improved M3 thatrsquos just getting a new name The decision to rename the coupe is a strange one but thankfully BMW apparently felt the 3-Series coupe had made such an identity for itself that a new model was needed albeit in a slightly different incarnation
With BMW embarking on some new-ageish ideas such as its 1-Series ActiveE and the soon-to-arrive lsquoirsquo range of cars itrsquos nice to see the company also stick to classics such as the heart-stopping sports coupe even if the latest model does come with a new name
Seductive curves and racier performance make the BMW M4 a more than acceptable replacement for the M3 super coupe
SparklingForm Coloured diamonds are making their mark
One of the main factors that deter-mines the value of what we ordinarily think of as diamonds is their purity the degree to which col-our is absent in the gem However with coloured diamonds the extent to which they are saturated with
colour is a principal determinant of their valueColoured diamonds come in 12 basic colours more
than 90 secondary hues and nine intensity levels The depth of their colour is what really differentiates these diamonds from their colourless counterparts
Natural coloured diamonds are 10000 times rarer than typical colourless diamonds one of several rea-sons why they are treasured by the rich and famous yet remain unknown to most other people ndash despite hav-ing been around for centuries
Of course some colours are rarer than others Red violet and purple stones are as rare as the proverbial hensrsquo teeth while green and blue are also rare The most popular colours are pink and yellow (or canary) They also come in white grey orange black and lsquochame-leonrsquo form
A pinkie ring encrusted with a large coloured dia-mond has become a status symbol for men in Asia That little stone is an unregistered asset that could quickly be sold for millions of dollars should the need arise
Coloured diamonds are durable and never lose their sparkle or lustre so they are assets that can be enjoyed every day unlike stocks or bonds And they have proved to be fantastic investments having steadily appreciated in price with relatively little volatility for more than a decade They even held their own during the most recent financial crisis
Coloured diamonds are auctioned by reputable
auction houses such a Sothebyrsquos and Christiersquos where prices for large unique pink red blue or yellow stones can reach in excess of $2 million (pound12 million) a carat and other stones regularly sell for $1 million a carat
They are often bought by high-net-worth individu-als as an insurance policy Instead of stashing cash in undeclared bank accounts and potentially incurring the wrath of the authorities the wealthy can purchase some loose yellow diamonds to secure their future
Clearly coloured diamonds are much more than a magnificent indulgence
GEMS
inspired | March 2014 53PB March 2014 | inspired
WINE
Make the most of the deeply
satisfying Malbec wines emerging from Argentina
and perhaps even enjoy a return on a shrewd
investment says Ewan Lacey
Finding a red wine to enjoy in spring is a delicate balancing act The shock of seeing sunlight after a dark winter fosters in us a desire to drink some-thing refreshing while the still-cool temperatures demand something with comforting depth
Increasingly Malbec wines particularly those from Argentina provide a perfect solution to this quandary And while there are plenty of delicious wines for infor-mal occasions what is most interesting is the emergence of finer Malbec wines Some are so good they may well have ageing potential raising the intriguing possibility that the wine may one day become collectable
Malbec is the most popular wine among those aged 25-34 and is now becoming a fixture on most restaurant wine lists There are several reasons for its success the word Malbec is easy to pronounce the wine goes well with red meat the Malbec grape can be turned into wines that are both relatively easy to drink and packed with flavour and decent wines are available at reason-able prices Malbec is deep fruity and charming and it delivers instant pleasure ndash claret on a motorbike
The Malbec grape originated in France and it remains one of the permitted varieties used to make Bordeaux However it has gained prominence through the work of the post-junta Argentine wine industry
I recently had the pleasure of tasting some very fine Malbecs with Laura Catena managing director at the Catena Zapata winery and president of the International Wine and Spirit Competition She opened my
Mendoza Marvels
inspired | March 2014 55
WINE
eyes to the potential of this grape variety when handled with care
Laurarsquos family business makes a range of wines but the wine that truly astonished me was the Nicasia Vineyard Malbec 2006 The wine is perfumed with floral and fruit notes and it is smooth and soft at first Like all great wines it has many layers of flavour warm bursts of cherry and black-currant cede centre stage to deeper darker caramel and mocha notes and a touch of spice Therersquos an amazing depth of flavour and the finish is long and lingering Whatrsquos more at nearly eight years old it still has a slight purple tinge and tastes extremely fresh There is every indication that it will age beautifully for at least another decade
The winersquos character is heavily influenced by the alti-tude the grapes used to make it are grown at (1180m
above sea level) At this elevation the grapes ripen in bright sun but lsquorelaxrsquo during the cool evenings The fact that the wine is made in tiny quantities (eight barrels only) means every care can be taken during the winemak-ing process to ensure the wine is allowed to show its grown-up side The cost per bot-tle of pound70 is not insubstantial but neither is the wine
We cannot know whether these wines will ever become investments in the way the wines of Bordeaux have Whatrsquos cer-tain is that Malbec wines have a very rare quality a balance of finesse and power that
can delight wine lovers and linger in their memories
Ewan Lacey is a leading wine expert and general manager of the International Wine and Spirit Competition He has appeared on BBC television and radio as well as Channel 4 and written for the national press
Laura Catena is managing director at the Catena Zapata winery (above)
THE INTERNATIONAL WINE AND SPIRIT COMPETITIONThe International Wine and Spirit Competition has been the premier drinks competition in the world for 45 years Each year it receives and reviews thousands of wines and spirits and presents qual-ity awards to producers
More than anything the IWSC exists to help
people make better deci-sions particularly when buying wines and spirits An IWSC award on a bot-tle of wine is a guarantee
of quality backed not only by a rigorous and strin-gent judging process but also by the skill of the judges who are drawn from the ranks of masters of wine master distill-ers industry leaders and commentators
Each year the IWSC honours a leading figure
in the drinks industry with the presidency of the competition The current president is Laura Catena who succeeds a nota-ble line of predecessors including Prince Robert of Luxembourg winemakers Piero Antinori and Warren Winiarski and Baroness Philippine de Rothschild
56 March 2014 | inspired
LUXURY WATCHES
Time is preciousA
t a recent watch auc-tion in Geneva at Antiquorum ndash the worldrsquos premiere auc-tion house for modern and vintage time pieces ndash a Patek Philippe
pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon watch emerged as the auctionrsquos top lot and sold for 12 million Swiss francs (pound807000)
Unlike most of the timepieces sold at auctions outside Asia this particular Patek watch ndash the most complicated wristwatch the Swiss watchmaker has ever produced ndash was not a vintage model
That Geneva auction raised intriguing
1284Clocks with weights gears and regulators start to appear mostly with no dial to strike the important moments of daily life
Around 1410The mainspring is devel-oped Combined with the fusee this innovation makes possible the truly portable domestic clock
1492The mechanical watch appears simultaneously in Italy Germany and France
1675Christian Huygens invents the spiral balance spring
for watches significantly improving their accuracy
1704The first watch with jew-els is produced by French watchmaker de Beaufreacute
1714The British parliament offers pound20000 to who-ever can a find a method to determine longitude
1766Parliament publishes the rating results for John Harrisonrsquos H4 marine timekeeper Harrisonrsquos highly accurate marine clock solution to the problem of determining logitude wins him part of the pound20000 prize
1787Pierre-Freacutedeacuteric Ingold is born an important pio-neer in mechanised timepiece production and the use of interchangea-ble parts
1790Jacquet-Droz and Leschot manufactures a watch attached to a strap
1839Vacheron amp Constantin developes a full set of machine tools for manu-facturing its watches
1875Calcium sulphate is the first luminescent sub-stance to be used for numerals and hands
TIMEKEEPING MILESTONES
questions Are modern luxury timepieces every bit as appealing as the vintage watches that typically command top prices at auc-tion And does that Geneva auction tell us anything about the contemporary watch market as a whole
Julien Schaerer Antiquorumrsquos managing director in Geneva says top-quality vintage watches often appreciate in value over the long term But he urges buyers for whom appreciation is an important consideration to be cautious about purchasing contempo-rary watches
lsquoWatch price depreciation is the cost of ownership just as it is with a luxury carrsquo he says lsquoIf the value goes up then
58 March 2014 | inspired
1880The first water- resistant watch incorpo-rating a screwed case is produced by Genevan watchmaker Franccedilois Borgel
1889The first known patent for a wristwatch is filed in Bern Switzerland
1890Dialmaker A Beyeler invents a transfer press for applying numerals and letters to dials
1892Auguste Verneuil in France produces the first synthetic jewels to be used in watchmaking
1904Wens Wilsdorf launches large-scale production of a womenrsquos wristwatch
1924John Harwood files the
first Swiss patent for a self-winding wristwatch with a central oscillating weight
1925The first known wrist-watch with a perpetual calendar is manufactured using a pendant watch movement
1926Rolex creates the Oyster wristwatch with a water-resistant case and crown
1966The first quartz wrist-watch prototype is produced
1969The first quartz watch
with an LED display appears
1978Quartz watches overtake mechanical watches in popularity
2005Creation of the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie Seiko launches the spring drive Kinetic the first self-winding mechanical watch with an electro-magnetic escapement
A Patek Philippe pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon recently sold for pound807000
inspired | March 2014 59
online retailers from the comfort of your homeSince 2006 DM London has quietly estab-
lished a powerful presence for itself in the UK retail watch market with the acquisition of The Watch Hut and The Watch Gallery DM London chairman David Coleridge says the company has capitalised on the increasing willingness of buy-ers to purchase online
lsquoHaving decided that they would like to buy a watch for themselves or someone elsersquo he says lsquopeople start to do their research More often than not this starts online nowadays where they com-pare brands performance and functions
lsquoAs trust in the online marketplace has devel-oped many want to buy online because it is convenient and saves time Shopping online becomes a habit established sites build trust and awareness with customers which gives custom-ers the confidence to buy more expensive itemsrsquo
He adds lsquoOur challenge is to make the online environment as attractive informative and enjoy-able as a high street store Then customers will decide to spend onlinersquo
Coleridge believes a multi-channel approach is the way forward for retailers He says lsquoWithout doubt the future is multi-channel selling ndash a combination of direct selling on the internet and various forms of click and collect ndash combined with beautiful stores on the high street
Over the past few years demand for luxury watches (particularly contemporary models) has spiked sharply in Asia and according to some specialists emerging affluence in the
of course thatrsquos an added benefit However he adds lsquoPrice appreciation is still quite rare with modern watches There is some poten-tial for appreciation but probably only with ultra-limited editions A purchase has to be
seen as a medium- to long-term invest-ment One should buy a timepiece first out of love for the brand or [the watchrsquos] complicationrsquo
The watch brands that offer the greatest assurance of appreci-
ation include Cartier Patek Philippe Rolex Audemars
Piguet A Lange amp Sohne Breguet and Vacheron Constantin All enjoy views from the top of
the watchmaking hierarchy thanks to their longstand-ing histories and well-established brand identities
Relative new-comers to the industry such as Richard Mille and Roger Dubuis have carved out a niche for
themselves with their revolutionary designs and
space-age technologies but it remains to be seen just how well the values of their timepieces will stand up on the secondary market
According to Nathaniel Borgelt a specialist at auction house Sothebyrsquos
some modern watches have already achieved good prices at auction but these (like the Patek Philippe Sky Moon Tourbillon) were highly exclusive models when new
lsquoSome limited edition pieces currently fetch incredible prices at auctionrsquo he says lsquoAnd there is a select group of modern mod-els that could compete with a certain sector of the vintage market based on their brand innovative features such as materials or com-plications and avant-garde designs
Buying these has now become a whole lot easier The luxury watch retailing land-scape is changing and the traditional pattern of physically walking into a luxury salon to buy a watch is gradually being replaced by a trend towards visiting the websites of the big
LUXURY WATCHES
A Lange amp Sohne (above) is a long-standing high-end watchmaker Comparative new-comer Roger Dubuis (right) is forging a strong reputation
inspired | March 2014 PB60 March 2014 | inspired
helpthewatchgallerycom
Hublot ClassiC FusiontHe WatCH Gallery exClusive
The Watch Gallery and Hublot have joined forces to create two very special limited edition watches Both are limited to just 15 pieces worldwide and have been specifically designed to feature The Watch Gallery blue brand colour on the hands and tinted open case back
SelfridgeS OxfOrd StreetWeStfield lOndOnMancheSter exchange Square
wwwthewatchgallerycomhublot-watches
Far East has kept global values strong while other markets around the world continue to recover from recession
Despite the market boost from growing prosperity in Asia there are signs that the market is becoming saturated and that globally the new watch market isnrsquot as robust as some commentators suggest
It may still be a good time to buy but its important to know what you want and what yoursquore buying Modern watchmakers such as Richard Mille Roger Dubuis and Greubel Forsey are producing beautiful timepieces but because of their limited foothold in the market itrsquos difficult to predict their long-term success and desirability They donrsquot yet have the brand power that might ensure the value of their
watches in the secondhand market remains highSuch producers might one day stand eye to
eye with the most desirable brands such as Patek Philippe and Rolex but achieving that kind of parity wonrsquot be easy Collectors looking to invest in timepieces are advised to keep an open mind about modern producers uncertainty is the one aspect of modern luxury watch market most experts tend to agree on
That said the buoyancy in the watch market suggests that plenty of buyers are unconcerned about future values For them itrsquos all about the appreciation of the watch itself People buy watches because they bring them pleasure ndash and say some-thing about who they are
LUXURY WATCHES
Contemporary watches such as those made by Hublot (left) have yet to show they will have the lasting appeal of watches such as Cartierrsquos Rotonde de Cartier Astrocalendaire (right)
inspired | March 2014 63
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-
The world of funds and trusts is a confusing place with over 2300 funds and more than 300 investment trusts to choose from
Money Observerrsquos Rated Funds system narrows down the playing field to help you decide which funds and investment trusts might be best for you
Our team of experts constantly monitor the marketplace rating those funds that have delivered consistently good returns However you should be aware that there is no guarantee this performance will be repeated
With our comparison tool you can filter by whatrsquos important to you compare up to four funds and trusts side-by-side as well as view factsheets
COMPAREMONEY OBSERVER RATED FUNDS
VISIT MONEYOBSERVERCOMCOMPAREFUNDS AND LOOK OUT FOR THE RATED FUND STAMP
had spare cash or I were start-ing afresh The companies in the add category are high qual-ity judging by the strategies they follow and their finan-cial strength and are probably undervalued
Irsquom more likely to eject or reduce holdings in companies in the watch and specula-tive categories These shares are more risky either because they have risen greatly in price or because their prospects are more uncertain than usual I may think the risk is worth tak-ing but I am prepared to act should that calculation change
Every decision to increase a portfolio holding must be weighed against the potential of new candidates drawn from all companies listed in the UK and corralled into another live spreadsheet the Share Sleuth watchlist When I add a share to the watchlist or trade a share in the portfolio I explain this in the Share Sleuth blog
ccumulating income and capital gains in an index tracking fund is inexpensive takes little effort and all but guarantees an
average return so it should be the default investment for a lazy equity investor saving for the long term
To justify the work of decid-ing which shares to buy and sell and the effort and cost of placing trades an active investor must do better Consequently the first objective of the active Share Sleuth portfolio is to beat passive investments after costs over the long-term which in practice means any five-year period The second objective is to win this tussle against an unknowing and unthinking opponent transparently
At the heart of the portfolio is an online spreadsheet The first page shows the constitu-ent shares arranged into three categories lsquoaddrsquo lsquowatchrsquo and lsquospeculativersquo The categorisa-tion is updated daily based on live data in subsequent spread-sheets each of which contains a financial model for a particular company
The Share Sleuth portfo-lio shows the holdings I would add to the portfolio today if it
Share Sleuth is a simulation no money changes hands But I use prices quoted by a bro-ker and adjust the accounting to factor in notional broker fees and stamp duty However I lsquoeat my own cookingrsquo by investing my self-invested personal pen-sion in Share Sleuth companies
No doubt you are wonder-ing how the portfolio is doing Share Sleuthrsquos five-year anni-versary judgement day is on 9 September this year and I will not prejudge it now
Short-term performance watching and the knee-jerk trad-ing it encourages is I think one reason why many inves-tors fail My focus is on ensuring the portfolio remains invested in good companies at reasona-ble prices
You can see a live perfor-mance table and learn what I think of every share in the port-folio and which companies I might add to it at wwwiiicoukZkr
SHAREBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIOR
The Share Sleuth portfolio has been carefully devised to show investors how to find good companies at cheap prices and also prove the value of its investment approach says Richard Beddard
Richard Beddard an editor at Interactive Investor since 1999 has managed the Share Sleuth portfolio since 9 September 2009 Hersquos a columnist at Money Observer magazine and a private investor
AMY FOCUS IS ON ENSURING THAT THE PORTFOLIO IS INVESTED IN GOOD FIRMS AT DECENT PRICES
inspired | March 2014 29PB March 2014 | inspired
SHARESLEUTH
iiicoukstraightforward
Interactive Investor Trading Limited trading as ldquoInteractive Investorrdquo is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority Registered Office Standon House 21 Mansell Street London E1 8AA Tel 0845 200 3637 Registered in England with Company Registration number 3699618
We believe in being straightforwardthis is why we donrsquot nibble at your investment by charging percentage fees Find out how this could affect your investment performance at iiicoukstraightforward
If you transfer to us you can even get up to pound240 as a thank you (terms apply)
Donrsquot forget the value of investments and any income from them can fall as well as rise so you could get back less than you invest If in any doubt please seek advice
7784_II_QI_MONEY_OBSERVER_210x297_AWindd 1 16012014 1224
Take a closer look
at your investment
options
Discover a straightforward way to understand everything from ISAs to SIPPs and OEICs to Investment Trusts
Investing for generationsEver feel yoursquod like to know more about investing Wersquove been helping people build their wealth for over 125 years Our guide lsquoMaking sense of the investment universersquo is just one of the resources yoursquoll find on our Investment Focus hub
As well as clear simple guides therersquos a wealth of information and expert opinion all designed to help you take control of your investments Please remember that investments can go down as well as up and investors may get back less than they originally invested
Introducing your free online source of information help and expert opinion
investment-focuscouk
This has been approved as a financial promotion by Alliance Trust Investments Limited for the purpose of Section 21 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 Alliance Trust Investments Limited is a subsidiary of Alliance Trust PLC and is registered in Scotland No SC330862 registered office 8 West Marketgait Dundee DD1 1QN is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority firm reference number 479764 Alliance Trust Investments gives no financial or investment advice
TAX YEAR ENDS APRIL 5TH ndash learn more about
your options now
Investment Focus Smart Insight from Alliance Trust
Yoursquove spoken Wersquove listened Introducing your free online source of information help and expert opinion
Based on real insight we have launched a new website which focuses on investment education
We believe that we are uniquely positioned to provide this hub of information based on the reputation we have built for trust and transparency over the last 125 years
We will be publishing new content over the next few months focusing on specific themes
bull Investing from scratch
bull Products in a portfolio
bull Global diversification
bull Planning for your familyrsquos future
bull Retirement planning
bull Getting more information
There is a generation of future investors out there who have been brought up in an era of economic turmoil and banking crises which has led to disillusionment and a lack of trust in our sector and the services we offer Despite it being more important than ever for investors to take control of their financial situation this new generation of savers lacks the basic knowledge and understanding to make these very important long-term decisions
Our goal is to develop a useful resource with contributions from third-parties as well as the team at Alliance Trust which offers insights into the various life stages and challenges faced and which can be built upon and adapted to meet savers needs in the long term
Katherine Garrett-Cox CBE Chief Executive Alliance Trust PLC
ldquo
rdquo
There are too many products to make an informed decision
I donrsquot know whereto go for reliable
information
investment-focuscouk
Yoursquoll naturally take a keen interest in the performance of your investments But itrsquos just as important to understand the fees you will be paying as they can have a significant impact on the returns you achieve Knowing what the different types of costs mean and exactly what they consist of can prove rewarding
Itrsquos worth remembering that for every fee you pay (whether it is a or flat fee) your investment needs to grow by at least the same amount just to stay ahead of the game It sounds obvious but itrsquos easy to forget Broadly speaking there are three types of fees fund fees platform fees and fees for a financial adviser You can either invest directly into a fund and pay the associated fees or you can invest via a platform provider (some of which are referred to as wrap platforms others as fund supermarkets) This is a service that lets you manage and review all your investments online in one place As a general rule fund fees are lower when
bought through a platform than if you buy direct You can invest through a platform on either an execution only basis where the investor assesses the risks and makes their own investment decisions or on an advised basis
Learn more about fund platform and financial advice fees
What can you expect to seeOver the next two pages we have provided a sneak preview of just some of the information you will find on the Investment Focus hub We will be updating the site regularly so make sure you sign up for our email alerts to be informed when new topics are published
Everything you need to know about fees
Risk informationInvestments can go down as well as up You may get back less than you originally invested
Alliance Trust does not give advice You need to ensure you understand the risks and commitments before investing If you are unsure you should consult a Financial Adviser before investing
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
For the vast majority of investors the simplest cheapest and most pragmatic way to invest is through pooled funds
Sometimes called managed funds unit trusts or even Open-Ended Investment Companies (or OEICs) these are designed to give ordinary savers access to a diverse range of investments
One of the principles of investment is that diversification helps reduce risk But it is expensive and time consuming for ordinary savers to buy shares of 80 to 100 different companies and keep track of how each is performing
But with a managed fund you are pooling your money with other investors enabling the fund manager to buy a wide range of assets
Investors have the option of buying an actively managed or passive fund With an active fund the manager selects and then monitors these stocks for investors in a bid to maximise returns
In contrast a passive fund will simply follow a stock market index such as the FTSE100 up and down
Having a manager at the helm can be beneficial in a market downturn as they can take a more defensive approach buying shares that are better able to hold their value or in some cases switching to bonds or cash instead to help preserve investorsrsquo capital Managers can also research individual companies and markets and have access to forecasts and economic data that isnrsquot always available to individuals
Learn more about investing for growth or income exploring different investment remits how to invest and keeping track of your investments
Understanding funds Written by Emma Simon Personal Finance Journalist
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
What are Investment TrustsInvestment Trusts are investment vehicles that are listed on the London Stock Exchange and which invest in shares and other securities They pool together investorsrsquo money and delegate responsibility to a professional fund manager to invest in a range of companies from different sectors and regions across the world They were designed for ldquothe investor of moderate meansrdquo
A brief historybull The first Investment Trust was launched by Foreign amp
Colonial in 1868
bull Investment Trusts made it possible for individual investors to gain diversified exposure to global stock markets
bull Many Investment Trusts were formed in Scotland including Alliance Trust PLC which was formed over 125 years ago
A guide to Investment Trusts
Learn more about Investment Trusts their main features and why you should consider them for your portfolio
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
Alliance Trust is an investment and savings business with over 125 year history of building investor wealth We offer our shareholders clients and customers a unique portfolio of products and services These range from a renowned global investment trust to an innovative range of investment strategies and funds and a multi-award winning investment platform where investors can host their ISAs SIPPs or investment accounts Our mission is to provide products and services that help to ensure a more sustainable financial future for generations of investors
Alliance Trust PLC is one of the largest generalist investment trusts by market value listed on the London Stock Exchange and is the parent company to two wholly-owned subsidiaries Alliance Trust Savings and Alliance Trust Investments
The fact that many of us make irrational decisions when it comes to our finances is widely debated and is often referred to as behavioural finance In this short video we talk to Professor Phyl Johnson Consultant Psychologist and Visiting Professor of Executive Education at Strathclyde Business School about why this is and more importantly about what we can do as individuals to avoid it
About us Alliance Trust Investments is a specialist fund management business offering a range of products and services focusing on global equities fixed income and sustainable investing with an emphasis on specialist investment solutions
Alliance Trust Savings is one of the UKrsquos leading financial services providers for private investors offering customers the information and services they need to manage their investments in a way that works for them
Risk informationInvestments can go down as well as up You may get back less than you originally invested
Alliance Trust does not give advice You need to ensure you understand the risks and commitments before investing If you are unsure you should consult a Financial Adviser before investing
Unusually for a company of our size around 70 of shares
in Alliance Trust are held by private
individuals
Nobodyrsquos perfect why we all make irrational decisions
Inflation by ageThis monthrsquos official inflation report showed that the headline rate of inflation fell from 20 to 19 Our Economic Research Team analyse this data on a monthly basis to see how inflation rates affect different age groups In February 2014 the summary highlights include
bull The over 75s and the under 30s face the highest rate of inflation in January at 21
bull The over 75s suffered the highest rate of inflation for the whole of 2013 and this trend continues into 2014 as they spend a larger share of their budgets on basic goods such as gas and electricity
bull The 65 to 74 year olds have faced the lowest rate of inflation in 11 out of the last 12 months thanks to lower inflation in food petrol and package holidays
Learn more about how inflation might affect you
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
You can also sign up for our regular email alerts to be informed when new topics are published by clicking here
Wersquove been bringing clarity to investment for over 125 years
Investing for generationsWhen it comes to investing therersquos no substitute for experience And at Alliance Trust wersquove been helping people invest since 1888 Our new Investment Focus hub is full of online information and expert opinion It aims to provide real insight to help you take control of your investments
Over the next few weeks the hub will build to cover everything from taking your first steps to diversifying worldwide Please remember that investments can go down as well as up and investors may get back less than they originally invested For valuable insight from Alliance Trust visit Investment Focus today
Introducing your free online source of information help and expert opinion
investment-focuscouk
This has been approved as a financial promotion by Alliance Trust Investments Limited for the purpose of Section 21 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 Alliance Trust Investments Limited is a subsidiary of Alliance Trust PLC and is registered in Scotland No SC330862 registered office 8 West Marketgait Dundee DD1 1QN is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority firm reference number 479764 Alliance Trust Investments gives no financial or investment advice
TAX YEAR ENDS APRIL 5TH ndash learn more about
your options now
Change the way you think about stocks reap the rewardsBy Edward Page Croft CEO Stockopediacom
I remember so clearly the day when I picked my first stock for clients Managing $2 billion (pound12 billion) in assets across 100 portfolios for high-net-wealth private investors is no easy task As I was to learn when you are green
and straight out of university itrsquos even harder The stock in question was on the Goldman
Sachs US lsquobuyrsquo list It had the potential to be hot Dotcoms were bubbling It was an internet stock in education services and cheap It seemed like it had everything but we needed to get in One day it fell out of bed Down 50 per cent on no news
Irsquod been trained to call the analyst in situations like this He reiterated his buy stance Double buy On my insistence we put almost $20 million of client money into the stock within an hour The next day it fell another 50 per cent on
bad newsThere is nothing more
painful than a loss but you never forget the first
one It immedi-ately forced me to reconsider every-thing I thought I
knew From that day on I vowed to never trust anotherrsquos opin-ion and find a better
way through the market minefieldIrsquove now spent 15 years
reassessing common
wisdom about stock selection No stone has gone unturned in the quest to understand the behav-ioural flaws that lead to poor decision making But there is one finding that crops up again and again in all the research that hurts stock market investors most We as investors are suckers for stories
A 1990rsquos study of 60000 private investor broker-age accounts by Kumar and Goetzmann found that 70 per cent of portfolios held less than four stocks
The stocks held all tended to be in the same sector highly correlated and risky Think internet stocks in the 1990s China in the 2000s or resource stocks more recently The grand theme sucks everyone in The outcome rarely dif-fers Kumar and Goetzmann showed that across these
60000 accounts the average underperformance was of the order of 4 per cent annually
This massive failing across private inves-tor portfolios is repeated in nearly every market cycle and is bound to happen again in this one Benjamin Graham the great father of value invest-ing and tutor of Warren Buffett once wrote
lsquoIn the short run the stock market is a vot-ing machine but in the long run it is a weighing machinersquo
ADVERTISING FEATURE
IN THE SHORT RUN THE STOCK MARKET IS A VOTING MACHINE BUT IN THE LONG RUN IT IS A WEIGHING MACHINEBenjamin Graham
What he meant was that while stories may drive stocks in the short run statistics drive stocks in the long run When statistics reassert them-selves it can cause huge damage to investors punting their portfolios on stories
It doesnrsquot take much to learn how basic statis-tics can guide your portfolio into winning stock selections though very few seem to understand how to do it Benjamin Graham as his life wore on gradually came to the conclusion that building portfolios according to rules-based processes was a far more appropriate methodology for the typi-cal investor
lsquoTry to buy groups of stocks that meet some sim-ple criterion for being undervalued ndash regardless of
the industry and with very little attention to the indi-vidual company It seems too good to be true but all I can tell you after 60 years of experience is it seems to stand up under any of the tests I would make uprsquo
My time is now dedi-cated to helping investors practice exactly what Benjamin Graham and many other investment luminaries have preached rules-based investing For the majority itrsquos a better process and leads to bet-ter outcomes Our work at
Stockopediacom where we crunch fundamental and technical data in order to model and track the investment processes of the great investors bears this out
Portfolios composed with stocks showing the right statistical mix of value quality and momen-tum have significantly outperformed Rules-based investing beats the market But more importantly it helps promote the emotional detachment needed to stop investors from beating themselves
Irsquoll never buy a stock on a punt or an analystrsquos tip again Perhaps neither should you
For a two week free trial and pound50 discount to Stockopedia UK Premium CLICK HERE
TANK MCM A N U F A C T U R E M O V E M E N T 1 9 0 4 M C
SINCE THE CREATION OF THE FIRST TANK WATCH IN 1917 THE TANK COLLECTION HAS CONTINUED
TO BREAK NEW GROUND THE INCREDIBLY REFINED AESTHETICS OF THE NEW TANK MC WATCH ARE FITTED
WITH THE CARTIER MANUFACTURE MOVEMENT 1904 MC ESTABLISHED IN 1847 CARTIER CREATES
EXCEPTIONAL WATCHES THAT COMBINE DARING DESIGN AND WATCHMAKING SAVOIR-FAIRE
EXPLORE AND SHOP WWWCARTIERCOUK - (020) 3147 4850
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Inside
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TO THE CONNOISSEUR section of Inspired a showcase for the finer things in life for those who truly appreciate them
Enjoying the fruits of your labour away from the relentless demands of our age poses its own challenges and quandaries Would a tropical idyll restore your ebbing energy levels Might a break based around hair-raising activities revive them even more effectively Perhaps reawakening a dormant passion for fine wines or luxury cars would be the most enjoyable reward for your industry
A luxury tropical holiday is probably near the top of most peoplersquos wish lists We take a look at some of the most tantalising options
The arrival of BMWrsquos new super coupe is featured on page 50 BMW aficionados and petrolheads alike are certain to be won over by its head-turning looks and mouthwatering specs
Gems come under the microscope on page 53 A rare coloured diamond can be a joy as well an appreciating asset
Wine is on the menu on page 54 where we explore the charms of Argentinian Malbec
Watches are often treasured objects and the best can turn out to be shrewd investments We look at the secondary watch market and the growth of online retailing on page 58 Enjoy
Welcome
40 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
FIVE TOP PRIVATE ISLAND RETREATSIslandFantasy
Top-rated resorts and hotels offer a variety of temptations and services to impress even the most discerning tastes but there is no better way to escape the rigours and
stresses of daily life than cutting off from the outside world while still enjoying lavish service
in the pinnacle of all resorts the private islandThere are thousands of small islands around
the world but only a few have chosen to cater to the most discriminating travellers seeking a rarified yet perfect world of quiet and relaxed luxury We look at five of the worldrsquos top private islands destinations where your holiday is certain to be an exceptional experience
TRAVEL
Necker Island is owned by Sir Richard Branson and guests stay in his home The island has become a popular des-tination for some of the worldrsquos most prominent figures as a hideaway from lifersquos stresses and strains
Because Necker Island is a resi-dence and not a resort guests who rent the island are treated as owners and catered for in a unique way
The74-acre island is fringed with beautiful white beaches and surrounded by turquoise waters and coral reefs It boasts every resort-type amenity guests can spend their days being pampered in the spa explor-ing underwater reefs in a submarine lounging by the pool bar or swimming in one of the worldrsquos most elab-orate private pools
Haute cuisine is a highlight for most guests ndash rates are fully inclusive of all food and drink A team of chefs creates bespoke menus featuring anything from lobster and caviar to a Sunday roast And because Necker is a home first and a resort second guests decide whether dining will be formal or informal inside or outside themed or traditional
The bar is stocked with international wines top-quality spirits and beers and a world renowned house champagne while special orders can be shipped in at no extra charge ndash unless an item is particularly rare Every service and amenity is available around the clock and guests are encouraged to treat Necker as their own home
As youLike it
NECKER ISLAND
42 March 2014 | inspired
Unalloyed luxury and an impressive range of amenities make Necker one of the most desirable island destinations in the world
The Jumby Bay resort which is only accessible by boat from Antigua is a Caribbean hideaway owned by Rosewood Resorts It is perfect for those seeking either relaxation or spirited adventure
You can rent the island resort entirely for your stay or simply take a room Those opt-ing for exclusive use of the island will have the resortrsquos two pools three tennis courts fitness centre croquet field and putting green to themselves
A wide range of water sports are available and guests can indulge in as much adventure or relaxation as they want during their stay The resort is ideal for large family
reunions or corporate retreats ndash 40 guest rooms and suites are available on the island
Executive chef Sylvain Hervochon celebrates gastron-omy ndash and mixology (cocktail making) ndash with casual elegance by creating Caribbean-style dishes inspired by fresh local ingredients and incorporating international influences
Jumby Bayrsquos rates start at pound150000 for four nights based on double occupancy between May and December Visit wwwrosewoodhotelscomenjumby-bay-antigua for further information
Fine BalanceCaribbean ambiance international sophistication and adventurous activities make Jumby Bay a compelling choice
JUMBY BAY
Just laze by the pool or venture beyond to dive in the turquoise waters of the South Pacific among stunning reefs and a dazzling array of marine creatures
Isle of PlentyT
he private island of Laucala in the South Pacific is a 3500-acre site in a picturesque rainforest-laced land-scape Enchanting deserted beaches nestle among coconut plantations organic farms and lush green vol-canic mountains
The resort offers an outstanding level of refined lux-ury as well as a compelling collection of sporting and cultural activities diving among iridescent marine life in the warm turquoise waters guided rainforest tours horse riding surfing and golfing on the 18-hole cham-pionship course The island is a superb choice for an escape from civilization whether you want an adven-ture in the wild or simply to relax in one of Laucalarsquos five restaurants and bars
Rates are available on request Visit wwwlaucalacom for further details
TRAVEL
LAUCALA ISLAND
inspired | March 2014 4544 March 2014 | inspired
Lush green surroundings sensitive development and beautiful beaches help Laucala island conjure up a complete South Seas experience
Isle of Plenty
inspired | March 2014 4544 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
inspired | March 2014 4746 March 2014 | inspired
Slow LaneSlow
Pulau Joyo is a seductively serene environment of pristine beaches surrounded by clear blue sea in Indonesiarsquos Riau Archipelago Accessible from Singapore or Bintan Pulau Joyo is a true castaway island offering every resort luxury
amid untouched natural beauty Pulau Joyo is famous for its remarkable sunsets and
brightly star-lit sky The resort can host 28 guests and 20 staff are on hand to cater to their every need Guests stay in open driftwood lsquopalacesrsquo that lsquoallow the sea inrsquoDespite its desert island appeal Pulau Joyo offers every modern convenience a range of adrenaline boosting activities and more relaxing options such as spa treatments and massages
The resortrsquos cuisine focuses on western and Indonesian dishes Meals are usually served buffet style and feature grilled fish squid prawns beef and chicken as well as many curry dishes Side dishes include fresh garden salads pasta salads boiled or steamed leafy greens and grilled aubergine (an island favourite) Prawn and tofu kebabs appear from time to time as does satay The chef will often provide a selection of freshly picked fruit and homemade cakes for dessert Itrsquos worth noting that the management will not serve pork or shellfish on this private island
Pulau Joyo may not be as refined as some islands but itrsquos an excellent choice for those who want a more casual laidback island experience that replicates the castaway experience like perhaps no other
Rates start at pound1913 a night More information is available at wwwpulau-joyocom
Wannabe castaways may find Pulau Joyorsquos purer simpler take on the luxury island experience more to their taste
PULAU JOYO
inspired | March 2014 4746 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
In the Fijian island paradise of Dolphin Island a small army of staff await to meet guestsrsquo every need On arriving ndash by boat helicopter or float plane ndash visitors are invariably struck by the beauty of the island and the luxuri-ous accommodation that awaits them amid 14-acres of lush tropical gardens
Three traditional palm-thatched bures individually designed by world renowned interior designer Virginia Fisher sit in an elevated position around the resortrsquos infinity pool
Guests are brought fresh tropical fish to choose each day that are cooked to perfec-
tion within hours of leaving the water The culinary focus is on
organic produce and ingredi-ents unique to Fijian cuisine but meals are tailored to guestsrsquo personal tastes Papayas man-goes bananas and pineapples
are plentiful throughout the day When it comes to recreation the
14-acre island is an expansive play-ground offering a diverse range of watersports as well as diving opportunities on Fijirsquos coral reefs
Rates start at pound720 a night More information is avail-able at wwwdolphinislandfijicom
Fijian Paean
Traditional features modern comforts and excellent facilities make for a harmonious whole on this Fijian island
DOLPHIN ISLAND
48 March 2014 | inspired
Pictured slightly larger than actual size
Big Pilotrsquos Watch Ref 5009
Your wrist never felt this big before The
case of the top model in the IWC Pilotrsquos
Watch range is a gigantic 462 mm in diashy
meter And the technology inside it is
even more impressive the largest IWCshy
manufactured automatic movement with
its Pellaton winding system is protected
against strong magnetic fields by a softshy
iron inner case And needless to say enshy
vious glances iwc engineered for men
Mechanical IWCshymanufactured movement Pellaton
automatic winding system 7shyday power reserve
with display (figure) Date display Softshyiron inner
case for protection against magnetic fields
Antireflective sapphire glass Watershyresistant 6 bar
Stainless steel
IWC Schaffhausen Switzerland iwccom The worldrsquos finest timepieces are exclusively available from selected watch specialists
For an illustrated catalogue or list of nationwide concessionaires please contact IWC UK Tel 0845 337 1868 Eshymail infoshyukiwccom
CARS
MunichLegend
50 March 2014 | inspired
BMW fanatics can open their eyes ndash the M4 has arrived
Most BMW aficionados are proba-bly pretty sad to see production of the M3 coupe ndash quite possibly the companyrsquos most noteworthy and celebrated model ndash end after almost 30 years Ever since the first wide-body E30 M3 saw the
light of day in 1985 drivers have loved the sporty coupe for its incredible balance intoxicating power and of course solid build quality
The model never got stale in all that time and always remained the poster child for the M division so itrsquos a lit-tle weird that BMW has apparently decided to axe it In truth though they havenrsquot really dropped the M3 The M3 sedan will continue to be produced in 2014 so all
is not lost Moreover BMW seems to be adopting a pat-tern of giving its sedans odd-numbered titles only and its coupes even-numbered titles only so the 4-Series and especially the M4 concept that debuted at Pebble Beach Monterey California will fill the gap left by the M3 Many people have been awaiting the new super coupe with great expectancy but can it fill in for the M3
The journalists who swarmed over the M4 concept at Pebble Beach were obviously much more interested in it than the somewhat predictable 428i that was also there Finished in an eye-catching colour called Aurum Dust (which actually looks a lot like the old M3rsquos Phoenix Yellow colour) the car presented in California may be a concept but typically BMW M cars donrsquot change much before they finally hit the showroom
MunichLegend
inspired | March 2014 51
CARS
52 March 2014 | inspired
From front to back the bodywork is manifestly differ-ent and much more aggressive looking than a standard 4-Series car It really looks to pretty much pick up where the E92E93 M3 coupe left off especially with its undeniably cool domed hood Wide wheel arches big wheels wrapped in low-profile tyres more than enough M badges and a well-executed double-bubble roof make the already underwhelming existing 4-Series coupe look even more pedestrian
Power for the new M4 is likely to come from a three-litre twin-turbo straight-six engine While the horsepower probably wonrsquot differ much from the M3rsquos old 4-litre V-8 it will generate more than 100lbft more in torque almost 400 in total With the M4 being a lighter 3300lb in weight the M4 promises to be an excit-ing worthy car A proper six-speed manual may be in the mix alongside the now obligatory dual clutch and paddles option
The best way to look at the M4 however it ends up is not as a new car but as a new and improved M3 thatrsquos just getting a new name The decision to rename the coupe is a strange one but thankfully BMW apparently felt the 3-Series coupe had made such an identity for itself that a new model was needed albeit in a slightly different incarnation
With BMW embarking on some new-ageish ideas such as its 1-Series ActiveE and the soon-to-arrive lsquoirsquo range of cars itrsquos nice to see the company also stick to classics such as the heart-stopping sports coupe even if the latest model does come with a new name
Seductive curves and racier performance make the BMW M4 a more than acceptable replacement for the M3 super coupe
SparklingForm Coloured diamonds are making their mark
One of the main factors that deter-mines the value of what we ordinarily think of as diamonds is their purity the degree to which col-our is absent in the gem However with coloured diamonds the extent to which they are saturated with
colour is a principal determinant of their valueColoured diamonds come in 12 basic colours more
than 90 secondary hues and nine intensity levels The depth of their colour is what really differentiates these diamonds from their colourless counterparts
Natural coloured diamonds are 10000 times rarer than typical colourless diamonds one of several rea-sons why they are treasured by the rich and famous yet remain unknown to most other people ndash despite hav-ing been around for centuries
Of course some colours are rarer than others Red violet and purple stones are as rare as the proverbial hensrsquo teeth while green and blue are also rare The most popular colours are pink and yellow (or canary) They also come in white grey orange black and lsquochame-leonrsquo form
A pinkie ring encrusted with a large coloured dia-mond has become a status symbol for men in Asia That little stone is an unregistered asset that could quickly be sold for millions of dollars should the need arise
Coloured diamonds are durable and never lose their sparkle or lustre so they are assets that can be enjoyed every day unlike stocks or bonds And they have proved to be fantastic investments having steadily appreciated in price with relatively little volatility for more than a decade They even held their own during the most recent financial crisis
Coloured diamonds are auctioned by reputable
auction houses such a Sothebyrsquos and Christiersquos where prices for large unique pink red blue or yellow stones can reach in excess of $2 million (pound12 million) a carat and other stones regularly sell for $1 million a carat
They are often bought by high-net-worth individu-als as an insurance policy Instead of stashing cash in undeclared bank accounts and potentially incurring the wrath of the authorities the wealthy can purchase some loose yellow diamonds to secure their future
Clearly coloured diamonds are much more than a magnificent indulgence
GEMS
inspired | March 2014 53PB March 2014 | inspired
WINE
Make the most of the deeply
satisfying Malbec wines emerging from Argentina
and perhaps even enjoy a return on a shrewd
investment says Ewan Lacey
Finding a red wine to enjoy in spring is a delicate balancing act The shock of seeing sunlight after a dark winter fosters in us a desire to drink some-thing refreshing while the still-cool temperatures demand something with comforting depth
Increasingly Malbec wines particularly those from Argentina provide a perfect solution to this quandary And while there are plenty of delicious wines for infor-mal occasions what is most interesting is the emergence of finer Malbec wines Some are so good they may well have ageing potential raising the intriguing possibility that the wine may one day become collectable
Malbec is the most popular wine among those aged 25-34 and is now becoming a fixture on most restaurant wine lists There are several reasons for its success the word Malbec is easy to pronounce the wine goes well with red meat the Malbec grape can be turned into wines that are both relatively easy to drink and packed with flavour and decent wines are available at reason-able prices Malbec is deep fruity and charming and it delivers instant pleasure ndash claret on a motorbike
The Malbec grape originated in France and it remains one of the permitted varieties used to make Bordeaux However it has gained prominence through the work of the post-junta Argentine wine industry
I recently had the pleasure of tasting some very fine Malbecs with Laura Catena managing director at the Catena Zapata winery and president of the International Wine and Spirit Competition She opened my
Mendoza Marvels
inspired | March 2014 55
WINE
eyes to the potential of this grape variety when handled with care
Laurarsquos family business makes a range of wines but the wine that truly astonished me was the Nicasia Vineyard Malbec 2006 The wine is perfumed with floral and fruit notes and it is smooth and soft at first Like all great wines it has many layers of flavour warm bursts of cherry and black-currant cede centre stage to deeper darker caramel and mocha notes and a touch of spice Therersquos an amazing depth of flavour and the finish is long and lingering Whatrsquos more at nearly eight years old it still has a slight purple tinge and tastes extremely fresh There is every indication that it will age beautifully for at least another decade
The winersquos character is heavily influenced by the alti-tude the grapes used to make it are grown at (1180m
above sea level) At this elevation the grapes ripen in bright sun but lsquorelaxrsquo during the cool evenings The fact that the wine is made in tiny quantities (eight barrels only) means every care can be taken during the winemak-ing process to ensure the wine is allowed to show its grown-up side The cost per bot-tle of pound70 is not insubstantial but neither is the wine
We cannot know whether these wines will ever become investments in the way the wines of Bordeaux have Whatrsquos cer-tain is that Malbec wines have a very rare quality a balance of finesse and power that
can delight wine lovers and linger in their memories
Ewan Lacey is a leading wine expert and general manager of the International Wine and Spirit Competition He has appeared on BBC television and radio as well as Channel 4 and written for the national press
Laura Catena is managing director at the Catena Zapata winery (above)
THE INTERNATIONAL WINE AND SPIRIT COMPETITIONThe International Wine and Spirit Competition has been the premier drinks competition in the world for 45 years Each year it receives and reviews thousands of wines and spirits and presents qual-ity awards to producers
More than anything the IWSC exists to help
people make better deci-sions particularly when buying wines and spirits An IWSC award on a bot-tle of wine is a guarantee
of quality backed not only by a rigorous and strin-gent judging process but also by the skill of the judges who are drawn from the ranks of masters of wine master distill-ers industry leaders and commentators
Each year the IWSC honours a leading figure
in the drinks industry with the presidency of the competition The current president is Laura Catena who succeeds a nota-ble line of predecessors including Prince Robert of Luxembourg winemakers Piero Antinori and Warren Winiarski and Baroness Philippine de Rothschild
56 March 2014 | inspired
LUXURY WATCHES
Time is preciousA
t a recent watch auc-tion in Geneva at Antiquorum ndash the worldrsquos premiere auc-tion house for modern and vintage time pieces ndash a Patek Philippe
pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon watch emerged as the auctionrsquos top lot and sold for 12 million Swiss francs (pound807000)
Unlike most of the timepieces sold at auctions outside Asia this particular Patek watch ndash the most complicated wristwatch the Swiss watchmaker has ever produced ndash was not a vintage model
That Geneva auction raised intriguing
1284Clocks with weights gears and regulators start to appear mostly with no dial to strike the important moments of daily life
Around 1410The mainspring is devel-oped Combined with the fusee this innovation makes possible the truly portable domestic clock
1492The mechanical watch appears simultaneously in Italy Germany and France
1675Christian Huygens invents the spiral balance spring
for watches significantly improving their accuracy
1704The first watch with jew-els is produced by French watchmaker de Beaufreacute
1714The British parliament offers pound20000 to who-ever can a find a method to determine longitude
1766Parliament publishes the rating results for John Harrisonrsquos H4 marine timekeeper Harrisonrsquos highly accurate marine clock solution to the problem of determining logitude wins him part of the pound20000 prize
1787Pierre-Freacutedeacuteric Ingold is born an important pio-neer in mechanised timepiece production and the use of interchangea-ble parts
1790Jacquet-Droz and Leschot manufactures a watch attached to a strap
1839Vacheron amp Constantin developes a full set of machine tools for manu-facturing its watches
1875Calcium sulphate is the first luminescent sub-stance to be used for numerals and hands
TIMEKEEPING MILESTONES
questions Are modern luxury timepieces every bit as appealing as the vintage watches that typically command top prices at auc-tion And does that Geneva auction tell us anything about the contemporary watch market as a whole
Julien Schaerer Antiquorumrsquos managing director in Geneva says top-quality vintage watches often appreciate in value over the long term But he urges buyers for whom appreciation is an important consideration to be cautious about purchasing contempo-rary watches
lsquoWatch price depreciation is the cost of ownership just as it is with a luxury carrsquo he says lsquoIf the value goes up then
58 March 2014 | inspired
1880The first water- resistant watch incorpo-rating a screwed case is produced by Genevan watchmaker Franccedilois Borgel
1889The first known patent for a wristwatch is filed in Bern Switzerland
1890Dialmaker A Beyeler invents a transfer press for applying numerals and letters to dials
1892Auguste Verneuil in France produces the first synthetic jewels to be used in watchmaking
1904Wens Wilsdorf launches large-scale production of a womenrsquos wristwatch
1924John Harwood files the
first Swiss patent for a self-winding wristwatch with a central oscillating weight
1925The first known wrist-watch with a perpetual calendar is manufactured using a pendant watch movement
1926Rolex creates the Oyster wristwatch with a water-resistant case and crown
1966The first quartz wrist-watch prototype is produced
1969The first quartz watch
with an LED display appears
1978Quartz watches overtake mechanical watches in popularity
2005Creation of the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie Seiko launches the spring drive Kinetic the first self-winding mechanical watch with an electro-magnetic escapement
A Patek Philippe pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon recently sold for pound807000
inspired | March 2014 59
online retailers from the comfort of your homeSince 2006 DM London has quietly estab-
lished a powerful presence for itself in the UK retail watch market with the acquisition of The Watch Hut and The Watch Gallery DM London chairman David Coleridge says the company has capitalised on the increasing willingness of buy-ers to purchase online
lsquoHaving decided that they would like to buy a watch for themselves or someone elsersquo he says lsquopeople start to do their research More often than not this starts online nowadays where they com-pare brands performance and functions
lsquoAs trust in the online marketplace has devel-oped many want to buy online because it is convenient and saves time Shopping online becomes a habit established sites build trust and awareness with customers which gives custom-ers the confidence to buy more expensive itemsrsquo
He adds lsquoOur challenge is to make the online environment as attractive informative and enjoy-able as a high street store Then customers will decide to spend onlinersquo
Coleridge believes a multi-channel approach is the way forward for retailers He says lsquoWithout doubt the future is multi-channel selling ndash a combination of direct selling on the internet and various forms of click and collect ndash combined with beautiful stores on the high street
Over the past few years demand for luxury watches (particularly contemporary models) has spiked sharply in Asia and according to some specialists emerging affluence in the
of course thatrsquos an added benefit However he adds lsquoPrice appreciation is still quite rare with modern watches There is some poten-tial for appreciation but probably only with ultra-limited editions A purchase has to be
seen as a medium- to long-term invest-ment One should buy a timepiece first out of love for the brand or [the watchrsquos] complicationrsquo
The watch brands that offer the greatest assurance of appreci-
ation include Cartier Patek Philippe Rolex Audemars
Piguet A Lange amp Sohne Breguet and Vacheron Constantin All enjoy views from the top of
the watchmaking hierarchy thanks to their longstand-ing histories and well-established brand identities
Relative new-comers to the industry such as Richard Mille and Roger Dubuis have carved out a niche for
themselves with their revolutionary designs and
space-age technologies but it remains to be seen just how well the values of their timepieces will stand up on the secondary market
According to Nathaniel Borgelt a specialist at auction house Sothebyrsquos
some modern watches have already achieved good prices at auction but these (like the Patek Philippe Sky Moon Tourbillon) were highly exclusive models when new
lsquoSome limited edition pieces currently fetch incredible prices at auctionrsquo he says lsquoAnd there is a select group of modern mod-els that could compete with a certain sector of the vintage market based on their brand innovative features such as materials or com-plications and avant-garde designs
Buying these has now become a whole lot easier The luxury watch retailing land-scape is changing and the traditional pattern of physically walking into a luxury salon to buy a watch is gradually being replaced by a trend towards visiting the websites of the big
LUXURY WATCHES
A Lange amp Sohne (above) is a long-standing high-end watchmaker Comparative new-comer Roger Dubuis (right) is forging a strong reputation
inspired | March 2014 PB60 March 2014 | inspired
helpthewatchgallerycom
Hublot ClassiC FusiontHe WatCH Gallery exClusive
The Watch Gallery and Hublot have joined forces to create two very special limited edition watches Both are limited to just 15 pieces worldwide and have been specifically designed to feature The Watch Gallery blue brand colour on the hands and tinted open case back
SelfridgeS OxfOrd StreetWeStfield lOndOnMancheSter exchange Square
wwwthewatchgallerycomhublot-watches
Far East has kept global values strong while other markets around the world continue to recover from recession
Despite the market boost from growing prosperity in Asia there are signs that the market is becoming saturated and that globally the new watch market isnrsquot as robust as some commentators suggest
It may still be a good time to buy but its important to know what you want and what yoursquore buying Modern watchmakers such as Richard Mille Roger Dubuis and Greubel Forsey are producing beautiful timepieces but because of their limited foothold in the market itrsquos difficult to predict their long-term success and desirability They donrsquot yet have the brand power that might ensure the value of their
watches in the secondhand market remains highSuch producers might one day stand eye to
eye with the most desirable brands such as Patek Philippe and Rolex but achieving that kind of parity wonrsquot be easy Collectors looking to invest in timepieces are advised to keep an open mind about modern producers uncertainty is the one aspect of modern luxury watch market most experts tend to agree on
That said the buoyancy in the watch market suggests that plenty of buyers are unconcerned about future values For them itrsquos all about the appreciation of the watch itself People buy watches because they bring them pleasure ndash and say some-thing about who they are
LUXURY WATCHES
Contemporary watches such as those made by Hublot (left) have yet to show they will have the lasting appeal of watches such as Cartierrsquos Rotonde de Cartier Astrocalendaire (right)
inspired | March 2014 63
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-
had spare cash or I were start-ing afresh The companies in the add category are high qual-ity judging by the strategies they follow and their finan-cial strength and are probably undervalued
Irsquom more likely to eject or reduce holdings in companies in the watch and specula-tive categories These shares are more risky either because they have risen greatly in price or because their prospects are more uncertain than usual I may think the risk is worth tak-ing but I am prepared to act should that calculation change
Every decision to increase a portfolio holding must be weighed against the potential of new candidates drawn from all companies listed in the UK and corralled into another live spreadsheet the Share Sleuth watchlist When I add a share to the watchlist or trade a share in the portfolio I explain this in the Share Sleuth blog
ccumulating income and capital gains in an index tracking fund is inexpensive takes little effort and all but guarantees an
average return so it should be the default investment for a lazy equity investor saving for the long term
To justify the work of decid-ing which shares to buy and sell and the effort and cost of placing trades an active investor must do better Consequently the first objective of the active Share Sleuth portfolio is to beat passive investments after costs over the long-term which in practice means any five-year period The second objective is to win this tussle against an unknowing and unthinking opponent transparently
At the heart of the portfolio is an online spreadsheet The first page shows the constitu-ent shares arranged into three categories lsquoaddrsquo lsquowatchrsquo and lsquospeculativersquo The categorisa-tion is updated daily based on live data in subsequent spread-sheets each of which contains a financial model for a particular company
The Share Sleuth portfo-lio shows the holdings I would add to the portfolio today if it
Share Sleuth is a simulation no money changes hands But I use prices quoted by a bro-ker and adjust the accounting to factor in notional broker fees and stamp duty However I lsquoeat my own cookingrsquo by investing my self-invested personal pen-sion in Share Sleuth companies
No doubt you are wonder-ing how the portfolio is doing Share Sleuthrsquos five-year anni-versary judgement day is on 9 September this year and I will not prejudge it now
Short-term performance watching and the knee-jerk trad-ing it encourages is I think one reason why many inves-tors fail My focus is on ensuring the portfolio remains invested in good companies at reasona-ble prices
You can see a live perfor-mance table and learn what I think of every share in the port-folio and which companies I might add to it at wwwiiicoukZkr
SHAREBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIORBE SURE TO SPOT
THE SUPERIOR
The Share Sleuth portfolio has been carefully devised to show investors how to find good companies at cheap prices and also prove the value of its investment approach says Richard Beddard
Richard Beddard an editor at Interactive Investor since 1999 has managed the Share Sleuth portfolio since 9 September 2009 Hersquos a columnist at Money Observer magazine and a private investor
AMY FOCUS IS ON ENSURING THAT THE PORTFOLIO IS INVESTED IN GOOD FIRMS AT DECENT PRICES
inspired | March 2014 29PB March 2014 | inspired
SHARESLEUTH
iiicoukstraightforward
Interactive Investor Trading Limited trading as ldquoInteractive Investorrdquo is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority Registered Office Standon House 21 Mansell Street London E1 8AA Tel 0845 200 3637 Registered in England with Company Registration number 3699618
We believe in being straightforwardthis is why we donrsquot nibble at your investment by charging percentage fees Find out how this could affect your investment performance at iiicoukstraightforward
If you transfer to us you can even get up to pound240 as a thank you (terms apply)
Donrsquot forget the value of investments and any income from them can fall as well as rise so you could get back less than you invest If in any doubt please seek advice
7784_II_QI_MONEY_OBSERVER_210x297_AWindd 1 16012014 1224
Take a closer look
at your investment
options
Discover a straightforward way to understand everything from ISAs to SIPPs and OEICs to Investment Trusts
Investing for generationsEver feel yoursquod like to know more about investing Wersquove been helping people build their wealth for over 125 years Our guide lsquoMaking sense of the investment universersquo is just one of the resources yoursquoll find on our Investment Focus hub
As well as clear simple guides therersquos a wealth of information and expert opinion all designed to help you take control of your investments Please remember that investments can go down as well as up and investors may get back less than they originally invested
Introducing your free online source of information help and expert opinion
investment-focuscouk
This has been approved as a financial promotion by Alliance Trust Investments Limited for the purpose of Section 21 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 Alliance Trust Investments Limited is a subsidiary of Alliance Trust PLC and is registered in Scotland No SC330862 registered office 8 West Marketgait Dundee DD1 1QN is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority firm reference number 479764 Alliance Trust Investments gives no financial or investment advice
TAX YEAR ENDS APRIL 5TH ndash learn more about
your options now
Investment Focus Smart Insight from Alliance Trust
Yoursquove spoken Wersquove listened Introducing your free online source of information help and expert opinion
Based on real insight we have launched a new website which focuses on investment education
We believe that we are uniquely positioned to provide this hub of information based on the reputation we have built for trust and transparency over the last 125 years
We will be publishing new content over the next few months focusing on specific themes
bull Investing from scratch
bull Products in a portfolio
bull Global diversification
bull Planning for your familyrsquos future
bull Retirement planning
bull Getting more information
There is a generation of future investors out there who have been brought up in an era of economic turmoil and banking crises which has led to disillusionment and a lack of trust in our sector and the services we offer Despite it being more important than ever for investors to take control of their financial situation this new generation of savers lacks the basic knowledge and understanding to make these very important long-term decisions
Our goal is to develop a useful resource with contributions from third-parties as well as the team at Alliance Trust which offers insights into the various life stages and challenges faced and which can be built upon and adapted to meet savers needs in the long term
Katherine Garrett-Cox CBE Chief Executive Alliance Trust PLC
ldquo
rdquo
There are too many products to make an informed decision
I donrsquot know whereto go for reliable
information
investment-focuscouk
Yoursquoll naturally take a keen interest in the performance of your investments But itrsquos just as important to understand the fees you will be paying as they can have a significant impact on the returns you achieve Knowing what the different types of costs mean and exactly what they consist of can prove rewarding
Itrsquos worth remembering that for every fee you pay (whether it is a or flat fee) your investment needs to grow by at least the same amount just to stay ahead of the game It sounds obvious but itrsquos easy to forget Broadly speaking there are three types of fees fund fees platform fees and fees for a financial adviser You can either invest directly into a fund and pay the associated fees or you can invest via a platform provider (some of which are referred to as wrap platforms others as fund supermarkets) This is a service that lets you manage and review all your investments online in one place As a general rule fund fees are lower when
bought through a platform than if you buy direct You can invest through a platform on either an execution only basis where the investor assesses the risks and makes their own investment decisions or on an advised basis
Learn more about fund platform and financial advice fees
What can you expect to seeOver the next two pages we have provided a sneak preview of just some of the information you will find on the Investment Focus hub We will be updating the site regularly so make sure you sign up for our email alerts to be informed when new topics are published
Everything you need to know about fees
Risk informationInvestments can go down as well as up You may get back less than you originally invested
Alliance Trust does not give advice You need to ensure you understand the risks and commitments before investing If you are unsure you should consult a Financial Adviser before investing
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
For the vast majority of investors the simplest cheapest and most pragmatic way to invest is through pooled funds
Sometimes called managed funds unit trusts or even Open-Ended Investment Companies (or OEICs) these are designed to give ordinary savers access to a diverse range of investments
One of the principles of investment is that diversification helps reduce risk But it is expensive and time consuming for ordinary savers to buy shares of 80 to 100 different companies and keep track of how each is performing
But with a managed fund you are pooling your money with other investors enabling the fund manager to buy a wide range of assets
Investors have the option of buying an actively managed or passive fund With an active fund the manager selects and then monitors these stocks for investors in a bid to maximise returns
In contrast a passive fund will simply follow a stock market index such as the FTSE100 up and down
Having a manager at the helm can be beneficial in a market downturn as they can take a more defensive approach buying shares that are better able to hold their value or in some cases switching to bonds or cash instead to help preserve investorsrsquo capital Managers can also research individual companies and markets and have access to forecasts and economic data that isnrsquot always available to individuals
Learn more about investing for growth or income exploring different investment remits how to invest and keeping track of your investments
Understanding funds Written by Emma Simon Personal Finance Journalist
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
What are Investment TrustsInvestment Trusts are investment vehicles that are listed on the London Stock Exchange and which invest in shares and other securities They pool together investorsrsquo money and delegate responsibility to a professional fund manager to invest in a range of companies from different sectors and regions across the world They were designed for ldquothe investor of moderate meansrdquo
A brief historybull The first Investment Trust was launched by Foreign amp
Colonial in 1868
bull Investment Trusts made it possible for individual investors to gain diversified exposure to global stock markets
bull Many Investment Trusts were formed in Scotland including Alliance Trust PLC which was formed over 125 years ago
A guide to Investment Trusts
Learn more about Investment Trusts their main features and why you should consider them for your portfolio
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
Alliance Trust is an investment and savings business with over 125 year history of building investor wealth We offer our shareholders clients and customers a unique portfolio of products and services These range from a renowned global investment trust to an innovative range of investment strategies and funds and a multi-award winning investment platform where investors can host their ISAs SIPPs or investment accounts Our mission is to provide products and services that help to ensure a more sustainable financial future for generations of investors
Alliance Trust PLC is one of the largest generalist investment trusts by market value listed on the London Stock Exchange and is the parent company to two wholly-owned subsidiaries Alliance Trust Savings and Alliance Trust Investments
The fact that many of us make irrational decisions when it comes to our finances is widely debated and is often referred to as behavioural finance In this short video we talk to Professor Phyl Johnson Consultant Psychologist and Visiting Professor of Executive Education at Strathclyde Business School about why this is and more importantly about what we can do as individuals to avoid it
About us Alliance Trust Investments is a specialist fund management business offering a range of products and services focusing on global equities fixed income and sustainable investing with an emphasis on specialist investment solutions
Alliance Trust Savings is one of the UKrsquos leading financial services providers for private investors offering customers the information and services they need to manage their investments in a way that works for them
Risk informationInvestments can go down as well as up You may get back less than you originally invested
Alliance Trust does not give advice You need to ensure you understand the risks and commitments before investing If you are unsure you should consult a Financial Adviser before investing
Unusually for a company of our size around 70 of shares
in Alliance Trust are held by private
individuals
Nobodyrsquos perfect why we all make irrational decisions
Inflation by ageThis monthrsquos official inflation report showed that the headline rate of inflation fell from 20 to 19 Our Economic Research Team analyse this data on a monthly basis to see how inflation rates affect different age groups In February 2014 the summary highlights include
bull The over 75s and the under 30s face the highest rate of inflation in January at 21
bull The over 75s suffered the highest rate of inflation for the whole of 2013 and this trend continues into 2014 as they spend a larger share of their budgets on basic goods such as gas and electricity
bull The 65 to 74 year olds have faced the lowest rate of inflation in 11 out of the last 12 months thanks to lower inflation in food petrol and package holidays
Learn more about how inflation might affect you
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
You can also sign up for our regular email alerts to be informed when new topics are published by clicking here
Wersquove been bringing clarity to investment for over 125 years
Investing for generationsWhen it comes to investing therersquos no substitute for experience And at Alliance Trust wersquove been helping people invest since 1888 Our new Investment Focus hub is full of online information and expert opinion It aims to provide real insight to help you take control of your investments
Over the next few weeks the hub will build to cover everything from taking your first steps to diversifying worldwide Please remember that investments can go down as well as up and investors may get back less than they originally invested For valuable insight from Alliance Trust visit Investment Focus today
Introducing your free online source of information help and expert opinion
investment-focuscouk
This has been approved as a financial promotion by Alliance Trust Investments Limited for the purpose of Section 21 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 Alliance Trust Investments Limited is a subsidiary of Alliance Trust PLC and is registered in Scotland No SC330862 registered office 8 West Marketgait Dundee DD1 1QN is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority firm reference number 479764 Alliance Trust Investments gives no financial or investment advice
TAX YEAR ENDS APRIL 5TH ndash learn more about
your options now
Change the way you think about stocks reap the rewardsBy Edward Page Croft CEO Stockopediacom
I remember so clearly the day when I picked my first stock for clients Managing $2 billion (pound12 billion) in assets across 100 portfolios for high-net-wealth private investors is no easy task As I was to learn when you are green
and straight out of university itrsquos even harder The stock in question was on the Goldman
Sachs US lsquobuyrsquo list It had the potential to be hot Dotcoms were bubbling It was an internet stock in education services and cheap It seemed like it had everything but we needed to get in One day it fell out of bed Down 50 per cent on no news
Irsquod been trained to call the analyst in situations like this He reiterated his buy stance Double buy On my insistence we put almost $20 million of client money into the stock within an hour The next day it fell another 50 per cent on
bad newsThere is nothing more
painful than a loss but you never forget the first
one It immedi-ately forced me to reconsider every-thing I thought I
knew From that day on I vowed to never trust anotherrsquos opin-ion and find a better
way through the market minefieldIrsquove now spent 15 years
reassessing common
wisdom about stock selection No stone has gone unturned in the quest to understand the behav-ioural flaws that lead to poor decision making But there is one finding that crops up again and again in all the research that hurts stock market investors most We as investors are suckers for stories
A 1990rsquos study of 60000 private investor broker-age accounts by Kumar and Goetzmann found that 70 per cent of portfolios held less than four stocks
The stocks held all tended to be in the same sector highly correlated and risky Think internet stocks in the 1990s China in the 2000s or resource stocks more recently The grand theme sucks everyone in The outcome rarely dif-fers Kumar and Goetzmann showed that across these
60000 accounts the average underperformance was of the order of 4 per cent annually
This massive failing across private inves-tor portfolios is repeated in nearly every market cycle and is bound to happen again in this one Benjamin Graham the great father of value invest-ing and tutor of Warren Buffett once wrote
lsquoIn the short run the stock market is a vot-ing machine but in the long run it is a weighing machinersquo
ADVERTISING FEATURE
IN THE SHORT RUN THE STOCK MARKET IS A VOTING MACHINE BUT IN THE LONG RUN IT IS A WEIGHING MACHINEBenjamin Graham
What he meant was that while stories may drive stocks in the short run statistics drive stocks in the long run When statistics reassert them-selves it can cause huge damage to investors punting their portfolios on stories
It doesnrsquot take much to learn how basic statis-tics can guide your portfolio into winning stock selections though very few seem to understand how to do it Benjamin Graham as his life wore on gradually came to the conclusion that building portfolios according to rules-based processes was a far more appropriate methodology for the typi-cal investor
lsquoTry to buy groups of stocks that meet some sim-ple criterion for being undervalued ndash regardless of
the industry and with very little attention to the indi-vidual company It seems too good to be true but all I can tell you after 60 years of experience is it seems to stand up under any of the tests I would make uprsquo
My time is now dedi-cated to helping investors practice exactly what Benjamin Graham and many other investment luminaries have preached rules-based investing For the majority itrsquos a better process and leads to bet-ter outcomes Our work at
Stockopediacom where we crunch fundamental and technical data in order to model and track the investment processes of the great investors bears this out
Portfolios composed with stocks showing the right statistical mix of value quality and momen-tum have significantly outperformed Rules-based investing beats the market But more importantly it helps promote the emotional detachment needed to stop investors from beating themselves
Irsquoll never buy a stock on a punt or an analystrsquos tip again Perhaps neither should you
For a two week free trial and pound50 discount to Stockopedia UK Premium CLICK HERE
TANK MCM A N U F A C T U R E M O V E M E N T 1 9 0 4 M C
SINCE THE CREATION OF THE FIRST TANK WATCH IN 1917 THE TANK COLLECTION HAS CONTINUED
TO BREAK NEW GROUND THE INCREDIBLY REFINED AESTHETICS OF THE NEW TANK MC WATCH ARE FITTED
WITH THE CARTIER MANUFACTURE MOVEMENT 1904 MC ESTABLISHED IN 1847 CARTIER CREATES
EXCEPTIONAL WATCHES THAT COMBINE DARING DESIGN AND WATCHMAKING SAVOIR-FAIRE
EXPLORE AND SHOP WWWCARTIERCOUK - (020) 3147 4850
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oisseur
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Inside
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TO THE CONNOISSEUR section of Inspired a showcase for the finer things in life for those who truly appreciate them
Enjoying the fruits of your labour away from the relentless demands of our age poses its own challenges and quandaries Would a tropical idyll restore your ebbing energy levels Might a break based around hair-raising activities revive them even more effectively Perhaps reawakening a dormant passion for fine wines or luxury cars would be the most enjoyable reward for your industry
A luxury tropical holiday is probably near the top of most peoplersquos wish lists We take a look at some of the most tantalising options
The arrival of BMWrsquos new super coupe is featured on page 50 BMW aficionados and petrolheads alike are certain to be won over by its head-turning looks and mouthwatering specs
Gems come under the microscope on page 53 A rare coloured diamond can be a joy as well an appreciating asset
Wine is on the menu on page 54 where we explore the charms of Argentinian Malbec
Watches are often treasured objects and the best can turn out to be shrewd investments We look at the secondary watch market and the growth of online retailing on page 58 Enjoy
Welcome
40 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
FIVE TOP PRIVATE ISLAND RETREATSIslandFantasy
Top-rated resorts and hotels offer a variety of temptations and services to impress even the most discerning tastes but there is no better way to escape the rigours and
stresses of daily life than cutting off from the outside world while still enjoying lavish service
in the pinnacle of all resorts the private islandThere are thousands of small islands around
the world but only a few have chosen to cater to the most discriminating travellers seeking a rarified yet perfect world of quiet and relaxed luxury We look at five of the worldrsquos top private islands destinations where your holiday is certain to be an exceptional experience
TRAVEL
Necker Island is owned by Sir Richard Branson and guests stay in his home The island has become a popular des-tination for some of the worldrsquos most prominent figures as a hideaway from lifersquos stresses and strains
Because Necker Island is a resi-dence and not a resort guests who rent the island are treated as owners and catered for in a unique way
The74-acre island is fringed with beautiful white beaches and surrounded by turquoise waters and coral reefs It boasts every resort-type amenity guests can spend their days being pampered in the spa explor-ing underwater reefs in a submarine lounging by the pool bar or swimming in one of the worldrsquos most elab-orate private pools
Haute cuisine is a highlight for most guests ndash rates are fully inclusive of all food and drink A team of chefs creates bespoke menus featuring anything from lobster and caviar to a Sunday roast And because Necker is a home first and a resort second guests decide whether dining will be formal or informal inside or outside themed or traditional
The bar is stocked with international wines top-quality spirits and beers and a world renowned house champagne while special orders can be shipped in at no extra charge ndash unless an item is particularly rare Every service and amenity is available around the clock and guests are encouraged to treat Necker as their own home
As youLike it
NECKER ISLAND
42 March 2014 | inspired
Unalloyed luxury and an impressive range of amenities make Necker one of the most desirable island destinations in the world
The Jumby Bay resort which is only accessible by boat from Antigua is a Caribbean hideaway owned by Rosewood Resorts It is perfect for those seeking either relaxation or spirited adventure
You can rent the island resort entirely for your stay or simply take a room Those opt-ing for exclusive use of the island will have the resortrsquos two pools three tennis courts fitness centre croquet field and putting green to themselves
A wide range of water sports are available and guests can indulge in as much adventure or relaxation as they want during their stay The resort is ideal for large family
reunions or corporate retreats ndash 40 guest rooms and suites are available on the island
Executive chef Sylvain Hervochon celebrates gastron-omy ndash and mixology (cocktail making) ndash with casual elegance by creating Caribbean-style dishes inspired by fresh local ingredients and incorporating international influences
Jumby Bayrsquos rates start at pound150000 for four nights based on double occupancy between May and December Visit wwwrosewoodhotelscomenjumby-bay-antigua for further information
Fine BalanceCaribbean ambiance international sophistication and adventurous activities make Jumby Bay a compelling choice
JUMBY BAY
Just laze by the pool or venture beyond to dive in the turquoise waters of the South Pacific among stunning reefs and a dazzling array of marine creatures
Isle of PlentyT
he private island of Laucala in the South Pacific is a 3500-acre site in a picturesque rainforest-laced land-scape Enchanting deserted beaches nestle among coconut plantations organic farms and lush green vol-canic mountains
The resort offers an outstanding level of refined lux-ury as well as a compelling collection of sporting and cultural activities diving among iridescent marine life in the warm turquoise waters guided rainforest tours horse riding surfing and golfing on the 18-hole cham-pionship course The island is a superb choice for an escape from civilization whether you want an adven-ture in the wild or simply to relax in one of Laucalarsquos five restaurants and bars
Rates are available on request Visit wwwlaucalacom for further details
TRAVEL
LAUCALA ISLAND
inspired | March 2014 4544 March 2014 | inspired
Lush green surroundings sensitive development and beautiful beaches help Laucala island conjure up a complete South Seas experience
Isle of Plenty
inspired | March 2014 4544 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
inspired | March 2014 4746 March 2014 | inspired
Slow LaneSlow
Pulau Joyo is a seductively serene environment of pristine beaches surrounded by clear blue sea in Indonesiarsquos Riau Archipelago Accessible from Singapore or Bintan Pulau Joyo is a true castaway island offering every resort luxury
amid untouched natural beauty Pulau Joyo is famous for its remarkable sunsets and
brightly star-lit sky The resort can host 28 guests and 20 staff are on hand to cater to their every need Guests stay in open driftwood lsquopalacesrsquo that lsquoallow the sea inrsquoDespite its desert island appeal Pulau Joyo offers every modern convenience a range of adrenaline boosting activities and more relaxing options such as spa treatments and massages
The resortrsquos cuisine focuses on western and Indonesian dishes Meals are usually served buffet style and feature grilled fish squid prawns beef and chicken as well as many curry dishes Side dishes include fresh garden salads pasta salads boiled or steamed leafy greens and grilled aubergine (an island favourite) Prawn and tofu kebabs appear from time to time as does satay The chef will often provide a selection of freshly picked fruit and homemade cakes for dessert Itrsquos worth noting that the management will not serve pork or shellfish on this private island
Pulau Joyo may not be as refined as some islands but itrsquos an excellent choice for those who want a more casual laidback island experience that replicates the castaway experience like perhaps no other
Rates start at pound1913 a night More information is available at wwwpulau-joyocom
Wannabe castaways may find Pulau Joyorsquos purer simpler take on the luxury island experience more to their taste
PULAU JOYO
inspired | March 2014 4746 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
In the Fijian island paradise of Dolphin Island a small army of staff await to meet guestsrsquo every need On arriving ndash by boat helicopter or float plane ndash visitors are invariably struck by the beauty of the island and the luxuri-ous accommodation that awaits them amid 14-acres of lush tropical gardens
Three traditional palm-thatched bures individually designed by world renowned interior designer Virginia Fisher sit in an elevated position around the resortrsquos infinity pool
Guests are brought fresh tropical fish to choose each day that are cooked to perfec-
tion within hours of leaving the water The culinary focus is on
organic produce and ingredi-ents unique to Fijian cuisine but meals are tailored to guestsrsquo personal tastes Papayas man-goes bananas and pineapples
are plentiful throughout the day When it comes to recreation the
14-acre island is an expansive play-ground offering a diverse range of watersports as well as diving opportunities on Fijirsquos coral reefs
Rates start at pound720 a night More information is avail-able at wwwdolphinislandfijicom
Fijian Paean
Traditional features modern comforts and excellent facilities make for a harmonious whole on this Fijian island
DOLPHIN ISLAND
48 March 2014 | inspired
Pictured slightly larger than actual size
Big Pilotrsquos Watch Ref 5009
Your wrist never felt this big before The
case of the top model in the IWC Pilotrsquos
Watch range is a gigantic 462 mm in diashy
meter And the technology inside it is
even more impressive the largest IWCshy
manufactured automatic movement with
its Pellaton winding system is protected
against strong magnetic fields by a softshy
iron inner case And needless to say enshy
vious glances iwc engineered for men
Mechanical IWCshymanufactured movement Pellaton
automatic winding system 7shyday power reserve
with display (figure) Date display Softshyiron inner
case for protection against magnetic fields
Antireflective sapphire glass Watershyresistant 6 bar
Stainless steel
IWC Schaffhausen Switzerland iwccom The worldrsquos finest timepieces are exclusively available from selected watch specialists
For an illustrated catalogue or list of nationwide concessionaires please contact IWC UK Tel 0845 337 1868 Eshymail infoshyukiwccom
CARS
MunichLegend
50 March 2014 | inspired
BMW fanatics can open their eyes ndash the M4 has arrived
Most BMW aficionados are proba-bly pretty sad to see production of the M3 coupe ndash quite possibly the companyrsquos most noteworthy and celebrated model ndash end after almost 30 years Ever since the first wide-body E30 M3 saw the
light of day in 1985 drivers have loved the sporty coupe for its incredible balance intoxicating power and of course solid build quality
The model never got stale in all that time and always remained the poster child for the M division so itrsquos a lit-tle weird that BMW has apparently decided to axe it In truth though they havenrsquot really dropped the M3 The M3 sedan will continue to be produced in 2014 so all
is not lost Moreover BMW seems to be adopting a pat-tern of giving its sedans odd-numbered titles only and its coupes even-numbered titles only so the 4-Series and especially the M4 concept that debuted at Pebble Beach Monterey California will fill the gap left by the M3 Many people have been awaiting the new super coupe with great expectancy but can it fill in for the M3
The journalists who swarmed over the M4 concept at Pebble Beach were obviously much more interested in it than the somewhat predictable 428i that was also there Finished in an eye-catching colour called Aurum Dust (which actually looks a lot like the old M3rsquos Phoenix Yellow colour) the car presented in California may be a concept but typically BMW M cars donrsquot change much before they finally hit the showroom
MunichLegend
inspired | March 2014 51
CARS
52 March 2014 | inspired
From front to back the bodywork is manifestly differ-ent and much more aggressive looking than a standard 4-Series car It really looks to pretty much pick up where the E92E93 M3 coupe left off especially with its undeniably cool domed hood Wide wheel arches big wheels wrapped in low-profile tyres more than enough M badges and a well-executed double-bubble roof make the already underwhelming existing 4-Series coupe look even more pedestrian
Power for the new M4 is likely to come from a three-litre twin-turbo straight-six engine While the horsepower probably wonrsquot differ much from the M3rsquos old 4-litre V-8 it will generate more than 100lbft more in torque almost 400 in total With the M4 being a lighter 3300lb in weight the M4 promises to be an excit-ing worthy car A proper six-speed manual may be in the mix alongside the now obligatory dual clutch and paddles option
The best way to look at the M4 however it ends up is not as a new car but as a new and improved M3 thatrsquos just getting a new name The decision to rename the coupe is a strange one but thankfully BMW apparently felt the 3-Series coupe had made such an identity for itself that a new model was needed albeit in a slightly different incarnation
With BMW embarking on some new-ageish ideas such as its 1-Series ActiveE and the soon-to-arrive lsquoirsquo range of cars itrsquos nice to see the company also stick to classics such as the heart-stopping sports coupe even if the latest model does come with a new name
Seductive curves and racier performance make the BMW M4 a more than acceptable replacement for the M3 super coupe
SparklingForm Coloured diamonds are making their mark
One of the main factors that deter-mines the value of what we ordinarily think of as diamonds is their purity the degree to which col-our is absent in the gem However with coloured diamonds the extent to which they are saturated with
colour is a principal determinant of their valueColoured diamonds come in 12 basic colours more
than 90 secondary hues and nine intensity levels The depth of their colour is what really differentiates these diamonds from their colourless counterparts
Natural coloured diamonds are 10000 times rarer than typical colourless diamonds one of several rea-sons why they are treasured by the rich and famous yet remain unknown to most other people ndash despite hav-ing been around for centuries
Of course some colours are rarer than others Red violet and purple stones are as rare as the proverbial hensrsquo teeth while green and blue are also rare The most popular colours are pink and yellow (or canary) They also come in white grey orange black and lsquochame-leonrsquo form
A pinkie ring encrusted with a large coloured dia-mond has become a status symbol for men in Asia That little stone is an unregistered asset that could quickly be sold for millions of dollars should the need arise
Coloured diamonds are durable and never lose their sparkle or lustre so they are assets that can be enjoyed every day unlike stocks or bonds And they have proved to be fantastic investments having steadily appreciated in price with relatively little volatility for more than a decade They even held their own during the most recent financial crisis
Coloured diamonds are auctioned by reputable
auction houses such a Sothebyrsquos and Christiersquos where prices for large unique pink red blue or yellow stones can reach in excess of $2 million (pound12 million) a carat and other stones regularly sell for $1 million a carat
They are often bought by high-net-worth individu-als as an insurance policy Instead of stashing cash in undeclared bank accounts and potentially incurring the wrath of the authorities the wealthy can purchase some loose yellow diamonds to secure their future
Clearly coloured diamonds are much more than a magnificent indulgence
GEMS
inspired | March 2014 53PB March 2014 | inspired
WINE
Make the most of the deeply
satisfying Malbec wines emerging from Argentina
and perhaps even enjoy a return on a shrewd
investment says Ewan Lacey
Finding a red wine to enjoy in spring is a delicate balancing act The shock of seeing sunlight after a dark winter fosters in us a desire to drink some-thing refreshing while the still-cool temperatures demand something with comforting depth
Increasingly Malbec wines particularly those from Argentina provide a perfect solution to this quandary And while there are plenty of delicious wines for infor-mal occasions what is most interesting is the emergence of finer Malbec wines Some are so good they may well have ageing potential raising the intriguing possibility that the wine may one day become collectable
Malbec is the most popular wine among those aged 25-34 and is now becoming a fixture on most restaurant wine lists There are several reasons for its success the word Malbec is easy to pronounce the wine goes well with red meat the Malbec grape can be turned into wines that are both relatively easy to drink and packed with flavour and decent wines are available at reason-able prices Malbec is deep fruity and charming and it delivers instant pleasure ndash claret on a motorbike
The Malbec grape originated in France and it remains one of the permitted varieties used to make Bordeaux However it has gained prominence through the work of the post-junta Argentine wine industry
I recently had the pleasure of tasting some very fine Malbecs with Laura Catena managing director at the Catena Zapata winery and president of the International Wine and Spirit Competition She opened my
Mendoza Marvels
inspired | March 2014 55
WINE
eyes to the potential of this grape variety when handled with care
Laurarsquos family business makes a range of wines but the wine that truly astonished me was the Nicasia Vineyard Malbec 2006 The wine is perfumed with floral and fruit notes and it is smooth and soft at first Like all great wines it has many layers of flavour warm bursts of cherry and black-currant cede centre stage to deeper darker caramel and mocha notes and a touch of spice Therersquos an amazing depth of flavour and the finish is long and lingering Whatrsquos more at nearly eight years old it still has a slight purple tinge and tastes extremely fresh There is every indication that it will age beautifully for at least another decade
The winersquos character is heavily influenced by the alti-tude the grapes used to make it are grown at (1180m
above sea level) At this elevation the grapes ripen in bright sun but lsquorelaxrsquo during the cool evenings The fact that the wine is made in tiny quantities (eight barrels only) means every care can be taken during the winemak-ing process to ensure the wine is allowed to show its grown-up side The cost per bot-tle of pound70 is not insubstantial but neither is the wine
We cannot know whether these wines will ever become investments in the way the wines of Bordeaux have Whatrsquos cer-tain is that Malbec wines have a very rare quality a balance of finesse and power that
can delight wine lovers and linger in their memories
Ewan Lacey is a leading wine expert and general manager of the International Wine and Spirit Competition He has appeared on BBC television and radio as well as Channel 4 and written for the national press
Laura Catena is managing director at the Catena Zapata winery (above)
THE INTERNATIONAL WINE AND SPIRIT COMPETITIONThe International Wine and Spirit Competition has been the premier drinks competition in the world for 45 years Each year it receives and reviews thousands of wines and spirits and presents qual-ity awards to producers
More than anything the IWSC exists to help
people make better deci-sions particularly when buying wines and spirits An IWSC award on a bot-tle of wine is a guarantee
of quality backed not only by a rigorous and strin-gent judging process but also by the skill of the judges who are drawn from the ranks of masters of wine master distill-ers industry leaders and commentators
Each year the IWSC honours a leading figure
in the drinks industry with the presidency of the competition The current president is Laura Catena who succeeds a nota-ble line of predecessors including Prince Robert of Luxembourg winemakers Piero Antinori and Warren Winiarski and Baroness Philippine de Rothschild
56 March 2014 | inspired
LUXURY WATCHES
Time is preciousA
t a recent watch auc-tion in Geneva at Antiquorum ndash the worldrsquos premiere auc-tion house for modern and vintage time pieces ndash a Patek Philippe
pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon watch emerged as the auctionrsquos top lot and sold for 12 million Swiss francs (pound807000)
Unlike most of the timepieces sold at auctions outside Asia this particular Patek watch ndash the most complicated wristwatch the Swiss watchmaker has ever produced ndash was not a vintage model
That Geneva auction raised intriguing
1284Clocks with weights gears and regulators start to appear mostly with no dial to strike the important moments of daily life
Around 1410The mainspring is devel-oped Combined with the fusee this innovation makes possible the truly portable domestic clock
1492The mechanical watch appears simultaneously in Italy Germany and France
1675Christian Huygens invents the spiral balance spring
for watches significantly improving their accuracy
1704The first watch with jew-els is produced by French watchmaker de Beaufreacute
1714The British parliament offers pound20000 to who-ever can a find a method to determine longitude
1766Parliament publishes the rating results for John Harrisonrsquos H4 marine timekeeper Harrisonrsquos highly accurate marine clock solution to the problem of determining logitude wins him part of the pound20000 prize
1787Pierre-Freacutedeacuteric Ingold is born an important pio-neer in mechanised timepiece production and the use of interchangea-ble parts
1790Jacquet-Droz and Leschot manufactures a watch attached to a strap
1839Vacheron amp Constantin developes a full set of machine tools for manu-facturing its watches
1875Calcium sulphate is the first luminescent sub-stance to be used for numerals and hands
TIMEKEEPING MILESTONES
questions Are modern luxury timepieces every bit as appealing as the vintage watches that typically command top prices at auc-tion And does that Geneva auction tell us anything about the contemporary watch market as a whole
Julien Schaerer Antiquorumrsquos managing director in Geneva says top-quality vintage watches often appreciate in value over the long term But he urges buyers for whom appreciation is an important consideration to be cautious about purchasing contempo-rary watches
lsquoWatch price depreciation is the cost of ownership just as it is with a luxury carrsquo he says lsquoIf the value goes up then
58 March 2014 | inspired
1880The first water- resistant watch incorpo-rating a screwed case is produced by Genevan watchmaker Franccedilois Borgel
1889The first known patent for a wristwatch is filed in Bern Switzerland
1890Dialmaker A Beyeler invents a transfer press for applying numerals and letters to dials
1892Auguste Verneuil in France produces the first synthetic jewels to be used in watchmaking
1904Wens Wilsdorf launches large-scale production of a womenrsquos wristwatch
1924John Harwood files the
first Swiss patent for a self-winding wristwatch with a central oscillating weight
1925The first known wrist-watch with a perpetual calendar is manufactured using a pendant watch movement
1926Rolex creates the Oyster wristwatch with a water-resistant case and crown
1966The first quartz wrist-watch prototype is produced
1969The first quartz watch
with an LED display appears
1978Quartz watches overtake mechanical watches in popularity
2005Creation of the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie Seiko launches the spring drive Kinetic the first self-winding mechanical watch with an electro-magnetic escapement
A Patek Philippe pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon recently sold for pound807000
inspired | March 2014 59
online retailers from the comfort of your homeSince 2006 DM London has quietly estab-
lished a powerful presence for itself in the UK retail watch market with the acquisition of The Watch Hut and The Watch Gallery DM London chairman David Coleridge says the company has capitalised on the increasing willingness of buy-ers to purchase online
lsquoHaving decided that they would like to buy a watch for themselves or someone elsersquo he says lsquopeople start to do their research More often than not this starts online nowadays where they com-pare brands performance and functions
lsquoAs trust in the online marketplace has devel-oped many want to buy online because it is convenient and saves time Shopping online becomes a habit established sites build trust and awareness with customers which gives custom-ers the confidence to buy more expensive itemsrsquo
He adds lsquoOur challenge is to make the online environment as attractive informative and enjoy-able as a high street store Then customers will decide to spend onlinersquo
Coleridge believes a multi-channel approach is the way forward for retailers He says lsquoWithout doubt the future is multi-channel selling ndash a combination of direct selling on the internet and various forms of click and collect ndash combined with beautiful stores on the high street
Over the past few years demand for luxury watches (particularly contemporary models) has spiked sharply in Asia and according to some specialists emerging affluence in the
of course thatrsquos an added benefit However he adds lsquoPrice appreciation is still quite rare with modern watches There is some poten-tial for appreciation but probably only with ultra-limited editions A purchase has to be
seen as a medium- to long-term invest-ment One should buy a timepiece first out of love for the brand or [the watchrsquos] complicationrsquo
The watch brands that offer the greatest assurance of appreci-
ation include Cartier Patek Philippe Rolex Audemars
Piguet A Lange amp Sohne Breguet and Vacheron Constantin All enjoy views from the top of
the watchmaking hierarchy thanks to their longstand-ing histories and well-established brand identities
Relative new-comers to the industry such as Richard Mille and Roger Dubuis have carved out a niche for
themselves with their revolutionary designs and
space-age technologies but it remains to be seen just how well the values of their timepieces will stand up on the secondary market
According to Nathaniel Borgelt a specialist at auction house Sothebyrsquos
some modern watches have already achieved good prices at auction but these (like the Patek Philippe Sky Moon Tourbillon) were highly exclusive models when new
lsquoSome limited edition pieces currently fetch incredible prices at auctionrsquo he says lsquoAnd there is a select group of modern mod-els that could compete with a certain sector of the vintage market based on their brand innovative features such as materials or com-plications and avant-garde designs
Buying these has now become a whole lot easier The luxury watch retailing land-scape is changing and the traditional pattern of physically walking into a luxury salon to buy a watch is gradually being replaced by a trend towards visiting the websites of the big
LUXURY WATCHES
A Lange amp Sohne (above) is a long-standing high-end watchmaker Comparative new-comer Roger Dubuis (right) is forging a strong reputation
inspired | March 2014 PB60 March 2014 | inspired
helpthewatchgallerycom
Hublot ClassiC FusiontHe WatCH Gallery exClusive
The Watch Gallery and Hublot have joined forces to create two very special limited edition watches Both are limited to just 15 pieces worldwide and have been specifically designed to feature The Watch Gallery blue brand colour on the hands and tinted open case back
SelfridgeS OxfOrd StreetWeStfield lOndOnMancheSter exchange Square
wwwthewatchgallerycomhublot-watches
Far East has kept global values strong while other markets around the world continue to recover from recession
Despite the market boost from growing prosperity in Asia there are signs that the market is becoming saturated and that globally the new watch market isnrsquot as robust as some commentators suggest
It may still be a good time to buy but its important to know what you want and what yoursquore buying Modern watchmakers such as Richard Mille Roger Dubuis and Greubel Forsey are producing beautiful timepieces but because of their limited foothold in the market itrsquos difficult to predict their long-term success and desirability They donrsquot yet have the brand power that might ensure the value of their
watches in the secondhand market remains highSuch producers might one day stand eye to
eye with the most desirable brands such as Patek Philippe and Rolex but achieving that kind of parity wonrsquot be easy Collectors looking to invest in timepieces are advised to keep an open mind about modern producers uncertainty is the one aspect of modern luxury watch market most experts tend to agree on
That said the buoyancy in the watch market suggests that plenty of buyers are unconcerned about future values For them itrsquos all about the appreciation of the watch itself People buy watches because they bring them pleasure ndash and say some-thing about who they are
LUXURY WATCHES
Contemporary watches such as those made by Hublot (left) have yet to show they will have the lasting appeal of watches such as Cartierrsquos Rotonde de Cartier Astrocalendaire (right)
inspired | March 2014 63
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iiicoukstraightforward
Interactive Investor Trading Limited trading as ldquoInteractive Investorrdquo is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority Registered Office Standon House 21 Mansell Street London E1 8AA Tel 0845 200 3637 Registered in England with Company Registration number 3699618
We believe in being straightforwardthis is why we donrsquot nibble at your investment by charging percentage fees Find out how this could affect your investment performance at iiicoukstraightforward
If you transfer to us you can even get up to pound240 as a thank you (terms apply)
Donrsquot forget the value of investments and any income from them can fall as well as rise so you could get back less than you invest If in any doubt please seek advice
7784_II_QI_MONEY_OBSERVER_210x297_AWindd 1 16012014 1224
Take a closer look
at your investment
options
Discover a straightforward way to understand everything from ISAs to SIPPs and OEICs to Investment Trusts
Investing for generationsEver feel yoursquod like to know more about investing Wersquove been helping people build their wealth for over 125 years Our guide lsquoMaking sense of the investment universersquo is just one of the resources yoursquoll find on our Investment Focus hub
As well as clear simple guides therersquos a wealth of information and expert opinion all designed to help you take control of your investments Please remember that investments can go down as well as up and investors may get back less than they originally invested
Introducing your free online source of information help and expert opinion
investment-focuscouk
This has been approved as a financial promotion by Alliance Trust Investments Limited for the purpose of Section 21 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 Alliance Trust Investments Limited is a subsidiary of Alliance Trust PLC and is registered in Scotland No SC330862 registered office 8 West Marketgait Dundee DD1 1QN is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority firm reference number 479764 Alliance Trust Investments gives no financial or investment advice
TAX YEAR ENDS APRIL 5TH ndash learn more about
your options now
Investment Focus Smart Insight from Alliance Trust
Yoursquove spoken Wersquove listened Introducing your free online source of information help and expert opinion
Based on real insight we have launched a new website which focuses on investment education
We believe that we are uniquely positioned to provide this hub of information based on the reputation we have built for trust and transparency over the last 125 years
We will be publishing new content over the next few months focusing on specific themes
bull Investing from scratch
bull Products in a portfolio
bull Global diversification
bull Planning for your familyrsquos future
bull Retirement planning
bull Getting more information
There is a generation of future investors out there who have been brought up in an era of economic turmoil and banking crises which has led to disillusionment and a lack of trust in our sector and the services we offer Despite it being more important than ever for investors to take control of their financial situation this new generation of savers lacks the basic knowledge and understanding to make these very important long-term decisions
Our goal is to develop a useful resource with contributions from third-parties as well as the team at Alliance Trust which offers insights into the various life stages and challenges faced and which can be built upon and adapted to meet savers needs in the long term
Katherine Garrett-Cox CBE Chief Executive Alliance Trust PLC
ldquo
rdquo
There are too many products to make an informed decision
I donrsquot know whereto go for reliable
information
investment-focuscouk
Yoursquoll naturally take a keen interest in the performance of your investments But itrsquos just as important to understand the fees you will be paying as they can have a significant impact on the returns you achieve Knowing what the different types of costs mean and exactly what they consist of can prove rewarding
Itrsquos worth remembering that for every fee you pay (whether it is a or flat fee) your investment needs to grow by at least the same amount just to stay ahead of the game It sounds obvious but itrsquos easy to forget Broadly speaking there are three types of fees fund fees platform fees and fees for a financial adviser You can either invest directly into a fund and pay the associated fees or you can invest via a platform provider (some of which are referred to as wrap platforms others as fund supermarkets) This is a service that lets you manage and review all your investments online in one place As a general rule fund fees are lower when
bought through a platform than if you buy direct You can invest through a platform on either an execution only basis where the investor assesses the risks and makes their own investment decisions or on an advised basis
Learn more about fund platform and financial advice fees
What can you expect to seeOver the next two pages we have provided a sneak preview of just some of the information you will find on the Investment Focus hub We will be updating the site regularly so make sure you sign up for our email alerts to be informed when new topics are published
Everything you need to know about fees
Risk informationInvestments can go down as well as up You may get back less than you originally invested
Alliance Trust does not give advice You need to ensure you understand the risks and commitments before investing If you are unsure you should consult a Financial Adviser before investing
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
For the vast majority of investors the simplest cheapest and most pragmatic way to invest is through pooled funds
Sometimes called managed funds unit trusts or even Open-Ended Investment Companies (or OEICs) these are designed to give ordinary savers access to a diverse range of investments
One of the principles of investment is that diversification helps reduce risk But it is expensive and time consuming for ordinary savers to buy shares of 80 to 100 different companies and keep track of how each is performing
But with a managed fund you are pooling your money with other investors enabling the fund manager to buy a wide range of assets
Investors have the option of buying an actively managed or passive fund With an active fund the manager selects and then monitors these stocks for investors in a bid to maximise returns
In contrast a passive fund will simply follow a stock market index such as the FTSE100 up and down
Having a manager at the helm can be beneficial in a market downturn as they can take a more defensive approach buying shares that are better able to hold their value or in some cases switching to bonds or cash instead to help preserve investorsrsquo capital Managers can also research individual companies and markets and have access to forecasts and economic data that isnrsquot always available to individuals
Learn more about investing for growth or income exploring different investment remits how to invest and keeping track of your investments
Understanding funds Written by Emma Simon Personal Finance Journalist
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
What are Investment TrustsInvestment Trusts are investment vehicles that are listed on the London Stock Exchange and which invest in shares and other securities They pool together investorsrsquo money and delegate responsibility to a professional fund manager to invest in a range of companies from different sectors and regions across the world They were designed for ldquothe investor of moderate meansrdquo
A brief historybull The first Investment Trust was launched by Foreign amp
Colonial in 1868
bull Investment Trusts made it possible for individual investors to gain diversified exposure to global stock markets
bull Many Investment Trusts were formed in Scotland including Alliance Trust PLC which was formed over 125 years ago
A guide to Investment Trusts
Learn more about Investment Trusts their main features and why you should consider them for your portfolio
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
Alliance Trust is an investment and savings business with over 125 year history of building investor wealth We offer our shareholders clients and customers a unique portfolio of products and services These range from a renowned global investment trust to an innovative range of investment strategies and funds and a multi-award winning investment platform where investors can host their ISAs SIPPs or investment accounts Our mission is to provide products and services that help to ensure a more sustainable financial future for generations of investors
Alliance Trust PLC is one of the largest generalist investment trusts by market value listed on the London Stock Exchange and is the parent company to two wholly-owned subsidiaries Alliance Trust Savings and Alliance Trust Investments
The fact that many of us make irrational decisions when it comes to our finances is widely debated and is often referred to as behavioural finance In this short video we talk to Professor Phyl Johnson Consultant Psychologist and Visiting Professor of Executive Education at Strathclyde Business School about why this is and more importantly about what we can do as individuals to avoid it
About us Alliance Trust Investments is a specialist fund management business offering a range of products and services focusing on global equities fixed income and sustainable investing with an emphasis on specialist investment solutions
Alliance Trust Savings is one of the UKrsquos leading financial services providers for private investors offering customers the information and services they need to manage their investments in a way that works for them
Risk informationInvestments can go down as well as up You may get back less than you originally invested
Alliance Trust does not give advice You need to ensure you understand the risks and commitments before investing If you are unsure you should consult a Financial Adviser before investing
Unusually for a company of our size around 70 of shares
in Alliance Trust are held by private
individuals
Nobodyrsquos perfect why we all make irrational decisions
Inflation by ageThis monthrsquos official inflation report showed that the headline rate of inflation fell from 20 to 19 Our Economic Research Team analyse this data on a monthly basis to see how inflation rates affect different age groups In February 2014 the summary highlights include
bull The over 75s and the under 30s face the highest rate of inflation in January at 21
bull The over 75s suffered the highest rate of inflation for the whole of 2013 and this trend continues into 2014 as they spend a larger share of their budgets on basic goods such as gas and electricity
bull The 65 to 74 year olds have faced the lowest rate of inflation in 11 out of the last 12 months thanks to lower inflation in food petrol and package holidays
Learn more about how inflation might affect you
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
You can also sign up for our regular email alerts to be informed when new topics are published by clicking here
Wersquove been bringing clarity to investment for over 125 years
Investing for generationsWhen it comes to investing therersquos no substitute for experience And at Alliance Trust wersquove been helping people invest since 1888 Our new Investment Focus hub is full of online information and expert opinion It aims to provide real insight to help you take control of your investments
Over the next few weeks the hub will build to cover everything from taking your first steps to diversifying worldwide Please remember that investments can go down as well as up and investors may get back less than they originally invested For valuable insight from Alliance Trust visit Investment Focus today
Introducing your free online source of information help and expert opinion
investment-focuscouk
This has been approved as a financial promotion by Alliance Trust Investments Limited for the purpose of Section 21 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 Alliance Trust Investments Limited is a subsidiary of Alliance Trust PLC and is registered in Scotland No SC330862 registered office 8 West Marketgait Dundee DD1 1QN is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority firm reference number 479764 Alliance Trust Investments gives no financial or investment advice
TAX YEAR ENDS APRIL 5TH ndash learn more about
your options now
Change the way you think about stocks reap the rewardsBy Edward Page Croft CEO Stockopediacom
I remember so clearly the day when I picked my first stock for clients Managing $2 billion (pound12 billion) in assets across 100 portfolios for high-net-wealth private investors is no easy task As I was to learn when you are green
and straight out of university itrsquos even harder The stock in question was on the Goldman
Sachs US lsquobuyrsquo list It had the potential to be hot Dotcoms were bubbling It was an internet stock in education services and cheap It seemed like it had everything but we needed to get in One day it fell out of bed Down 50 per cent on no news
Irsquod been trained to call the analyst in situations like this He reiterated his buy stance Double buy On my insistence we put almost $20 million of client money into the stock within an hour The next day it fell another 50 per cent on
bad newsThere is nothing more
painful than a loss but you never forget the first
one It immedi-ately forced me to reconsider every-thing I thought I
knew From that day on I vowed to never trust anotherrsquos opin-ion and find a better
way through the market minefieldIrsquove now spent 15 years
reassessing common
wisdom about stock selection No stone has gone unturned in the quest to understand the behav-ioural flaws that lead to poor decision making But there is one finding that crops up again and again in all the research that hurts stock market investors most We as investors are suckers for stories
A 1990rsquos study of 60000 private investor broker-age accounts by Kumar and Goetzmann found that 70 per cent of portfolios held less than four stocks
The stocks held all tended to be in the same sector highly correlated and risky Think internet stocks in the 1990s China in the 2000s or resource stocks more recently The grand theme sucks everyone in The outcome rarely dif-fers Kumar and Goetzmann showed that across these
60000 accounts the average underperformance was of the order of 4 per cent annually
This massive failing across private inves-tor portfolios is repeated in nearly every market cycle and is bound to happen again in this one Benjamin Graham the great father of value invest-ing and tutor of Warren Buffett once wrote
lsquoIn the short run the stock market is a vot-ing machine but in the long run it is a weighing machinersquo
ADVERTISING FEATURE
IN THE SHORT RUN THE STOCK MARKET IS A VOTING MACHINE BUT IN THE LONG RUN IT IS A WEIGHING MACHINEBenjamin Graham
What he meant was that while stories may drive stocks in the short run statistics drive stocks in the long run When statistics reassert them-selves it can cause huge damage to investors punting their portfolios on stories
It doesnrsquot take much to learn how basic statis-tics can guide your portfolio into winning stock selections though very few seem to understand how to do it Benjamin Graham as his life wore on gradually came to the conclusion that building portfolios according to rules-based processes was a far more appropriate methodology for the typi-cal investor
lsquoTry to buy groups of stocks that meet some sim-ple criterion for being undervalued ndash regardless of
the industry and with very little attention to the indi-vidual company It seems too good to be true but all I can tell you after 60 years of experience is it seems to stand up under any of the tests I would make uprsquo
My time is now dedi-cated to helping investors practice exactly what Benjamin Graham and many other investment luminaries have preached rules-based investing For the majority itrsquos a better process and leads to bet-ter outcomes Our work at
Stockopediacom where we crunch fundamental and technical data in order to model and track the investment processes of the great investors bears this out
Portfolios composed with stocks showing the right statistical mix of value quality and momen-tum have significantly outperformed Rules-based investing beats the market But more importantly it helps promote the emotional detachment needed to stop investors from beating themselves
Irsquoll never buy a stock on a punt or an analystrsquos tip again Perhaps neither should you
For a two week free trial and pound50 discount to Stockopedia UK Premium CLICK HERE
TANK MCM A N U F A C T U R E M O V E M E N T 1 9 0 4 M C
SINCE THE CREATION OF THE FIRST TANK WATCH IN 1917 THE TANK COLLECTION HAS CONTINUED
TO BREAK NEW GROUND THE INCREDIBLY REFINED AESTHETICS OF THE NEW TANK MC WATCH ARE FITTED
WITH THE CARTIER MANUFACTURE MOVEMENT 1904 MC ESTABLISHED IN 1847 CARTIER CREATES
EXCEPTIONAL WATCHES THAT COMBINE DARING DESIGN AND WATCHMAKING SAVOIR-FAIRE
EXPLORE AND SHOP WWWCARTIERCOUK - (020) 3147 4850
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TO THE CONNOISSEUR section of Inspired a showcase for the finer things in life for those who truly appreciate them
Enjoying the fruits of your labour away from the relentless demands of our age poses its own challenges and quandaries Would a tropical idyll restore your ebbing energy levels Might a break based around hair-raising activities revive them even more effectively Perhaps reawakening a dormant passion for fine wines or luxury cars would be the most enjoyable reward for your industry
A luxury tropical holiday is probably near the top of most peoplersquos wish lists We take a look at some of the most tantalising options
The arrival of BMWrsquos new super coupe is featured on page 50 BMW aficionados and petrolheads alike are certain to be won over by its head-turning looks and mouthwatering specs
Gems come under the microscope on page 53 A rare coloured diamond can be a joy as well an appreciating asset
Wine is on the menu on page 54 where we explore the charms of Argentinian Malbec
Watches are often treasured objects and the best can turn out to be shrewd investments We look at the secondary watch market and the growth of online retailing on page 58 Enjoy
Welcome
40 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
FIVE TOP PRIVATE ISLAND RETREATSIslandFantasy
Top-rated resorts and hotels offer a variety of temptations and services to impress even the most discerning tastes but there is no better way to escape the rigours and
stresses of daily life than cutting off from the outside world while still enjoying lavish service
in the pinnacle of all resorts the private islandThere are thousands of small islands around
the world but only a few have chosen to cater to the most discriminating travellers seeking a rarified yet perfect world of quiet and relaxed luxury We look at five of the worldrsquos top private islands destinations where your holiday is certain to be an exceptional experience
TRAVEL
Necker Island is owned by Sir Richard Branson and guests stay in his home The island has become a popular des-tination for some of the worldrsquos most prominent figures as a hideaway from lifersquos stresses and strains
Because Necker Island is a resi-dence and not a resort guests who rent the island are treated as owners and catered for in a unique way
The74-acre island is fringed with beautiful white beaches and surrounded by turquoise waters and coral reefs It boasts every resort-type amenity guests can spend their days being pampered in the spa explor-ing underwater reefs in a submarine lounging by the pool bar or swimming in one of the worldrsquos most elab-orate private pools
Haute cuisine is a highlight for most guests ndash rates are fully inclusive of all food and drink A team of chefs creates bespoke menus featuring anything from lobster and caviar to a Sunday roast And because Necker is a home first and a resort second guests decide whether dining will be formal or informal inside or outside themed or traditional
The bar is stocked with international wines top-quality spirits and beers and a world renowned house champagne while special orders can be shipped in at no extra charge ndash unless an item is particularly rare Every service and amenity is available around the clock and guests are encouraged to treat Necker as their own home
As youLike it
NECKER ISLAND
42 March 2014 | inspired
Unalloyed luxury and an impressive range of amenities make Necker one of the most desirable island destinations in the world
The Jumby Bay resort which is only accessible by boat from Antigua is a Caribbean hideaway owned by Rosewood Resorts It is perfect for those seeking either relaxation or spirited adventure
You can rent the island resort entirely for your stay or simply take a room Those opt-ing for exclusive use of the island will have the resortrsquos two pools three tennis courts fitness centre croquet field and putting green to themselves
A wide range of water sports are available and guests can indulge in as much adventure or relaxation as they want during their stay The resort is ideal for large family
reunions or corporate retreats ndash 40 guest rooms and suites are available on the island
Executive chef Sylvain Hervochon celebrates gastron-omy ndash and mixology (cocktail making) ndash with casual elegance by creating Caribbean-style dishes inspired by fresh local ingredients and incorporating international influences
Jumby Bayrsquos rates start at pound150000 for four nights based on double occupancy between May and December Visit wwwrosewoodhotelscomenjumby-bay-antigua for further information
Fine BalanceCaribbean ambiance international sophistication and adventurous activities make Jumby Bay a compelling choice
JUMBY BAY
Just laze by the pool or venture beyond to dive in the turquoise waters of the South Pacific among stunning reefs and a dazzling array of marine creatures
Isle of PlentyT
he private island of Laucala in the South Pacific is a 3500-acre site in a picturesque rainforest-laced land-scape Enchanting deserted beaches nestle among coconut plantations organic farms and lush green vol-canic mountains
The resort offers an outstanding level of refined lux-ury as well as a compelling collection of sporting and cultural activities diving among iridescent marine life in the warm turquoise waters guided rainforest tours horse riding surfing and golfing on the 18-hole cham-pionship course The island is a superb choice for an escape from civilization whether you want an adven-ture in the wild or simply to relax in one of Laucalarsquos five restaurants and bars
Rates are available on request Visit wwwlaucalacom for further details
TRAVEL
LAUCALA ISLAND
inspired | March 2014 4544 March 2014 | inspired
Lush green surroundings sensitive development and beautiful beaches help Laucala island conjure up a complete South Seas experience
Isle of Plenty
inspired | March 2014 4544 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
inspired | March 2014 4746 March 2014 | inspired
Slow LaneSlow
Pulau Joyo is a seductively serene environment of pristine beaches surrounded by clear blue sea in Indonesiarsquos Riau Archipelago Accessible from Singapore or Bintan Pulau Joyo is a true castaway island offering every resort luxury
amid untouched natural beauty Pulau Joyo is famous for its remarkable sunsets and
brightly star-lit sky The resort can host 28 guests and 20 staff are on hand to cater to their every need Guests stay in open driftwood lsquopalacesrsquo that lsquoallow the sea inrsquoDespite its desert island appeal Pulau Joyo offers every modern convenience a range of adrenaline boosting activities and more relaxing options such as spa treatments and massages
The resortrsquos cuisine focuses on western and Indonesian dishes Meals are usually served buffet style and feature grilled fish squid prawns beef and chicken as well as many curry dishes Side dishes include fresh garden salads pasta salads boiled or steamed leafy greens and grilled aubergine (an island favourite) Prawn and tofu kebabs appear from time to time as does satay The chef will often provide a selection of freshly picked fruit and homemade cakes for dessert Itrsquos worth noting that the management will not serve pork or shellfish on this private island
Pulau Joyo may not be as refined as some islands but itrsquos an excellent choice for those who want a more casual laidback island experience that replicates the castaway experience like perhaps no other
Rates start at pound1913 a night More information is available at wwwpulau-joyocom
Wannabe castaways may find Pulau Joyorsquos purer simpler take on the luxury island experience more to their taste
PULAU JOYO
inspired | March 2014 4746 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
In the Fijian island paradise of Dolphin Island a small army of staff await to meet guestsrsquo every need On arriving ndash by boat helicopter or float plane ndash visitors are invariably struck by the beauty of the island and the luxuri-ous accommodation that awaits them amid 14-acres of lush tropical gardens
Three traditional palm-thatched bures individually designed by world renowned interior designer Virginia Fisher sit in an elevated position around the resortrsquos infinity pool
Guests are brought fresh tropical fish to choose each day that are cooked to perfec-
tion within hours of leaving the water The culinary focus is on
organic produce and ingredi-ents unique to Fijian cuisine but meals are tailored to guestsrsquo personal tastes Papayas man-goes bananas and pineapples
are plentiful throughout the day When it comes to recreation the
14-acre island is an expansive play-ground offering a diverse range of watersports as well as diving opportunities on Fijirsquos coral reefs
Rates start at pound720 a night More information is avail-able at wwwdolphinislandfijicom
Fijian Paean
Traditional features modern comforts and excellent facilities make for a harmonious whole on this Fijian island
DOLPHIN ISLAND
48 March 2014 | inspired
Pictured slightly larger than actual size
Big Pilotrsquos Watch Ref 5009
Your wrist never felt this big before The
case of the top model in the IWC Pilotrsquos
Watch range is a gigantic 462 mm in diashy
meter And the technology inside it is
even more impressive the largest IWCshy
manufactured automatic movement with
its Pellaton winding system is protected
against strong magnetic fields by a softshy
iron inner case And needless to say enshy
vious glances iwc engineered for men
Mechanical IWCshymanufactured movement Pellaton
automatic winding system 7shyday power reserve
with display (figure) Date display Softshyiron inner
case for protection against magnetic fields
Antireflective sapphire glass Watershyresistant 6 bar
Stainless steel
IWC Schaffhausen Switzerland iwccom The worldrsquos finest timepieces are exclusively available from selected watch specialists
For an illustrated catalogue or list of nationwide concessionaires please contact IWC UK Tel 0845 337 1868 Eshymail infoshyukiwccom
CARS
MunichLegend
50 March 2014 | inspired
BMW fanatics can open their eyes ndash the M4 has arrived
Most BMW aficionados are proba-bly pretty sad to see production of the M3 coupe ndash quite possibly the companyrsquos most noteworthy and celebrated model ndash end after almost 30 years Ever since the first wide-body E30 M3 saw the
light of day in 1985 drivers have loved the sporty coupe for its incredible balance intoxicating power and of course solid build quality
The model never got stale in all that time and always remained the poster child for the M division so itrsquos a lit-tle weird that BMW has apparently decided to axe it In truth though they havenrsquot really dropped the M3 The M3 sedan will continue to be produced in 2014 so all
is not lost Moreover BMW seems to be adopting a pat-tern of giving its sedans odd-numbered titles only and its coupes even-numbered titles only so the 4-Series and especially the M4 concept that debuted at Pebble Beach Monterey California will fill the gap left by the M3 Many people have been awaiting the new super coupe with great expectancy but can it fill in for the M3
The journalists who swarmed over the M4 concept at Pebble Beach were obviously much more interested in it than the somewhat predictable 428i that was also there Finished in an eye-catching colour called Aurum Dust (which actually looks a lot like the old M3rsquos Phoenix Yellow colour) the car presented in California may be a concept but typically BMW M cars donrsquot change much before they finally hit the showroom
MunichLegend
inspired | March 2014 51
CARS
52 March 2014 | inspired
From front to back the bodywork is manifestly differ-ent and much more aggressive looking than a standard 4-Series car It really looks to pretty much pick up where the E92E93 M3 coupe left off especially with its undeniably cool domed hood Wide wheel arches big wheels wrapped in low-profile tyres more than enough M badges and a well-executed double-bubble roof make the already underwhelming existing 4-Series coupe look even more pedestrian
Power for the new M4 is likely to come from a three-litre twin-turbo straight-six engine While the horsepower probably wonrsquot differ much from the M3rsquos old 4-litre V-8 it will generate more than 100lbft more in torque almost 400 in total With the M4 being a lighter 3300lb in weight the M4 promises to be an excit-ing worthy car A proper six-speed manual may be in the mix alongside the now obligatory dual clutch and paddles option
The best way to look at the M4 however it ends up is not as a new car but as a new and improved M3 thatrsquos just getting a new name The decision to rename the coupe is a strange one but thankfully BMW apparently felt the 3-Series coupe had made such an identity for itself that a new model was needed albeit in a slightly different incarnation
With BMW embarking on some new-ageish ideas such as its 1-Series ActiveE and the soon-to-arrive lsquoirsquo range of cars itrsquos nice to see the company also stick to classics such as the heart-stopping sports coupe even if the latest model does come with a new name
Seductive curves and racier performance make the BMW M4 a more than acceptable replacement for the M3 super coupe
SparklingForm Coloured diamonds are making their mark
One of the main factors that deter-mines the value of what we ordinarily think of as diamonds is their purity the degree to which col-our is absent in the gem However with coloured diamonds the extent to which they are saturated with
colour is a principal determinant of their valueColoured diamonds come in 12 basic colours more
than 90 secondary hues and nine intensity levels The depth of their colour is what really differentiates these diamonds from their colourless counterparts
Natural coloured diamonds are 10000 times rarer than typical colourless diamonds one of several rea-sons why they are treasured by the rich and famous yet remain unknown to most other people ndash despite hav-ing been around for centuries
Of course some colours are rarer than others Red violet and purple stones are as rare as the proverbial hensrsquo teeth while green and blue are also rare The most popular colours are pink and yellow (or canary) They also come in white grey orange black and lsquochame-leonrsquo form
A pinkie ring encrusted with a large coloured dia-mond has become a status symbol for men in Asia That little stone is an unregistered asset that could quickly be sold for millions of dollars should the need arise
Coloured diamonds are durable and never lose their sparkle or lustre so they are assets that can be enjoyed every day unlike stocks or bonds And they have proved to be fantastic investments having steadily appreciated in price with relatively little volatility for more than a decade They even held their own during the most recent financial crisis
Coloured diamonds are auctioned by reputable
auction houses such a Sothebyrsquos and Christiersquos where prices for large unique pink red blue or yellow stones can reach in excess of $2 million (pound12 million) a carat and other stones regularly sell for $1 million a carat
They are often bought by high-net-worth individu-als as an insurance policy Instead of stashing cash in undeclared bank accounts and potentially incurring the wrath of the authorities the wealthy can purchase some loose yellow diamonds to secure their future
Clearly coloured diamonds are much more than a magnificent indulgence
GEMS
inspired | March 2014 53PB March 2014 | inspired
WINE
Make the most of the deeply
satisfying Malbec wines emerging from Argentina
and perhaps even enjoy a return on a shrewd
investment says Ewan Lacey
Finding a red wine to enjoy in spring is a delicate balancing act The shock of seeing sunlight after a dark winter fosters in us a desire to drink some-thing refreshing while the still-cool temperatures demand something with comforting depth
Increasingly Malbec wines particularly those from Argentina provide a perfect solution to this quandary And while there are plenty of delicious wines for infor-mal occasions what is most interesting is the emergence of finer Malbec wines Some are so good they may well have ageing potential raising the intriguing possibility that the wine may one day become collectable
Malbec is the most popular wine among those aged 25-34 and is now becoming a fixture on most restaurant wine lists There are several reasons for its success the word Malbec is easy to pronounce the wine goes well with red meat the Malbec grape can be turned into wines that are both relatively easy to drink and packed with flavour and decent wines are available at reason-able prices Malbec is deep fruity and charming and it delivers instant pleasure ndash claret on a motorbike
The Malbec grape originated in France and it remains one of the permitted varieties used to make Bordeaux However it has gained prominence through the work of the post-junta Argentine wine industry
I recently had the pleasure of tasting some very fine Malbecs with Laura Catena managing director at the Catena Zapata winery and president of the International Wine and Spirit Competition She opened my
Mendoza Marvels
inspired | March 2014 55
WINE
eyes to the potential of this grape variety when handled with care
Laurarsquos family business makes a range of wines but the wine that truly astonished me was the Nicasia Vineyard Malbec 2006 The wine is perfumed with floral and fruit notes and it is smooth and soft at first Like all great wines it has many layers of flavour warm bursts of cherry and black-currant cede centre stage to deeper darker caramel and mocha notes and a touch of spice Therersquos an amazing depth of flavour and the finish is long and lingering Whatrsquos more at nearly eight years old it still has a slight purple tinge and tastes extremely fresh There is every indication that it will age beautifully for at least another decade
The winersquos character is heavily influenced by the alti-tude the grapes used to make it are grown at (1180m
above sea level) At this elevation the grapes ripen in bright sun but lsquorelaxrsquo during the cool evenings The fact that the wine is made in tiny quantities (eight barrels only) means every care can be taken during the winemak-ing process to ensure the wine is allowed to show its grown-up side The cost per bot-tle of pound70 is not insubstantial but neither is the wine
We cannot know whether these wines will ever become investments in the way the wines of Bordeaux have Whatrsquos cer-tain is that Malbec wines have a very rare quality a balance of finesse and power that
can delight wine lovers and linger in their memories
Ewan Lacey is a leading wine expert and general manager of the International Wine and Spirit Competition He has appeared on BBC television and radio as well as Channel 4 and written for the national press
Laura Catena is managing director at the Catena Zapata winery (above)
THE INTERNATIONAL WINE AND SPIRIT COMPETITIONThe International Wine and Spirit Competition has been the premier drinks competition in the world for 45 years Each year it receives and reviews thousands of wines and spirits and presents qual-ity awards to producers
More than anything the IWSC exists to help
people make better deci-sions particularly when buying wines and spirits An IWSC award on a bot-tle of wine is a guarantee
of quality backed not only by a rigorous and strin-gent judging process but also by the skill of the judges who are drawn from the ranks of masters of wine master distill-ers industry leaders and commentators
Each year the IWSC honours a leading figure
in the drinks industry with the presidency of the competition The current president is Laura Catena who succeeds a nota-ble line of predecessors including Prince Robert of Luxembourg winemakers Piero Antinori and Warren Winiarski and Baroness Philippine de Rothschild
56 March 2014 | inspired
LUXURY WATCHES
Time is preciousA
t a recent watch auc-tion in Geneva at Antiquorum ndash the worldrsquos premiere auc-tion house for modern and vintage time pieces ndash a Patek Philippe
pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon watch emerged as the auctionrsquos top lot and sold for 12 million Swiss francs (pound807000)
Unlike most of the timepieces sold at auctions outside Asia this particular Patek watch ndash the most complicated wristwatch the Swiss watchmaker has ever produced ndash was not a vintage model
That Geneva auction raised intriguing
1284Clocks with weights gears and regulators start to appear mostly with no dial to strike the important moments of daily life
Around 1410The mainspring is devel-oped Combined with the fusee this innovation makes possible the truly portable domestic clock
1492The mechanical watch appears simultaneously in Italy Germany and France
1675Christian Huygens invents the spiral balance spring
for watches significantly improving their accuracy
1704The first watch with jew-els is produced by French watchmaker de Beaufreacute
1714The British parliament offers pound20000 to who-ever can a find a method to determine longitude
1766Parliament publishes the rating results for John Harrisonrsquos H4 marine timekeeper Harrisonrsquos highly accurate marine clock solution to the problem of determining logitude wins him part of the pound20000 prize
1787Pierre-Freacutedeacuteric Ingold is born an important pio-neer in mechanised timepiece production and the use of interchangea-ble parts
1790Jacquet-Droz and Leschot manufactures a watch attached to a strap
1839Vacheron amp Constantin developes a full set of machine tools for manu-facturing its watches
1875Calcium sulphate is the first luminescent sub-stance to be used for numerals and hands
TIMEKEEPING MILESTONES
questions Are modern luxury timepieces every bit as appealing as the vintage watches that typically command top prices at auc-tion And does that Geneva auction tell us anything about the contemporary watch market as a whole
Julien Schaerer Antiquorumrsquos managing director in Geneva says top-quality vintage watches often appreciate in value over the long term But he urges buyers for whom appreciation is an important consideration to be cautious about purchasing contempo-rary watches
lsquoWatch price depreciation is the cost of ownership just as it is with a luxury carrsquo he says lsquoIf the value goes up then
58 March 2014 | inspired
1880The first water- resistant watch incorpo-rating a screwed case is produced by Genevan watchmaker Franccedilois Borgel
1889The first known patent for a wristwatch is filed in Bern Switzerland
1890Dialmaker A Beyeler invents a transfer press for applying numerals and letters to dials
1892Auguste Verneuil in France produces the first synthetic jewels to be used in watchmaking
1904Wens Wilsdorf launches large-scale production of a womenrsquos wristwatch
1924John Harwood files the
first Swiss patent for a self-winding wristwatch with a central oscillating weight
1925The first known wrist-watch with a perpetual calendar is manufactured using a pendant watch movement
1926Rolex creates the Oyster wristwatch with a water-resistant case and crown
1966The first quartz wrist-watch prototype is produced
1969The first quartz watch
with an LED display appears
1978Quartz watches overtake mechanical watches in popularity
2005Creation of the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie Seiko launches the spring drive Kinetic the first self-winding mechanical watch with an electro-magnetic escapement
A Patek Philippe pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon recently sold for pound807000
inspired | March 2014 59
online retailers from the comfort of your homeSince 2006 DM London has quietly estab-
lished a powerful presence for itself in the UK retail watch market with the acquisition of The Watch Hut and The Watch Gallery DM London chairman David Coleridge says the company has capitalised on the increasing willingness of buy-ers to purchase online
lsquoHaving decided that they would like to buy a watch for themselves or someone elsersquo he says lsquopeople start to do their research More often than not this starts online nowadays where they com-pare brands performance and functions
lsquoAs trust in the online marketplace has devel-oped many want to buy online because it is convenient and saves time Shopping online becomes a habit established sites build trust and awareness with customers which gives custom-ers the confidence to buy more expensive itemsrsquo
He adds lsquoOur challenge is to make the online environment as attractive informative and enjoy-able as a high street store Then customers will decide to spend onlinersquo
Coleridge believes a multi-channel approach is the way forward for retailers He says lsquoWithout doubt the future is multi-channel selling ndash a combination of direct selling on the internet and various forms of click and collect ndash combined with beautiful stores on the high street
Over the past few years demand for luxury watches (particularly contemporary models) has spiked sharply in Asia and according to some specialists emerging affluence in the
of course thatrsquos an added benefit However he adds lsquoPrice appreciation is still quite rare with modern watches There is some poten-tial for appreciation but probably only with ultra-limited editions A purchase has to be
seen as a medium- to long-term invest-ment One should buy a timepiece first out of love for the brand or [the watchrsquos] complicationrsquo
The watch brands that offer the greatest assurance of appreci-
ation include Cartier Patek Philippe Rolex Audemars
Piguet A Lange amp Sohne Breguet and Vacheron Constantin All enjoy views from the top of
the watchmaking hierarchy thanks to their longstand-ing histories and well-established brand identities
Relative new-comers to the industry such as Richard Mille and Roger Dubuis have carved out a niche for
themselves with their revolutionary designs and
space-age technologies but it remains to be seen just how well the values of their timepieces will stand up on the secondary market
According to Nathaniel Borgelt a specialist at auction house Sothebyrsquos
some modern watches have already achieved good prices at auction but these (like the Patek Philippe Sky Moon Tourbillon) were highly exclusive models when new
lsquoSome limited edition pieces currently fetch incredible prices at auctionrsquo he says lsquoAnd there is a select group of modern mod-els that could compete with a certain sector of the vintage market based on their brand innovative features such as materials or com-plications and avant-garde designs
Buying these has now become a whole lot easier The luxury watch retailing land-scape is changing and the traditional pattern of physically walking into a luxury salon to buy a watch is gradually being replaced by a trend towards visiting the websites of the big
LUXURY WATCHES
A Lange amp Sohne (above) is a long-standing high-end watchmaker Comparative new-comer Roger Dubuis (right) is forging a strong reputation
inspired | March 2014 PB60 March 2014 | inspired
helpthewatchgallerycom
Hublot ClassiC FusiontHe WatCH Gallery exClusive
The Watch Gallery and Hublot have joined forces to create two very special limited edition watches Both are limited to just 15 pieces worldwide and have been specifically designed to feature The Watch Gallery blue brand colour on the hands and tinted open case back
SelfridgeS OxfOrd StreetWeStfield lOndOnMancheSter exchange Square
wwwthewatchgallerycomhublot-watches
Far East has kept global values strong while other markets around the world continue to recover from recession
Despite the market boost from growing prosperity in Asia there are signs that the market is becoming saturated and that globally the new watch market isnrsquot as robust as some commentators suggest
It may still be a good time to buy but its important to know what you want and what yoursquore buying Modern watchmakers such as Richard Mille Roger Dubuis and Greubel Forsey are producing beautiful timepieces but because of their limited foothold in the market itrsquos difficult to predict their long-term success and desirability They donrsquot yet have the brand power that might ensure the value of their
watches in the secondhand market remains highSuch producers might one day stand eye to
eye with the most desirable brands such as Patek Philippe and Rolex but achieving that kind of parity wonrsquot be easy Collectors looking to invest in timepieces are advised to keep an open mind about modern producers uncertainty is the one aspect of modern luxury watch market most experts tend to agree on
That said the buoyancy in the watch market suggests that plenty of buyers are unconcerned about future values For them itrsquos all about the appreciation of the watch itself People buy watches because they bring them pleasure ndash and say some-thing about who they are
LUXURY WATCHES
Contemporary watches such as those made by Hublot (left) have yet to show they will have the lasting appeal of watches such as Cartierrsquos Rotonde de Cartier Astrocalendaire (right)
inspired | March 2014 63
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-
Take a closer look
at your investment
options
Discover a straightforward way to understand everything from ISAs to SIPPs and OEICs to Investment Trusts
Investing for generationsEver feel yoursquod like to know more about investing Wersquove been helping people build their wealth for over 125 years Our guide lsquoMaking sense of the investment universersquo is just one of the resources yoursquoll find on our Investment Focus hub
As well as clear simple guides therersquos a wealth of information and expert opinion all designed to help you take control of your investments Please remember that investments can go down as well as up and investors may get back less than they originally invested
Introducing your free online source of information help and expert opinion
investment-focuscouk
This has been approved as a financial promotion by Alliance Trust Investments Limited for the purpose of Section 21 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 Alliance Trust Investments Limited is a subsidiary of Alliance Trust PLC and is registered in Scotland No SC330862 registered office 8 West Marketgait Dundee DD1 1QN is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority firm reference number 479764 Alliance Trust Investments gives no financial or investment advice
TAX YEAR ENDS APRIL 5TH ndash learn more about
your options now
Investment Focus Smart Insight from Alliance Trust
Yoursquove spoken Wersquove listened Introducing your free online source of information help and expert opinion
Based on real insight we have launched a new website which focuses on investment education
We believe that we are uniquely positioned to provide this hub of information based on the reputation we have built for trust and transparency over the last 125 years
We will be publishing new content over the next few months focusing on specific themes
bull Investing from scratch
bull Products in a portfolio
bull Global diversification
bull Planning for your familyrsquos future
bull Retirement planning
bull Getting more information
There is a generation of future investors out there who have been brought up in an era of economic turmoil and banking crises which has led to disillusionment and a lack of trust in our sector and the services we offer Despite it being more important than ever for investors to take control of their financial situation this new generation of savers lacks the basic knowledge and understanding to make these very important long-term decisions
Our goal is to develop a useful resource with contributions from third-parties as well as the team at Alliance Trust which offers insights into the various life stages and challenges faced and which can be built upon and adapted to meet savers needs in the long term
Katherine Garrett-Cox CBE Chief Executive Alliance Trust PLC
ldquo
rdquo
There are too many products to make an informed decision
I donrsquot know whereto go for reliable
information
investment-focuscouk
Yoursquoll naturally take a keen interest in the performance of your investments But itrsquos just as important to understand the fees you will be paying as they can have a significant impact on the returns you achieve Knowing what the different types of costs mean and exactly what they consist of can prove rewarding
Itrsquos worth remembering that for every fee you pay (whether it is a or flat fee) your investment needs to grow by at least the same amount just to stay ahead of the game It sounds obvious but itrsquos easy to forget Broadly speaking there are three types of fees fund fees platform fees and fees for a financial adviser You can either invest directly into a fund and pay the associated fees or you can invest via a platform provider (some of which are referred to as wrap platforms others as fund supermarkets) This is a service that lets you manage and review all your investments online in one place As a general rule fund fees are lower when
bought through a platform than if you buy direct You can invest through a platform on either an execution only basis where the investor assesses the risks and makes their own investment decisions or on an advised basis
Learn more about fund platform and financial advice fees
What can you expect to seeOver the next two pages we have provided a sneak preview of just some of the information you will find on the Investment Focus hub We will be updating the site regularly so make sure you sign up for our email alerts to be informed when new topics are published
Everything you need to know about fees
Risk informationInvestments can go down as well as up You may get back less than you originally invested
Alliance Trust does not give advice You need to ensure you understand the risks and commitments before investing If you are unsure you should consult a Financial Adviser before investing
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
For the vast majority of investors the simplest cheapest and most pragmatic way to invest is through pooled funds
Sometimes called managed funds unit trusts or even Open-Ended Investment Companies (or OEICs) these are designed to give ordinary savers access to a diverse range of investments
One of the principles of investment is that diversification helps reduce risk But it is expensive and time consuming for ordinary savers to buy shares of 80 to 100 different companies and keep track of how each is performing
But with a managed fund you are pooling your money with other investors enabling the fund manager to buy a wide range of assets
Investors have the option of buying an actively managed or passive fund With an active fund the manager selects and then monitors these stocks for investors in a bid to maximise returns
In contrast a passive fund will simply follow a stock market index such as the FTSE100 up and down
Having a manager at the helm can be beneficial in a market downturn as they can take a more defensive approach buying shares that are better able to hold their value or in some cases switching to bonds or cash instead to help preserve investorsrsquo capital Managers can also research individual companies and markets and have access to forecasts and economic data that isnrsquot always available to individuals
Learn more about investing for growth or income exploring different investment remits how to invest and keeping track of your investments
Understanding funds Written by Emma Simon Personal Finance Journalist
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
What are Investment TrustsInvestment Trusts are investment vehicles that are listed on the London Stock Exchange and which invest in shares and other securities They pool together investorsrsquo money and delegate responsibility to a professional fund manager to invest in a range of companies from different sectors and regions across the world They were designed for ldquothe investor of moderate meansrdquo
A brief historybull The first Investment Trust was launched by Foreign amp
Colonial in 1868
bull Investment Trusts made it possible for individual investors to gain diversified exposure to global stock markets
bull Many Investment Trusts were formed in Scotland including Alliance Trust PLC which was formed over 125 years ago
A guide to Investment Trusts
Learn more about Investment Trusts their main features and why you should consider them for your portfolio
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
Alliance Trust is an investment and savings business with over 125 year history of building investor wealth We offer our shareholders clients and customers a unique portfolio of products and services These range from a renowned global investment trust to an innovative range of investment strategies and funds and a multi-award winning investment platform where investors can host their ISAs SIPPs or investment accounts Our mission is to provide products and services that help to ensure a more sustainable financial future for generations of investors
Alliance Trust PLC is one of the largest generalist investment trusts by market value listed on the London Stock Exchange and is the parent company to two wholly-owned subsidiaries Alliance Trust Savings and Alliance Trust Investments
The fact that many of us make irrational decisions when it comes to our finances is widely debated and is often referred to as behavioural finance In this short video we talk to Professor Phyl Johnson Consultant Psychologist and Visiting Professor of Executive Education at Strathclyde Business School about why this is and more importantly about what we can do as individuals to avoid it
About us Alliance Trust Investments is a specialist fund management business offering a range of products and services focusing on global equities fixed income and sustainable investing with an emphasis on specialist investment solutions
Alliance Trust Savings is one of the UKrsquos leading financial services providers for private investors offering customers the information and services they need to manage their investments in a way that works for them
Risk informationInvestments can go down as well as up You may get back less than you originally invested
Alliance Trust does not give advice You need to ensure you understand the risks and commitments before investing If you are unsure you should consult a Financial Adviser before investing
Unusually for a company of our size around 70 of shares
in Alliance Trust are held by private
individuals
Nobodyrsquos perfect why we all make irrational decisions
Inflation by ageThis monthrsquos official inflation report showed that the headline rate of inflation fell from 20 to 19 Our Economic Research Team analyse this data on a monthly basis to see how inflation rates affect different age groups In February 2014 the summary highlights include
bull The over 75s and the under 30s face the highest rate of inflation in January at 21
bull The over 75s suffered the highest rate of inflation for the whole of 2013 and this trend continues into 2014 as they spend a larger share of their budgets on basic goods such as gas and electricity
bull The 65 to 74 year olds have faced the lowest rate of inflation in 11 out of the last 12 months thanks to lower inflation in food petrol and package holidays
Learn more about how inflation might affect you
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
You can also sign up for our regular email alerts to be informed when new topics are published by clicking here
Wersquove been bringing clarity to investment for over 125 years
Investing for generationsWhen it comes to investing therersquos no substitute for experience And at Alliance Trust wersquove been helping people invest since 1888 Our new Investment Focus hub is full of online information and expert opinion It aims to provide real insight to help you take control of your investments
Over the next few weeks the hub will build to cover everything from taking your first steps to diversifying worldwide Please remember that investments can go down as well as up and investors may get back less than they originally invested For valuable insight from Alliance Trust visit Investment Focus today
Introducing your free online source of information help and expert opinion
investment-focuscouk
This has been approved as a financial promotion by Alliance Trust Investments Limited for the purpose of Section 21 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 Alliance Trust Investments Limited is a subsidiary of Alliance Trust PLC and is registered in Scotland No SC330862 registered office 8 West Marketgait Dundee DD1 1QN is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority firm reference number 479764 Alliance Trust Investments gives no financial or investment advice
TAX YEAR ENDS APRIL 5TH ndash learn more about
your options now
Change the way you think about stocks reap the rewardsBy Edward Page Croft CEO Stockopediacom
I remember so clearly the day when I picked my first stock for clients Managing $2 billion (pound12 billion) in assets across 100 portfolios for high-net-wealth private investors is no easy task As I was to learn when you are green
and straight out of university itrsquos even harder The stock in question was on the Goldman
Sachs US lsquobuyrsquo list It had the potential to be hot Dotcoms were bubbling It was an internet stock in education services and cheap It seemed like it had everything but we needed to get in One day it fell out of bed Down 50 per cent on no news
Irsquod been trained to call the analyst in situations like this He reiterated his buy stance Double buy On my insistence we put almost $20 million of client money into the stock within an hour The next day it fell another 50 per cent on
bad newsThere is nothing more
painful than a loss but you never forget the first
one It immedi-ately forced me to reconsider every-thing I thought I
knew From that day on I vowed to never trust anotherrsquos opin-ion and find a better
way through the market minefieldIrsquove now spent 15 years
reassessing common
wisdom about stock selection No stone has gone unturned in the quest to understand the behav-ioural flaws that lead to poor decision making But there is one finding that crops up again and again in all the research that hurts stock market investors most We as investors are suckers for stories
A 1990rsquos study of 60000 private investor broker-age accounts by Kumar and Goetzmann found that 70 per cent of portfolios held less than four stocks
The stocks held all tended to be in the same sector highly correlated and risky Think internet stocks in the 1990s China in the 2000s or resource stocks more recently The grand theme sucks everyone in The outcome rarely dif-fers Kumar and Goetzmann showed that across these
60000 accounts the average underperformance was of the order of 4 per cent annually
This massive failing across private inves-tor portfolios is repeated in nearly every market cycle and is bound to happen again in this one Benjamin Graham the great father of value invest-ing and tutor of Warren Buffett once wrote
lsquoIn the short run the stock market is a vot-ing machine but in the long run it is a weighing machinersquo
ADVERTISING FEATURE
IN THE SHORT RUN THE STOCK MARKET IS A VOTING MACHINE BUT IN THE LONG RUN IT IS A WEIGHING MACHINEBenjamin Graham
What he meant was that while stories may drive stocks in the short run statistics drive stocks in the long run When statistics reassert them-selves it can cause huge damage to investors punting their portfolios on stories
It doesnrsquot take much to learn how basic statis-tics can guide your portfolio into winning stock selections though very few seem to understand how to do it Benjamin Graham as his life wore on gradually came to the conclusion that building portfolios according to rules-based processes was a far more appropriate methodology for the typi-cal investor
lsquoTry to buy groups of stocks that meet some sim-ple criterion for being undervalued ndash regardless of
the industry and with very little attention to the indi-vidual company It seems too good to be true but all I can tell you after 60 years of experience is it seems to stand up under any of the tests I would make uprsquo
My time is now dedi-cated to helping investors practice exactly what Benjamin Graham and many other investment luminaries have preached rules-based investing For the majority itrsquos a better process and leads to bet-ter outcomes Our work at
Stockopediacom where we crunch fundamental and technical data in order to model and track the investment processes of the great investors bears this out
Portfolios composed with stocks showing the right statistical mix of value quality and momen-tum have significantly outperformed Rules-based investing beats the market But more importantly it helps promote the emotional detachment needed to stop investors from beating themselves
Irsquoll never buy a stock on a punt or an analystrsquos tip again Perhaps neither should you
For a two week free trial and pound50 discount to Stockopedia UK Premium CLICK HERE
TANK MCM A N U F A C T U R E M O V E M E N T 1 9 0 4 M C
SINCE THE CREATION OF THE FIRST TANK WATCH IN 1917 THE TANK COLLECTION HAS CONTINUED
TO BREAK NEW GROUND THE INCREDIBLY REFINED AESTHETICS OF THE NEW TANK MC WATCH ARE FITTED
WITH THE CARTIER MANUFACTURE MOVEMENT 1904 MC ESTABLISHED IN 1847 CARTIER CREATES
EXCEPTIONAL WATCHES THAT COMBINE DARING DESIGN AND WATCHMAKING SAVOIR-FAIRE
EXPLORE AND SHOP WWWCARTIERCOUK - (020) 3147 4850
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Inside
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TO THE CONNOISSEUR section of Inspired a showcase for the finer things in life for those who truly appreciate them
Enjoying the fruits of your labour away from the relentless demands of our age poses its own challenges and quandaries Would a tropical idyll restore your ebbing energy levels Might a break based around hair-raising activities revive them even more effectively Perhaps reawakening a dormant passion for fine wines or luxury cars would be the most enjoyable reward for your industry
A luxury tropical holiday is probably near the top of most peoplersquos wish lists We take a look at some of the most tantalising options
The arrival of BMWrsquos new super coupe is featured on page 50 BMW aficionados and petrolheads alike are certain to be won over by its head-turning looks and mouthwatering specs
Gems come under the microscope on page 53 A rare coloured diamond can be a joy as well an appreciating asset
Wine is on the menu on page 54 where we explore the charms of Argentinian Malbec
Watches are often treasured objects and the best can turn out to be shrewd investments We look at the secondary watch market and the growth of online retailing on page 58 Enjoy
Welcome
40 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
FIVE TOP PRIVATE ISLAND RETREATSIslandFantasy
Top-rated resorts and hotels offer a variety of temptations and services to impress even the most discerning tastes but there is no better way to escape the rigours and
stresses of daily life than cutting off from the outside world while still enjoying lavish service
in the pinnacle of all resorts the private islandThere are thousands of small islands around
the world but only a few have chosen to cater to the most discriminating travellers seeking a rarified yet perfect world of quiet and relaxed luxury We look at five of the worldrsquos top private islands destinations where your holiday is certain to be an exceptional experience
TRAVEL
Necker Island is owned by Sir Richard Branson and guests stay in his home The island has become a popular des-tination for some of the worldrsquos most prominent figures as a hideaway from lifersquos stresses and strains
Because Necker Island is a resi-dence and not a resort guests who rent the island are treated as owners and catered for in a unique way
The74-acre island is fringed with beautiful white beaches and surrounded by turquoise waters and coral reefs It boasts every resort-type amenity guests can spend their days being pampered in the spa explor-ing underwater reefs in a submarine lounging by the pool bar or swimming in one of the worldrsquos most elab-orate private pools
Haute cuisine is a highlight for most guests ndash rates are fully inclusive of all food and drink A team of chefs creates bespoke menus featuring anything from lobster and caviar to a Sunday roast And because Necker is a home first and a resort second guests decide whether dining will be formal or informal inside or outside themed or traditional
The bar is stocked with international wines top-quality spirits and beers and a world renowned house champagne while special orders can be shipped in at no extra charge ndash unless an item is particularly rare Every service and amenity is available around the clock and guests are encouraged to treat Necker as their own home
As youLike it
NECKER ISLAND
42 March 2014 | inspired
Unalloyed luxury and an impressive range of amenities make Necker one of the most desirable island destinations in the world
The Jumby Bay resort which is only accessible by boat from Antigua is a Caribbean hideaway owned by Rosewood Resorts It is perfect for those seeking either relaxation or spirited adventure
You can rent the island resort entirely for your stay or simply take a room Those opt-ing for exclusive use of the island will have the resortrsquos two pools three tennis courts fitness centre croquet field and putting green to themselves
A wide range of water sports are available and guests can indulge in as much adventure or relaxation as they want during their stay The resort is ideal for large family
reunions or corporate retreats ndash 40 guest rooms and suites are available on the island
Executive chef Sylvain Hervochon celebrates gastron-omy ndash and mixology (cocktail making) ndash with casual elegance by creating Caribbean-style dishes inspired by fresh local ingredients and incorporating international influences
Jumby Bayrsquos rates start at pound150000 for four nights based on double occupancy between May and December Visit wwwrosewoodhotelscomenjumby-bay-antigua for further information
Fine BalanceCaribbean ambiance international sophistication and adventurous activities make Jumby Bay a compelling choice
JUMBY BAY
Just laze by the pool or venture beyond to dive in the turquoise waters of the South Pacific among stunning reefs and a dazzling array of marine creatures
Isle of PlentyT
he private island of Laucala in the South Pacific is a 3500-acre site in a picturesque rainforest-laced land-scape Enchanting deserted beaches nestle among coconut plantations organic farms and lush green vol-canic mountains
The resort offers an outstanding level of refined lux-ury as well as a compelling collection of sporting and cultural activities diving among iridescent marine life in the warm turquoise waters guided rainforest tours horse riding surfing and golfing on the 18-hole cham-pionship course The island is a superb choice for an escape from civilization whether you want an adven-ture in the wild or simply to relax in one of Laucalarsquos five restaurants and bars
Rates are available on request Visit wwwlaucalacom for further details
TRAVEL
LAUCALA ISLAND
inspired | March 2014 4544 March 2014 | inspired
Lush green surroundings sensitive development and beautiful beaches help Laucala island conjure up a complete South Seas experience
Isle of Plenty
inspired | March 2014 4544 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
inspired | March 2014 4746 March 2014 | inspired
Slow LaneSlow
Pulau Joyo is a seductively serene environment of pristine beaches surrounded by clear blue sea in Indonesiarsquos Riau Archipelago Accessible from Singapore or Bintan Pulau Joyo is a true castaway island offering every resort luxury
amid untouched natural beauty Pulau Joyo is famous for its remarkable sunsets and
brightly star-lit sky The resort can host 28 guests and 20 staff are on hand to cater to their every need Guests stay in open driftwood lsquopalacesrsquo that lsquoallow the sea inrsquoDespite its desert island appeal Pulau Joyo offers every modern convenience a range of adrenaline boosting activities and more relaxing options such as spa treatments and massages
The resortrsquos cuisine focuses on western and Indonesian dishes Meals are usually served buffet style and feature grilled fish squid prawns beef and chicken as well as many curry dishes Side dishes include fresh garden salads pasta salads boiled or steamed leafy greens and grilled aubergine (an island favourite) Prawn and tofu kebabs appear from time to time as does satay The chef will often provide a selection of freshly picked fruit and homemade cakes for dessert Itrsquos worth noting that the management will not serve pork or shellfish on this private island
Pulau Joyo may not be as refined as some islands but itrsquos an excellent choice for those who want a more casual laidback island experience that replicates the castaway experience like perhaps no other
Rates start at pound1913 a night More information is available at wwwpulau-joyocom
Wannabe castaways may find Pulau Joyorsquos purer simpler take on the luxury island experience more to their taste
PULAU JOYO
inspired | March 2014 4746 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
In the Fijian island paradise of Dolphin Island a small army of staff await to meet guestsrsquo every need On arriving ndash by boat helicopter or float plane ndash visitors are invariably struck by the beauty of the island and the luxuri-ous accommodation that awaits them amid 14-acres of lush tropical gardens
Three traditional palm-thatched bures individually designed by world renowned interior designer Virginia Fisher sit in an elevated position around the resortrsquos infinity pool
Guests are brought fresh tropical fish to choose each day that are cooked to perfec-
tion within hours of leaving the water The culinary focus is on
organic produce and ingredi-ents unique to Fijian cuisine but meals are tailored to guestsrsquo personal tastes Papayas man-goes bananas and pineapples
are plentiful throughout the day When it comes to recreation the
14-acre island is an expansive play-ground offering a diverse range of watersports as well as diving opportunities on Fijirsquos coral reefs
Rates start at pound720 a night More information is avail-able at wwwdolphinislandfijicom
Fijian Paean
Traditional features modern comforts and excellent facilities make for a harmonious whole on this Fijian island
DOLPHIN ISLAND
48 March 2014 | inspired
Pictured slightly larger than actual size
Big Pilotrsquos Watch Ref 5009
Your wrist never felt this big before The
case of the top model in the IWC Pilotrsquos
Watch range is a gigantic 462 mm in diashy
meter And the technology inside it is
even more impressive the largest IWCshy
manufactured automatic movement with
its Pellaton winding system is protected
against strong magnetic fields by a softshy
iron inner case And needless to say enshy
vious glances iwc engineered for men
Mechanical IWCshymanufactured movement Pellaton
automatic winding system 7shyday power reserve
with display (figure) Date display Softshyiron inner
case for protection against magnetic fields
Antireflective sapphire glass Watershyresistant 6 bar
Stainless steel
IWC Schaffhausen Switzerland iwccom The worldrsquos finest timepieces are exclusively available from selected watch specialists
For an illustrated catalogue or list of nationwide concessionaires please contact IWC UK Tel 0845 337 1868 Eshymail infoshyukiwccom
CARS
MunichLegend
50 March 2014 | inspired
BMW fanatics can open their eyes ndash the M4 has arrived
Most BMW aficionados are proba-bly pretty sad to see production of the M3 coupe ndash quite possibly the companyrsquos most noteworthy and celebrated model ndash end after almost 30 years Ever since the first wide-body E30 M3 saw the
light of day in 1985 drivers have loved the sporty coupe for its incredible balance intoxicating power and of course solid build quality
The model never got stale in all that time and always remained the poster child for the M division so itrsquos a lit-tle weird that BMW has apparently decided to axe it In truth though they havenrsquot really dropped the M3 The M3 sedan will continue to be produced in 2014 so all
is not lost Moreover BMW seems to be adopting a pat-tern of giving its sedans odd-numbered titles only and its coupes even-numbered titles only so the 4-Series and especially the M4 concept that debuted at Pebble Beach Monterey California will fill the gap left by the M3 Many people have been awaiting the new super coupe with great expectancy but can it fill in for the M3
The journalists who swarmed over the M4 concept at Pebble Beach were obviously much more interested in it than the somewhat predictable 428i that was also there Finished in an eye-catching colour called Aurum Dust (which actually looks a lot like the old M3rsquos Phoenix Yellow colour) the car presented in California may be a concept but typically BMW M cars donrsquot change much before they finally hit the showroom
MunichLegend
inspired | March 2014 51
CARS
52 March 2014 | inspired
From front to back the bodywork is manifestly differ-ent and much more aggressive looking than a standard 4-Series car It really looks to pretty much pick up where the E92E93 M3 coupe left off especially with its undeniably cool domed hood Wide wheel arches big wheels wrapped in low-profile tyres more than enough M badges and a well-executed double-bubble roof make the already underwhelming existing 4-Series coupe look even more pedestrian
Power for the new M4 is likely to come from a three-litre twin-turbo straight-six engine While the horsepower probably wonrsquot differ much from the M3rsquos old 4-litre V-8 it will generate more than 100lbft more in torque almost 400 in total With the M4 being a lighter 3300lb in weight the M4 promises to be an excit-ing worthy car A proper six-speed manual may be in the mix alongside the now obligatory dual clutch and paddles option
The best way to look at the M4 however it ends up is not as a new car but as a new and improved M3 thatrsquos just getting a new name The decision to rename the coupe is a strange one but thankfully BMW apparently felt the 3-Series coupe had made such an identity for itself that a new model was needed albeit in a slightly different incarnation
With BMW embarking on some new-ageish ideas such as its 1-Series ActiveE and the soon-to-arrive lsquoirsquo range of cars itrsquos nice to see the company also stick to classics such as the heart-stopping sports coupe even if the latest model does come with a new name
Seductive curves and racier performance make the BMW M4 a more than acceptable replacement for the M3 super coupe
SparklingForm Coloured diamonds are making their mark
One of the main factors that deter-mines the value of what we ordinarily think of as diamonds is their purity the degree to which col-our is absent in the gem However with coloured diamonds the extent to which they are saturated with
colour is a principal determinant of their valueColoured diamonds come in 12 basic colours more
than 90 secondary hues and nine intensity levels The depth of their colour is what really differentiates these diamonds from their colourless counterparts
Natural coloured diamonds are 10000 times rarer than typical colourless diamonds one of several rea-sons why they are treasured by the rich and famous yet remain unknown to most other people ndash despite hav-ing been around for centuries
Of course some colours are rarer than others Red violet and purple stones are as rare as the proverbial hensrsquo teeth while green and blue are also rare The most popular colours are pink and yellow (or canary) They also come in white grey orange black and lsquochame-leonrsquo form
A pinkie ring encrusted with a large coloured dia-mond has become a status symbol for men in Asia That little stone is an unregistered asset that could quickly be sold for millions of dollars should the need arise
Coloured diamonds are durable and never lose their sparkle or lustre so they are assets that can be enjoyed every day unlike stocks or bonds And they have proved to be fantastic investments having steadily appreciated in price with relatively little volatility for more than a decade They even held their own during the most recent financial crisis
Coloured diamonds are auctioned by reputable
auction houses such a Sothebyrsquos and Christiersquos where prices for large unique pink red blue or yellow stones can reach in excess of $2 million (pound12 million) a carat and other stones regularly sell for $1 million a carat
They are often bought by high-net-worth individu-als as an insurance policy Instead of stashing cash in undeclared bank accounts and potentially incurring the wrath of the authorities the wealthy can purchase some loose yellow diamonds to secure their future
Clearly coloured diamonds are much more than a magnificent indulgence
GEMS
inspired | March 2014 53PB March 2014 | inspired
WINE
Make the most of the deeply
satisfying Malbec wines emerging from Argentina
and perhaps even enjoy a return on a shrewd
investment says Ewan Lacey
Finding a red wine to enjoy in spring is a delicate balancing act The shock of seeing sunlight after a dark winter fosters in us a desire to drink some-thing refreshing while the still-cool temperatures demand something with comforting depth
Increasingly Malbec wines particularly those from Argentina provide a perfect solution to this quandary And while there are plenty of delicious wines for infor-mal occasions what is most interesting is the emergence of finer Malbec wines Some are so good they may well have ageing potential raising the intriguing possibility that the wine may one day become collectable
Malbec is the most popular wine among those aged 25-34 and is now becoming a fixture on most restaurant wine lists There are several reasons for its success the word Malbec is easy to pronounce the wine goes well with red meat the Malbec grape can be turned into wines that are both relatively easy to drink and packed with flavour and decent wines are available at reason-able prices Malbec is deep fruity and charming and it delivers instant pleasure ndash claret on a motorbike
The Malbec grape originated in France and it remains one of the permitted varieties used to make Bordeaux However it has gained prominence through the work of the post-junta Argentine wine industry
I recently had the pleasure of tasting some very fine Malbecs with Laura Catena managing director at the Catena Zapata winery and president of the International Wine and Spirit Competition She opened my
Mendoza Marvels
inspired | March 2014 55
WINE
eyes to the potential of this grape variety when handled with care
Laurarsquos family business makes a range of wines but the wine that truly astonished me was the Nicasia Vineyard Malbec 2006 The wine is perfumed with floral and fruit notes and it is smooth and soft at first Like all great wines it has many layers of flavour warm bursts of cherry and black-currant cede centre stage to deeper darker caramel and mocha notes and a touch of spice Therersquos an amazing depth of flavour and the finish is long and lingering Whatrsquos more at nearly eight years old it still has a slight purple tinge and tastes extremely fresh There is every indication that it will age beautifully for at least another decade
The winersquos character is heavily influenced by the alti-tude the grapes used to make it are grown at (1180m
above sea level) At this elevation the grapes ripen in bright sun but lsquorelaxrsquo during the cool evenings The fact that the wine is made in tiny quantities (eight barrels only) means every care can be taken during the winemak-ing process to ensure the wine is allowed to show its grown-up side The cost per bot-tle of pound70 is not insubstantial but neither is the wine
We cannot know whether these wines will ever become investments in the way the wines of Bordeaux have Whatrsquos cer-tain is that Malbec wines have a very rare quality a balance of finesse and power that
can delight wine lovers and linger in their memories
Ewan Lacey is a leading wine expert and general manager of the International Wine and Spirit Competition He has appeared on BBC television and radio as well as Channel 4 and written for the national press
Laura Catena is managing director at the Catena Zapata winery (above)
THE INTERNATIONAL WINE AND SPIRIT COMPETITIONThe International Wine and Spirit Competition has been the premier drinks competition in the world for 45 years Each year it receives and reviews thousands of wines and spirits and presents qual-ity awards to producers
More than anything the IWSC exists to help
people make better deci-sions particularly when buying wines and spirits An IWSC award on a bot-tle of wine is a guarantee
of quality backed not only by a rigorous and strin-gent judging process but also by the skill of the judges who are drawn from the ranks of masters of wine master distill-ers industry leaders and commentators
Each year the IWSC honours a leading figure
in the drinks industry with the presidency of the competition The current president is Laura Catena who succeeds a nota-ble line of predecessors including Prince Robert of Luxembourg winemakers Piero Antinori and Warren Winiarski and Baroness Philippine de Rothschild
56 March 2014 | inspired
LUXURY WATCHES
Time is preciousA
t a recent watch auc-tion in Geneva at Antiquorum ndash the worldrsquos premiere auc-tion house for modern and vintage time pieces ndash a Patek Philippe
pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon watch emerged as the auctionrsquos top lot and sold for 12 million Swiss francs (pound807000)
Unlike most of the timepieces sold at auctions outside Asia this particular Patek watch ndash the most complicated wristwatch the Swiss watchmaker has ever produced ndash was not a vintage model
That Geneva auction raised intriguing
1284Clocks with weights gears and regulators start to appear mostly with no dial to strike the important moments of daily life
Around 1410The mainspring is devel-oped Combined with the fusee this innovation makes possible the truly portable domestic clock
1492The mechanical watch appears simultaneously in Italy Germany and France
1675Christian Huygens invents the spiral balance spring
for watches significantly improving their accuracy
1704The first watch with jew-els is produced by French watchmaker de Beaufreacute
1714The British parliament offers pound20000 to who-ever can a find a method to determine longitude
1766Parliament publishes the rating results for John Harrisonrsquos H4 marine timekeeper Harrisonrsquos highly accurate marine clock solution to the problem of determining logitude wins him part of the pound20000 prize
1787Pierre-Freacutedeacuteric Ingold is born an important pio-neer in mechanised timepiece production and the use of interchangea-ble parts
1790Jacquet-Droz and Leschot manufactures a watch attached to a strap
1839Vacheron amp Constantin developes a full set of machine tools for manu-facturing its watches
1875Calcium sulphate is the first luminescent sub-stance to be used for numerals and hands
TIMEKEEPING MILESTONES
questions Are modern luxury timepieces every bit as appealing as the vintage watches that typically command top prices at auc-tion And does that Geneva auction tell us anything about the contemporary watch market as a whole
Julien Schaerer Antiquorumrsquos managing director in Geneva says top-quality vintage watches often appreciate in value over the long term But he urges buyers for whom appreciation is an important consideration to be cautious about purchasing contempo-rary watches
lsquoWatch price depreciation is the cost of ownership just as it is with a luxury carrsquo he says lsquoIf the value goes up then
58 March 2014 | inspired
1880The first water- resistant watch incorpo-rating a screwed case is produced by Genevan watchmaker Franccedilois Borgel
1889The first known patent for a wristwatch is filed in Bern Switzerland
1890Dialmaker A Beyeler invents a transfer press for applying numerals and letters to dials
1892Auguste Verneuil in France produces the first synthetic jewels to be used in watchmaking
1904Wens Wilsdorf launches large-scale production of a womenrsquos wristwatch
1924John Harwood files the
first Swiss patent for a self-winding wristwatch with a central oscillating weight
1925The first known wrist-watch with a perpetual calendar is manufactured using a pendant watch movement
1926Rolex creates the Oyster wristwatch with a water-resistant case and crown
1966The first quartz wrist-watch prototype is produced
1969The first quartz watch
with an LED display appears
1978Quartz watches overtake mechanical watches in popularity
2005Creation of the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie Seiko launches the spring drive Kinetic the first self-winding mechanical watch with an electro-magnetic escapement
A Patek Philippe pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon recently sold for pound807000
inspired | March 2014 59
online retailers from the comfort of your homeSince 2006 DM London has quietly estab-
lished a powerful presence for itself in the UK retail watch market with the acquisition of The Watch Hut and The Watch Gallery DM London chairman David Coleridge says the company has capitalised on the increasing willingness of buy-ers to purchase online
lsquoHaving decided that they would like to buy a watch for themselves or someone elsersquo he says lsquopeople start to do their research More often than not this starts online nowadays where they com-pare brands performance and functions
lsquoAs trust in the online marketplace has devel-oped many want to buy online because it is convenient and saves time Shopping online becomes a habit established sites build trust and awareness with customers which gives custom-ers the confidence to buy more expensive itemsrsquo
He adds lsquoOur challenge is to make the online environment as attractive informative and enjoy-able as a high street store Then customers will decide to spend onlinersquo
Coleridge believes a multi-channel approach is the way forward for retailers He says lsquoWithout doubt the future is multi-channel selling ndash a combination of direct selling on the internet and various forms of click and collect ndash combined with beautiful stores on the high street
Over the past few years demand for luxury watches (particularly contemporary models) has spiked sharply in Asia and according to some specialists emerging affluence in the
of course thatrsquos an added benefit However he adds lsquoPrice appreciation is still quite rare with modern watches There is some poten-tial for appreciation but probably only with ultra-limited editions A purchase has to be
seen as a medium- to long-term invest-ment One should buy a timepiece first out of love for the brand or [the watchrsquos] complicationrsquo
The watch brands that offer the greatest assurance of appreci-
ation include Cartier Patek Philippe Rolex Audemars
Piguet A Lange amp Sohne Breguet and Vacheron Constantin All enjoy views from the top of
the watchmaking hierarchy thanks to their longstand-ing histories and well-established brand identities
Relative new-comers to the industry such as Richard Mille and Roger Dubuis have carved out a niche for
themselves with their revolutionary designs and
space-age technologies but it remains to be seen just how well the values of their timepieces will stand up on the secondary market
According to Nathaniel Borgelt a specialist at auction house Sothebyrsquos
some modern watches have already achieved good prices at auction but these (like the Patek Philippe Sky Moon Tourbillon) were highly exclusive models when new
lsquoSome limited edition pieces currently fetch incredible prices at auctionrsquo he says lsquoAnd there is a select group of modern mod-els that could compete with a certain sector of the vintage market based on their brand innovative features such as materials or com-plications and avant-garde designs
Buying these has now become a whole lot easier The luxury watch retailing land-scape is changing and the traditional pattern of physically walking into a luxury salon to buy a watch is gradually being replaced by a trend towards visiting the websites of the big
LUXURY WATCHES
A Lange amp Sohne (above) is a long-standing high-end watchmaker Comparative new-comer Roger Dubuis (right) is forging a strong reputation
inspired | March 2014 PB60 March 2014 | inspired
helpthewatchgallerycom
Hublot ClassiC FusiontHe WatCH Gallery exClusive
The Watch Gallery and Hublot have joined forces to create two very special limited edition watches Both are limited to just 15 pieces worldwide and have been specifically designed to feature The Watch Gallery blue brand colour on the hands and tinted open case back
SelfridgeS OxfOrd StreetWeStfield lOndOnMancheSter exchange Square
wwwthewatchgallerycomhublot-watches
Far East has kept global values strong while other markets around the world continue to recover from recession
Despite the market boost from growing prosperity in Asia there are signs that the market is becoming saturated and that globally the new watch market isnrsquot as robust as some commentators suggest
It may still be a good time to buy but its important to know what you want and what yoursquore buying Modern watchmakers such as Richard Mille Roger Dubuis and Greubel Forsey are producing beautiful timepieces but because of their limited foothold in the market itrsquos difficult to predict their long-term success and desirability They donrsquot yet have the brand power that might ensure the value of their
watches in the secondhand market remains highSuch producers might one day stand eye to
eye with the most desirable brands such as Patek Philippe and Rolex but achieving that kind of parity wonrsquot be easy Collectors looking to invest in timepieces are advised to keep an open mind about modern producers uncertainty is the one aspect of modern luxury watch market most experts tend to agree on
That said the buoyancy in the watch market suggests that plenty of buyers are unconcerned about future values For them itrsquos all about the appreciation of the watch itself People buy watches because they bring them pleasure ndash and say some-thing about who they are
LUXURY WATCHES
Contemporary watches such as those made by Hublot (left) have yet to show they will have the lasting appeal of watches such as Cartierrsquos Rotonde de Cartier Astrocalendaire (right)
inspired | March 2014 63
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Investment Focus Smart Insight from Alliance Trust
Yoursquove spoken Wersquove listened Introducing your free online source of information help and expert opinion
Based on real insight we have launched a new website which focuses on investment education
We believe that we are uniquely positioned to provide this hub of information based on the reputation we have built for trust and transparency over the last 125 years
We will be publishing new content over the next few months focusing on specific themes
bull Investing from scratch
bull Products in a portfolio
bull Global diversification
bull Planning for your familyrsquos future
bull Retirement planning
bull Getting more information
There is a generation of future investors out there who have been brought up in an era of economic turmoil and banking crises which has led to disillusionment and a lack of trust in our sector and the services we offer Despite it being more important than ever for investors to take control of their financial situation this new generation of savers lacks the basic knowledge and understanding to make these very important long-term decisions
Our goal is to develop a useful resource with contributions from third-parties as well as the team at Alliance Trust which offers insights into the various life stages and challenges faced and which can be built upon and adapted to meet savers needs in the long term
Katherine Garrett-Cox CBE Chief Executive Alliance Trust PLC
ldquo
rdquo
There are too many products to make an informed decision
I donrsquot know whereto go for reliable
information
investment-focuscouk
Yoursquoll naturally take a keen interest in the performance of your investments But itrsquos just as important to understand the fees you will be paying as they can have a significant impact on the returns you achieve Knowing what the different types of costs mean and exactly what they consist of can prove rewarding
Itrsquos worth remembering that for every fee you pay (whether it is a or flat fee) your investment needs to grow by at least the same amount just to stay ahead of the game It sounds obvious but itrsquos easy to forget Broadly speaking there are three types of fees fund fees platform fees and fees for a financial adviser You can either invest directly into a fund and pay the associated fees or you can invest via a platform provider (some of which are referred to as wrap platforms others as fund supermarkets) This is a service that lets you manage and review all your investments online in one place As a general rule fund fees are lower when
bought through a platform than if you buy direct You can invest through a platform on either an execution only basis where the investor assesses the risks and makes their own investment decisions or on an advised basis
Learn more about fund platform and financial advice fees
What can you expect to seeOver the next two pages we have provided a sneak preview of just some of the information you will find on the Investment Focus hub We will be updating the site regularly so make sure you sign up for our email alerts to be informed when new topics are published
Everything you need to know about fees
Risk informationInvestments can go down as well as up You may get back less than you originally invested
Alliance Trust does not give advice You need to ensure you understand the risks and commitments before investing If you are unsure you should consult a Financial Adviser before investing
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
For the vast majority of investors the simplest cheapest and most pragmatic way to invest is through pooled funds
Sometimes called managed funds unit trusts or even Open-Ended Investment Companies (or OEICs) these are designed to give ordinary savers access to a diverse range of investments
One of the principles of investment is that diversification helps reduce risk But it is expensive and time consuming for ordinary savers to buy shares of 80 to 100 different companies and keep track of how each is performing
But with a managed fund you are pooling your money with other investors enabling the fund manager to buy a wide range of assets
Investors have the option of buying an actively managed or passive fund With an active fund the manager selects and then monitors these stocks for investors in a bid to maximise returns
In contrast a passive fund will simply follow a stock market index such as the FTSE100 up and down
Having a manager at the helm can be beneficial in a market downturn as they can take a more defensive approach buying shares that are better able to hold their value or in some cases switching to bonds or cash instead to help preserve investorsrsquo capital Managers can also research individual companies and markets and have access to forecasts and economic data that isnrsquot always available to individuals
Learn more about investing for growth or income exploring different investment remits how to invest and keeping track of your investments
Understanding funds Written by Emma Simon Personal Finance Journalist
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
What are Investment TrustsInvestment Trusts are investment vehicles that are listed on the London Stock Exchange and which invest in shares and other securities They pool together investorsrsquo money and delegate responsibility to a professional fund manager to invest in a range of companies from different sectors and regions across the world They were designed for ldquothe investor of moderate meansrdquo
A brief historybull The first Investment Trust was launched by Foreign amp
Colonial in 1868
bull Investment Trusts made it possible for individual investors to gain diversified exposure to global stock markets
bull Many Investment Trusts were formed in Scotland including Alliance Trust PLC which was formed over 125 years ago
A guide to Investment Trusts
Learn more about Investment Trusts their main features and why you should consider them for your portfolio
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
Alliance Trust is an investment and savings business with over 125 year history of building investor wealth We offer our shareholders clients and customers a unique portfolio of products and services These range from a renowned global investment trust to an innovative range of investment strategies and funds and a multi-award winning investment platform where investors can host their ISAs SIPPs or investment accounts Our mission is to provide products and services that help to ensure a more sustainable financial future for generations of investors
Alliance Trust PLC is one of the largest generalist investment trusts by market value listed on the London Stock Exchange and is the parent company to two wholly-owned subsidiaries Alliance Trust Savings and Alliance Trust Investments
The fact that many of us make irrational decisions when it comes to our finances is widely debated and is often referred to as behavioural finance In this short video we talk to Professor Phyl Johnson Consultant Psychologist and Visiting Professor of Executive Education at Strathclyde Business School about why this is and more importantly about what we can do as individuals to avoid it
About us Alliance Trust Investments is a specialist fund management business offering a range of products and services focusing on global equities fixed income and sustainable investing with an emphasis on specialist investment solutions
Alliance Trust Savings is one of the UKrsquos leading financial services providers for private investors offering customers the information and services they need to manage their investments in a way that works for them
Risk informationInvestments can go down as well as up You may get back less than you originally invested
Alliance Trust does not give advice You need to ensure you understand the risks and commitments before investing If you are unsure you should consult a Financial Adviser before investing
Unusually for a company of our size around 70 of shares
in Alliance Trust are held by private
individuals
Nobodyrsquos perfect why we all make irrational decisions
Inflation by ageThis monthrsquos official inflation report showed that the headline rate of inflation fell from 20 to 19 Our Economic Research Team analyse this data on a monthly basis to see how inflation rates affect different age groups In February 2014 the summary highlights include
bull The over 75s and the under 30s face the highest rate of inflation in January at 21
bull The over 75s suffered the highest rate of inflation for the whole of 2013 and this trend continues into 2014 as they spend a larger share of their budgets on basic goods such as gas and electricity
bull The 65 to 74 year olds have faced the lowest rate of inflation in 11 out of the last 12 months thanks to lower inflation in food petrol and package holidays
Learn more about how inflation might affect you
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
You can also sign up for our regular email alerts to be informed when new topics are published by clicking here
Wersquove been bringing clarity to investment for over 125 years
Investing for generationsWhen it comes to investing therersquos no substitute for experience And at Alliance Trust wersquove been helping people invest since 1888 Our new Investment Focus hub is full of online information and expert opinion It aims to provide real insight to help you take control of your investments
Over the next few weeks the hub will build to cover everything from taking your first steps to diversifying worldwide Please remember that investments can go down as well as up and investors may get back less than they originally invested For valuable insight from Alliance Trust visit Investment Focus today
Introducing your free online source of information help and expert opinion
investment-focuscouk
This has been approved as a financial promotion by Alliance Trust Investments Limited for the purpose of Section 21 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 Alliance Trust Investments Limited is a subsidiary of Alliance Trust PLC and is registered in Scotland No SC330862 registered office 8 West Marketgait Dundee DD1 1QN is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority firm reference number 479764 Alliance Trust Investments gives no financial or investment advice
TAX YEAR ENDS APRIL 5TH ndash learn more about
your options now
Change the way you think about stocks reap the rewardsBy Edward Page Croft CEO Stockopediacom
I remember so clearly the day when I picked my first stock for clients Managing $2 billion (pound12 billion) in assets across 100 portfolios for high-net-wealth private investors is no easy task As I was to learn when you are green
and straight out of university itrsquos even harder The stock in question was on the Goldman
Sachs US lsquobuyrsquo list It had the potential to be hot Dotcoms were bubbling It was an internet stock in education services and cheap It seemed like it had everything but we needed to get in One day it fell out of bed Down 50 per cent on no news
Irsquod been trained to call the analyst in situations like this He reiterated his buy stance Double buy On my insistence we put almost $20 million of client money into the stock within an hour The next day it fell another 50 per cent on
bad newsThere is nothing more
painful than a loss but you never forget the first
one It immedi-ately forced me to reconsider every-thing I thought I
knew From that day on I vowed to never trust anotherrsquos opin-ion and find a better
way through the market minefieldIrsquove now spent 15 years
reassessing common
wisdom about stock selection No stone has gone unturned in the quest to understand the behav-ioural flaws that lead to poor decision making But there is one finding that crops up again and again in all the research that hurts stock market investors most We as investors are suckers for stories
A 1990rsquos study of 60000 private investor broker-age accounts by Kumar and Goetzmann found that 70 per cent of portfolios held less than four stocks
The stocks held all tended to be in the same sector highly correlated and risky Think internet stocks in the 1990s China in the 2000s or resource stocks more recently The grand theme sucks everyone in The outcome rarely dif-fers Kumar and Goetzmann showed that across these
60000 accounts the average underperformance was of the order of 4 per cent annually
This massive failing across private inves-tor portfolios is repeated in nearly every market cycle and is bound to happen again in this one Benjamin Graham the great father of value invest-ing and tutor of Warren Buffett once wrote
lsquoIn the short run the stock market is a vot-ing machine but in the long run it is a weighing machinersquo
ADVERTISING FEATURE
IN THE SHORT RUN THE STOCK MARKET IS A VOTING MACHINE BUT IN THE LONG RUN IT IS A WEIGHING MACHINEBenjamin Graham
What he meant was that while stories may drive stocks in the short run statistics drive stocks in the long run When statistics reassert them-selves it can cause huge damage to investors punting their portfolios on stories
It doesnrsquot take much to learn how basic statis-tics can guide your portfolio into winning stock selections though very few seem to understand how to do it Benjamin Graham as his life wore on gradually came to the conclusion that building portfolios according to rules-based processes was a far more appropriate methodology for the typi-cal investor
lsquoTry to buy groups of stocks that meet some sim-ple criterion for being undervalued ndash regardless of
the industry and with very little attention to the indi-vidual company It seems too good to be true but all I can tell you after 60 years of experience is it seems to stand up under any of the tests I would make uprsquo
My time is now dedi-cated to helping investors practice exactly what Benjamin Graham and many other investment luminaries have preached rules-based investing For the majority itrsquos a better process and leads to bet-ter outcomes Our work at
Stockopediacom where we crunch fundamental and technical data in order to model and track the investment processes of the great investors bears this out
Portfolios composed with stocks showing the right statistical mix of value quality and momen-tum have significantly outperformed Rules-based investing beats the market But more importantly it helps promote the emotional detachment needed to stop investors from beating themselves
Irsquoll never buy a stock on a punt or an analystrsquos tip again Perhaps neither should you
For a two week free trial and pound50 discount to Stockopedia UK Premium CLICK HERE
TANK MCM A N U F A C T U R E M O V E M E N T 1 9 0 4 M C
SINCE THE CREATION OF THE FIRST TANK WATCH IN 1917 THE TANK COLLECTION HAS CONTINUED
TO BREAK NEW GROUND THE INCREDIBLY REFINED AESTHETICS OF THE NEW TANK MC WATCH ARE FITTED
WITH THE CARTIER MANUFACTURE MOVEMENT 1904 MC ESTABLISHED IN 1847 CARTIER CREATES
EXCEPTIONAL WATCHES THAT COMBINE DARING DESIGN AND WATCHMAKING SAVOIR-FAIRE
EXPLORE AND SHOP WWWCARTIERCOUK - (020) 3147 4850
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oisseur
Conn
oisseur
Conn
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Conn
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Inside
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oisseur
TO THE CONNOISSEUR section of Inspired a showcase for the finer things in life for those who truly appreciate them
Enjoying the fruits of your labour away from the relentless demands of our age poses its own challenges and quandaries Would a tropical idyll restore your ebbing energy levels Might a break based around hair-raising activities revive them even more effectively Perhaps reawakening a dormant passion for fine wines or luxury cars would be the most enjoyable reward for your industry
A luxury tropical holiday is probably near the top of most peoplersquos wish lists We take a look at some of the most tantalising options
The arrival of BMWrsquos new super coupe is featured on page 50 BMW aficionados and petrolheads alike are certain to be won over by its head-turning looks and mouthwatering specs
Gems come under the microscope on page 53 A rare coloured diamond can be a joy as well an appreciating asset
Wine is on the menu on page 54 where we explore the charms of Argentinian Malbec
Watches are often treasured objects and the best can turn out to be shrewd investments We look at the secondary watch market and the growth of online retailing on page 58 Enjoy
Welcome
40 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
FIVE TOP PRIVATE ISLAND RETREATSIslandFantasy
Top-rated resorts and hotels offer a variety of temptations and services to impress even the most discerning tastes but there is no better way to escape the rigours and
stresses of daily life than cutting off from the outside world while still enjoying lavish service
in the pinnacle of all resorts the private islandThere are thousands of small islands around
the world but only a few have chosen to cater to the most discriminating travellers seeking a rarified yet perfect world of quiet and relaxed luxury We look at five of the worldrsquos top private islands destinations where your holiday is certain to be an exceptional experience
TRAVEL
Necker Island is owned by Sir Richard Branson and guests stay in his home The island has become a popular des-tination for some of the worldrsquos most prominent figures as a hideaway from lifersquos stresses and strains
Because Necker Island is a resi-dence and not a resort guests who rent the island are treated as owners and catered for in a unique way
The74-acre island is fringed with beautiful white beaches and surrounded by turquoise waters and coral reefs It boasts every resort-type amenity guests can spend their days being pampered in the spa explor-ing underwater reefs in a submarine lounging by the pool bar or swimming in one of the worldrsquos most elab-orate private pools
Haute cuisine is a highlight for most guests ndash rates are fully inclusive of all food and drink A team of chefs creates bespoke menus featuring anything from lobster and caviar to a Sunday roast And because Necker is a home first and a resort second guests decide whether dining will be formal or informal inside or outside themed or traditional
The bar is stocked with international wines top-quality spirits and beers and a world renowned house champagne while special orders can be shipped in at no extra charge ndash unless an item is particularly rare Every service and amenity is available around the clock and guests are encouraged to treat Necker as their own home
As youLike it
NECKER ISLAND
42 March 2014 | inspired
Unalloyed luxury and an impressive range of amenities make Necker one of the most desirable island destinations in the world
The Jumby Bay resort which is only accessible by boat from Antigua is a Caribbean hideaway owned by Rosewood Resorts It is perfect for those seeking either relaxation or spirited adventure
You can rent the island resort entirely for your stay or simply take a room Those opt-ing for exclusive use of the island will have the resortrsquos two pools three tennis courts fitness centre croquet field and putting green to themselves
A wide range of water sports are available and guests can indulge in as much adventure or relaxation as they want during their stay The resort is ideal for large family
reunions or corporate retreats ndash 40 guest rooms and suites are available on the island
Executive chef Sylvain Hervochon celebrates gastron-omy ndash and mixology (cocktail making) ndash with casual elegance by creating Caribbean-style dishes inspired by fresh local ingredients and incorporating international influences
Jumby Bayrsquos rates start at pound150000 for four nights based on double occupancy between May and December Visit wwwrosewoodhotelscomenjumby-bay-antigua for further information
Fine BalanceCaribbean ambiance international sophistication and adventurous activities make Jumby Bay a compelling choice
JUMBY BAY
Just laze by the pool or venture beyond to dive in the turquoise waters of the South Pacific among stunning reefs and a dazzling array of marine creatures
Isle of PlentyT
he private island of Laucala in the South Pacific is a 3500-acre site in a picturesque rainforest-laced land-scape Enchanting deserted beaches nestle among coconut plantations organic farms and lush green vol-canic mountains
The resort offers an outstanding level of refined lux-ury as well as a compelling collection of sporting and cultural activities diving among iridescent marine life in the warm turquoise waters guided rainforest tours horse riding surfing and golfing on the 18-hole cham-pionship course The island is a superb choice for an escape from civilization whether you want an adven-ture in the wild or simply to relax in one of Laucalarsquos five restaurants and bars
Rates are available on request Visit wwwlaucalacom for further details
TRAVEL
LAUCALA ISLAND
inspired | March 2014 4544 March 2014 | inspired
Lush green surroundings sensitive development and beautiful beaches help Laucala island conjure up a complete South Seas experience
Isle of Plenty
inspired | March 2014 4544 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
inspired | March 2014 4746 March 2014 | inspired
Slow LaneSlow
Pulau Joyo is a seductively serene environment of pristine beaches surrounded by clear blue sea in Indonesiarsquos Riau Archipelago Accessible from Singapore or Bintan Pulau Joyo is a true castaway island offering every resort luxury
amid untouched natural beauty Pulau Joyo is famous for its remarkable sunsets and
brightly star-lit sky The resort can host 28 guests and 20 staff are on hand to cater to their every need Guests stay in open driftwood lsquopalacesrsquo that lsquoallow the sea inrsquoDespite its desert island appeal Pulau Joyo offers every modern convenience a range of adrenaline boosting activities and more relaxing options such as spa treatments and massages
The resortrsquos cuisine focuses on western and Indonesian dishes Meals are usually served buffet style and feature grilled fish squid prawns beef and chicken as well as many curry dishes Side dishes include fresh garden salads pasta salads boiled or steamed leafy greens and grilled aubergine (an island favourite) Prawn and tofu kebabs appear from time to time as does satay The chef will often provide a selection of freshly picked fruit and homemade cakes for dessert Itrsquos worth noting that the management will not serve pork or shellfish on this private island
Pulau Joyo may not be as refined as some islands but itrsquos an excellent choice for those who want a more casual laidback island experience that replicates the castaway experience like perhaps no other
Rates start at pound1913 a night More information is available at wwwpulau-joyocom
Wannabe castaways may find Pulau Joyorsquos purer simpler take on the luxury island experience more to their taste
PULAU JOYO
inspired | March 2014 4746 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
In the Fijian island paradise of Dolphin Island a small army of staff await to meet guestsrsquo every need On arriving ndash by boat helicopter or float plane ndash visitors are invariably struck by the beauty of the island and the luxuri-ous accommodation that awaits them amid 14-acres of lush tropical gardens
Three traditional palm-thatched bures individually designed by world renowned interior designer Virginia Fisher sit in an elevated position around the resortrsquos infinity pool
Guests are brought fresh tropical fish to choose each day that are cooked to perfec-
tion within hours of leaving the water The culinary focus is on
organic produce and ingredi-ents unique to Fijian cuisine but meals are tailored to guestsrsquo personal tastes Papayas man-goes bananas and pineapples
are plentiful throughout the day When it comes to recreation the
14-acre island is an expansive play-ground offering a diverse range of watersports as well as diving opportunities on Fijirsquos coral reefs
Rates start at pound720 a night More information is avail-able at wwwdolphinislandfijicom
Fijian Paean
Traditional features modern comforts and excellent facilities make for a harmonious whole on this Fijian island
DOLPHIN ISLAND
48 March 2014 | inspired
Pictured slightly larger than actual size
Big Pilotrsquos Watch Ref 5009
Your wrist never felt this big before The
case of the top model in the IWC Pilotrsquos
Watch range is a gigantic 462 mm in diashy
meter And the technology inside it is
even more impressive the largest IWCshy
manufactured automatic movement with
its Pellaton winding system is protected
against strong magnetic fields by a softshy
iron inner case And needless to say enshy
vious glances iwc engineered for men
Mechanical IWCshymanufactured movement Pellaton
automatic winding system 7shyday power reserve
with display (figure) Date display Softshyiron inner
case for protection against magnetic fields
Antireflective sapphire glass Watershyresistant 6 bar
Stainless steel
IWC Schaffhausen Switzerland iwccom The worldrsquos finest timepieces are exclusively available from selected watch specialists
For an illustrated catalogue or list of nationwide concessionaires please contact IWC UK Tel 0845 337 1868 Eshymail infoshyukiwccom
CARS
MunichLegend
50 March 2014 | inspired
BMW fanatics can open their eyes ndash the M4 has arrived
Most BMW aficionados are proba-bly pretty sad to see production of the M3 coupe ndash quite possibly the companyrsquos most noteworthy and celebrated model ndash end after almost 30 years Ever since the first wide-body E30 M3 saw the
light of day in 1985 drivers have loved the sporty coupe for its incredible balance intoxicating power and of course solid build quality
The model never got stale in all that time and always remained the poster child for the M division so itrsquos a lit-tle weird that BMW has apparently decided to axe it In truth though they havenrsquot really dropped the M3 The M3 sedan will continue to be produced in 2014 so all
is not lost Moreover BMW seems to be adopting a pat-tern of giving its sedans odd-numbered titles only and its coupes even-numbered titles only so the 4-Series and especially the M4 concept that debuted at Pebble Beach Monterey California will fill the gap left by the M3 Many people have been awaiting the new super coupe with great expectancy but can it fill in for the M3
The journalists who swarmed over the M4 concept at Pebble Beach were obviously much more interested in it than the somewhat predictable 428i that was also there Finished in an eye-catching colour called Aurum Dust (which actually looks a lot like the old M3rsquos Phoenix Yellow colour) the car presented in California may be a concept but typically BMW M cars donrsquot change much before they finally hit the showroom
MunichLegend
inspired | March 2014 51
CARS
52 March 2014 | inspired
From front to back the bodywork is manifestly differ-ent and much more aggressive looking than a standard 4-Series car It really looks to pretty much pick up where the E92E93 M3 coupe left off especially with its undeniably cool domed hood Wide wheel arches big wheels wrapped in low-profile tyres more than enough M badges and a well-executed double-bubble roof make the already underwhelming existing 4-Series coupe look even more pedestrian
Power for the new M4 is likely to come from a three-litre twin-turbo straight-six engine While the horsepower probably wonrsquot differ much from the M3rsquos old 4-litre V-8 it will generate more than 100lbft more in torque almost 400 in total With the M4 being a lighter 3300lb in weight the M4 promises to be an excit-ing worthy car A proper six-speed manual may be in the mix alongside the now obligatory dual clutch and paddles option
The best way to look at the M4 however it ends up is not as a new car but as a new and improved M3 thatrsquos just getting a new name The decision to rename the coupe is a strange one but thankfully BMW apparently felt the 3-Series coupe had made such an identity for itself that a new model was needed albeit in a slightly different incarnation
With BMW embarking on some new-ageish ideas such as its 1-Series ActiveE and the soon-to-arrive lsquoirsquo range of cars itrsquos nice to see the company also stick to classics such as the heart-stopping sports coupe even if the latest model does come with a new name
Seductive curves and racier performance make the BMW M4 a more than acceptable replacement for the M3 super coupe
SparklingForm Coloured diamonds are making their mark
One of the main factors that deter-mines the value of what we ordinarily think of as diamonds is their purity the degree to which col-our is absent in the gem However with coloured diamonds the extent to which they are saturated with
colour is a principal determinant of their valueColoured diamonds come in 12 basic colours more
than 90 secondary hues and nine intensity levels The depth of their colour is what really differentiates these diamonds from their colourless counterparts
Natural coloured diamonds are 10000 times rarer than typical colourless diamonds one of several rea-sons why they are treasured by the rich and famous yet remain unknown to most other people ndash despite hav-ing been around for centuries
Of course some colours are rarer than others Red violet and purple stones are as rare as the proverbial hensrsquo teeth while green and blue are also rare The most popular colours are pink and yellow (or canary) They also come in white grey orange black and lsquochame-leonrsquo form
A pinkie ring encrusted with a large coloured dia-mond has become a status symbol for men in Asia That little stone is an unregistered asset that could quickly be sold for millions of dollars should the need arise
Coloured diamonds are durable and never lose their sparkle or lustre so they are assets that can be enjoyed every day unlike stocks or bonds And they have proved to be fantastic investments having steadily appreciated in price with relatively little volatility for more than a decade They even held their own during the most recent financial crisis
Coloured diamonds are auctioned by reputable
auction houses such a Sothebyrsquos and Christiersquos where prices for large unique pink red blue or yellow stones can reach in excess of $2 million (pound12 million) a carat and other stones regularly sell for $1 million a carat
They are often bought by high-net-worth individu-als as an insurance policy Instead of stashing cash in undeclared bank accounts and potentially incurring the wrath of the authorities the wealthy can purchase some loose yellow diamonds to secure their future
Clearly coloured diamonds are much more than a magnificent indulgence
GEMS
inspired | March 2014 53PB March 2014 | inspired
WINE
Make the most of the deeply
satisfying Malbec wines emerging from Argentina
and perhaps even enjoy a return on a shrewd
investment says Ewan Lacey
Finding a red wine to enjoy in spring is a delicate balancing act The shock of seeing sunlight after a dark winter fosters in us a desire to drink some-thing refreshing while the still-cool temperatures demand something with comforting depth
Increasingly Malbec wines particularly those from Argentina provide a perfect solution to this quandary And while there are plenty of delicious wines for infor-mal occasions what is most interesting is the emergence of finer Malbec wines Some are so good they may well have ageing potential raising the intriguing possibility that the wine may one day become collectable
Malbec is the most popular wine among those aged 25-34 and is now becoming a fixture on most restaurant wine lists There are several reasons for its success the word Malbec is easy to pronounce the wine goes well with red meat the Malbec grape can be turned into wines that are both relatively easy to drink and packed with flavour and decent wines are available at reason-able prices Malbec is deep fruity and charming and it delivers instant pleasure ndash claret on a motorbike
The Malbec grape originated in France and it remains one of the permitted varieties used to make Bordeaux However it has gained prominence through the work of the post-junta Argentine wine industry
I recently had the pleasure of tasting some very fine Malbecs with Laura Catena managing director at the Catena Zapata winery and president of the International Wine and Spirit Competition She opened my
Mendoza Marvels
inspired | March 2014 55
WINE
eyes to the potential of this grape variety when handled with care
Laurarsquos family business makes a range of wines but the wine that truly astonished me was the Nicasia Vineyard Malbec 2006 The wine is perfumed with floral and fruit notes and it is smooth and soft at first Like all great wines it has many layers of flavour warm bursts of cherry and black-currant cede centre stage to deeper darker caramel and mocha notes and a touch of spice Therersquos an amazing depth of flavour and the finish is long and lingering Whatrsquos more at nearly eight years old it still has a slight purple tinge and tastes extremely fresh There is every indication that it will age beautifully for at least another decade
The winersquos character is heavily influenced by the alti-tude the grapes used to make it are grown at (1180m
above sea level) At this elevation the grapes ripen in bright sun but lsquorelaxrsquo during the cool evenings The fact that the wine is made in tiny quantities (eight barrels only) means every care can be taken during the winemak-ing process to ensure the wine is allowed to show its grown-up side The cost per bot-tle of pound70 is not insubstantial but neither is the wine
We cannot know whether these wines will ever become investments in the way the wines of Bordeaux have Whatrsquos cer-tain is that Malbec wines have a very rare quality a balance of finesse and power that
can delight wine lovers and linger in their memories
Ewan Lacey is a leading wine expert and general manager of the International Wine and Spirit Competition He has appeared on BBC television and radio as well as Channel 4 and written for the national press
Laura Catena is managing director at the Catena Zapata winery (above)
THE INTERNATIONAL WINE AND SPIRIT COMPETITIONThe International Wine and Spirit Competition has been the premier drinks competition in the world for 45 years Each year it receives and reviews thousands of wines and spirits and presents qual-ity awards to producers
More than anything the IWSC exists to help
people make better deci-sions particularly when buying wines and spirits An IWSC award on a bot-tle of wine is a guarantee
of quality backed not only by a rigorous and strin-gent judging process but also by the skill of the judges who are drawn from the ranks of masters of wine master distill-ers industry leaders and commentators
Each year the IWSC honours a leading figure
in the drinks industry with the presidency of the competition The current president is Laura Catena who succeeds a nota-ble line of predecessors including Prince Robert of Luxembourg winemakers Piero Antinori and Warren Winiarski and Baroness Philippine de Rothschild
56 March 2014 | inspired
LUXURY WATCHES
Time is preciousA
t a recent watch auc-tion in Geneva at Antiquorum ndash the worldrsquos premiere auc-tion house for modern and vintage time pieces ndash a Patek Philippe
pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon watch emerged as the auctionrsquos top lot and sold for 12 million Swiss francs (pound807000)
Unlike most of the timepieces sold at auctions outside Asia this particular Patek watch ndash the most complicated wristwatch the Swiss watchmaker has ever produced ndash was not a vintage model
That Geneva auction raised intriguing
1284Clocks with weights gears and regulators start to appear mostly with no dial to strike the important moments of daily life
Around 1410The mainspring is devel-oped Combined with the fusee this innovation makes possible the truly portable domestic clock
1492The mechanical watch appears simultaneously in Italy Germany and France
1675Christian Huygens invents the spiral balance spring
for watches significantly improving their accuracy
1704The first watch with jew-els is produced by French watchmaker de Beaufreacute
1714The British parliament offers pound20000 to who-ever can a find a method to determine longitude
1766Parliament publishes the rating results for John Harrisonrsquos H4 marine timekeeper Harrisonrsquos highly accurate marine clock solution to the problem of determining logitude wins him part of the pound20000 prize
1787Pierre-Freacutedeacuteric Ingold is born an important pio-neer in mechanised timepiece production and the use of interchangea-ble parts
1790Jacquet-Droz and Leschot manufactures a watch attached to a strap
1839Vacheron amp Constantin developes a full set of machine tools for manu-facturing its watches
1875Calcium sulphate is the first luminescent sub-stance to be used for numerals and hands
TIMEKEEPING MILESTONES
questions Are modern luxury timepieces every bit as appealing as the vintage watches that typically command top prices at auc-tion And does that Geneva auction tell us anything about the contemporary watch market as a whole
Julien Schaerer Antiquorumrsquos managing director in Geneva says top-quality vintage watches often appreciate in value over the long term But he urges buyers for whom appreciation is an important consideration to be cautious about purchasing contempo-rary watches
lsquoWatch price depreciation is the cost of ownership just as it is with a luxury carrsquo he says lsquoIf the value goes up then
58 March 2014 | inspired
1880The first water- resistant watch incorpo-rating a screwed case is produced by Genevan watchmaker Franccedilois Borgel
1889The first known patent for a wristwatch is filed in Bern Switzerland
1890Dialmaker A Beyeler invents a transfer press for applying numerals and letters to dials
1892Auguste Verneuil in France produces the first synthetic jewels to be used in watchmaking
1904Wens Wilsdorf launches large-scale production of a womenrsquos wristwatch
1924John Harwood files the
first Swiss patent for a self-winding wristwatch with a central oscillating weight
1925The first known wrist-watch with a perpetual calendar is manufactured using a pendant watch movement
1926Rolex creates the Oyster wristwatch with a water-resistant case and crown
1966The first quartz wrist-watch prototype is produced
1969The first quartz watch
with an LED display appears
1978Quartz watches overtake mechanical watches in popularity
2005Creation of the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie Seiko launches the spring drive Kinetic the first self-winding mechanical watch with an electro-magnetic escapement
A Patek Philippe pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon recently sold for pound807000
inspired | March 2014 59
online retailers from the comfort of your homeSince 2006 DM London has quietly estab-
lished a powerful presence for itself in the UK retail watch market with the acquisition of The Watch Hut and The Watch Gallery DM London chairman David Coleridge says the company has capitalised on the increasing willingness of buy-ers to purchase online
lsquoHaving decided that they would like to buy a watch for themselves or someone elsersquo he says lsquopeople start to do their research More often than not this starts online nowadays where they com-pare brands performance and functions
lsquoAs trust in the online marketplace has devel-oped many want to buy online because it is convenient and saves time Shopping online becomes a habit established sites build trust and awareness with customers which gives custom-ers the confidence to buy more expensive itemsrsquo
He adds lsquoOur challenge is to make the online environment as attractive informative and enjoy-able as a high street store Then customers will decide to spend onlinersquo
Coleridge believes a multi-channel approach is the way forward for retailers He says lsquoWithout doubt the future is multi-channel selling ndash a combination of direct selling on the internet and various forms of click and collect ndash combined with beautiful stores on the high street
Over the past few years demand for luxury watches (particularly contemporary models) has spiked sharply in Asia and according to some specialists emerging affluence in the
of course thatrsquos an added benefit However he adds lsquoPrice appreciation is still quite rare with modern watches There is some poten-tial for appreciation but probably only with ultra-limited editions A purchase has to be
seen as a medium- to long-term invest-ment One should buy a timepiece first out of love for the brand or [the watchrsquos] complicationrsquo
The watch brands that offer the greatest assurance of appreci-
ation include Cartier Patek Philippe Rolex Audemars
Piguet A Lange amp Sohne Breguet and Vacheron Constantin All enjoy views from the top of
the watchmaking hierarchy thanks to their longstand-ing histories and well-established brand identities
Relative new-comers to the industry such as Richard Mille and Roger Dubuis have carved out a niche for
themselves with their revolutionary designs and
space-age technologies but it remains to be seen just how well the values of their timepieces will stand up on the secondary market
According to Nathaniel Borgelt a specialist at auction house Sothebyrsquos
some modern watches have already achieved good prices at auction but these (like the Patek Philippe Sky Moon Tourbillon) were highly exclusive models when new
lsquoSome limited edition pieces currently fetch incredible prices at auctionrsquo he says lsquoAnd there is a select group of modern mod-els that could compete with a certain sector of the vintage market based on their brand innovative features such as materials or com-plications and avant-garde designs
Buying these has now become a whole lot easier The luxury watch retailing land-scape is changing and the traditional pattern of physically walking into a luxury salon to buy a watch is gradually being replaced by a trend towards visiting the websites of the big
LUXURY WATCHES
A Lange amp Sohne (above) is a long-standing high-end watchmaker Comparative new-comer Roger Dubuis (right) is forging a strong reputation
inspired | March 2014 PB60 March 2014 | inspired
helpthewatchgallerycom
Hublot ClassiC FusiontHe WatCH Gallery exClusive
The Watch Gallery and Hublot have joined forces to create two very special limited edition watches Both are limited to just 15 pieces worldwide and have been specifically designed to feature The Watch Gallery blue brand colour on the hands and tinted open case back
SelfridgeS OxfOrd StreetWeStfield lOndOnMancheSter exchange Square
wwwthewatchgallerycomhublot-watches
Far East has kept global values strong while other markets around the world continue to recover from recession
Despite the market boost from growing prosperity in Asia there are signs that the market is becoming saturated and that globally the new watch market isnrsquot as robust as some commentators suggest
It may still be a good time to buy but its important to know what you want and what yoursquore buying Modern watchmakers such as Richard Mille Roger Dubuis and Greubel Forsey are producing beautiful timepieces but because of their limited foothold in the market itrsquos difficult to predict their long-term success and desirability They donrsquot yet have the brand power that might ensure the value of their
watches in the secondhand market remains highSuch producers might one day stand eye to
eye with the most desirable brands such as Patek Philippe and Rolex but achieving that kind of parity wonrsquot be easy Collectors looking to invest in timepieces are advised to keep an open mind about modern producers uncertainty is the one aspect of modern luxury watch market most experts tend to agree on
That said the buoyancy in the watch market suggests that plenty of buyers are unconcerned about future values For them itrsquos all about the appreciation of the watch itself People buy watches because they bring them pleasure ndash and say some-thing about who they are
LUXURY WATCHES
Contemporary watches such as those made by Hublot (left) have yet to show they will have the lasting appeal of watches such as Cartierrsquos Rotonde de Cartier Astrocalendaire (right)
inspired | March 2014 63
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-
Yoursquoll naturally take a keen interest in the performance of your investments But itrsquos just as important to understand the fees you will be paying as they can have a significant impact on the returns you achieve Knowing what the different types of costs mean and exactly what they consist of can prove rewarding
Itrsquos worth remembering that for every fee you pay (whether it is a or flat fee) your investment needs to grow by at least the same amount just to stay ahead of the game It sounds obvious but itrsquos easy to forget Broadly speaking there are three types of fees fund fees platform fees and fees for a financial adviser You can either invest directly into a fund and pay the associated fees or you can invest via a platform provider (some of which are referred to as wrap platforms others as fund supermarkets) This is a service that lets you manage and review all your investments online in one place As a general rule fund fees are lower when
bought through a platform than if you buy direct You can invest through a platform on either an execution only basis where the investor assesses the risks and makes their own investment decisions or on an advised basis
Learn more about fund platform and financial advice fees
What can you expect to seeOver the next two pages we have provided a sneak preview of just some of the information you will find on the Investment Focus hub We will be updating the site regularly so make sure you sign up for our email alerts to be informed when new topics are published
Everything you need to know about fees
Risk informationInvestments can go down as well as up You may get back less than you originally invested
Alliance Trust does not give advice You need to ensure you understand the risks and commitments before investing If you are unsure you should consult a Financial Adviser before investing
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
For the vast majority of investors the simplest cheapest and most pragmatic way to invest is through pooled funds
Sometimes called managed funds unit trusts or even Open-Ended Investment Companies (or OEICs) these are designed to give ordinary savers access to a diverse range of investments
One of the principles of investment is that diversification helps reduce risk But it is expensive and time consuming for ordinary savers to buy shares of 80 to 100 different companies and keep track of how each is performing
But with a managed fund you are pooling your money with other investors enabling the fund manager to buy a wide range of assets
Investors have the option of buying an actively managed or passive fund With an active fund the manager selects and then monitors these stocks for investors in a bid to maximise returns
In contrast a passive fund will simply follow a stock market index such as the FTSE100 up and down
Having a manager at the helm can be beneficial in a market downturn as they can take a more defensive approach buying shares that are better able to hold their value or in some cases switching to bonds or cash instead to help preserve investorsrsquo capital Managers can also research individual companies and markets and have access to forecasts and economic data that isnrsquot always available to individuals
Learn more about investing for growth or income exploring different investment remits how to invest and keeping track of your investments
Understanding funds Written by Emma Simon Personal Finance Journalist
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
What are Investment TrustsInvestment Trusts are investment vehicles that are listed on the London Stock Exchange and which invest in shares and other securities They pool together investorsrsquo money and delegate responsibility to a professional fund manager to invest in a range of companies from different sectors and regions across the world They were designed for ldquothe investor of moderate meansrdquo
A brief historybull The first Investment Trust was launched by Foreign amp
Colonial in 1868
bull Investment Trusts made it possible for individual investors to gain diversified exposure to global stock markets
bull Many Investment Trusts were formed in Scotland including Alliance Trust PLC which was formed over 125 years ago
A guide to Investment Trusts
Learn more about Investment Trusts their main features and why you should consider them for your portfolio
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
Alliance Trust is an investment and savings business with over 125 year history of building investor wealth We offer our shareholders clients and customers a unique portfolio of products and services These range from a renowned global investment trust to an innovative range of investment strategies and funds and a multi-award winning investment platform where investors can host their ISAs SIPPs or investment accounts Our mission is to provide products and services that help to ensure a more sustainable financial future for generations of investors
Alliance Trust PLC is one of the largest generalist investment trusts by market value listed on the London Stock Exchange and is the parent company to two wholly-owned subsidiaries Alliance Trust Savings and Alliance Trust Investments
The fact that many of us make irrational decisions when it comes to our finances is widely debated and is often referred to as behavioural finance In this short video we talk to Professor Phyl Johnson Consultant Psychologist and Visiting Professor of Executive Education at Strathclyde Business School about why this is and more importantly about what we can do as individuals to avoid it
About us Alliance Trust Investments is a specialist fund management business offering a range of products and services focusing on global equities fixed income and sustainable investing with an emphasis on specialist investment solutions
Alliance Trust Savings is one of the UKrsquos leading financial services providers for private investors offering customers the information and services they need to manage their investments in a way that works for them
Risk informationInvestments can go down as well as up You may get back less than you originally invested
Alliance Trust does not give advice You need to ensure you understand the risks and commitments before investing If you are unsure you should consult a Financial Adviser before investing
Unusually for a company of our size around 70 of shares
in Alliance Trust are held by private
individuals
Nobodyrsquos perfect why we all make irrational decisions
Inflation by ageThis monthrsquos official inflation report showed that the headline rate of inflation fell from 20 to 19 Our Economic Research Team analyse this data on a monthly basis to see how inflation rates affect different age groups In February 2014 the summary highlights include
bull The over 75s and the under 30s face the highest rate of inflation in January at 21
bull The over 75s suffered the highest rate of inflation for the whole of 2013 and this trend continues into 2014 as they spend a larger share of their budgets on basic goods such as gas and electricity
bull The 65 to 74 year olds have faced the lowest rate of inflation in 11 out of the last 12 months thanks to lower inflation in food petrol and package holidays
Learn more about how inflation might affect you
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
You can also sign up for our regular email alerts to be informed when new topics are published by clicking here
Wersquove been bringing clarity to investment for over 125 years
Investing for generationsWhen it comes to investing therersquos no substitute for experience And at Alliance Trust wersquove been helping people invest since 1888 Our new Investment Focus hub is full of online information and expert opinion It aims to provide real insight to help you take control of your investments
Over the next few weeks the hub will build to cover everything from taking your first steps to diversifying worldwide Please remember that investments can go down as well as up and investors may get back less than they originally invested For valuable insight from Alliance Trust visit Investment Focus today
Introducing your free online source of information help and expert opinion
investment-focuscouk
This has been approved as a financial promotion by Alliance Trust Investments Limited for the purpose of Section 21 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 Alliance Trust Investments Limited is a subsidiary of Alliance Trust PLC and is registered in Scotland No SC330862 registered office 8 West Marketgait Dundee DD1 1QN is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority firm reference number 479764 Alliance Trust Investments gives no financial or investment advice
TAX YEAR ENDS APRIL 5TH ndash learn more about
your options now
Change the way you think about stocks reap the rewardsBy Edward Page Croft CEO Stockopediacom
I remember so clearly the day when I picked my first stock for clients Managing $2 billion (pound12 billion) in assets across 100 portfolios for high-net-wealth private investors is no easy task As I was to learn when you are green
and straight out of university itrsquos even harder The stock in question was on the Goldman
Sachs US lsquobuyrsquo list It had the potential to be hot Dotcoms were bubbling It was an internet stock in education services and cheap It seemed like it had everything but we needed to get in One day it fell out of bed Down 50 per cent on no news
Irsquod been trained to call the analyst in situations like this He reiterated his buy stance Double buy On my insistence we put almost $20 million of client money into the stock within an hour The next day it fell another 50 per cent on
bad newsThere is nothing more
painful than a loss but you never forget the first
one It immedi-ately forced me to reconsider every-thing I thought I
knew From that day on I vowed to never trust anotherrsquos opin-ion and find a better
way through the market minefieldIrsquove now spent 15 years
reassessing common
wisdom about stock selection No stone has gone unturned in the quest to understand the behav-ioural flaws that lead to poor decision making But there is one finding that crops up again and again in all the research that hurts stock market investors most We as investors are suckers for stories
A 1990rsquos study of 60000 private investor broker-age accounts by Kumar and Goetzmann found that 70 per cent of portfolios held less than four stocks
The stocks held all tended to be in the same sector highly correlated and risky Think internet stocks in the 1990s China in the 2000s or resource stocks more recently The grand theme sucks everyone in The outcome rarely dif-fers Kumar and Goetzmann showed that across these
60000 accounts the average underperformance was of the order of 4 per cent annually
This massive failing across private inves-tor portfolios is repeated in nearly every market cycle and is bound to happen again in this one Benjamin Graham the great father of value invest-ing and tutor of Warren Buffett once wrote
lsquoIn the short run the stock market is a vot-ing machine but in the long run it is a weighing machinersquo
ADVERTISING FEATURE
IN THE SHORT RUN THE STOCK MARKET IS A VOTING MACHINE BUT IN THE LONG RUN IT IS A WEIGHING MACHINEBenjamin Graham
What he meant was that while stories may drive stocks in the short run statistics drive stocks in the long run When statistics reassert them-selves it can cause huge damage to investors punting their portfolios on stories
It doesnrsquot take much to learn how basic statis-tics can guide your portfolio into winning stock selections though very few seem to understand how to do it Benjamin Graham as his life wore on gradually came to the conclusion that building portfolios according to rules-based processes was a far more appropriate methodology for the typi-cal investor
lsquoTry to buy groups of stocks that meet some sim-ple criterion for being undervalued ndash regardless of
the industry and with very little attention to the indi-vidual company It seems too good to be true but all I can tell you after 60 years of experience is it seems to stand up under any of the tests I would make uprsquo
My time is now dedi-cated to helping investors practice exactly what Benjamin Graham and many other investment luminaries have preached rules-based investing For the majority itrsquos a better process and leads to bet-ter outcomes Our work at
Stockopediacom where we crunch fundamental and technical data in order to model and track the investment processes of the great investors bears this out
Portfolios composed with stocks showing the right statistical mix of value quality and momen-tum have significantly outperformed Rules-based investing beats the market But more importantly it helps promote the emotional detachment needed to stop investors from beating themselves
Irsquoll never buy a stock on a punt or an analystrsquos tip again Perhaps neither should you
For a two week free trial and pound50 discount to Stockopedia UK Premium CLICK HERE
TANK MCM A N U F A C T U R E M O V E M E N T 1 9 0 4 M C
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TO BREAK NEW GROUND THE INCREDIBLY REFINED AESTHETICS OF THE NEW TANK MC WATCH ARE FITTED
WITH THE CARTIER MANUFACTURE MOVEMENT 1904 MC ESTABLISHED IN 1847 CARTIER CREATES
EXCEPTIONAL WATCHES THAT COMBINE DARING DESIGN AND WATCHMAKING SAVOIR-FAIRE
EXPLORE AND SHOP WWWCARTIERCOUK - (020) 3147 4850
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Inside
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TO THE CONNOISSEUR section of Inspired a showcase for the finer things in life for those who truly appreciate them
Enjoying the fruits of your labour away from the relentless demands of our age poses its own challenges and quandaries Would a tropical idyll restore your ebbing energy levels Might a break based around hair-raising activities revive them even more effectively Perhaps reawakening a dormant passion for fine wines or luxury cars would be the most enjoyable reward for your industry
A luxury tropical holiday is probably near the top of most peoplersquos wish lists We take a look at some of the most tantalising options
The arrival of BMWrsquos new super coupe is featured on page 50 BMW aficionados and petrolheads alike are certain to be won over by its head-turning looks and mouthwatering specs
Gems come under the microscope on page 53 A rare coloured diamond can be a joy as well an appreciating asset
Wine is on the menu on page 54 where we explore the charms of Argentinian Malbec
Watches are often treasured objects and the best can turn out to be shrewd investments We look at the secondary watch market and the growth of online retailing on page 58 Enjoy
Welcome
40 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
FIVE TOP PRIVATE ISLAND RETREATSIslandFantasy
Top-rated resorts and hotels offer a variety of temptations and services to impress even the most discerning tastes but there is no better way to escape the rigours and
stresses of daily life than cutting off from the outside world while still enjoying lavish service
in the pinnacle of all resorts the private islandThere are thousands of small islands around
the world but only a few have chosen to cater to the most discriminating travellers seeking a rarified yet perfect world of quiet and relaxed luxury We look at five of the worldrsquos top private islands destinations where your holiday is certain to be an exceptional experience
TRAVEL
Necker Island is owned by Sir Richard Branson and guests stay in his home The island has become a popular des-tination for some of the worldrsquos most prominent figures as a hideaway from lifersquos stresses and strains
Because Necker Island is a resi-dence and not a resort guests who rent the island are treated as owners and catered for in a unique way
The74-acre island is fringed with beautiful white beaches and surrounded by turquoise waters and coral reefs It boasts every resort-type amenity guests can spend their days being pampered in the spa explor-ing underwater reefs in a submarine lounging by the pool bar or swimming in one of the worldrsquos most elab-orate private pools
Haute cuisine is a highlight for most guests ndash rates are fully inclusive of all food and drink A team of chefs creates bespoke menus featuring anything from lobster and caviar to a Sunday roast And because Necker is a home first and a resort second guests decide whether dining will be formal or informal inside or outside themed or traditional
The bar is stocked with international wines top-quality spirits and beers and a world renowned house champagne while special orders can be shipped in at no extra charge ndash unless an item is particularly rare Every service and amenity is available around the clock and guests are encouraged to treat Necker as their own home
As youLike it
NECKER ISLAND
42 March 2014 | inspired
Unalloyed luxury and an impressive range of amenities make Necker one of the most desirable island destinations in the world
The Jumby Bay resort which is only accessible by boat from Antigua is a Caribbean hideaway owned by Rosewood Resorts It is perfect for those seeking either relaxation or spirited adventure
You can rent the island resort entirely for your stay or simply take a room Those opt-ing for exclusive use of the island will have the resortrsquos two pools three tennis courts fitness centre croquet field and putting green to themselves
A wide range of water sports are available and guests can indulge in as much adventure or relaxation as they want during their stay The resort is ideal for large family
reunions or corporate retreats ndash 40 guest rooms and suites are available on the island
Executive chef Sylvain Hervochon celebrates gastron-omy ndash and mixology (cocktail making) ndash with casual elegance by creating Caribbean-style dishes inspired by fresh local ingredients and incorporating international influences
Jumby Bayrsquos rates start at pound150000 for four nights based on double occupancy between May and December Visit wwwrosewoodhotelscomenjumby-bay-antigua for further information
Fine BalanceCaribbean ambiance international sophistication and adventurous activities make Jumby Bay a compelling choice
JUMBY BAY
Just laze by the pool or venture beyond to dive in the turquoise waters of the South Pacific among stunning reefs and a dazzling array of marine creatures
Isle of PlentyT
he private island of Laucala in the South Pacific is a 3500-acre site in a picturesque rainforest-laced land-scape Enchanting deserted beaches nestle among coconut plantations organic farms and lush green vol-canic mountains
The resort offers an outstanding level of refined lux-ury as well as a compelling collection of sporting and cultural activities diving among iridescent marine life in the warm turquoise waters guided rainforest tours horse riding surfing and golfing on the 18-hole cham-pionship course The island is a superb choice for an escape from civilization whether you want an adven-ture in the wild or simply to relax in one of Laucalarsquos five restaurants and bars
Rates are available on request Visit wwwlaucalacom for further details
TRAVEL
LAUCALA ISLAND
inspired | March 2014 4544 March 2014 | inspired
Lush green surroundings sensitive development and beautiful beaches help Laucala island conjure up a complete South Seas experience
Isle of Plenty
inspired | March 2014 4544 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
inspired | March 2014 4746 March 2014 | inspired
Slow LaneSlow
Pulau Joyo is a seductively serene environment of pristine beaches surrounded by clear blue sea in Indonesiarsquos Riau Archipelago Accessible from Singapore or Bintan Pulau Joyo is a true castaway island offering every resort luxury
amid untouched natural beauty Pulau Joyo is famous for its remarkable sunsets and
brightly star-lit sky The resort can host 28 guests and 20 staff are on hand to cater to their every need Guests stay in open driftwood lsquopalacesrsquo that lsquoallow the sea inrsquoDespite its desert island appeal Pulau Joyo offers every modern convenience a range of adrenaline boosting activities and more relaxing options such as spa treatments and massages
The resortrsquos cuisine focuses on western and Indonesian dishes Meals are usually served buffet style and feature grilled fish squid prawns beef and chicken as well as many curry dishes Side dishes include fresh garden salads pasta salads boiled or steamed leafy greens and grilled aubergine (an island favourite) Prawn and tofu kebabs appear from time to time as does satay The chef will often provide a selection of freshly picked fruit and homemade cakes for dessert Itrsquos worth noting that the management will not serve pork or shellfish on this private island
Pulau Joyo may not be as refined as some islands but itrsquos an excellent choice for those who want a more casual laidback island experience that replicates the castaway experience like perhaps no other
Rates start at pound1913 a night More information is available at wwwpulau-joyocom
Wannabe castaways may find Pulau Joyorsquos purer simpler take on the luxury island experience more to their taste
PULAU JOYO
inspired | March 2014 4746 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
In the Fijian island paradise of Dolphin Island a small army of staff await to meet guestsrsquo every need On arriving ndash by boat helicopter or float plane ndash visitors are invariably struck by the beauty of the island and the luxuri-ous accommodation that awaits them amid 14-acres of lush tropical gardens
Three traditional palm-thatched bures individually designed by world renowned interior designer Virginia Fisher sit in an elevated position around the resortrsquos infinity pool
Guests are brought fresh tropical fish to choose each day that are cooked to perfec-
tion within hours of leaving the water The culinary focus is on
organic produce and ingredi-ents unique to Fijian cuisine but meals are tailored to guestsrsquo personal tastes Papayas man-goes bananas and pineapples
are plentiful throughout the day When it comes to recreation the
14-acre island is an expansive play-ground offering a diverse range of watersports as well as diving opportunities on Fijirsquos coral reefs
Rates start at pound720 a night More information is avail-able at wwwdolphinislandfijicom
Fijian Paean
Traditional features modern comforts and excellent facilities make for a harmonious whole on this Fijian island
DOLPHIN ISLAND
48 March 2014 | inspired
Pictured slightly larger than actual size
Big Pilotrsquos Watch Ref 5009
Your wrist never felt this big before The
case of the top model in the IWC Pilotrsquos
Watch range is a gigantic 462 mm in diashy
meter And the technology inside it is
even more impressive the largest IWCshy
manufactured automatic movement with
its Pellaton winding system is protected
against strong magnetic fields by a softshy
iron inner case And needless to say enshy
vious glances iwc engineered for men
Mechanical IWCshymanufactured movement Pellaton
automatic winding system 7shyday power reserve
with display (figure) Date display Softshyiron inner
case for protection against magnetic fields
Antireflective sapphire glass Watershyresistant 6 bar
Stainless steel
IWC Schaffhausen Switzerland iwccom The worldrsquos finest timepieces are exclusively available from selected watch specialists
For an illustrated catalogue or list of nationwide concessionaires please contact IWC UK Tel 0845 337 1868 Eshymail infoshyukiwccom
CARS
MunichLegend
50 March 2014 | inspired
BMW fanatics can open their eyes ndash the M4 has arrived
Most BMW aficionados are proba-bly pretty sad to see production of the M3 coupe ndash quite possibly the companyrsquos most noteworthy and celebrated model ndash end after almost 30 years Ever since the first wide-body E30 M3 saw the
light of day in 1985 drivers have loved the sporty coupe for its incredible balance intoxicating power and of course solid build quality
The model never got stale in all that time and always remained the poster child for the M division so itrsquos a lit-tle weird that BMW has apparently decided to axe it In truth though they havenrsquot really dropped the M3 The M3 sedan will continue to be produced in 2014 so all
is not lost Moreover BMW seems to be adopting a pat-tern of giving its sedans odd-numbered titles only and its coupes even-numbered titles only so the 4-Series and especially the M4 concept that debuted at Pebble Beach Monterey California will fill the gap left by the M3 Many people have been awaiting the new super coupe with great expectancy but can it fill in for the M3
The journalists who swarmed over the M4 concept at Pebble Beach were obviously much more interested in it than the somewhat predictable 428i that was also there Finished in an eye-catching colour called Aurum Dust (which actually looks a lot like the old M3rsquos Phoenix Yellow colour) the car presented in California may be a concept but typically BMW M cars donrsquot change much before they finally hit the showroom
MunichLegend
inspired | March 2014 51
CARS
52 March 2014 | inspired
From front to back the bodywork is manifestly differ-ent and much more aggressive looking than a standard 4-Series car It really looks to pretty much pick up where the E92E93 M3 coupe left off especially with its undeniably cool domed hood Wide wheel arches big wheels wrapped in low-profile tyres more than enough M badges and a well-executed double-bubble roof make the already underwhelming existing 4-Series coupe look even more pedestrian
Power for the new M4 is likely to come from a three-litre twin-turbo straight-six engine While the horsepower probably wonrsquot differ much from the M3rsquos old 4-litre V-8 it will generate more than 100lbft more in torque almost 400 in total With the M4 being a lighter 3300lb in weight the M4 promises to be an excit-ing worthy car A proper six-speed manual may be in the mix alongside the now obligatory dual clutch and paddles option
The best way to look at the M4 however it ends up is not as a new car but as a new and improved M3 thatrsquos just getting a new name The decision to rename the coupe is a strange one but thankfully BMW apparently felt the 3-Series coupe had made such an identity for itself that a new model was needed albeit in a slightly different incarnation
With BMW embarking on some new-ageish ideas such as its 1-Series ActiveE and the soon-to-arrive lsquoirsquo range of cars itrsquos nice to see the company also stick to classics such as the heart-stopping sports coupe even if the latest model does come with a new name
Seductive curves and racier performance make the BMW M4 a more than acceptable replacement for the M3 super coupe
SparklingForm Coloured diamonds are making their mark
One of the main factors that deter-mines the value of what we ordinarily think of as diamonds is their purity the degree to which col-our is absent in the gem However with coloured diamonds the extent to which they are saturated with
colour is a principal determinant of their valueColoured diamonds come in 12 basic colours more
than 90 secondary hues and nine intensity levels The depth of their colour is what really differentiates these diamonds from their colourless counterparts
Natural coloured diamonds are 10000 times rarer than typical colourless diamonds one of several rea-sons why they are treasured by the rich and famous yet remain unknown to most other people ndash despite hav-ing been around for centuries
Of course some colours are rarer than others Red violet and purple stones are as rare as the proverbial hensrsquo teeth while green and blue are also rare The most popular colours are pink and yellow (or canary) They also come in white grey orange black and lsquochame-leonrsquo form
A pinkie ring encrusted with a large coloured dia-mond has become a status symbol for men in Asia That little stone is an unregistered asset that could quickly be sold for millions of dollars should the need arise
Coloured diamonds are durable and never lose their sparkle or lustre so they are assets that can be enjoyed every day unlike stocks or bonds And they have proved to be fantastic investments having steadily appreciated in price with relatively little volatility for more than a decade They even held their own during the most recent financial crisis
Coloured diamonds are auctioned by reputable
auction houses such a Sothebyrsquos and Christiersquos where prices for large unique pink red blue or yellow stones can reach in excess of $2 million (pound12 million) a carat and other stones regularly sell for $1 million a carat
They are often bought by high-net-worth individu-als as an insurance policy Instead of stashing cash in undeclared bank accounts and potentially incurring the wrath of the authorities the wealthy can purchase some loose yellow diamonds to secure their future
Clearly coloured diamonds are much more than a magnificent indulgence
GEMS
inspired | March 2014 53PB March 2014 | inspired
WINE
Make the most of the deeply
satisfying Malbec wines emerging from Argentina
and perhaps even enjoy a return on a shrewd
investment says Ewan Lacey
Finding a red wine to enjoy in spring is a delicate balancing act The shock of seeing sunlight after a dark winter fosters in us a desire to drink some-thing refreshing while the still-cool temperatures demand something with comforting depth
Increasingly Malbec wines particularly those from Argentina provide a perfect solution to this quandary And while there are plenty of delicious wines for infor-mal occasions what is most interesting is the emergence of finer Malbec wines Some are so good they may well have ageing potential raising the intriguing possibility that the wine may one day become collectable
Malbec is the most popular wine among those aged 25-34 and is now becoming a fixture on most restaurant wine lists There are several reasons for its success the word Malbec is easy to pronounce the wine goes well with red meat the Malbec grape can be turned into wines that are both relatively easy to drink and packed with flavour and decent wines are available at reason-able prices Malbec is deep fruity and charming and it delivers instant pleasure ndash claret on a motorbike
The Malbec grape originated in France and it remains one of the permitted varieties used to make Bordeaux However it has gained prominence through the work of the post-junta Argentine wine industry
I recently had the pleasure of tasting some very fine Malbecs with Laura Catena managing director at the Catena Zapata winery and president of the International Wine and Spirit Competition She opened my
Mendoza Marvels
inspired | March 2014 55
WINE
eyes to the potential of this grape variety when handled with care
Laurarsquos family business makes a range of wines but the wine that truly astonished me was the Nicasia Vineyard Malbec 2006 The wine is perfumed with floral and fruit notes and it is smooth and soft at first Like all great wines it has many layers of flavour warm bursts of cherry and black-currant cede centre stage to deeper darker caramel and mocha notes and a touch of spice Therersquos an amazing depth of flavour and the finish is long and lingering Whatrsquos more at nearly eight years old it still has a slight purple tinge and tastes extremely fresh There is every indication that it will age beautifully for at least another decade
The winersquos character is heavily influenced by the alti-tude the grapes used to make it are grown at (1180m
above sea level) At this elevation the grapes ripen in bright sun but lsquorelaxrsquo during the cool evenings The fact that the wine is made in tiny quantities (eight barrels only) means every care can be taken during the winemak-ing process to ensure the wine is allowed to show its grown-up side The cost per bot-tle of pound70 is not insubstantial but neither is the wine
We cannot know whether these wines will ever become investments in the way the wines of Bordeaux have Whatrsquos cer-tain is that Malbec wines have a very rare quality a balance of finesse and power that
can delight wine lovers and linger in their memories
Ewan Lacey is a leading wine expert and general manager of the International Wine and Spirit Competition He has appeared on BBC television and radio as well as Channel 4 and written for the national press
Laura Catena is managing director at the Catena Zapata winery (above)
THE INTERNATIONAL WINE AND SPIRIT COMPETITIONThe International Wine and Spirit Competition has been the premier drinks competition in the world for 45 years Each year it receives and reviews thousands of wines and spirits and presents qual-ity awards to producers
More than anything the IWSC exists to help
people make better deci-sions particularly when buying wines and spirits An IWSC award on a bot-tle of wine is a guarantee
of quality backed not only by a rigorous and strin-gent judging process but also by the skill of the judges who are drawn from the ranks of masters of wine master distill-ers industry leaders and commentators
Each year the IWSC honours a leading figure
in the drinks industry with the presidency of the competition The current president is Laura Catena who succeeds a nota-ble line of predecessors including Prince Robert of Luxembourg winemakers Piero Antinori and Warren Winiarski and Baroness Philippine de Rothschild
56 March 2014 | inspired
LUXURY WATCHES
Time is preciousA
t a recent watch auc-tion in Geneva at Antiquorum ndash the worldrsquos premiere auc-tion house for modern and vintage time pieces ndash a Patek Philippe
pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon watch emerged as the auctionrsquos top lot and sold for 12 million Swiss francs (pound807000)
Unlike most of the timepieces sold at auctions outside Asia this particular Patek watch ndash the most complicated wristwatch the Swiss watchmaker has ever produced ndash was not a vintage model
That Geneva auction raised intriguing
1284Clocks with weights gears and regulators start to appear mostly with no dial to strike the important moments of daily life
Around 1410The mainspring is devel-oped Combined with the fusee this innovation makes possible the truly portable domestic clock
1492The mechanical watch appears simultaneously in Italy Germany and France
1675Christian Huygens invents the spiral balance spring
for watches significantly improving their accuracy
1704The first watch with jew-els is produced by French watchmaker de Beaufreacute
1714The British parliament offers pound20000 to who-ever can a find a method to determine longitude
1766Parliament publishes the rating results for John Harrisonrsquos H4 marine timekeeper Harrisonrsquos highly accurate marine clock solution to the problem of determining logitude wins him part of the pound20000 prize
1787Pierre-Freacutedeacuteric Ingold is born an important pio-neer in mechanised timepiece production and the use of interchangea-ble parts
1790Jacquet-Droz and Leschot manufactures a watch attached to a strap
1839Vacheron amp Constantin developes a full set of machine tools for manu-facturing its watches
1875Calcium sulphate is the first luminescent sub-stance to be used for numerals and hands
TIMEKEEPING MILESTONES
questions Are modern luxury timepieces every bit as appealing as the vintage watches that typically command top prices at auc-tion And does that Geneva auction tell us anything about the contemporary watch market as a whole
Julien Schaerer Antiquorumrsquos managing director in Geneva says top-quality vintage watches often appreciate in value over the long term But he urges buyers for whom appreciation is an important consideration to be cautious about purchasing contempo-rary watches
lsquoWatch price depreciation is the cost of ownership just as it is with a luxury carrsquo he says lsquoIf the value goes up then
58 March 2014 | inspired
1880The first water- resistant watch incorpo-rating a screwed case is produced by Genevan watchmaker Franccedilois Borgel
1889The first known patent for a wristwatch is filed in Bern Switzerland
1890Dialmaker A Beyeler invents a transfer press for applying numerals and letters to dials
1892Auguste Verneuil in France produces the first synthetic jewels to be used in watchmaking
1904Wens Wilsdorf launches large-scale production of a womenrsquos wristwatch
1924John Harwood files the
first Swiss patent for a self-winding wristwatch with a central oscillating weight
1925The first known wrist-watch with a perpetual calendar is manufactured using a pendant watch movement
1926Rolex creates the Oyster wristwatch with a water-resistant case and crown
1966The first quartz wrist-watch prototype is produced
1969The first quartz watch
with an LED display appears
1978Quartz watches overtake mechanical watches in popularity
2005Creation of the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie Seiko launches the spring drive Kinetic the first self-winding mechanical watch with an electro-magnetic escapement
A Patek Philippe pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon recently sold for pound807000
inspired | March 2014 59
online retailers from the comfort of your homeSince 2006 DM London has quietly estab-
lished a powerful presence for itself in the UK retail watch market with the acquisition of The Watch Hut and The Watch Gallery DM London chairman David Coleridge says the company has capitalised on the increasing willingness of buy-ers to purchase online
lsquoHaving decided that they would like to buy a watch for themselves or someone elsersquo he says lsquopeople start to do their research More often than not this starts online nowadays where they com-pare brands performance and functions
lsquoAs trust in the online marketplace has devel-oped many want to buy online because it is convenient and saves time Shopping online becomes a habit established sites build trust and awareness with customers which gives custom-ers the confidence to buy more expensive itemsrsquo
He adds lsquoOur challenge is to make the online environment as attractive informative and enjoy-able as a high street store Then customers will decide to spend onlinersquo
Coleridge believes a multi-channel approach is the way forward for retailers He says lsquoWithout doubt the future is multi-channel selling ndash a combination of direct selling on the internet and various forms of click and collect ndash combined with beautiful stores on the high street
Over the past few years demand for luxury watches (particularly contemporary models) has spiked sharply in Asia and according to some specialists emerging affluence in the
of course thatrsquos an added benefit However he adds lsquoPrice appreciation is still quite rare with modern watches There is some poten-tial for appreciation but probably only with ultra-limited editions A purchase has to be
seen as a medium- to long-term invest-ment One should buy a timepiece first out of love for the brand or [the watchrsquos] complicationrsquo
The watch brands that offer the greatest assurance of appreci-
ation include Cartier Patek Philippe Rolex Audemars
Piguet A Lange amp Sohne Breguet and Vacheron Constantin All enjoy views from the top of
the watchmaking hierarchy thanks to their longstand-ing histories and well-established brand identities
Relative new-comers to the industry such as Richard Mille and Roger Dubuis have carved out a niche for
themselves with their revolutionary designs and
space-age technologies but it remains to be seen just how well the values of their timepieces will stand up on the secondary market
According to Nathaniel Borgelt a specialist at auction house Sothebyrsquos
some modern watches have already achieved good prices at auction but these (like the Patek Philippe Sky Moon Tourbillon) were highly exclusive models when new
lsquoSome limited edition pieces currently fetch incredible prices at auctionrsquo he says lsquoAnd there is a select group of modern mod-els that could compete with a certain sector of the vintage market based on their brand innovative features such as materials or com-plications and avant-garde designs
Buying these has now become a whole lot easier The luxury watch retailing land-scape is changing and the traditional pattern of physically walking into a luxury salon to buy a watch is gradually being replaced by a trend towards visiting the websites of the big
LUXURY WATCHES
A Lange amp Sohne (above) is a long-standing high-end watchmaker Comparative new-comer Roger Dubuis (right) is forging a strong reputation
inspired | March 2014 PB60 March 2014 | inspired
helpthewatchgallerycom
Hublot ClassiC FusiontHe WatCH Gallery exClusive
The Watch Gallery and Hublot have joined forces to create two very special limited edition watches Both are limited to just 15 pieces worldwide and have been specifically designed to feature The Watch Gallery blue brand colour on the hands and tinted open case back
SelfridgeS OxfOrd StreetWeStfield lOndOnMancheSter exchange Square
wwwthewatchgallerycomhublot-watches
Far East has kept global values strong while other markets around the world continue to recover from recession
Despite the market boost from growing prosperity in Asia there are signs that the market is becoming saturated and that globally the new watch market isnrsquot as robust as some commentators suggest
It may still be a good time to buy but its important to know what you want and what yoursquore buying Modern watchmakers such as Richard Mille Roger Dubuis and Greubel Forsey are producing beautiful timepieces but because of their limited foothold in the market itrsquos difficult to predict their long-term success and desirability They donrsquot yet have the brand power that might ensure the value of their
watches in the secondhand market remains highSuch producers might one day stand eye to
eye with the most desirable brands such as Patek Philippe and Rolex but achieving that kind of parity wonrsquot be easy Collectors looking to invest in timepieces are advised to keep an open mind about modern producers uncertainty is the one aspect of modern luxury watch market most experts tend to agree on
That said the buoyancy in the watch market suggests that plenty of buyers are unconcerned about future values For them itrsquos all about the appreciation of the watch itself People buy watches because they bring them pleasure ndash and say some-thing about who they are
LUXURY WATCHES
Contemporary watches such as those made by Hublot (left) have yet to show they will have the lasting appeal of watches such as Cartierrsquos Rotonde de Cartier Astrocalendaire (right)
inspired | March 2014 63
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Alliance Trust is an investment and savings business with over 125 year history of building investor wealth We offer our shareholders clients and customers a unique portfolio of products and services These range from a renowned global investment trust to an innovative range of investment strategies and funds and a multi-award winning investment platform where investors can host their ISAs SIPPs or investment accounts Our mission is to provide products and services that help to ensure a more sustainable financial future for generations of investors
Alliance Trust PLC is one of the largest generalist investment trusts by market value listed on the London Stock Exchange and is the parent company to two wholly-owned subsidiaries Alliance Trust Savings and Alliance Trust Investments
The fact that many of us make irrational decisions when it comes to our finances is widely debated and is often referred to as behavioural finance In this short video we talk to Professor Phyl Johnson Consultant Psychologist and Visiting Professor of Executive Education at Strathclyde Business School about why this is and more importantly about what we can do as individuals to avoid it
About us Alliance Trust Investments is a specialist fund management business offering a range of products and services focusing on global equities fixed income and sustainable investing with an emphasis on specialist investment solutions
Alliance Trust Savings is one of the UKrsquos leading financial services providers for private investors offering customers the information and services they need to manage their investments in a way that works for them
Risk informationInvestments can go down as well as up You may get back less than you originally invested
Alliance Trust does not give advice You need to ensure you understand the risks and commitments before investing If you are unsure you should consult a Financial Adviser before investing
Unusually for a company of our size around 70 of shares
in Alliance Trust are held by private
individuals
Nobodyrsquos perfect why we all make irrational decisions
Inflation by ageThis monthrsquos official inflation report showed that the headline rate of inflation fell from 20 to 19 Our Economic Research Team analyse this data on a monthly basis to see how inflation rates affect different age groups In February 2014 the summary highlights include
bull The over 75s and the under 30s face the highest rate of inflation in January at 21
bull The over 75s suffered the highest rate of inflation for the whole of 2013 and this trend continues into 2014 as they spend a larger share of their budgets on basic goods such as gas and electricity
bull The 65 to 74 year olds have faced the lowest rate of inflation in 11 out of the last 12 months thanks to lower inflation in food petrol and package holidays
Learn more about how inflation might affect you
wwwinvestment-focuscouk
You can also sign up for our regular email alerts to be informed when new topics are published by clicking here
Wersquove been bringing clarity to investment for over 125 years
Investing for generationsWhen it comes to investing therersquos no substitute for experience And at Alliance Trust wersquove been helping people invest since 1888 Our new Investment Focus hub is full of online information and expert opinion It aims to provide real insight to help you take control of your investments
Over the next few weeks the hub will build to cover everything from taking your first steps to diversifying worldwide Please remember that investments can go down as well as up and investors may get back less than they originally invested For valuable insight from Alliance Trust visit Investment Focus today
Introducing your free online source of information help and expert opinion
investment-focuscouk
This has been approved as a financial promotion by Alliance Trust Investments Limited for the purpose of Section 21 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 Alliance Trust Investments Limited is a subsidiary of Alliance Trust PLC and is registered in Scotland No SC330862 registered office 8 West Marketgait Dundee DD1 1QN is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority firm reference number 479764 Alliance Trust Investments gives no financial or investment advice
TAX YEAR ENDS APRIL 5TH ndash learn more about
your options now
Change the way you think about stocks reap the rewardsBy Edward Page Croft CEO Stockopediacom
I remember so clearly the day when I picked my first stock for clients Managing $2 billion (pound12 billion) in assets across 100 portfolios for high-net-wealth private investors is no easy task As I was to learn when you are green
and straight out of university itrsquos even harder The stock in question was on the Goldman
Sachs US lsquobuyrsquo list It had the potential to be hot Dotcoms were bubbling It was an internet stock in education services and cheap It seemed like it had everything but we needed to get in One day it fell out of bed Down 50 per cent on no news
Irsquod been trained to call the analyst in situations like this He reiterated his buy stance Double buy On my insistence we put almost $20 million of client money into the stock within an hour The next day it fell another 50 per cent on
bad newsThere is nothing more
painful than a loss but you never forget the first
one It immedi-ately forced me to reconsider every-thing I thought I
knew From that day on I vowed to never trust anotherrsquos opin-ion and find a better
way through the market minefieldIrsquove now spent 15 years
reassessing common
wisdom about stock selection No stone has gone unturned in the quest to understand the behav-ioural flaws that lead to poor decision making But there is one finding that crops up again and again in all the research that hurts stock market investors most We as investors are suckers for stories
A 1990rsquos study of 60000 private investor broker-age accounts by Kumar and Goetzmann found that 70 per cent of portfolios held less than four stocks
The stocks held all tended to be in the same sector highly correlated and risky Think internet stocks in the 1990s China in the 2000s or resource stocks more recently The grand theme sucks everyone in The outcome rarely dif-fers Kumar and Goetzmann showed that across these
60000 accounts the average underperformance was of the order of 4 per cent annually
This massive failing across private inves-tor portfolios is repeated in nearly every market cycle and is bound to happen again in this one Benjamin Graham the great father of value invest-ing and tutor of Warren Buffett once wrote
lsquoIn the short run the stock market is a vot-ing machine but in the long run it is a weighing machinersquo
ADVERTISING FEATURE
IN THE SHORT RUN THE STOCK MARKET IS A VOTING MACHINE BUT IN THE LONG RUN IT IS A WEIGHING MACHINEBenjamin Graham
What he meant was that while stories may drive stocks in the short run statistics drive stocks in the long run When statistics reassert them-selves it can cause huge damage to investors punting their portfolios on stories
It doesnrsquot take much to learn how basic statis-tics can guide your portfolio into winning stock selections though very few seem to understand how to do it Benjamin Graham as his life wore on gradually came to the conclusion that building portfolios according to rules-based processes was a far more appropriate methodology for the typi-cal investor
lsquoTry to buy groups of stocks that meet some sim-ple criterion for being undervalued ndash regardless of
the industry and with very little attention to the indi-vidual company It seems too good to be true but all I can tell you after 60 years of experience is it seems to stand up under any of the tests I would make uprsquo
My time is now dedi-cated to helping investors practice exactly what Benjamin Graham and many other investment luminaries have preached rules-based investing For the majority itrsquos a better process and leads to bet-ter outcomes Our work at
Stockopediacom where we crunch fundamental and technical data in order to model and track the investment processes of the great investors bears this out
Portfolios composed with stocks showing the right statistical mix of value quality and momen-tum have significantly outperformed Rules-based investing beats the market But more importantly it helps promote the emotional detachment needed to stop investors from beating themselves
Irsquoll never buy a stock on a punt or an analystrsquos tip again Perhaps neither should you
For a two week free trial and pound50 discount to Stockopedia UK Premium CLICK HERE
TANK MCM A N U F A C T U R E M O V E M E N T 1 9 0 4 M C
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WITH THE CARTIER MANUFACTURE MOVEMENT 1904 MC ESTABLISHED IN 1847 CARTIER CREATES
EXCEPTIONAL WATCHES THAT COMBINE DARING DESIGN AND WATCHMAKING SAVOIR-FAIRE
EXPLORE AND SHOP WWWCARTIERCOUK - (020) 3147 4850
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TO THE CONNOISSEUR section of Inspired a showcase for the finer things in life for those who truly appreciate them
Enjoying the fruits of your labour away from the relentless demands of our age poses its own challenges and quandaries Would a tropical idyll restore your ebbing energy levels Might a break based around hair-raising activities revive them even more effectively Perhaps reawakening a dormant passion for fine wines or luxury cars would be the most enjoyable reward for your industry
A luxury tropical holiday is probably near the top of most peoplersquos wish lists We take a look at some of the most tantalising options
The arrival of BMWrsquos new super coupe is featured on page 50 BMW aficionados and petrolheads alike are certain to be won over by its head-turning looks and mouthwatering specs
Gems come under the microscope on page 53 A rare coloured diamond can be a joy as well an appreciating asset
Wine is on the menu on page 54 where we explore the charms of Argentinian Malbec
Watches are often treasured objects and the best can turn out to be shrewd investments We look at the secondary watch market and the growth of online retailing on page 58 Enjoy
Welcome
40 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
FIVE TOP PRIVATE ISLAND RETREATSIslandFantasy
Top-rated resorts and hotels offer a variety of temptations and services to impress even the most discerning tastes but there is no better way to escape the rigours and
stresses of daily life than cutting off from the outside world while still enjoying lavish service
in the pinnacle of all resorts the private islandThere are thousands of small islands around
the world but only a few have chosen to cater to the most discriminating travellers seeking a rarified yet perfect world of quiet and relaxed luxury We look at five of the worldrsquos top private islands destinations where your holiday is certain to be an exceptional experience
TRAVEL
Necker Island is owned by Sir Richard Branson and guests stay in his home The island has become a popular des-tination for some of the worldrsquos most prominent figures as a hideaway from lifersquos stresses and strains
Because Necker Island is a resi-dence and not a resort guests who rent the island are treated as owners and catered for in a unique way
The74-acre island is fringed with beautiful white beaches and surrounded by turquoise waters and coral reefs It boasts every resort-type amenity guests can spend their days being pampered in the spa explor-ing underwater reefs in a submarine lounging by the pool bar or swimming in one of the worldrsquos most elab-orate private pools
Haute cuisine is a highlight for most guests ndash rates are fully inclusive of all food and drink A team of chefs creates bespoke menus featuring anything from lobster and caviar to a Sunday roast And because Necker is a home first and a resort second guests decide whether dining will be formal or informal inside or outside themed or traditional
The bar is stocked with international wines top-quality spirits and beers and a world renowned house champagne while special orders can be shipped in at no extra charge ndash unless an item is particularly rare Every service and amenity is available around the clock and guests are encouraged to treat Necker as their own home
As youLike it
NECKER ISLAND
42 March 2014 | inspired
Unalloyed luxury and an impressive range of amenities make Necker one of the most desirable island destinations in the world
The Jumby Bay resort which is only accessible by boat from Antigua is a Caribbean hideaway owned by Rosewood Resorts It is perfect for those seeking either relaxation or spirited adventure
You can rent the island resort entirely for your stay or simply take a room Those opt-ing for exclusive use of the island will have the resortrsquos two pools three tennis courts fitness centre croquet field and putting green to themselves
A wide range of water sports are available and guests can indulge in as much adventure or relaxation as they want during their stay The resort is ideal for large family
reunions or corporate retreats ndash 40 guest rooms and suites are available on the island
Executive chef Sylvain Hervochon celebrates gastron-omy ndash and mixology (cocktail making) ndash with casual elegance by creating Caribbean-style dishes inspired by fresh local ingredients and incorporating international influences
Jumby Bayrsquos rates start at pound150000 for four nights based on double occupancy between May and December Visit wwwrosewoodhotelscomenjumby-bay-antigua for further information
Fine BalanceCaribbean ambiance international sophistication and adventurous activities make Jumby Bay a compelling choice
JUMBY BAY
Just laze by the pool or venture beyond to dive in the turquoise waters of the South Pacific among stunning reefs and a dazzling array of marine creatures
Isle of PlentyT
he private island of Laucala in the South Pacific is a 3500-acre site in a picturesque rainforest-laced land-scape Enchanting deserted beaches nestle among coconut plantations organic farms and lush green vol-canic mountains
The resort offers an outstanding level of refined lux-ury as well as a compelling collection of sporting and cultural activities diving among iridescent marine life in the warm turquoise waters guided rainforest tours horse riding surfing and golfing on the 18-hole cham-pionship course The island is a superb choice for an escape from civilization whether you want an adven-ture in the wild or simply to relax in one of Laucalarsquos five restaurants and bars
Rates are available on request Visit wwwlaucalacom for further details
TRAVEL
LAUCALA ISLAND
inspired | March 2014 4544 March 2014 | inspired
Lush green surroundings sensitive development and beautiful beaches help Laucala island conjure up a complete South Seas experience
Isle of Plenty
inspired | March 2014 4544 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
inspired | March 2014 4746 March 2014 | inspired
Slow LaneSlow
Pulau Joyo is a seductively serene environment of pristine beaches surrounded by clear blue sea in Indonesiarsquos Riau Archipelago Accessible from Singapore or Bintan Pulau Joyo is a true castaway island offering every resort luxury
amid untouched natural beauty Pulau Joyo is famous for its remarkable sunsets and
brightly star-lit sky The resort can host 28 guests and 20 staff are on hand to cater to their every need Guests stay in open driftwood lsquopalacesrsquo that lsquoallow the sea inrsquoDespite its desert island appeal Pulau Joyo offers every modern convenience a range of adrenaline boosting activities and more relaxing options such as spa treatments and massages
The resortrsquos cuisine focuses on western and Indonesian dishes Meals are usually served buffet style and feature grilled fish squid prawns beef and chicken as well as many curry dishes Side dishes include fresh garden salads pasta salads boiled or steamed leafy greens and grilled aubergine (an island favourite) Prawn and tofu kebabs appear from time to time as does satay The chef will often provide a selection of freshly picked fruit and homemade cakes for dessert Itrsquos worth noting that the management will not serve pork or shellfish on this private island
Pulau Joyo may not be as refined as some islands but itrsquos an excellent choice for those who want a more casual laidback island experience that replicates the castaway experience like perhaps no other
Rates start at pound1913 a night More information is available at wwwpulau-joyocom
Wannabe castaways may find Pulau Joyorsquos purer simpler take on the luxury island experience more to their taste
PULAU JOYO
inspired | March 2014 4746 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
In the Fijian island paradise of Dolphin Island a small army of staff await to meet guestsrsquo every need On arriving ndash by boat helicopter or float plane ndash visitors are invariably struck by the beauty of the island and the luxuri-ous accommodation that awaits them amid 14-acres of lush tropical gardens
Three traditional palm-thatched bures individually designed by world renowned interior designer Virginia Fisher sit in an elevated position around the resortrsquos infinity pool
Guests are brought fresh tropical fish to choose each day that are cooked to perfec-
tion within hours of leaving the water The culinary focus is on
organic produce and ingredi-ents unique to Fijian cuisine but meals are tailored to guestsrsquo personal tastes Papayas man-goes bananas and pineapples
are plentiful throughout the day When it comes to recreation the
14-acre island is an expansive play-ground offering a diverse range of watersports as well as diving opportunities on Fijirsquos coral reefs
Rates start at pound720 a night More information is avail-able at wwwdolphinislandfijicom
Fijian Paean
Traditional features modern comforts and excellent facilities make for a harmonious whole on this Fijian island
DOLPHIN ISLAND
48 March 2014 | inspired
Pictured slightly larger than actual size
Big Pilotrsquos Watch Ref 5009
Your wrist never felt this big before The
case of the top model in the IWC Pilotrsquos
Watch range is a gigantic 462 mm in diashy
meter And the technology inside it is
even more impressive the largest IWCshy
manufactured automatic movement with
its Pellaton winding system is protected
against strong magnetic fields by a softshy
iron inner case And needless to say enshy
vious glances iwc engineered for men
Mechanical IWCshymanufactured movement Pellaton
automatic winding system 7shyday power reserve
with display (figure) Date display Softshyiron inner
case for protection against magnetic fields
Antireflective sapphire glass Watershyresistant 6 bar
Stainless steel
IWC Schaffhausen Switzerland iwccom The worldrsquos finest timepieces are exclusively available from selected watch specialists
For an illustrated catalogue or list of nationwide concessionaires please contact IWC UK Tel 0845 337 1868 Eshymail infoshyukiwccom
CARS
MunichLegend
50 March 2014 | inspired
BMW fanatics can open their eyes ndash the M4 has arrived
Most BMW aficionados are proba-bly pretty sad to see production of the M3 coupe ndash quite possibly the companyrsquos most noteworthy and celebrated model ndash end after almost 30 years Ever since the first wide-body E30 M3 saw the
light of day in 1985 drivers have loved the sporty coupe for its incredible balance intoxicating power and of course solid build quality
The model never got stale in all that time and always remained the poster child for the M division so itrsquos a lit-tle weird that BMW has apparently decided to axe it In truth though they havenrsquot really dropped the M3 The M3 sedan will continue to be produced in 2014 so all
is not lost Moreover BMW seems to be adopting a pat-tern of giving its sedans odd-numbered titles only and its coupes even-numbered titles only so the 4-Series and especially the M4 concept that debuted at Pebble Beach Monterey California will fill the gap left by the M3 Many people have been awaiting the new super coupe with great expectancy but can it fill in for the M3
The journalists who swarmed over the M4 concept at Pebble Beach were obviously much more interested in it than the somewhat predictable 428i that was also there Finished in an eye-catching colour called Aurum Dust (which actually looks a lot like the old M3rsquos Phoenix Yellow colour) the car presented in California may be a concept but typically BMW M cars donrsquot change much before they finally hit the showroom
MunichLegend
inspired | March 2014 51
CARS
52 March 2014 | inspired
From front to back the bodywork is manifestly differ-ent and much more aggressive looking than a standard 4-Series car It really looks to pretty much pick up where the E92E93 M3 coupe left off especially with its undeniably cool domed hood Wide wheel arches big wheels wrapped in low-profile tyres more than enough M badges and a well-executed double-bubble roof make the already underwhelming existing 4-Series coupe look even more pedestrian
Power for the new M4 is likely to come from a three-litre twin-turbo straight-six engine While the horsepower probably wonrsquot differ much from the M3rsquos old 4-litre V-8 it will generate more than 100lbft more in torque almost 400 in total With the M4 being a lighter 3300lb in weight the M4 promises to be an excit-ing worthy car A proper six-speed manual may be in the mix alongside the now obligatory dual clutch and paddles option
The best way to look at the M4 however it ends up is not as a new car but as a new and improved M3 thatrsquos just getting a new name The decision to rename the coupe is a strange one but thankfully BMW apparently felt the 3-Series coupe had made such an identity for itself that a new model was needed albeit in a slightly different incarnation
With BMW embarking on some new-ageish ideas such as its 1-Series ActiveE and the soon-to-arrive lsquoirsquo range of cars itrsquos nice to see the company also stick to classics such as the heart-stopping sports coupe even if the latest model does come with a new name
Seductive curves and racier performance make the BMW M4 a more than acceptable replacement for the M3 super coupe
SparklingForm Coloured diamonds are making their mark
One of the main factors that deter-mines the value of what we ordinarily think of as diamonds is their purity the degree to which col-our is absent in the gem However with coloured diamonds the extent to which they are saturated with
colour is a principal determinant of their valueColoured diamonds come in 12 basic colours more
than 90 secondary hues and nine intensity levels The depth of their colour is what really differentiates these diamonds from their colourless counterparts
Natural coloured diamonds are 10000 times rarer than typical colourless diamonds one of several rea-sons why they are treasured by the rich and famous yet remain unknown to most other people ndash despite hav-ing been around for centuries
Of course some colours are rarer than others Red violet and purple stones are as rare as the proverbial hensrsquo teeth while green and blue are also rare The most popular colours are pink and yellow (or canary) They also come in white grey orange black and lsquochame-leonrsquo form
A pinkie ring encrusted with a large coloured dia-mond has become a status symbol for men in Asia That little stone is an unregistered asset that could quickly be sold for millions of dollars should the need arise
Coloured diamonds are durable and never lose their sparkle or lustre so they are assets that can be enjoyed every day unlike stocks or bonds And they have proved to be fantastic investments having steadily appreciated in price with relatively little volatility for more than a decade They even held their own during the most recent financial crisis
Coloured diamonds are auctioned by reputable
auction houses such a Sothebyrsquos and Christiersquos where prices for large unique pink red blue or yellow stones can reach in excess of $2 million (pound12 million) a carat and other stones regularly sell for $1 million a carat
They are often bought by high-net-worth individu-als as an insurance policy Instead of stashing cash in undeclared bank accounts and potentially incurring the wrath of the authorities the wealthy can purchase some loose yellow diamonds to secure their future
Clearly coloured diamonds are much more than a magnificent indulgence
GEMS
inspired | March 2014 53PB March 2014 | inspired
WINE
Make the most of the deeply
satisfying Malbec wines emerging from Argentina
and perhaps even enjoy a return on a shrewd
investment says Ewan Lacey
Finding a red wine to enjoy in spring is a delicate balancing act The shock of seeing sunlight after a dark winter fosters in us a desire to drink some-thing refreshing while the still-cool temperatures demand something with comforting depth
Increasingly Malbec wines particularly those from Argentina provide a perfect solution to this quandary And while there are plenty of delicious wines for infor-mal occasions what is most interesting is the emergence of finer Malbec wines Some are so good they may well have ageing potential raising the intriguing possibility that the wine may one day become collectable
Malbec is the most popular wine among those aged 25-34 and is now becoming a fixture on most restaurant wine lists There are several reasons for its success the word Malbec is easy to pronounce the wine goes well with red meat the Malbec grape can be turned into wines that are both relatively easy to drink and packed with flavour and decent wines are available at reason-able prices Malbec is deep fruity and charming and it delivers instant pleasure ndash claret on a motorbike
The Malbec grape originated in France and it remains one of the permitted varieties used to make Bordeaux However it has gained prominence through the work of the post-junta Argentine wine industry
I recently had the pleasure of tasting some very fine Malbecs with Laura Catena managing director at the Catena Zapata winery and president of the International Wine and Spirit Competition She opened my
Mendoza Marvels
inspired | March 2014 55
WINE
eyes to the potential of this grape variety when handled with care
Laurarsquos family business makes a range of wines but the wine that truly astonished me was the Nicasia Vineyard Malbec 2006 The wine is perfumed with floral and fruit notes and it is smooth and soft at first Like all great wines it has many layers of flavour warm bursts of cherry and black-currant cede centre stage to deeper darker caramel and mocha notes and a touch of spice Therersquos an amazing depth of flavour and the finish is long and lingering Whatrsquos more at nearly eight years old it still has a slight purple tinge and tastes extremely fresh There is every indication that it will age beautifully for at least another decade
The winersquos character is heavily influenced by the alti-tude the grapes used to make it are grown at (1180m
above sea level) At this elevation the grapes ripen in bright sun but lsquorelaxrsquo during the cool evenings The fact that the wine is made in tiny quantities (eight barrels only) means every care can be taken during the winemak-ing process to ensure the wine is allowed to show its grown-up side The cost per bot-tle of pound70 is not insubstantial but neither is the wine
We cannot know whether these wines will ever become investments in the way the wines of Bordeaux have Whatrsquos cer-tain is that Malbec wines have a very rare quality a balance of finesse and power that
can delight wine lovers and linger in their memories
Ewan Lacey is a leading wine expert and general manager of the International Wine and Spirit Competition He has appeared on BBC television and radio as well as Channel 4 and written for the national press
Laura Catena is managing director at the Catena Zapata winery (above)
THE INTERNATIONAL WINE AND SPIRIT COMPETITIONThe International Wine and Spirit Competition has been the premier drinks competition in the world for 45 years Each year it receives and reviews thousands of wines and spirits and presents qual-ity awards to producers
More than anything the IWSC exists to help
people make better deci-sions particularly when buying wines and spirits An IWSC award on a bot-tle of wine is a guarantee
of quality backed not only by a rigorous and strin-gent judging process but also by the skill of the judges who are drawn from the ranks of masters of wine master distill-ers industry leaders and commentators
Each year the IWSC honours a leading figure
in the drinks industry with the presidency of the competition The current president is Laura Catena who succeeds a nota-ble line of predecessors including Prince Robert of Luxembourg winemakers Piero Antinori and Warren Winiarski and Baroness Philippine de Rothschild
56 March 2014 | inspired
LUXURY WATCHES
Time is preciousA
t a recent watch auc-tion in Geneva at Antiquorum ndash the worldrsquos premiere auc-tion house for modern and vintage time pieces ndash a Patek Philippe
pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon watch emerged as the auctionrsquos top lot and sold for 12 million Swiss francs (pound807000)
Unlike most of the timepieces sold at auctions outside Asia this particular Patek watch ndash the most complicated wristwatch the Swiss watchmaker has ever produced ndash was not a vintage model
That Geneva auction raised intriguing
1284Clocks with weights gears and regulators start to appear mostly with no dial to strike the important moments of daily life
Around 1410The mainspring is devel-oped Combined with the fusee this innovation makes possible the truly portable domestic clock
1492The mechanical watch appears simultaneously in Italy Germany and France
1675Christian Huygens invents the spiral balance spring
for watches significantly improving their accuracy
1704The first watch with jew-els is produced by French watchmaker de Beaufreacute
1714The British parliament offers pound20000 to who-ever can a find a method to determine longitude
1766Parliament publishes the rating results for John Harrisonrsquos H4 marine timekeeper Harrisonrsquos highly accurate marine clock solution to the problem of determining logitude wins him part of the pound20000 prize
1787Pierre-Freacutedeacuteric Ingold is born an important pio-neer in mechanised timepiece production and the use of interchangea-ble parts
1790Jacquet-Droz and Leschot manufactures a watch attached to a strap
1839Vacheron amp Constantin developes a full set of machine tools for manu-facturing its watches
1875Calcium sulphate is the first luminescent sub-stance to be used for numerals and hands
TIMEKEEPING MILESTONES
questions Are modern luxury timepieces every bit as appealing as the vintage watches that typically command top prices at auc-tion And does that Geneva auction tell us anything about the contemporary watch market as a whole
Julien Schaerer Antiquorumrsquos managing director in Geneva says top-quality vintage watches often appreciate in value over the long term But he urges buyers for whom appreciation is an important consideration to be cautious about purchasing contempo-rary watches
lsquoWatch price depreciation is the cost of ownership just as it is with a luxury carrsquo he says lsquoIf the value goes up then
58 March 2014 | inspired
1880The first water- resistant watch incorpo-rating a screwed case is produced by Genevan watchmaker Franccedilois Borgel
1889The first known patent for a wristwatch is filed in Bern Switzerland
1890Dialmaker A Beyeler invents a transfer press for applying numerals and letters to dials
1892Auguste Verneuil in France produces the first synthetic jewels to be used in watchmaking
1904Wens Wilsdorf launches large-scale production of a womenrsquos wristwatch
1924John Harwood files the
first Swiss patent for a self-winding wristwatch with a central oscillating weight
1925The first known wrist-watch with a perpetual calendar is manufactured using a pendant watch movement
1926Rolex creates the Oyster wristwatch with a water-resistant case and crown
1966The first quartz wrist-watch prototype is produced
1969The first quartz watch
with an LED display appears
1978Quartz watches overtake mechanical watches in popularity
2005Creation of the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie Seiko launches the spring drive Kinetic the first self-winding mechanical watch with an electro-magnetic escapement
A Patek Philippe pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon recently sold for pound807000
inspired | March 2014 59
online retailers from the comfort of your homeSince 2006 DM London has quietly estab-
lished a powerful presence for itself in the UK retail watch market with the acquisition of The Watch Hut and The Watch Gallery DM London chairman David Coleridge says the company has capitalised on the increasing willingness of buy-ers to purchase online
lsquoHaving decided that they would like to buy a watch for themselves or someone elsersquo he says lsquopeople start to do their research More often than not this starts online nowadays where they com-pare brands performance and functions
lsquoAs trust in the online marketplace has devel-oped many want to buy online because it is convenient and saves time Shopping online becomes a habit established sites build trust and awareness with customers which gives custom-ers the confidence to buy more expensive itemsrsquo
He adds lsquoOur challenge is to make the online environment as attractive informative and enjoy-able as a high street store Then customers will decide to spend onlinersquo
Coleridge believes a multi-channel approach is the way forward for retailers He says lsquoWithout doubt the future is multi-channel selling ndash a combination of direct selling on the internet and various forms of click and collect ndash combined with beautiful stores on the high street
Over the past few years demand for luxury watches (particularly contemporary models) has spiked sharply in Asia and according to some specialists emerging affluence in the
of course thatrsquos an added benefit However he adds lsquoPrice appreciation is still quite rare with modern watches There is some poten-tial for appreciation but probably only with ultra-limited editions A purchase has to be
seen as a medium- to long-term invest-ment One should buy a timepiece first out of love for the brand or [the watchrsquos] complicationrsquo
The watch brands that offer the greatest assurance of appreci-
ation include Cartier Patek Philippe Rolex Audemars
Piguet A Lange amp Sohne Breguet and Vacheron Constantin All enjoy views from the top of
the watchmaking hierarchy thanks to their longstand-ing histories and well-established brand identities
Relative new-comers to the industry such as Richard Mille and Roger Dubuis have carved out a niche for
themselves with their revolutionary designs and
space-age technologies but it remains to be seen just how well the values of their timepieces will stand up on the secondary market
According to Nathaniel Borgelt a specialist at auction house Sothebyrsquos
some modern watches have already achieved good prices at auction but these (like the Patek Philippe Sky Moon Tourbillon) were highly exclusive models when new
lsquoSome limited edition pieces currently fetch incredible prices at auctionrsquo he says lsquoAnd there is a select group of modern mod-els that could compete with a certain sector of the vintage market based on their brand innovative features such as materials or com-plications and avant-garde designs
Buying these has now become a whole lot easier The luxury watch retailing land-scape is changing and the traditional pattern of physically walking into a luxury salon to buy a watch is gradually being replaced by a trend towards visiting the websites of the big
LUXURY WATCHES
A Lange amp Sohne (above) is a long-standing high-end watchmaker Comparative new-comer Roger Dubuis (right) is forging a strong reputation
inspired | March 2014 PB60 March 2014 | inspired
helpthewatchgallerycom
Hublot ClassiC FusiontHe WatCH Gallery exClusive
The Watch Gallery and Hublot have joined forces to create two very special limited edition watches Both are limited to just 15 pieces worldwide and have been specifically designed to feature The Watch Gallery blue brand colour on the hands and tinted open case back
SelfridgeS OxfOrd StreetWeStfield lOndOnMancheSter exchange Square
wwwthewatchgallerycomhublot-watches
Far East has kept global values strong while other markets around the world continue to recover from recession
Despite the market boost from growing prosperity in Asia there are signs that the market is becoming saturated and that globally the new watch market isnrsquot as robust as some commentators suggest
It may still be a good time to buy but its important to know what you want and what yoursquore buying Modern watchmakers such as Richard Mille Roger Dubuis and Greubel Forsey are producing beautiful timepieces but because of their limited foothold in the market itrsquos difficult to predict their long-term success and desirability They donrsquot yet have the brand power that might ensure the value of their
watches in the secondhand market remains highSuch producers might one day stand eye to
eye with the most desirable brands such as Patek Philippe and Rolex but achieving that kind of parity wonrsquot be easy Collectors looking to invest in timepieces are advised to keep an open mind about modern producers uncertainty is the one aspect of modern luxury watch market most experts tend to agree on
That said the buoyancy in the watch market suggests that plenty of buyers are unconcerned about future values For them itrsquos all about the appreciation of the watch itself People buy watches because they bring them pleasure ndash and say some-thing about who they are
LUXURY WATCHES
Contemporary watches such as those made by Hublot (left) have yet to show they will have the lasting appeal of watches such as Cartierrsquos Rotonde de Cartier Astrocalendaire (right)
inspired | March 2014 63
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Wersquove been bringing clarity to investment for over 125 years
Investing for generationsWhen it comes to investing therersquos no substitute for experience And at Alliance Trust wersquove been helping people invest since 1888 Our new Investment Focus hub is full of online information and expert opinion It aims to provide real insight to help you take control of your investments
Over the next few weeks the hub will build to cover everything from taking your first steps to diversifying worldwide Please remember that investments can go down as well as up and investors may get back less than they originally invested For valuable insight from Alliance Trust visit Investment Focus today
Introducing your free online source of information help and expert opinion
investment-focuscouk
This has been approved as a financial promotion by Alliance Trust Investments Limited for the purpose of Section 21 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 Alliance Trust Investments Limited is a subsidiary of Alliance Trust PLC and is registered in Scotland No SC330862 registered office 8 West Marketgait Dundee DD1 1QN is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority firm reference number 479764 Alliance Trust Investments gives no financial or investment advice
TAX YEAR ENDS APRIL 5TH ndash learn more about
your options now
Change the way you think about stocks reap the rewardsBy Edward Page Croft CEO Stockopediacom
I remember so clearly the day when I picked my first stock for clients Managing $2 billion (pound12 billion) in assets across 100 portfolios for high-net-wealth private investors is no easy task As I was to learn when you are green
and straight out of university itrsquos even harder The stock in question was on the Goldman
Sachs US lsquobuyrsquo list It had the potential to be hot Dotcoms were bubbling It was an internet stock in education services and cheap It seemed like it had everything but we needed to get in One day it fell out of bed Down 50 per cent on no news
Irsquod been trained to call the analyst in situations like this He reiterated his buy stance Double buy On my insistence we put almost $20 million of client money into the stock within an hour The next day it fell another 50 per cent on
bad newsThere is nothing more
painful than a loss but you never forget the first
one It immedi-ately forced me to reconsider every-thing I thought I
knew From that day on I vowed to never trust anotherrsquos opin-ion and find a better
way through the market minefieldIrsquove now spent 15 years
reassessing common
wisdom about stock selection No stone has gone unturned in the quest to understand the behav-ioural flaws that lead to poor decision making But there is one finding that crops up again and again in all the research that hurts stock market investors most We as investors are suckers for stories
A 1990rsquos study of 60000 private investor broker-age accounts by Kumar and Goetzmann found that 70 per cent of portfolios held less than four stocks
The stocks held all tended to be in the same sector highly correlated and risky Think internet stocks in the 1990s China in the 2000s or resource stocks more recently The grand theme sucks everyone in The outcome rarely dif-fers Kumar and Goetzmann showed that across these
60000 accounts the average underperformance was of the order of 4 per cent annually
This massive failing across private inves-tor portfolios is repeated in nearly every market cycle and is bound to happen again in this one Benjamin Graham the great father of value invest-ing and tutor of Warren Buffett once wrote
lsquoIn the short run the stock market is a vot-ing machine but in the long run it is a weighing machinersquo
ADVERTISING FEATURE
IN THE SHORT RUN THE STOCK MARKET IS A VOTING MACHINE BUT IN THE LONG RUN IT IS A WEIGHING MACHINEBenjamin Graham
What he meant was that while stories may drive stocks in the short run statistics drive stocks in the long run When statistics reassert them-selves it can cause huge damage to investors punting their portfolios on stories
It doesnrsquot take much to learn how basic statis-tics can guide your portfolio into winning stock selections though very few seem to understand how to do it Benjamin Graham as his life wore on gradually came to the conclusion that building portfolios according to rules-based processes was a far more appropriate methodology for the typi-cal investor
lsquoTry to buy groups of stocks that meet some sim-ple criterion for being undervalued ndash regardless of
the industry and with very little attention to the indi-vidual company It seems too good to be true but all I can tell you after 60 years of experience is it seems to stand up under any of the tests I would make uprsquo
My time is now dedi-cated to helping investors practice exactly what Benjamin Graham and many other investment luminaries have preached rules-based investing For the majority itrsquos a better process and leads to bet-ter outcomes Our work at
Stockopediacom where we crunch fundamental and technical data in order to model and track the investment processes of the great investors bears this out
Portfolios composed with stocks showing the right statistical mix of value quality and momen-tum have significantly outperformed Rules-based investing beats the market But more importantly it helps promote the emotional detachment needed to stop investors from beating themselves
Irsquoll never buy a stock on a punt or an analystrsquos tip again Perhaps neither should you
For a two week free trial and pound50 discount to Stockopedia UK Premium CLICK HERE
TANK MCM A N U F A C T U R E M O V E M E N T 1 9 0 4 M C
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WITH THE CARTIER MANUFACTURE MOVEMENT 1904 MC ESTABLISHED IN 1847 CARTIER CREATES
EXCEPTIONAL WATCHES THAT COMBINE DARING DESIGN AND WATCHMAKING SAVOIR-FAIRE
EXPLORE AND SHOP WWWCARTIERCOUK - (020) 3147 4850
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TO THE CONNOISSEUR section of Inspired a showcase for the finer things in life for those who truly appreciate them
Enjoying the fruits of your labour away from the relentless demands of our age poses its own challenges and quandaries Would a tropical idyll restore your ebbing energy levels Might a break based around hair-raising activities revive them even more effectively Perhaps reawakening a dormant passion for fine wines or luxury cars would be the most enjoyable reward for your industry
A luxury tropical holiday is probably near the top of most peoplersquos wish lists We take a look at some of the most tantalising options
The arrival of BMWrsquos new super coupe is featured on page 50 BMW aficionados and petrolheads alike are certain to be won over by its head-turning looks and mouthwatering specs
Gems come under the microscope on page 53 A rare coloured diamond can be a joy as well an appreciating asset
Wine is on the menu on page 54 where we explore the charms of Argentinian Malbec
Watches are often treasured objects and the best can turn out to be shrewd investments We look at the secondary watch market and the growth of online retailing on page 58 Enjoy
Welcome
40 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
FIVE TOP PRIVATE ISLAND RETREATSIslandFantasy
Top-rated resorts and hotels offer a variety of temptations and services to impress even the most discerning tastes but there is no better way to escape the rigours and
stresses of daily life than cutting off from the outside world while still enjoying lavish service
in the pinnacle of all resorts the private islandThere are thousands of small islands around
the world but only a few have chosen to cater to the most discriminating travellers seeking a rarified yet perfect world of quiet and relaxed luxury We look at five of the worldrsquos top private islands destinations where your holiday is certain to be an exceptional experience
TRAVEL
Necker Island is owned by Sir Richard Branson and guests stay in his home The island has become a popular des-tination for some of the worldrsquos most prominent figures as a hideaway from lifersquos stresses and strains
Because Necker Island is a resi-dence and not a resort guests who rent the island are treated as owners and catered for in a unique way
The74-acre island is fringed with beautiful white beaches and surrounded by turquoise waters and coral reefs It boasts every resort-type amenity guests can spend their days being pampered in the spa explor-ing underwater reefs in a submarine lounging by the pool bar or swimming in one of the worldrsquos most elab-orate private pools
Haute cuisine is a highlight for most guests ndash rates are fully inclusive of all food and drink A team of chefs creates bespoke menus featuring anything from lobster and caviar to a Sunday roast And because Necker is a home first and a resort second guests decide whether dining will be formal or informal inside or outside themed or traditional
The bar is stocked with international wines top-quality spirits and beers and a world renowned house champagne while special orders can be shipped in at no extra charge ndash unless an item is particularly rare Every service and amenity is available around the clock and guests are encouraged to treat Necker as their own home
As youLike it
NECKER ISLAND
42 March 2014 | inspired
Unalloyed luxury and an impressive range of amenities make Necker one of the most desirable island destinations in the world
The Jumby Bay resort which is only accessible by boat from Antigua is a Caribbean hideaway owned by Rosewood Resorts It is perfect for those seeking either relaxation or spirited adventure
You can rent the island resort entirely for your stay or simply take a room Those opt-ing for exclusive use of the island will have the resortrsquos two pools three tennis courts fitness centre croquet field and putting green to themselves
A wide range of water sports are available and guests can indulge in as much adventure or relaxation as they want during their stay The resort is ideal for large family
reunions or corporate retreats ndash 40 guest rooms and suites are available on the island
Executive chef Sylvain Hervochon celebrates gastron-omy ndash and mixology (cocktail making) ndash with casual elegance by creating Caribbean-style dishes inspired by fresh local ingredients and incorporating international influences
Jumby Bayrsquos rates start at pound150000 for four nights based on double occupancy between May and December Visit wwwrosewoodhotelscomenjumby-bay-antigua for further information
Fine BalanceCaribbean ambiance international sophistication and adventurous activities make Jumby Bay a compelling choice
JUMBY BAY
Just laze by the pool or venture beyond to dive in the turquoise waters of the South Pacific among stunning reefs and a dazzling array of marine creatures
Isle of PlentyT
he private island of Laucala in the South Pacific is a 3500-acre site in a picturesque rainforest-laced land-scape Enchanting deserted beaches nestle among coconut plantations organic farms and lush green vol-canic mountains
The resort offers an outstanding level of refined lux-ury as well as a compelling collection of sporting and cultural activities diving among iridescent marine life in the warm turquoise waters guided rainforest tours horse riding surfing and golfing on the 18-hole cham-pionship course The island is a superb choice for an escape from civilization whether you want an adven-ture in the wild or simply to relax in one of Laucalarsquos five restaurants and bars
Rates are available on request Visit wwwlaucalacom for further details
TRAVEL
LAUCALA ISLAND
inspired | March 2014 4544 March 2014 | inspired
Lush green surroundings sensitive development and beautiful beaches help Laucala island conjure up a complete South Seas experience
Isle of Plenty
inspired | March 2014 4544 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
inspired | March 2014 4746 March 2014 | inspired
Slow LaneSlow
Pulau Joyo is a seductively serene environment of pristine beaches surrounded by clear blue sea in Indonesiarsquos Riau Archipelago Accessible from Singapore or Bintan Pulau Joyo is a true castaway island offering every resort luxury
amid untouched natural beauty Pulau Joyo is famous for its remarkable sunsets and
brightly star-lit sky The resort can host 28 guests and 20 staff are on hand to cater to their every need Guests stay in open driftwood lsquopalacesrsquo that lsquoallow the sea inrsquoDespite its desert island appeal Pulau Joyo offers every modern convenience a range of adrenaline boosting activities and more relaxing options such as spa treatments and massages
The resortrsquos cuisine focuses on western and Indonesian dishes Meals are usually served buffet style and feature grilled fish squid prawns beef and chicken as well as many curry dishes Side dishes include fresh garden salads pasta salads boiled or steamed leafy greens and grilled aubergine (an island favourite) Prawn and tofu kebabs appear from time to time as does satay The chef will often provide a selection of freshly picked fruit and homemade cakes for dessert Itrsquos worth noting that the management will not serve pork or shellfish on this private island
Pulau Joyo may not be as refined as some islands but itrsquos an excellent choice for those who want a more casual laidback island experience that replicates the castaway experience like perhaps no other
Rates start at pound1913 a night More information is available at wwwpulau-joyocom
Wannabe castaways may find Pulau Joyorsquos purer simpler take on the luxury island experience more to their taste
PULAU JOYO
inspired | March 2014 4746 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
In the Fijian island paradise of Dolphin Island a small army of staff await to meet guestsrsquo every need On arriving ndash by boat helicopter or float plane ndash visitors are invariably struck by the beauty of the island and the luxuri-ous accommodation that awaits them amid 14-acres of lush tropical gardens
Three traditional palm-thatched bures individually designed by world renowned interior designer Virginia Fisher sit in an elevated position around the resortrsquos infinity pool
Guests are brought fresh tropical fish to choose each day that are cooked to perfec-
tion within hours of leaving the water The culinary focus is on
organic produce and ingredi-ents unique to Fijian cuisine but meals are tailored to guestsrsquo personal tastes Papayas man-goes bananas and pineapples
are plentiful throughout the day When it comes to recreation the
14-acre island is an expansive play-ground offering a diverse range of watersports as well as diving opportunities on Fijirsquos coral reefs
Rates start at pound720 a night More information is avail-able at wwwdolphinislandfijicom
Fijian Paean
Traditional features modern comforts and excellent facilities make for a harmonious whole on this Fijian island
DOLPHIN ISLAND
48 March 2014 | inspired
Pictured slightly larger than actual size
Big Pilotrsquos Watch Ref 5009
Your wrist never felt this big before The
case of the top model in the IWC Pilotrsquos
Watch range is a gigantic 462 mm in diashy
meter And the technology inside it is
even more impressive the largest IWCshy
manufactured automatic movement with
its Pellaton winding system is protected
against strong magnetic fields by a softshy
iron inner case And needless to say enshy
vious glances iwc engineered for men
Mechanical IWCshymanufactured movement Pellaton
automatic winding system 7shyday power reserve
with display (figure) Date display Softshyiron inner
case for protection against magnetic fields
Antireflective sapphire glass Watershyresistant 6 bar
Stainless steel
IWC Schaffhausen Switzerland iwccom The worldrsquos finest timepieces are exclusively available from selected watch specialists
For an illustrated catalogue or list of nationwide concessionaires please contact IWC UK Tel 0845 337 1868 Eshymail infoshyukiwccom
CARS
MunichLegend
50 March 2014 | inspired
BMW fanatics can open their eyes ndash the M4 has arrived
Most BMW aficionados are proba-bly pretty sad to see production of the M3 coupe ndash quite possibly the companyrsquos most noteworthy and celebrated model ndash end after almost 30 years Ever since the first wide-body E30 M3 saw the
light of day in 1985 drivers have loved the sporty coupe for its incredible balance intoxicating power and of course solid build quality
The model never got stale in all that time and always remained the poster child for the M division so itrsquos a lit-tle weird that BMW has apparently decided to axe it In truth though they havenrsquot really dropped the M3 The M3 sedan will continue to be produced in 2014 so all
is not lost Moreover BMW seems to be adopting a pat-tern of giving its sedans odd-numbered titles only and its coupes even-numbered titles only so the 4-Series and especially the M4 concept that debuted at Pebble Beach Monterey California will fill the gap left by the M3 Many people have been awaiting the new super coupe with great expectancy but can it fill in for the M3
The journalists who swarmed over the M4 concept at Pebble Beach were obviously much more interested in it than the somewhat predictable 428i that was also there Finished in an eye-catching colour called Aurum Dust (which actually looks a lot like the old M3rsquos Phoenix Yellow colour) the car presented in California may be a concept but typically BMW M cars donrsquot change much before they finally hit the showroom
MunichLegend
inspired | March 2014 51
CARS
52 March 2014 | inspired
From front to back the bodywork is manifestly differ-ent and much more aggressive looking than a standard 4-Series car It really looks to pretty much pick up where the E92E93 M3 coupe left off especially with its undeniably cool domed hood Wide wheel arches big wheels wrapped in low-profile tyres more than enough M badges and a well-executed double-bubble roof make the already underwhelming existing 4-Series coupe look even more pedestrian
Power for the new M4 is likely to come from a three-litre twin-turbo straight-six engine While the horsepower probably wonrsquot differ much from the M3rsquos old 4-litre V-8 it will generate more than 100lbft more in torque almost 400 in total With the M4 being a lighter 3300lb in weight the M4 promises to be an excit-ing worthy car A proper six-speed manual may be in the mix alongside the now obligatory dual clutch and paddles option
The best way to look at the M4 however it ends up is not as a new car but as a new and improved M3 thatrsquos just getting a new name The decision to rename the coupe is a strange one but thankfully BMW apparently felt the 3-Series coupe had made such an identity for itself that a new model was needed albeit in a slightly different incarnation
With BMW embarking on some new-ageish ideas such as its 1-Series ActiveE and the soon-to-arrive lsquoirsquo range of cars itrsquos nice to see the company also stick to classics such as the heart-stopping sports coupe even if the latest model does come with a new name
Seductive curves and racier performance make the BMW M4 a more than acceptable replacement for the M3 super coupe
SparklingForm Coloured diamonds are making their mark
One of the main factors that deter-mines the value of what we ordinarily think of as diamonds is their purity the degree to which col-our is absent in the gem However with coloured diamonds the extent to which they are saturated with
colour is a principal determinant of their valueColoured diamonds come in 12 basic colours more
than 90 secondary hues and nine intensity levels The depth of their colour is what really differentiates these diamonds from their colourless counterparts
Natural coloured diamonds are 10000 times rarer than typical colourless diamonds one of several rea-sons why they are treasured by the rich and famous yet remain unknown to most other people ndash despite hav-ing been around for centuries
Of course some colours are rarer than others Red violet and purple stones are as rare as the proverbial hensrsquo teeth while green and blue are also rare The most popular colours are pink and yellow (or canary) They also come in white grey orange black and lsquochame-leonrsquo form
A pinkie ring encrusted with a large coloured dia-mond has become a status symbol for men in Asia That little stone is an unregistered asset that could quickly be sold for millions of dollars should the need arise
Coloured diamonds are durable and never lose their sparkle or lustre so they are assets that can be enjoyed every day unlike stocks or bonds And they have proved to be fantastic investments having steadily appreciated in price with relatively little volatility for more than a decade They even held their own during the most recent financial crisis
Coloured diamonds are auctioned by reputable
auction houses such a Sothebyrsquos and Christiersquos where prices for large unique pink red blue or yellow stones can reach in excess of $2 million (pound12 million) a carat and other stones regularly sell for $1 million a carat
They are often bought by high-net-worth individu-als as an insurance policy Instead of stashing cash in undeclared bank accounts and potentially incurring the wrath of the authorities the wealthy can purchase some loose yellow diamonds to secure their future
Clearly coloured diamonds are much more than a magnificent indulgence
GEMS
inspired | March 2014 53PB March 2014 | inspired
WINE
Make the most of the deeply
satisfying Malbec wines emerging from Argentina
and perhaps even enjoy a return on a shrewd
investment says Ewan Lacey
Finding a red wine to enjoy in spring is a delicate balancing act The shock of seeing sunlight after a dark winter fosters in us a desire to drink some-thing refreshing while the still-cool temperatures demand something with comforting depth
Increasingly Malbec wines particularly those from Argentina provide a perfect solution to this quandary And while there are plenty of delicious wines for infor-mal occasions what is most interesting is the emergence of finer Malbec wines Some are so good they may well have ageing potential raising the intriguing possibility that the wine may one day become collectable
Malbec is the most popular wine among those aged 25-34 and is now becoming a fixture on most restaurant wine lists There are several reasons for its success the word Malbec is easy to pronounce the wine goes well with red meat the Malbec grape can be turned into wines that are both relatively easy to drink and packed with flavour and decent wines are available at reason-able prices Malbec is deep fruity and charming and it delivers instant pleasure ndash claret on a motorbike
The Malbec grape originated in France and it remains one of the permitted varieties used to make Bordeaux However it has gained prominence through the work of the post-junta Argentine wine industry
I recently had the pleasure of tasting some very fine Malbecs with Laura Catena managing director at the Catena Zapata winery and president of the International Wine and Spirit Competition She opened my
Mendoza Marvels
inspired | March 2014 55
WINE
eyes to the potential of this grape variety when handled with care
Laurarsquos family business makes a range of wines but the wine that truly astonished me was the Nicasia Vineyard Malbec 2006 The wine is perfumed with floral and fruit notes and it is smooth and soft at first Like all great wines it has many layers of flavour warm bursts of cherry and black-currant cede centre stage to deeper darker caramel and mocha notes and a touch of spice Therersquos an amazing depth of flavour and the finish is long and lingering Whatrsquos more at nearly eight years old it still has a slight purple tinge and tastes extremely fresh There is every indication that it will age beautifully for at least another decade
The winersquos character is heavily influenced by the alti-tude the grapes used to make it are grown at (1180m
above sea level) At this elevation the grapes ripen in bright sun but lsquorelaxrsquo during the cool evenings The fact that the wine is made in tiny quantities (eight barrels only) means every care can be taken during the winemak-ing process to ensure the wine is allowed to show its grown-up side The cost per bot-tle of pound70 is not insubstantial but neither is the wine
We cannot know whether these wines will ever become investments in the way the wines of Bordeaux have Whatrsquos cer-tain is that Malbec wines have a very rare quality a balance of finesse and power that
can delight wine lovers and linger in their memories
Ewan Lacey is a leading wine expert and general manager of the International Wine and Spirit Competition He has appeared on BBC television and radio as well as Channel 4 and written for the national press
Laura Catena is managing director at the Catena Zapata winery (above)
THE INTERNATIONAL WINE AND SPIRIT COMPETITIONThe International Wine and Spirit Competition has been the premier drinks competition in the world for 45 years Each year it receives and reviews thousands of wines and spirits and presents qual-ity awards to producers
More than anything the IWSC exists to help
people make better deci-sions particularly when buying wines and spirits An IWSC award on a bot-tle of wine is a guarantee
of quality backed not only by a rigorous and strin-gent judging process but also by the skill of the judges who are drawn from the ranks of masters of wine master distill-ers industry leaders and commentators
Each year the IWSC honours a leading figure
in the drinks industry with the presidency of the competition The current president is Laura Catena who succeeds a nota-ble line of predecessors including Prince Robert of Luxembourg winemakers Piero Antinori and Warren Winiarski and Baroness Philippine de Rothschild
56 March 2014 | inspired
LUXURY WATCHES
Time is preciousA
t a recent watch auc-tion in Geneva at Antiquorum ndash the worldrsquos premiere auc-tion house for modern and vintage time pieces ndash a Patek Philippe
pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon watch emerged as the auctionrsquos top lot and sold for 12 million Swiss francs (pound807000)
Unlike most of the timepieces sold at auctions outside Asia this particular Patek watch ndash the most complicated wristwatch the Swiss watchmaker has ever produced ndash was not a vintage model
That Geneva auction raised intriguing
1284Clocks with weights gears and regulators start to appear mostly with no dial to strike the important moments of daily life
Around 1410The mainspring is devel-oped Combined with the fusee this innovation makes possible the truly portable domestic clock
1492The mechanical watch appears simultaneously in Italy Germany and France
1675Christian Huygens invents the spiral balance spring
for watches significantly improving their accuracy
1704The first watch with jew-els is produced by French watchmaker de Beaufreacute
1714The British parliament offers pound20000 to who-ever can a find a method to determine longitude
1766Parliament publishes the rating results for John Harrisonrsquos H4 marine timekeeper Harrisonrsquos highly accurate marine clock solution to the problem of determining logitude wins him part of the pound20000 prize
1787Pierre-Freacutedeacuteric Ingold is born an important pio-neer in mechanised timepiece production and the use of interchangea-ble parts
1790Jacquet-Droz and Leschot manufactures a watch attached to a strap
1839Vacheron amp Constantin developes a full set of machine tools for manu-facturing its watches
1875Calcium sulphate is the first luminescent sub-stance to be used for numerals and hands
TIMEKEEPING MILESTONES
questions Are modern luxury timepieces every bit as appealing as the vintage watches that typically command top prices at auc-tion And does that Geneva auction tell us anything about the contemporary watch market as a whole
Julien Schaerer Antiquorumrsquos managing director in Geneva says top-quality vintage watches often appreciate in value over the long term But he urges buyers for whom appreciation is an important consideration to be cautious about purchasing contempo-rary watches
lsquoWatch price depreciation is the cost of ownership just as it is with a luxury carrsquo he says lsquoIf the value goes up then
58 March 2014 | inspired
1880The first water- resistant watch incorpo-rating a screwed case is produced by Genevan watchmaker Franccedilois Borgel
1889The first known patent for a wristwatch is filed in Bern Switzerland
1890Dialmaker A Beyeler invents a transfer press for applying numerals and letters to dials
1892Auguste Verneuil in France produces the first synthetic jewels to be used in watchmaking
1904Wens Wilsdorf launches large-scale production of a womenrsquos wristwatch
1924John Harwood files the
first Swiss patent for a self-winding wristwatch with a central oscillating weight
1925The first known wrist-watch with a perpetual calendar is manufactured using a pendant watch movement
1926Rolex creates the Oyster wristwatch with a water-resistant case and crown
1966The first quartz wrist-watch prototype is produced
1969The first quartz watch
with an LED display appears
1978Quartz watches overtake mechanical watches in popularity
2005Creation of the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie Seiko launches the spring drive Kinetic the first self-winding mechanical watch with an electro-magnetic escapement
A Patek Philippe pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon recently sold for pound807000
inspired | March 2014 59
online retailers from the comfort of your homeSince 2006 DM London has quietly estab-
lished a powerful presence for itself in the UK retail watch market with the acquisition of The Watch Hut and The Watch Gallery DM London chairman David Coleridge says the company has capitalised on the increasing willingness of buy-ers to purchase online
lsquoHaving decided that they would like to buy a watch for themselves or someone elsersquo he says lsquopeople start to do their research More often than not this starts online nowadays where they com-pare brands performance and functions
lsquoAs trust in the online marketplace has devel-oped many want to buy online because it is convenient and saves time Shopping online becomes a habit established sites build trust and awareness with customers which gives custom-ers the confidence to buy more expensive itemsrsquo
He adds lsquoOur challenge is to make the online environment as attractive informative and enjoy-able as a high street store Then customers will decide to spend onlinersquo
Coleridge believes a multi-channel approach is the way forward for retailers He says lsquoWithout doubt the future is multi-channel selling ndash a combination of direct selling on the internet and various forms of click and collect ndash combined with beautiful stores on the high street
Over the past few years demand for luxury watches (particularly contemporary models) has spiked sharply in Asia and according to some specialists emerging affluence in the
of course thatrsquos an added benefit However he adds lsquoPrice appreciation is still quite rare with modern watches There is some poten-tial for appreciation but probably only with ultra-limited editions A purchase has to be
seen as a medium- to long-term invest-ment One should buy a timepiece first out of love for the brand or [the watchrsquos] complicationrsquo
The watch brands that offer the greatest assurance of appreci-
ation include Cartier Patek Philippe Rolex Audemars
Piguet A Lange amp Sohne Breguet and Vacheron Constantin All enjoy views from the top of
the watchmaking hierarchy thanks to their longstand-ing histories and well-established brand identities
Relative new-comers to the industry such as Richard Mille and Roger Dubuis have carved out a niche for
themselves with their revolutionary designs and
space-age technologies but it remains to be seen just how well the values of their timepieces will stand up on the secondary market
According to Nathaniel Borgelt a specialist at auction house Sothebyrsquos
some modern watches have already achieved good prices at auction but these (like the Patek Philippe Sky Moon Tourbillon) were highly exclusive models when new
lsquoSome limited edition pieces currently fetch incredible prices at auctionrsquo he says lsquoAnd there is a select group of modern mod-els that could compete with a certain sector of the vintage market based on their brand innovative features such as materials or com-plications and avant-garde designs
Buying these has now become a whole lot easier The luxury watch retailing land-scape is changing and the traditional pattern of physically walking into a luxury salon to buy a watch is gradually being replaced by a trend towards visiting the websites of the big
LUXURY WATCHES
A Lange amp Sohne (above) is a long-standing high-end watchmaker Comparative new-comer Roger Dubuis (right) is forging a strong reputation
inspired | March 2014 PB60 March 2014 | inspired
helpthewatchgallerycom
Hublot ClassiC FusiontHe WatCH Gallery exClusive
The Watch Gallery and Hublot have joined forces to create two very special limited edition watches Both are limited to just 15 pieces worldwide and have been specifically designed to feature The Watch Gallery blue brand colour on the hands and tinted open case back
SelfridgeS OxfOrd StreetWeStfield lOndOnMancheSter exchange Square
wwwthewatchgallerycomhublot-watches
Far East has kept global values strong while other markets around the world continue to recover from recession
Despite the market boost from growing prosperity in Asia there are signs that the market is becoming saturated and that globally the new watch market isnrsquot as robust as some commentators suggest
It may still be a good time to buy but its important to know what you want and what yoursquore buying Modern watchmakers such as Richard Mille Roger Dubuis and Greubel Forsey are producing beautiful timepieces but because of their limited foothold in the market itrsquos difficult to predict their long-term success and desirability They donrsquot yet have the brand power that might ensure the value of their
watches in the secondhand market remains highSuch producers might one day stand eye to
eye with the most desirable brands such as Patek Philippe and Rolex but achieving that kind of parity wonrsquot be easy Collectors looking to invest in timepieces are advised to keep an open mind about modern producers uncertainty is the one aspect of modern luxury watch market most experts tend to agree on
That said the buoyancy in the watch market suggests that plenty of buyers are unconcerned about future values For them itrsquos all about the appreciation of the watch itself People buy watches because they bring them pleasure ndash and say some-thing about who they are
LUXURY WATCHES
Contemporary watches such as those made by Hublot (left) have yet to show they will have the lasting appeal of watches such as Cartierrsquos Rotonde de Cartier Astrocalendaire (right)
inspired | March 2014 63
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Change the way you think about stocks reap the rewardsBy Edward Page Croft CEO Stockopediacom
I remember so clearly the day when I picked my first stock for clients Managing $2 billion (pound12 billion) in assets across 100 portfolios for high-net-wealth private investors is no easy task As I was to learn when you are green
and straight out of university itrsquos even harder The stock in question was on the Goldman
Sachs US lsquobuyrsquo list It had the potential to be hot Dotcoms were bubbling It was an internet stock in education services and cheap It seemed like it had everything but we needed to get in One day it fell out of bed Down 50 per cent on no news
Irsquod been trained to call the analyst in situations like this He reiterated his buy stance Double buy On my insistence we put almost $20 million of client money into the stock within an hour The next day it fell another 50 per cent on
bad newsThere is nothing more
painful than a loss but you never forget the first
one It immedi-ately forced me to reconsider every-thing I thought I
knew From that day on I vowed to never trust anotherrsquos opin-ion and find a better
way through the market minefieldIrsquove now spent 15 years
reassessing common
wisdom about stock selection No stone has gone unturned in the quest to understand the behav-ioural flaws that lead to poor decision making But there is one finding that crops up again and again in all the research that hurts stock market investors most We as investors are suckers for stories
A 1990rsquos study of 60000 private investor broker-age accounts by Kumar and Goetzmann found that 70 per cent of portfolios held less than four stocks
The stocks held all tended to be in the same sector highly correlated and risky Think internet stocks in the 1990s China in the 2000s or resource stocks more recently The grand theme sucks everyone in The outcome rarely dif-fers Kumar and Goetzmann showed that across these
60000 accounts the average underperformance was of the order of 4 per cent annually
This massive failing across private inves-tor portfolios is repeated in nearly every market cycle and is bound to happen again in this one Benjamin Graham the great father of value invest-ing and tutor of Warren Buffett once wrote
lsquoIn the short run the stock market is a vot-ing machine but in the long run it is a weighing machinersquo
ADVERTISING FEATURE
IN THE SHORT RUN THE STOCK MARKET IS A VOTING MACHINE BUT IN THE LONG RUN IT IS A WEIGHING MACHINEBenjamin Graham
What he meant was that while stories may drive stocks in the short run statistics drive stocks in the long run When statistics reassert them-selves it can cause huge damage to investors punting their portfolios on stories
It doesnrsquot take much to learn how basic statis-tics can guide your portfolio into winning stock selections though very few seem to understand how to do it Benjamin Graham as his life wore on gradually came to the conclusion that building portfolios according to rules-based processes was a far more appropriate methodology for the typi-cal investor
lsquoTry to buy groups of stocks that meet some sim-ple criterion for being undervalued ndash regardless of
the industry and with very little attention to the indi-vidual company It seems too good to be true but all I can tell you after 60 years of experience is it seems to stand up under any of the tests I would make uprsquo
My time is now dedi-cated to helping investors practice exactly what Benjamin Graham and many other investment luminaries have preached rules-based investing For the majority itrsquos a better process and leads to bet-ter outcomes Our work at
Stockopediacom where we crunch fundamental and technical data in order to model and track the investment processes of the great investors bears this out
Portfolios composed with stocks showing the right statistical mix of value quality and momen-tum have significantly outperformed Rules-based investing beats the market But more importantly it helps promote the emotional detachment needed to stop investors from beating themselves
Irsquoll never buy a stock on a punt or an analystrsquos tip again Perhaps neither should you
For a two week free trial and pound50 discount to Stockopedia UK Premium CLICK HERE
TANK MCM A N U F A C T U R E M O V E M E N T 1 9 0 4 M C
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WITH THE CARTIER MANUFACTURE MOVEMENT 1904 MC ESTABLISHED IN 1847 CARTIER CREATES
EXCEPTIONAL WATCHES THAT COMBINE DARING DESIGN AND WATCHMAKING SAVOIR-FAIRE
EXPLORE AND SHOP WWWCARTIERCOUK - (020) 3147 4850
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TO THE CONNOISSEUR section of Inspired a showcase for the finer things in life for those who truly appreciate them
Enjoying the fruits of your labour away from the relentless demands of our age poses its own challenges and quandaries Would a tropical idyll restore your ebbing energy levels Might a break based around hair-raising activities revive them even more effectively Perhaps reawakening a dormant passion for fine wines or luxury cars would be the most enjoyable reward for your industry
A luxury tropical holiday is probably near the top of most peoplersquos wish lists We take a look at some of the most tantalising options
The arrival of BMWrsquos new super coupe is featured on page 50 BMW aficionados and petrolheads alike are certain to be won over by its head-turning looks and mouthwatering specs
Gems come under the microscope on page 53 A rare coloured diamond can be a joy as well an appreciating asset
Wine is on the menu on page 54 where we explore the charms of Argentinian Malbec
Watches are often treasured objects and the best can turn out to be shrewd investments We look at the secondary watch market and the growth of online retailing on page 58 Enjoy
Welcome
40 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
FIVE TOP PRIVATE ISLAND RETREATSIslandFantasy
Top-rated resorts and hotels offer a variety of temptations and services to impress even the most discerning tastes but there is no better way to escape the rigours and
stresses of daily life than cutting off from the outside world while still enjoying lavish service
in the pinnacle of all resorts the private islandThere are thousands of small islands around
the world but only a few have chosen to cater to the most discriminating travellers seeking a rarified yet perfect world of quiet and relaxed luxury We look at five of the worldrsquos top private islands destinations where your holiday is certain to be an exceptional experience
TRAVEL
Necker Island is owned by Sir Richard Branson and guests stay in his home The island has become a popular des-tination for some of the worldrsquos most prominent figures as a hideaway from lifersquos stresses and strains
Because Necker Island is a resi-dence and not a resort guests who rent the island are treated as owners and catered for in a unique way
The74-acre island is fringed with beautiful white beaches and surrounded by turquoise waters and coral reefs It boasts every resort-type amenity guests can spend their days being pampered in the spa explor-ing underwater reefs in a submarine lounging by the pool bar or swimming in one of the worldrsquos most elab-orate private pools
Haute cuisine is a highlight for most guests ndash rates are fully inclusive of all food and drink A team of chefs creates bespoke menus featuring anything from lobster and caviar to a Sunday roast And because Necker is a home first and a resort second guests decide whether dining will be formal or informal inside or outside themed or traditional
The bar is stocked with international wines top-quality spirits and beers and a world renowned house champagne while special orders can be shipped in at no extra charge ndash unless an item is particularly rare Every service and amenity is available around the clock and guests are encouraged to treat Necker as their own home
As youLike it
NECKER ISLAND
42 March 2014 | inspired
Unalloyed luxury and an impressive range of amenities make Necker one of the most desirable island destinations in the world
The Jumby Bay resort which is only accessible by boat from Antigua is a Caribbean hideaway owned by Rosewood Resorts It is perfect for those seeking either relaxation or spirited adventure
You can rent the island resort entirely for your stay or simply take a room Those opt-ing for exclusive use of the island will have the resortrsquos two pools three tennis courts fitness centre croquet field and putting green to themselves
A wide range of water sports are available and guests can indulge in as much adventure or relaxation as they want during their stay The resort is ideal for large family
reunions or corporate retreats ndash 40 guest rooms and suites are available on the island
Executive chef Sylvain Hervochon celebrates gastron-omy ndash and mixology (cocktail making) ndash with casual elegance by creating Caribbean-style dishes inspired by fresh local ingredients and incorporating international influences
Jumby Bayrsquos rates start at pound150000 for four nights based on double occupancy between May and December Visit wwwrosewoodhotelscomenjumby-bay-antigua for further information
Fine BalanceCaribbean ambiance international sophistication and adventurous activities make Jumby Bay a compelling choice
JUMBY BAY
Just laze by the pool or venture beyond to dive in the turquoise waters of the South Pacific among stunning reefs and a dazzling array of marine creatures
Isle of PlentyT
he private island of Laucala in the South Pacific is a 3500-acre site in a picturesque rainforest-laced land-scape Enchanting deserted beaches nestle among coconut plantations organic farms and lush green vol-canic mountains
The resort offers an outstanding level of refined lux-ury as well as a compelling collection of sporting and cultural activities diving among iridescent marine life in the warm turquoise waters guided rainforest tours horse riding surfing and golfing on the 18-hole cham-pionship course The island is a superb choice for an escape from civilization whether you want an adven-ture in the wild or simply to relax in one of Laucalarsquos five restaurants and bars
Rates are available on request Visit wwwlaucalacom for further details
TRAVEL
LAUCALA ISLAND
inspired | March 2014 4544 March 2014 | inspired
Lush green surroundings sensitive development and beautiful beaches help Laucala island conjure up a complete South Seas experience
Isle of Plenty
inspired | March 2014 4544 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
inspired | March 2014 4746 March 2014 | inspired
Slow LaneSlow
Pulau Joyo is a seductively serene environment of pristine beaches surrounded by clear blue sea in Indonesiarsquos Riau Archipelago Accessible from Singapore or Bintan Pulau Joyo is a true castaway island offering every resort luxury
amid untouched natural beauty Pulau Joyo is famous for its remarkable sunsets and
brightly star-lit sky The resort can host 28 guests and 20 staff are on hand to cater to their every need Guests stay in open driftwood lsquopalacesrsquo that lsquoallow the sea inrsquoDespite its desert island appeal Pulau Joyo offers every modern convenience a range of adrenaline boosting activities and more relaxing options such as spa treatments and massages
The resortrsquos cuisine focuses on western and Indonesian dishes Meals are usually served buffet style and feature grilled fish squid prawns beef and chicken as well as many curry dishes Side dishes include fresh garden salads pasta salads boiled or steamed leafy greens and grilled aubergine (an island favourite) Prawn and tofu kebabs appear from time to time as does satay The chef will often provide a selection of freshly picked fruit and homemade cakes for dessert Itrsquos worth noting that the management will not serve pork or shellfish on this private island
Pulau Joyo may not be as refined as some islands but itrsquos an excellent choice for those who want a more casual laidback island experience that replicates the castaway experience like perhaps no other
Rates start at pound1913 a night More information is available at wwwpulau-joyocom
Wannabe castaways may find Pulau Joyorsquos purer simpler take on the luxury island experience more to their taste
PULAU JOYO
inspired | March 2014 4746 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
In the Fijian island paradise of Dolphin Island a small army of staff await to meet guestsrsquo every need On arriving ndash by boat helicopter or float plane ndash visitors are invariably struck by the beauty of the island and the luxuri-ous accommodation that awaits them amid 14-acres of lush tropical gardens
Three traditional palm-thatched bures individually designed by world renowned interior designer Virginia Fisher sit in an elevated position around the resortrsquos infinity pool
Guests are brought fresh tropical fish to choose each day that are cooked to perfec-
tion within hours of leaving the water The culinary focus is on
organic produce and ingredi-ents unique to Fijian cuisine but meals are tailored to guestsrsquo personal tastes Papayas man-goes bananas and pineapples
are plentiful throughout the day When it comes to recreation the
14-acre island is an expansive play-ground offering a diverse range of watersports as well as diving opportunities on Fijirsquos coral reefs
Rates start at pound720 a night More information is avail-able at wwwdolphinislandfijicom
Fijian Paean
Traditional features modern comforts and excellent facilities make for a harmonious whole on this Fijian island
DOLPHIN ISLAND
48 March 2014 | inspired
Pictured slightly larger than actual size
Big Pilotrsquos Watch Ref 5009
Your wrist never felt this big before The
case of the top model in the IWC Pilotrsquos
Watch range is a gigantic 462 mm in diashy
meter And the technology inside it is
even more impressive the largest IWCshy
manufactured automatic movement with
its Pellaton winding system is protected
against strong magnetic fields by a softshy
iron inner case And needless to say enshy
vious glances iwc engineered for men
Mechanical IWCshymanufactured movement Pellaton
automatic winding system 7shyday power reserve
with display (figure) Date display Softshyiron inner
case for protection against magnetic fields
Antireflective sapphire glass Watershyresistant 6 bar
Stainless steel
IWC Schaffhausen Switzerland iwccom The worldrsquos finest timepieces are exclusively available from selected watch specialists
For an illustrated catalogue or list of nationwide concessionaires please contact IWC UK Tel 0845 337 1868 Eshymail infoshyukiwccom
CARS
MunichLegend
50 March 2014 | inspired
BMW fanatics can open their eyes ndash the M4 has arrived
Most BMW aficionados are proba-bly pretty sad to see production of the M3 coupe ndash quite possibly the companyrsquos most noteworthy and celebrated model ndash end after almost 30 years Ever since the first wide-body E30 M3 saw the
light of day in 1985 drivers have loved the sporty coupe for its incredible balance intoxicating power and of course solid build quality
The model never got stale in all that time and always remained the poster child for the M division so itrsquos a lit-tle weird that BMW has apparently decided to axe it In truth though they havenrsquot really dropped the M3 The M3 sedan will continue to be produced in 2014 so all
is not lost Moreover BMW seems to be adopting a pat-tern of giving its sedans odd-numbered titles only and its coupes even-numbered titles only so the 4-Series and especially the M4 concept that debuted at Pebble Beach Monterey California will fill the gap left by the M3 Many people have been awaiting the new super coupe with great expectancy but can it fill in for the M3
The journalists who swarmed over the M4 concept at Pebble Beach were obviously much more interested in it than the somewhat predictable 428i that was also there Finished in an eye-catching colour called Aurum Dust (which actually looks a lot like the old M3rsquos Phoenix Yellow colour) the car presented in California may be a concept but typically BMW M cars donrsquot change much before they finally hit the showroom
MunichLegend
inspired | March 2014 51
CARS
52 March 2014 | inspired
From front to back the bodywork is manifestly differ-ent and much more aggressive looking than a standard 4-Series car It really looks to pretty much pick up where the E92E93 M3 coupe left off especially with its undeniably cool domed hood Wide wheel arches big wheels wrapped in low-profile tyres more than enough M badges and a well-executed double-bubble roof make the already underwhelming existing 4-Series coupe look even more pedestrian
Power for the new M4 is likely to come from a three-litre twin-turbo straight-six engine While the horsepower probably wonrsquot differ much from the M3rsquos old 4-litre V-8 it will generate more than 100lbft more in torque almost 400 in total With the M4 being a lighter 3300lb in weight the M4 promises to be an excit-ing worthy car A proper six-speed manual may be in the mix alongside the now obligatory dual clutch and paddles option
The best way to look at the M4 however it ends up is not as a new car but as a new and improved M3 thatrsquos just getting a new name The decision to rename the coupe is a strange one but thankfully BMW apparently felt the 3-Series coupe had made such an identity for itself that a new model was needed albeit in a slightly different incarnation
With BMW embarking on some new-ageish ideas such as its 1-Series ActiveE and the soon-to-arrive lsquoirsquo range of cars itrsquos nice to see the company also stick to classics such as the heart-stopping sports coupe even if the latest model does come with a new name
Seductive curves and racier performance make the BMW M4 a more than acceptable replacement for the M3 super coupe
SparklingForm Coloured diamonds are making their mark
One of the main factors that deter-mines the value of what we ordinarily think of as diamonds is their purity the degree to which col-our is absent in the gem However with coloured diamonds the extent to which they are saturated with
colour is a principal determinant of their valueColoured diamonds come in 12 basic colours more
than 90 secondary hues and nine intensity levels The depth of their colour is what really differentiates these diamonds from their colourless counterparts
Natural coloured diamonds are 10000 times rarer than typical colourless diamonds one of several rea-sons why they are treasured by the rich and famous yet remain unknown to most other people ndash despite hav-ing been around for centuries
Of course some colours are rarer than others Red violet and purple stones are as rare as the proverbial hensrsquo teeth while green and blue are also rare The most popular colours are pink and yellow (or canary) They also come in white grey orange black and lsquochame-leonrsquo form
A pinkie ring encrusted with a large coloured dia-mond has become a status symbol for men in Asia That little stone is an unregistered asset that could quickly be sold for millions of dollars should the need arise
Coloured diamonds are durable and never lose their sparkle or lustre so they are assets that can be enjoyed every day unlike stocks or bonds And they have proved to be fantastic investments having steadily appreciated in price with relatively little volatility for more than a decade They even held their own during the most recent financial crisis
Coloured diamonds are auctioned by reputable
auction houses such a Sothebyrsquos and Christiersquos where prices for large unique pink red blue or yellow stones can reach in excess of $2 million (pound12 million) a carat and other stones regularly sell for $1 million a carat
They are often bought by high-net-worth individu-als as an insurance policy Instead of stashing cash in undeclared bank accounts and potentially incurring the wrath of the authorities the wealthy can purchase some loose yellow diamonds to secure their future
Clearly coloured diamonds are much more than a magnificent indulgence
GEMS
inspired | March 2014 53PB March 2014 | inspired
WINE
Make the most of the deeply
satisfying Malbec wines emerging from Argentina
and perhaps even enjoy a return on a shrewd
investment says Ewan Lacey
Finding a red wine to enjoy in spring is a delicate balancing act The shock of seeing sunlight after a dark winter fosters in us a desire to drink some-thing refreshing while the still-cool temperatures demand something with comforting depth
Increasingly Malbec wines particularly those from Argentina provide a perfect solution to this quandary And while there are plenty of delicious wines for infor-mal occasions what is most interesting is the emergence of finer Malbec wines Some are so good they may well have ageing potential raising the intriguing possibility that the wine may one day become collectable
Malbec is the most popular wine among those aged 25-34 and is now becoming a fixture on most restaurant wine lists There are several reasons for its success the word Malbec is easy to pronounce the wine goes well with red meat the Malbec grape can be turned into wines that are both relatively easy to drink and packed with flavour and decent wines are available at reason-able prices Malbec is deep fruity and charming and it delivers instant pleasure ndash claret on a motorbike
The Malbec grape originated in France and it remains one of the permitted varieties used to make Bordeaux However it has gained prominence through the work of the post-junta Argentine wine industry
I recently had the pleasure of tasting some very fine Malbecs with Laura Catena managing director at the Catena Zapata winery and president of the International Wine and Spirit Competition She opened my
Mendoza Marvels
inspired | March 2014 55
WINE
eyes to the potential of this grape variety when handled with care
Laurarsquos family business makes a range of wines but the wine that truly astonished me was the Nicasia Vineyard Malbec 2006 The wine is perfumed with floral and fruit notes and it is smooth and soft at first Like all great wines it has many layers of flavour warm bursts of cherry and black-currant cede centre stage to deeper darker caramel and mocha notes and a touch of spice Therersquos an amazing depth of flavour and the finish is long and lingering Whatrsquos more at nearly eight years old it still has a slight purple tinge and tastes extremely fresh There is every indication that it will age beautifully for at least another decade
The winersquos character is heavily influenced by the alti-tude the grapes used to make it are grown at (1180m
above sea level) At this elevation the grapes ripen in bright sun but lsquorelaxrsquo during the cool evenings The fact that the wine is made in tiny quantities (eight barrels only) means every care can be taken during the winemak-ing process to ensure the wine is allowed to show its grown-up side The cost per bot-tle of pound70 is not insubstantial but neither is the wine
We cannot know whether these wines will ever become investments in the way the wines of Bordeaux have Whatrsquos cer-tain is that Malbec wines have a very rare quality a balance of finesse and power that
can delight wine lovers and linger in their memories
Ewan Lacey is a leading wine expert and general manager of the International Wine and Spirit Competition He has appeared on BBC television and radio as well as Channel 4 and written for the national press
Laura Catena is managing director at the Catena Zapata winery (above)
THE INTERNATIONAL WINE AND SPIRIT COMPETITIONThe International Wine and Spirit Competition has been the premier drinks competition in the world for 45 years Each year it receives and reviews thousands of wines and spirits and presents qual-ity awards to producers
More than anything the IWSC exists to help
people make better deci-sions particularly when buying wines and spirits An IWSC award on a bot-tle of wine is a guarantee
of quality backed not only by a rigorous and strin-gent judging process but also by the skill of the judges who are drawn from the ranks of masters of wine master distill-ers industry leaders and commentators
Each year the IWSC honours a leading figure
in the drinks industry with the presidency of the competition The current president is Laura Catena who succeeds a nota-ble line of predecessors including Prince Robert of Luxembourg winemakers Piero Antinori and Warren Winiarski and Baroness Philippine de Rothschild
56 March 2014 | inspired
LUXURY WATCHES
Time is preciousA
t a recent watch auc-tion in Geneva at Antiquorum ndash the worldrsquos premiere auc-tion house for modern and vintage time pieces ndash a Patek Philippe
pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon watch emerged as the auctionrsquos top lot and sold for 12 million Swiss francs (pound807000)
Unlike most of the timepieces sold at auctions outside Asia this particular Patek watch ndash the most complicated wristwatch the Swiss watchmaker has ever produced ndash was not a vintage model
That Geneva auction raised intriguing
1284Clocks with weights gears and regulators start to appear mostly with no dial to strike the important moments of daily life
Around 1410The mainspring is devel-oped Combined with the fusee this innovation makes possible the truly portable domestic clock
1492The mechanical watch appears simultaneously in Italy Germany and France
1675Christian Huygens invents the spiral balance spring
for watches significantly improving their accuracy
1704The first watch with jew-els is produced by French watchmaker de Beaufreacute
1714The British parliament offers pound20000 to who-ever can a find a method to determine longitude
1766Parliament publishes the rating results for John Harrisonrsquos H4 marine timekeeper Harrisonrsquos highly accurate marine clock solution to the problem of determining logitude wins him part of the pound20000 prize
1787Pierre-Freacutedeacuteric Ingold is born an important pio-neer in mechanised timepiece production and the use of interchangea-ble parts
1790Jacquet-Droz and Leschot manufactures a watch attached to a strap
1839Vacheron amp Constantin developes a full set of machine tools for manu-facturing its watches
1875Calcium sulphate is the first luminescent sub-stance to be used for numerals and hands
TIMEKEEPING MILESTONES
questions Are modern luxury timepieces every bit as appealing as the vintage watches that typically command top prices at auc-tion And does that Geneva auction tell us anything about the contemporary watch market as a whole
Julien Schaerer Antiquorumrsquos managing director in Geneva says top-quality vintage watches often appreciate in value over the long term But he urges buyers for whom appreciation is an important consideration to be cautious about purchasing contempo-rary watches
lsquoWatch price depreciation is the cost of ownership just as it is with a luxury carrsquo he says lsquoIf the value goes up then
58 March 2014 | inspired
1880The first water- resistant watch incorpo-rating a screwed case is produced by Genevan watchmaker Franccedilois Borgel
1889The first known patent for a wristwatch is filed in Bern Switzerland
1890Dialmaker A Beyeler invents a transfer press for applying numerals and letters to dials
1892Auguste Verneuil in France produces the first synthetic jewels to be used in watchmaking
1904Wens Wilsdorf launches large-scale production of a womenrsquos wristwatch
1924John Harwood files the
first Swiss patent for a self-winding wristwatch with a central oscillating weight
1925The first known wrist-watch with a perpetual calendar is manufactured using a pendant watch movement
1926Rolex creates the Oyster wristwatch with a water-resistant case and crown
1966The first quartz wrist-watch prototype is produced
1969The first quartz watch
with an LED display appears
1978Quartz watches overtake mechanical watches in popularity
2005Creation of the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie Seiko launches the spring drive Kinetic the first self-winding mechanical watch with an electro-magnetic escapement
A Patek Philippe pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon recently sold for pound807000
inspired | March 2014 59
online retailers from the comfort of your homeSince 2006 DM London has quietly estab-
lished a powerful presence for itself in the UK retail watch market with the acquisition of The Watch Hut and The Watch Gallery DM London chairman David Coleridge says the company has capitalised on the increasing willingness of buy-ers to purchase online
lsquoHaving decided that they would like to buy a watch for themselves or someone elsersquo he says lsquopeople start to do their research More often than not this starts online nowadays where they com-pare brands performance and functions
lsquoAs trust in the online marketplace has devel-oped many want to buy online because it is convenient and saves time Shopping online becomes a habit established sites build trust and awareness with customers which gives custom-ers the confidence to buy more expensive itemsrsquo
He adds lsquoOur challenge is to make the online environment as attractive informative and enjoy-able as a high street store Then customers will decide to spend onlinersquo
Coleridge believes a multi-channel approach is the way forward for retailers He says lsquoWithout doubt the future is multi-channel selling ndash a combination of direct selling on the internet and various forms of click and collect ndash combined with beautiful stores on the high street
Over the past few years demand for luxury watches (particularly contemporary models) has spiked sharply in Asia and according to some specialists emerging affluence in the
of course thatrsquos an added benefit However he adds lsquoPrice appreciation is still quite rare with modern watches There is some poten-tial for appreciation but probably only with ultra-limited editions A purchase has to be
seen as a medium- to long-term invest-ment One should buy a timepiece first out of love for the brand or [the watchrsquos] complicationrsquo
The watch brands that offer the greatest assurance of appreci-
ation include Cartier Patek Philippe Rolex Audemars
Piguet A Lange amp Sohne Breguet and Vacheron Constantin All enjoy views from the top of
the watchmaking hierarchy thanks to their longstand-ing histories and well-established brand identities
Relative new-comers to the industry such as Richard Mille and Roger Dubuis have carved out a niche for
themselves with their revolutionary designs and
space-age technologies but it remains to be seen just how well the values of their timepieces will stand up on the secondary market
According to Nathaniel Borgelt a specialist at auction house Sothebyrsquos
some modern watches have already achieved good prices at auction but these (like the Patek Philippe Sky Moon Tourbillon) were highly exclusive models when new
lsquoSome limited edition pieces currently fetch incredible prices at auctionrsquo he says lsquoAnd there is a select group of modern mod-els that could compete with a certain sector of the vintage market based on their brand innovative features such as materials or com-plications and avant-garde designs
Buying these has now become a whole lot easier The luxury watch retailing land-scape is changing and the traditional pattern of physically walking into a luxury salon to buy a watch is gradually being replaced by a trend towards visiting the websites of the big
LUXURY WATCHES
A Lange amp Sohne (above) is a long-standing high-end watchmaker Comparative new-comer Roger Dubuis (right) is forging a strong reputation
inspired | March 2014 PB60 March 2014 | inspired
helpthewatchgallerycom
Hublot ClassiC FusiontHe WatCH Gallery exClusive
The Watch Gallery and Hublot have joined forces to create two very special limited edition watches Both are limited to just 15 pieces worldwide and have been specifically designed to feature The Watch Gallery blue brand colour on the hands and tinted open case back
SelfridgeS OxfOrd StreetWeStfield lOndOnMancheSter exchange Square
wwwthewatchgallerycomhublot-watches
Far East has kept global values strong while other markets around the world continue to recover from recession
Despite the market boost from growing prosperity in Asia there are signs that the market is becoming saturated and that globally the new watch market isnrsquot as robust as some commentators suggest
It may still be a good time to buy but its important to know what you want and what yoursquore buying Modern watchmakers such as Richard Mille Roger Dubuis and Greubel Forsey are producing beautiful timepieces but because of their limited foothold in the market itrsquos difficult to predict their long-term success and desirability They donrsquot yet have the brand power that might ensure the value of their
watches in the secondhand market remains highSuch producers might one day stand eye to
eye with the most desirable brands such as Patek Philippe and Rolex but achieving that kind of parity wonrsquot be easy Collectors looking to invest in timepieces are advised to keep an open mind about modern producers uncertainty is the one aspect of modern luxury watch market most experts tend to agree on
That said the buoyancy in the watch market suggests that plenty of buyers are unconcerned about future values For them itrsquos all about the appreciation of the watch itself People buy watches because they bring them pleasure ndash and say some-thing about who they are
LUXURY WATCHES
Contemporary watches such as those made by Hublot (left) have yet to show they will have the lasting appeal of watches such as Cartierrsquos Rotonde de Cartier Astrocalendaire (right)
inspired | March 2014 63
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What he meant was that while stories may drive stocks in the short run statistics drive stocks in the long run When statistics reassert them-selves it can cause huge damage to investors punting their portfolios on stories
It doesnrsquot take much to learn how basic statis-tics can guide your portfolio into winning stock selections though very few seem to understand how to do it Benjamin Graham as his life wore on gradually came to the conclusion that building portfolios according to rules-based processes was a far more appropriate methodology for the typi-cal investor
lsquoTry to buy groups of stocks that meet some sim-ple criterion for being undervalued ndash regardless of
the industry and with very little attention to the indi-vidual company It seems too good to be true but all I can tell you after 60 years of experience is it seems to stand up under any of the tests I would make uprsquo
My time is now dedi-cated to helping investors practice exactly what Benjamin Graham and many other investment luminaries have preached rules-based investing For the majority itrsquos a better process and leads to bet-ter outcomes Our work at
Stockopediacom where we crunch fundamental and technical data in order to model and track the investment processes of the great investors bears this out
Portfolios composed with stocks showing the right statistical mix of value quality and momen-tum have significantly outperformed Rules-based investing beats the market But more importantly it helps promote the emotional detachment needed to stop investors from beating themselves
Irsquoll never buy a stock on a punt or an analystrsquos tip again Perhaps neither should you
For a two week free trial and pound50 discount to Stockopedia UK Premium CLICK HERE
TANK MCM A N U F A C T U R E M O V E M E N T 1 9 0 4 M C
SINCE THE CREATION OF THE FIRST TANK WATCH IN 1917 THE TANK COLLECTION HAS CONTINUED
TO BREAK NEW GROUND THE INCREDIBLY REFINED AESTHETICS OF THE NEW TANK MC WATCH ARE FITTED
WITH THE CARTIER MANUFACTURE MOVEMENT 1904 MC ESTABLISHED IN 1847 CARTIER CREATES
EXCEPTIONAL WATCHES THAT COMBINE DARING DESIGN AND WATCHMAKING SAVOIR-FAIRE
EXPLORE AND SHOP WWWCARTIERCOUK - (020) 3147 4850
Conn
oisseur
Conn
oisseur
Conn
oisseur
Conn
oisseur
Conn
oisseur
Conn
oisseur
Conn
oisseur
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Inside
Conn
oisseur
TO THE CONNOISSEUR section of Inspired a showcase for the finer things in life for those who truly appreciate them
Enjoying the fruits of your labour away from the relentless demands of our age poses its own challenges and quandaries Would a tropical idyll restore your ebbing energy levels Might a break based around hair-raising activities revive them even more effectively Perhaps reawakening a dormant passion for fine wines or luxury cars would be the most enjoyable reward for your industry
A luxury tropical holiday is probably near the top of most peoplersquos wish lists We take a look at some of the most tantalising options
The arrival of BMWrsquos new super coupe is featured on page 50 BMW aficionados and petrolheads alike are certain to be won over by its head-turning looks and mouthwatering specs
Gems come under the microscope on page 53 A rare coloured diamond can be a joy as well an appreciating asset
Wine is on the menu on page 54 where we explore the charms of Argentinian Malbec
Watches are often treasured objects and the best can turn out to be shrewd investments We look at the secondary watch market and the growth of online retailing on page 58 Enjoy
Welcome
40 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
FIVE TOP PRIVATE ISLAND RETREATSIslandFantasy
Top-rated resorts and hotels offer a variety of temptations and services to impress even the most discerning tastes but there is no better way to escape the rigours and
stresses of daily life than cutting off from the outside world while still enjoying lavish service
in the pinnacle of all resorts the private islandThere are thousands of small islands around
the world but only a few have chosen to cater to the most discriminating travellers seeking a rarified yet perfect world of quiet and relaxed luxury We look at five of the worldrsquos top private islands destinations where your holiday is certain to be an exceptional experience
TRAVEL
Necker Island is owned by Sir Richard Branson and guests stay in his home The island has become a popular des-tination for some of the worldrsquos most prominent figures as a hideaway from lifersquos stresses and strains
Because Necker Island is a resi-dence and not a resort guests who rent the island are treated as owners and catered for in a unique way
The74-acre island is fringed with beautiful white beaches and surrounded by turquoise waters and coral reefs It boasts every resort-type amenity guests can spend their days being pampered in the spa explor-ing underwater reefs in a submarine lounging by the pool bar or swimming in one of the worldrsquos most elab-orate private pools
Haute cuisine is a highlight for most guests ndash rates are fully inclusive of all food and drink A team of chefs creates bespoke menus featuring anything from lobster and caviar to a Sunday roast And because Necker is a home first and a resort second guests decide whether dining will be formal or informal inside or outside themed or traditional
The bar is stocked with international wines top-quality spirits and beers and a world renowned house champagne while special orders can be shipped in at no extra charge ndash unless an item is particularly rare Every service and amenity is available around the clock and guests are encouraged to treat Necker as their own home
As youLike it
NECKER ISLAND
42 March 2014 | inspired
Unalloyed luxury and an impressive range of amenities make Necker one of the most desirable island destinations in the world
The Jumby Bay resort which is only accessible by boat from Antigua is a Caribbean hideaway owned by Rosewood Resorts It is perfect for those seeking either relaxation or spirited adventure
You can rent the island resort entirely for your stay or simply take a room Those opt-ing for exclusive use of the island will have the resortrsquos two pools three tennis courts fitness centre croquet field and putting green to themselves
A wide range of water sports are available and guests can indulge in as much adventure or relaxation as they want during their stay The resort is ideal for large family
reunions or corporate retreats ndash 40 guest rooms and suites are available on the island
Executive chef Sylvain Hervochon celebrates gastron-omy ndash and mixology (cocktail making) ndash with casual elegance by creating Caribbean-style dishes inspired by fresh local ingredients and incorporating international influences
Jumby Bayrsquos rates start at pound150000 for four nights based on double occupancy between May and December Visit wwwrosewoodhotelscomenjumby-bay-antigua for further information
Fine BalanceCaribbean ambiance international sophistication and adventurous activities make Jumby Bay a compelling choice
JUMBY BAY
Just laze by the pool or venture beyond to dive in the turquoise waters of the South Pacific among stunning reefs and a dazzling array of marine creatures
Isle of PlentyT
he private island of Laucala in the South Pacific is a 3500-acre site in a picturesque rainforest-laced land-scape Enchanting deserted beaches nestle among coconut plantations organic farms and lush green vol-canic mountains
The resort offers an outstanding level of refined lux-ury as well as a compelling collection of sporting and cultural activities diving among iridescent marine life in the warm turquoise waters guided rainforest tours horse riding surfing and golfing on the 18-hole cham-pionship course The island is a superb choice for an escape from civilization whether you want an adven-ture in the wild or simply to relax in one of Laucalarsquos five restaurants and bars
Rates are available on request Visit wwwlaucalacom for further details
TRAVEL
LAUCALA ISLAND
inspired | March 2014 4544 March 2014 | inspired
Lush green surroundings sensitive development and beautiful beaches help Laucala island conjure up a complete South Seas experience
Isle of Plenty
inspired | March 2014 4544 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
inspired | March 2014 4746 March 2014 | inspired
Slow LaneSlow
Pulau Joyo is a seductively serene environment of pristine beaches surrounded by clear blue sea in Indonesiarsquos Riau Archipelago Accessible from Singapore or Bintan Pulau Joyo is a true castaway island offering every resort luxury
amid untouched natural beauty Pulau Joyo is famous for its remarkable sunsets and
brightly star-lit sky The resort can host 28 guests and 20 staff are on hand to cater to their every need Guests stay in open driftwood lsquopalacesrsquo that lsquoallow the sea inrsquoDespite its desert island appeal Pulau Joyo offers every modern convenience a range of adrenaline boosting activities and more relaxing options such as spa treatments and massages
The resortrsquos cuisine focuses on western and Indonesian dishes Meals are usually served buffet style and feature grilled fish squid prawns beef and chicken as well as many curry dishes Side dishes include fresh garden salads pasta salads boiled or steamed leafy greens and grilled aubergine (an island favourite) Prawn and tofu kebabs appear from time to time as does satay The chef will often provide a selection of freshly picked fruit and homemade cakes for dessert Itrsquos worth noting that the management will not serve pork or shellfish on this private island
Pulau Joyo may not be as refined as some islands but itrsquos an excellent choice for those who want a more casual laidback island experience that replicates the castaway experience like perhaps no other
Rates start at pound1913 a night More information is available at wwwpulau-joyocom
Wannabe castaways may find Pulau Joyorsquos purer simpler take on the luxury island experience more to their taste
PULAU JOYO
inspired | March 2014 4746 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
In the Fijian island paradise of Dolphin Island a small army of staff await to meet guestsrsquo every need On arriving ndash by boat helicopter or float plane ndash visitors are invariably struck by the beauty of the island and the luxuri-ous accommodation that awaits them amid 14-acres of lush tropical gardens
Three traditional palm-thatched bures individually designed by world renowned interior designer Virginia Fisher sit in an elevated position around the resortrsquos infinity pool
Guests are brought fresh tropical fish to choose each day that are cooked to perfec-
tion within hours of leaving the water The culinary focus is on
organic produce and ingredi-ents unique to Fijian cuisine but meals are tailored to guestsrsquo personal tastes Papayas man-goes bananas and pineapples
are plentiful throughout the day When it comes to recreation the
14-acre island is an expansive play-ground offering a diverse range of watersports as well as diving opportunities on Fijirsquos coral reefs
Rates start at pound720 a night More information is avail-able at wwwdolphinislandfijicom
Fijian Paean
Traditional features modern comforts and excellent facilities make for a harmonious whole on this Fijian island
DOLPHIN ISLAND
48 March 2014 | inspired
Pictured slightly larger than actual size
Big Pilotrsquos Watch Ref 5009
Your wrist never felt this big before The
case of the top model in the IWC Pilotrsquos
Watch range is a gigantic 462 mm in diashy
meter And the technology inside it is
even more impressive the largest IWCshy
manufactured automatic movement with
its Pellaton winding system is protected
against strong magnetic fields by a softshy
iron inner case And needless to say enshy
vious glances iwc engineered for men
Mechanical IWCshymanufactured movement Pellaton
automatic winding system 7shyday power reserve
with display (figure) Date display Softshyiron inner
case for protection against magnetic fields
Antireflective sapphire glass Watershyresistant 6 bar
Stainless steel
IWC Schaffhausen Switzerland iwccom The worldrsquos finest timepieces are exclusively available from selected watch specialists
For an illustrated catalogue or list of nationwide concessionaires please contact IWC UK Tel 0845 337 1868 Eshymail infoshyukiwccom
CARS
MunichLegend
50 March 2014 | inspired
BMW fanatics can open their eyes ndash the M4 has arrived
Most BMW aficionados are proba-bly pretty sad to see production of the M3 coupe ndash quite possibly the companyrsquos most noteworthy and celebrated model ndash end after almost 30 years Ever since the first wide-body E30 M3 saw the
light of day in 1985 drivers have loved the sporty coupe for its incredible balance intoxicating power and of course solid build quality
The model never got stale in all that time and always remained the poster child for the M division so itrsquos a lit-tle weird that BMW has apparently decided to axe it In truth though they havenrsquot really dropped the M3 The M3 sedan will continue to be produced in 2014 so all
is not lost Moreover BMW seems to be adopting a pat-tern of giving its sedans odd-numbered titles only and its coupes even-numbered titles only so the 4-Series and especially the M4 concept that debuted at Pebble Beach Monterey California will fill the gap left by the M3 Many people have been awaiting the new super coupe with great expectancy but can it fill in for the M3
The journalists who swarmed over the M4 concept at Pebble Beach were obviously much more interested in it than the somewhat predictable 428i that was also there Finished in an eye-catching colour called Aurum Dust (which actually looks a lot like the old M3rsquos Phoenix Yellow colour) the car presented in California may be a concept but typically BMW M cars donrsquot change much before they finally hit the showroom
MunichLegend
inspired | March 2014 51
CARS
52 March 2014 | inspired
From front to back the bodywork is manifestly differ-ent and much more aggressive looking than a standard 4-Series car It really looks to pretty much pick up where the E92E93 M3 coupe left off especially with its undeniably cool domed hood Wide wheel arches big wheels wrapped in low-profile tyres more than enough M badges and a well-executed double-bubble roof make the already underwhelming existing 4-Series coupe look even more pedestrian
Power for the new M4 is likely to come from a three-litre twin-turbo straight-six engine While the horsepower probably wonrsquot differ much from the M3rsquos old 4-litre V-8 it will generate more than 100lbft more in torque almost 400 in total With the M4 being a lighter 3300lb in weight the M4 promises to be an excit-ing worthy car A proper six-speed manual may be in the mix alongside the now obligatory dual clutch and paddles option
The best way to look at the M4 however it ends up is not as a new car but as a new and improved M3 thatrsquos just getting a new name The decision to rename the coupe is a strange one but thankfully BMW apparently felt the 3-Series coupe had made such an identity for itself that a new model was needed albeit in a slightly different incarnation
With BMW embarking on some new-ageish ideas such as its 1-Series ActiveE and the soon-to-arrive lsquoirsquo range of cars itrsquos nice to see the company also stick to classics such as the heart-stopping sports coupe even if the latest model does come with a new name
Seductive curves and racier performance make the BMW M4 a more than acceptable replacement for the M3 super coupe
SparklingForm Coloured diamonds are making their mark
One of the main factors that deter-mines the value of what we ordinarily think of as diamonds is their purity the degree to which col-our is absent in the gem However with coloured diamonds the extent to which they are saturated with
colour is a principal determinant of their valueColoured diamonds come in 12 basic colours more
than 90 secondary hues and nine intensity levels The depth of their colour is what really differentiates these diamonds from their colourless counterparts
Natural coloured diamonds are 10000 times rarer than typical colourless diamonds one of several rea-sons why they are treasured by the rich and famous yet remain unknown to most other people ndash despite hav-ing been around for centuries
Of course some colours are rarer than others Red violet and purple stones are as rare as the proverbial hensrsquo teeth while green and blue are also rare The most popular colours are pink and yellow (or canary) They also come in white grey orange black and lsquochame-leonrsquo form
A pinkie ring encrusted with a large coloured dia-mond has become a status symbol for men in Asia That little stone is an unregistered asset that could quickly be sold for millions of dollars should the need arise
Coloured diamonds are durable and never lose their sparkle or lustre so they are assets that can be enjoyed every day unlike stocks or bonds And they have proved to be fantastic investments having steadily appreciated in price with relatively little volatility for more than a decade They even held their own during the most recent financial crisis
Coloured diamonds are auctioned by reputable
auction houses such a Sothebyrsquos and Christiersquos where prices for large unique pink red blue or yellow stones can reach in excess of $2 million (pound12 million) a carat and other stones regularly sell for $1 million a carat
They are often bought by high-net-worth individu-als as an insurance policy Instead of stashing cash in undeclared bank accounts and potentially incurring the wrath of the authorities the wealthy can purchase some loose yellow diamonds to secure their future
Clearly coloured diamonds are much more than a magnificent indulgence
GEMS
inspired | March 2014 53PB March 2014 | inspired
WINE
Make the most of the deeply
satisfying Malbec wines emerging from Argentina
and perhaps even enjoy a return on a shrewd
investment says Ewan Lacey
Finding a red wine to enjoy in spring is a delicate balancing act The shock of seeing sunlight after a dark winter fosters in us a desire to drink some-thing refreshing while the still-cool temperatures demand something with comforting depth
Increasingly Malbec wines particularly those from Argentina provide a perfect solution to this quandary And while there are plenty of delicious wines for infor-mal occasions what is most interesting is the emergence of finer Malbec wines Some are so good they may well have ageing potential raising the intriguing possibility that the wine may one day become collectable
Malbec is the most popular wine among those aged 25-34 and is now becoming a fixture on most restaurant wine lists There are several reasons for its success the word Malbec is easy to pronounce the wine goes well with red meat the Malbec grape can be turned into wines that are both relatively easy to drink and packed with flavour and decent wines are available at reason-able prices Malbec is deep fruity and charming and it delivers instant pleasure ndash claret on a motorbike
The Malbec grape originated in France and it remains one of the permitted varieties used to make Bordeaux However it has gained prominence through the work of the post-junta Argentine wine industry
I recently had the pleasure of tasting some very fine Malbecs with Laura Catena managing director at the Catena Zapata winery and president of the International Wine and Spirit Competition She opened my
Mendoza Marvels
inspired | March 2014 55
WINE
eyes to the potential of this grape variety when handled with care
Laurarsquos family business makes a range of wines but the wine that truly astonished me was the Nicasia Vineyard Malbec 2006 The wine is perfumed with floral and fruit notes and it is smooth and soft at first Like all great wines it has many layers of flavour warm bursts of cherry and black-currant cede centre stage to deeper darker caramel and mocha notes and a touch of spice Therersquos an amazing depth of flavour and the finish is long and lingering Whatrsquos more at nearly eight years old it still has a slight purple tinge and tastes extremely fresh There is every indication that it will age beautifully for at least another decade
The winersquos character is heavily influenced by the alti-tude the grapes used to make it are grown at (1180m
above sea level) At this elevation the grapes ripen in bright sun but lsquorelaxrsquo during the cool evenings The fact that the wine is made in tiny quantities (eight barrels only) means every care can be taken during the winemak-ing process to ensure the wine is allowed to show its grown-up side The cost per bot-tle of pound70 is not insubstantial but neither is the wine
We cannot know whether these wines will ever become investments in the way the wines of Bordeaux have Whatrsquos cer-tain is that Malbec wines have a very rare quality a balance of finesse and power that
can delight wine lovers and linger in their memories
Ewan Lacey is a leading wine expert and general manager of the International Wine and Spirit Competition He has appeared on BBC television and radio as well as Channel 4 and written for the national press
Laura Catena is managing director at the Catena Zapata winery (above)
THE INTERNATIONAL WINE AND SPIRIT COMPETITIONThe International Wine and Spirit Competition has been the premier drinks competition in the world for 45 years Each year it receives and reviews thousands of wines and spirits and presents qual-ity awards to producers
More than anything the IWSC exists to help
people make better deci-sions particularly when buying wines and spirits An IWSC award on a bot-tle of wine is a guarantee
of quality backed not only by a rigorous and strin-gent judging process but also by the skill of the judges who are drawn from the ranks of masters of wine master distill-ers industry leaders and commentators
Each year the IWSC honours a leading figure
in the drinks industry with the presidency of the competition The current president is Laura Catena who succeeds a nota-ble line of predecessors including Prince Robert of Luxembourg winemakers Piero Antinori and Warren Winiarski and Baroness Philippine de Rothschild
56 March 2014 | inspired
LUXURY WATCHES
Time is preciousA
t a recent watch auc-tion in Geneva at Antiquorum ndash the worldrsquos premiere auc-tion house for modern and vintage time pieces ndash a Patek Philippe
pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon watch emerged as the auctionrsquos top lot and sold for 12 million Swiss francs (pound807000)
Unlike most of the timepieces sold at auctions outside Asia this particular Patek watch ndash the most complicated wristwatch the Swiss watchmaker has ever produced ndash was not a vintage model
That Geneva auction raised intriguing
1284Clocks with weights gears and regulators start to appear mostly with no dial to strike the important moments of daily life
Around 1410The mainspring is devel-oped Combined with the fusee this innovation makes possible the truly portable domestic clock
1492The mechanical watch appears simultaneously in Italy Germany and France
1675Christian Huygens invents the spiral balance spring
for watches significantly improving their accuracy
1704The first watch with jew-els is produced by French watchmaker de Beaufreacute
1714The British parliament offers pound20000 to who-ever can a find a method to determine longitude
1766Parliament publishes the rating results for John Harrisonrsquos H4 marine timekeeper Harrisonrsquos highly accurate marine clock solution to the problem of determining logitude wins him part of the pound20000 prize
1787Pierre-Freacutedeacuteric Ingold is born an important pio-neer in mechanised timepiece production and the use of interchangea-ble parts
1790Jacquet-Droz and Leschot manufactures a watch attached to a strap
1839Vacheron amp Constantin developes a full set of machine tools for manu-facturing its watches
1875Calcium sulphate is the first luminescent sub-stance to be used for numerals and hands
TIMEKEEPING MILESTONES
questions Are modern luxury timepieces every bit as appealing as the vintage watches that typically command top prices at auc-tion And does that Geneva auction tell us anything about the contemporary watch market as a whole
Julien Schaerer Antiquorumrsquos managing director in Geneva says top-quality vintage watches often appreciate in value over the long term But he urges buyers for whom appreciation is an important consideration to be cautious about purchasing contempo-rary watches
lsquoWatch price depreciation is the cost of ownership just as it is with a luxury carrsquo he says lsquoIf the value goes up then
58 March 2014 | inspired
1880The first water- resistant watch incorpo-rating a screwed case is produced by Genevan watchmaker Franccedilois Borgel
1889The first known patent for a wristwatch is filed in Bern Switzerland
1890Dialmaker A Beyeler invents a transfer press for applying numerals and letters to dials
1892Auguste Verneuil in France produces the first synthetic jewels to be used in watchmaking
1904Wens Wilsdorf launches large-scale production of a womenrsquos wristwatch
1924John Harwood files the
first Swiss patent for a self-winding wristwatch with a central oscillating weight
1925The first known wrist-watch with a perpetual calendar is manufactured using a pendant watch movement
1926Rolex creates the Oyster wristwatch with a water-resistant case and crown
1966The first quartz wrist-watch prototype is produced
1969The first quartz watch
with an LED display appears
1978Quartz watches overtake mechanical watches in popularity
2005Creation of the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie Seiko launches the spring drive Kinetic the first self-winding mechanical watch with an electro-magnetic escapement
A Patek Philippe pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon recently sold for pound807000
inspired | March 2014 59
online retailers from the comfort of your homeSince 2006 DM London has quietly estab-
lished a powerful presence for itself in the UK retail watch market with the acquisition of The Watch Hut and The Watch Gallery DM London chairman David Coleridge says the company has capitalised on the increasing willingness of buy-ers to purchase online
lsquoHaving decided that they would like to buy a watch for themselves or someone elsersquo he says lsquopeople start to do their research More often than not this starts online nowadays where they com-pare brands performance and functions
lsquoAs trust in the online marketplace has devel-oped many want to buy online because it is convenient and saves time Shopping online becomes a habit established sites build trust and awareness with customers which gives custom-ers the confidence to buy more expensive itemsrsquo
He adds lsquoOur challenge is to make the online environment as attractive informative and enjoy-able as a high street store Then customers will decide to spend onlinersquo
Coleridge believes a multi-channel approach is the way forward for retailers He says lsquoWithout doubt the future is multi-channel selling ndash a combination of direct selling on the internet and various forms of click and collect ndash combined with beautiful stores on the high street
Over the past few years demand for luxury watches (particularly contemporary models) has spiked sharply in Asia and according to some specialists emerging affluence in the
of course thatrsquos an added benefit However he adds lsquoPrice appreciation is still quite rare with modern watches There is some poten-tial for appreciation but probably only with ultra-limited editions A purchase has to be
seen as a medium- to long-term invest-ment One should buy a timepiece first out of love for the brand or [the watchrsquos] complicationrsquo
The watch brands that offer the greatest assurance of appreci-
ation include Cartier Patek Philippe Rolex Audemars
Piguet A Lange amp Sohne Breguet and Vacheron Constantin All enjoy views from the top of
the watchmaking hierarchy thanks to their longstand-ing histories and well-established brand identities
Relative new-comers to the industry such as Richard Mille and Roger Dubuis have carved out a niche for
themselves with their revolutionary designs and
space-age technologies but it remains to be seen just how well the values of their timepieces will stand up on the secondary market
According to Nathaniel Borgelt a specialist at auction house Sothebyrsquos
some modern watches have already achieved good prices at auction but these (like the Patek Philippe Sky Moon Tourbillon) were highly exclusive models when new
lsquoSome limited edition pieces currently fetch incredible prices at auctionrsquo he says lsquoAnd there is a select group of modern mod-els that could compete with a certain sector of the vintage market based on their brand innovative features such as materials or com-plications and avant-garde designs
Buying these has now become a whole lot easier The luxury watch retailing land-scape is changing and the traditional pattern of physically walking into a luxury salon to buy a watch is gradually being replaced by a trend towards visiting the websites of the big
LUXURY WATCHES
A Lange amp Sohne (above) is a long-standing high-end watchmaker Comparative new-comer Roger Dubuis (right) is forging a strong reputation
inspired | March 2014 PB60 March 2014 | inspired
helpthewatchgallerycom
Hublot ClassiC FusiontHe WatCH Gallery exClusive
The Watch Gallery and Hublot have joined forces to create two very special limited edition watches Both are limited to just 15 pieces worldwide and have been specifically designed to feature The Watch Gallery blue brand colour on the hands and tinted open case back
SelfridgeS OxfOrd StreetWeStfield lOndOnMancheSter exchange Square
wwwthewatchgallerycomhublot-watches
Far East has kept global values strong while other markets around the world continue to recover from recession
Despite the market boost from growing prosperity in Asia there are signs that the market is becoming saturated and that globally the new watch market isnrsquot as robust as some commentators suggest
It may still be a good time to buy but its important to know what you want and what yoursquore buying Modern watchmakers such as Richard Mille Roger Dubuis and Greubel Forsey are producing beautiful timepieces but because of their limited foothold in the market itrsquos difficult to predict their long-term success and desirability They donrsquot yet have the brand power that might ensure the value of their
watches in the secondhand market remains highSuch producers might one day stand eye to
eye with the most desirable brands such as Patek Philippe and Rolex but achieving that kind of parity wonrsquot be easy Collectors looking to invest in timepieces are advised to keep an open mind about modern producers uncertainty is the one aspect of modern luxury watch market most experts tend to agree on
That said the buoyancy in the watch market suggests that plenty of buyers are unconcerned about future values For them itrsquos all about the appreciation of the watch itself People buy watches because they bring them pleasure ndash and say some-thing about who they are
LUXURY WATCHES
Contemporary watches such as those made by Hublot (left) have yet to show they will have the lasting appeal of watches such as Cartierrsquos Rotonde de Cartier Astrocalendaire (right)
inspired | March 2014 63
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TANK MCM A N U F A C T U R E M O V E M E N T 1 9 0 4 M C
SINCE THE CREATION OF THE FIRST TANK WATCH IN 1917 THE TANK COLLECTION HAS CONTINUED
TO BREAK NEW GROUND THE INCREDIBLY REFINED AESTHETICS OF THE NEW TANK MC WATCH ARE FITTED
WITH THE CARTIER MANUFACTURE MOVEMENT 1904 MC ESTABLISHED IN 1847 CARTIER CREATES
EXCEPTIONAL WATCHES THAT COMBINE DARING DESIGN AND WATCHMAKING SAVOIR-FAIRE
EXPLORE AND SHOP WWWCARTIERCOUK - (020) 3147 4850
Conn
oisseur
Conn
oisseur
Conn
oisseur
Conn
oisseur
Conn
oisseur
Conn
oisseur
Conn
oisseur
Conn
oisseur
Inside
Conn
oisseur
TO THE CONNOISSEUR section of Inspired a showcase for the finer things in life for those who truly appreciate them
Enjoying the fruits of your labour away from the relentless demands of our age poses its own challenges and quandaries Would a tropical idyll restore your ebbing energy levels Might a break based around hair-raising activities revive them even more effectively Perhaps reawakening a dormant passion for fine wines or luxury cars would be the most enjoyable reward for your industry
A luxury tropical holiday is probably near the top of most peoplersquos wish lists We take a look at some of the most tantalising options
The arrival of BMWrsquos new super coupe is featured on page 50 BMW aficionados and petrolheads alike are certain to be won over by its head-turning looks and mouthwatering specs
Gems come under the microscope on page 53 A rare coloured diamond can be a joy as well an appreciating asset
Wine is on the menu on page 54 where we explore the charms of Argentinian Malbec
Watches are often treasured objects and the best can turn out to be shrewd investments We look at the secondary watch market and the growth of online retailing on page 58 Enjoy
Welcome
40 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
FIVE TOP PRIVATE ISLAND RETREATSIslandFantasy
Top-rated resorts and hotels offer a variety of temptations and services to impress even the most discerning tastes but there is no better way to escape the rigours and
stresses of daily life than cutting off from the outside world while still enjoying lavish service
in the pinnacle of all resorts the private islandThere are thousands of small islands around
the world but only a few have chosen to cater to the most discriminating travellers seeking a rarified yet perfect world of quiet and relaxed luxury We look at five of the worldrsquos top private islands destinations where your holiday is certain to be an exceptional experience
TRAVEL
Necker Island is owned by Sir Richard Branson and guests stay in his home The island has become a popular des-tination for some of the worldrsquos most prominent figures as a hideaway from lifersquos stresses and strains
Because Necker Island is a resi-dence and not a resort guests who rent the island are treated as owners and catered for in a unique way
The74-acre island is fringed with beautiful white beaches and surrounded by turquoise waters and coral reefs It boasts every resort-type amenity guests can spend their days being pampered in the spa explor-ing underwater reefs in a submarine lounging by the pool bar or swimming in one of the worldrsquos most elab-orate private pools
Haute cuisine is a highlight for most guests ndash rates are fully inclusive of all food and drink A team of chefs creates bespoke menus featuring anything from lobster and caviar to a Sunday roast And because Necker is a home first and a resort second guests decide whether dining will be formal or informal inside or outside themed or traditional
The bar is stocked with international wines top-quality spirits and beers and a world renowned house champagne while special orders can be shipped in at no extra charge ndash unless an item is particularly rare Every service and amenity is available around the clock and guests are encouraged to treat Necker as their own home
As youLike it
NECKER ISLAND
42 March 2014 | inspired
Unalloyed luxury and an impressive range of amenities make Necker one of the most desirable island destinations in the world
The Jumby Bay resort which is only accessible by boat from Antigua is a Caribbean hideaway owned by Rosewood Resorts It is perfect for those seeking either relaxation or spirited adventure
You can rent the island resort entirely for your stay or simply take a room Those opt-ing for exclusive use of the island will have the resortrsquos two pools three tennis courts fitness centre croquet field and putting green to themselves
A wide range of water sports are available and guests can indulge in as much adventure or relaxation as they want during their stay The resort is ideal for large family
reunions or corporate retreats ndash 40 guest rooms and suites are available on the island
Executive chef Sylvain Hervochon celebrates gastron-omy ndash and mixology (cocktail making) ndash with casual elegance by creating Caribbean-style dishes inspired by fresh local ingredients and incorporating international influences
Jumby Bayrsquos rates start at pound150000 for four nights based on double occupancy between May and December Visit wwwrosewoodhotelscomenjumby-bay-antigua for further information
Fine BalanceCaribbean ambiance international sophistication and adventurous activities make Jumby Bay a compelling choice
JUMBY BAY
Just laze by the pool or venture beyond to dive in the turquoise waters of the South Pacific among stunning reefs and a dazzling array of marine creatures
Isle of PlentyT
he private island of Laucala in the South Pacific is a 3500-acre site in a picturesque rainforest-laced land-scape Enchanting deserted beaches nestle among coconut plantations organic farms and lush green vol-canic mountains
The resort offers an outstanding level of refined lux-ury as well as a compelling collection of sporting and cultural activities diving among iridescent marine life in the warm turquoise waters guided rainforest tours horse riding surfing and golfing on the 18-hole cham-pionship course The island is a superb choice for an escape from civilization whether you want an adven-ture in the wild or simply to relax in one of Laucalarsquos five restaurants and bars
Rates are available on request Visit wwwlaucalacom for further details
TRAVEL
LAUCALA ISLAND
inspired | March 2014 4544 March 2014 | inspired
Lush green surroundings sensitive development and beautiful beaches help Laucala island conjure up a complete South Seas experience
Isle of Plenty
inspired | March 2014 4544 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
inspired | March 2014 4746 March 2014 | inspired
Slow LaneSlow
Pulau Joyo is a seductively serene environment of pristine beaches surrounded by clear blue sea in Indonesiarsquos Riau Archipelago Accessible from Singapore or Bintan Pulau Joyo is a true castaway island offering every resort luxury
amid untouched natural beauty Pulau Joyo is famous for its remarkable sunsets and
brightly star-lit sky The resort can host 28 guests and 20 staff are on hand to cater to their every need Guests stay in open driftwood lsquopalacesrsquo that lsquoallow the sea inrsquoDespite its desert island appeal Pulau Joyo offers every modern convenience a range of adrenaline boosting activities and more relaxing options such as spa treatments and massages
The resortrsquos cuisine focuses on western and Indonesian dishes Meals are usually served buffet style and feature grilled fish squid prawns beef and chicken as well as many curry dishes Side dishes include fresh garden salads pasta salads boiled or steamed leafy greens and grilled aubergine (an island favourite) Prawn and tofu kebabs appear from time to time as does satay The chef will often provide a selection of freshly picked fruit and homemade cakes for dessert Itrsquos worth noting that the management will not serve pork or shellfish on this private island
Pulau Joyo may not be as refined as some islands but itrsquos an excellent choice for those who want a more casual laidback island experience that replicates the castaway experience like perhaps no other
Rates start at pound1913 a night More information is available at wwwpulau-joyocom
Wannabe castaways may find Pulau Joyorsquos purer simpler take on the luxury island experience more to their taste
PULAU JOYO
inspired | March 2014 4746 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
In the Fijian island paradise of Dolphin Island a small army of staff await to meet guestsrsquo every need On arriving ndash by boat helicopter or float plane ndash visitors are invariably struck by the beauty of the island and the luxuri-ous accommodation that awaits them amid 14-acres of lush tropical gardens
Three traditional palm-thatched bures individually designed by world renowned interior designer Virginia Fisher sit in an elevated position around the resortrsquos infinity pool
Guests are brought fresh tropical fish to choose each day that are cooked to perfec-
tion within hours of leaving the water The culinary focus is on
organic produce and ingredi-ents unique to Fijian cuisine but meals are tailored to guestsrsquo personal tastes Papayas man-goes bananas and pineapples
are plentiful throughout the day When it comes to recreation the
14-acre island is an expansive play-ground offering a diverse range of watersports as well as diving opportunities on Fijirsquos coral reefs
Rates start at pound720 a night More information is avail-able at wwwdolphinislandfijicom
Fijian Paean
Traditional features modern comforts and excellent facilities make for a harmonious whole on this Fijian island
DOLPHIN ISLAND
48 March 2014 | inspired
Pictured slightly larger than actual size
Big Pilotrsquos Watch Ref 5009
Your wrist never felt this big before The
case of the top model in the IWC Pilotrsquos
Watch range is a gigantic 462 mm in diashy
meter And the technology inside it is
even more impressive the largest IWCshy
manufactured automatic movement with
its Pellaton winding system is protected
against strong magnetic fields by a softshy
iron inner case And needless to say enshy
vious glances iwc engineered for men
Mechanical IWCshymanufactured movement Pellaton
automatic winding system 7shyday power reserve
with display (figure) Date display Softshyiron inner
case for protection against magnetic fields
Antireflective sapphire glass Watershyresistant 6 bar
Stainless steel
IWC Schaffhausen Switzerland iwccom The worldrsquos finest timepieces are exclusively available from selected watch specialists
For an illustrated catalogue or list of nationwide concessionaires please contact IWC UK Tel 0845 337 1868 Eshymail infoshyukiwccom
CARS
MunichLegend
50 March 2014 | inspired
BMW fanatics can open their eyes ndash the M4 has arrived
Most BMW aficionados are proba-bly pretty sad to see production of the M3 coupe ndash quite possibly the companyrsquos most noteworthy and celebrated model ndash end after almost 30 years Ever since the first wide-body E30 M3 saw the
light of day in 1985 drivers have loved the sporty coupe for its incredible balance intoxicating power and of course solid build quality
The model never got stale in all that time and always remained the poster child for the M division so itrsquos a lit-tle weird that BMW has apparently decided to axe it In truth though they havenrsquot really dropped the M3 The M3 sedan will continue to be produced in 2014 so all
is not lost Moreover BMW seems to be adopting a pat-tern of giving its sedans odd-numbered titles only and its coupes even-numbered titles only so the 4-Series and especially the M4 concept that debuted at Pebble Beach Monterey California will fill the gap left by the M3 Many people have been awaiting the new super coupe with great expectancy but can it fill in for the M3
The journalists who swarmed over the M4 concept at Pebble Beach were obviously much more interested in it than the somewhat predictable 428i that was also there Finished in an eye-catching colour called Aurum Dust (which actually looks a lot like the old M3rsquos Phoenix Yellow colour) the car presented in California may be a concept but typically BMW M cars donrsquot change much before they finally hit the showroom
MunichLegend
inspired | March 2014 51
CARS
52 March 2014 | inspired
From front to back the bodywork is manifestly differ-ent and much more aggressive looking than a standard 4-Series car It really looks to pretty much pick up where the E92E93 M3 coupe left off especially with its undeniably cool domed hood Wide wheel arches big wheels wrapped in low-profile tyres more than enough M badges and a well-executed double-bubble roof make the already underwhelming existing 4-Series coupe look even more pedestrian
Power for the new M4 is likely to come from a three-litre twin-turbo straight-six engine While the horsepower probably wonrsquot differ much from the M3rsquos old 4-litre V-8 it will generate more than 100lbft more in torque almost 400 in total With the M4 being a lighter 3300lb in weight the M4 promises to be an excit-ing worthy car A proper six-speed manual may be in the mix alongside the now obligatory dual clutch and paddles option
The best way to look at the M4 however it ends up is not as a new car but as a new and improved M3 thatrsquos just getting a new name The decision to rename the coupe is a strange one but thankfully BMW apparently felt the 3-Series coupe had made such an identity for itself that a new model was needed albeit in a slightly different incarnation
With BMW embarking on some new-ageish ideas such as its 1-Series ActiveE and the soon-to-arrive lsquoirsquo range of cars itrsquos nice to see the company also stick to classics such as the heart-stopping sports coupe even if the latest model does come with a new name
Seductive curves and racier performance make the BMW M4 a more than acceptable replacement for the M3 super coupe
SparklingForm Coloured diamonds are making their mark
One of the main factors that deter-mines the value of what we ordinarily think of as diamonds is their purity the degree to which col-our is absent in the gem However with coloured diamonds the extent to which they are saturated with
colour is a principal determinant of their valueColoured diamonds come in 12 basic colours more
than 90 secondary hues and nine intensity levels The depth of their colour is what really differentiates these diamonds from their colourless counterparts
Natural coloured diamonds are 10000 times rarer than typical colourless diamonds one of several rea-sons why they are treasured by the rich and famous yet remain unknown to most other people ndash despite hav-ing been around for centuries
Of course some colours are rarer than others Red violet and purple stones are as rare as the proverbial hensrsquo teeth while green and blue are also rare The most popular colours are pink and yellow (or canary) They also come in white grey orange black and lsquochame-leonrsquo form
A pinkie ring encrusted with a large coloured dia-mond has become a status symbol for men in Asia That little stone is an unregistered asset that could quickly be sold for millions of dollars should the need arise
Coloured diamonds are durable and never lose their sparkle or lustre so they are assets that can be enjoyed every day unlike stocks or bonds And they have proved to be fantastic investments having steadily appreciated in price with relatively little volatility for more than a decade They even held their own during the most recent financial crisis
Coloured diamonds are auctioned by reputable
auction houses such a Sothebyrsquos and Christiersquos where prices for large unique pink red blue or yellow stones can reach in excess of $2 million (pound12 million) a carat and other stones regularly sell for $1 million a carat
They are often bought by high-net-worth individu-als as an insurance policy Instead of stashing cash in undeclared bank accounts and potentially incurring the wrath of the authorities the wealthy can purchase some loose yellow diamonds to secure their future
Clearly coloured diamonds are much more than a magnificent indulgence
GEMS
inspired | March 2014 53PB March 2014 | inspired
WINE
Make the most of the deeply
satisfying Malbec wines emerging from Argentina
and perhaps even enjoy a return on a shrewd
investment says Ewan Lacey
Finding a red wine to enjoy in spring is a delicate balancing act The shock of seeing sunlight after a dark winter fosters in us a desire to drink some-thing refreshing while the still-cool temperatures demand something with comforting depth
Increasingly Malbec wines particularly those from Argentina provide a perfect solution to this quandary And while there are plenty of delicious wines for infor-mal occasions what is most interesting is the emergence of finer Malbec wines Some are so good they may well have ageing potential raising the intriguing possibility that the wine may one day become collectable
Malbec is the most popular wine among those aged 25-34 and is now becoming a fixture on most restaurant wine lists There are several reasons for its success the word Malbec is easy to pronounce the wine goes well with red meat the Malbec grape can be turned into wines that are both relatively easy to drink and packed with flavour and decent wines are available at reason-able prices Malbec is deep fruity and charming and it delivers instant pleasure ndash claret on a motorbike
The Malbec grape originated in France and it remains one of the permitted varieties used to make Bordeaux However it has gained prominence through the work of the post-junta Argentine wine industry
I recently had the pleasure of tasting some very fine Malbecs with Laura Catena managing director at the Catena Zapata winery and president of the International Wine and Spirit Competition She opened my
Mendoza Marvels
inspired | March 2014 55
WINE
eyes to the potential of this grape variety when handled with care
Laurarsquos family business makes a range of wines but the wine that truly astonished me was the Nicasia Vineyard Malbec 2006 The wine is perfumed with floral and fruit notes and it is smooth and soft at first Like all great wines it has many layers of flavour warm bursts of cherry and black-currant cede centre stage to deeper darker caramel and mocha notes and a touch of spice Therersquos an amazing depth of flavour and the finish is long and lingering Whatrsquos more at nearly eight years old it still has a slight purple tinge and tastes extremely fresh There is every indication that it will age beautifully for at least another decade
The winersquos character is heavily influenced by the alti-tude the grapes used to make it are grown at (1180m
above sea level) At this elevation the grapes ripen in bright sun but lsquorelaxrsquo during the cool evenings The fact that the wine is made in tiny quantities (eight barrels only) means every care can be taken during the winemak-ing process to ensure the wine is allowed to show its grown-up side The cost per bot-tle of pound70 is not insubstantial but neither is the wine
We cannot know whether these wines will ever become investments in the way the wines of Bordeaux have Whatrsquos cer-tain is that Malbec wines have a very rare quality a balance of finesse and power that
can delight wine lovers and linger in their memories
Ewan Lacey is a leading wine expert and general manager of the International Wine and Spirit Competition He has appeared on BBC television and radio as well as Channel 4 and written for the national press
Laura Catena is managing director at the Catena Zapata winery (above)
THE INTERNATIONAL WINE AND SPIRIT COMPETITIONThe International Wine and Spirit Competition has been the premier drinks competition in the world for 45 years Each year it receives and reviews thousands of wines and spirits and presents qual-ity awards to producers
More than anything the IWSC exists to help
people make better deci-sions particularly when buying wines and spirits An IWSC award on a bot-tle of wine is a guarantee
of quality backed not only by a rigorous and strin-gent judging process but also by the skill of the judges who are drawn from the ranks of masters of wine master distill-ers industry leaders and commentators
Each year the IWSC honours a leading figure
in the drinks industry with the presidency of the competition The current president is Laura Catena who succeeds a nota-ble line of predecessors including Prince Robert of Luxembourg winemakers Piero Antinori and Warren Winiarski and Baroness Philippine de Rothschild
56 March 2014 | inspired
LUXURY WATCHES
Time is preciousA
t a recent watch auc-tion in Geneva at Antiquorum ndash the worldrsquos premiere auc-tion house for modern and vintage time pieces ndash a Patek Philippe
pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon watch emerged as the auctionrsquos top lot and sold for 12 million Swiss francs (pound807000)
Unlike most of the timepieces sold at auctions outside Asia this particular Patek watch ndash the most complicated wristwatch the Swiss watchmaker has ever produced ndash was not a vintage model
That Geneva auction raised intriguing
1284Clocks with weights gears and regulators start to appear mostly with no dial to strike the important moments of daily life
Around 1410The mainspring is devel-oped Combined with the fusee this innovation makes possible the truly portable domestic clock
1492The mechanical watch appears simultaneously in Italy Germany and France
1675Christian Huygens invents the spiral balance spring
for watches significantly improving their accuracy
1704The first watch with jew-els is produced by French watchmaker de Beaufreacute
1714The British parliament offers pound20000 to who-ever can a find a method to determine longitude
1766Parliament publishes the rating results for John Harrisonrsquos H4 marine timekeeper Harrisonrsquos highly accurate marine clock solution to the problem of determining logitude wins him part of the pound20000 prize
1787Pierre-Freacutedeacuteric Ingold is born an important pio-neer in mechanised timepiece production and the use of interchangea-ble parts
1790Jacquet-Droz and Leschot manufactures a watch attached to a strap
1839Vacheron amp Constantin developes a full set of machine tools for manu-facturing its watches
1875Calcium sulphate is the first luminescent sub-stance to be used for numerals and hands
TIMEKEEPING MILESTONES
questions Are modern luxury timepieces every bit as appealing as the vintage watches that typically command top prices at auc-tion And does that Geneva auction tell us anything about the contemporary watch market as a whole
Julien Schaerer Antiquorumrsquos managing director in Geneva says top-quality vintage watches often appreciate in value over the long term But he urges buyers for whom appreciation is an important consideration to be cautious about purchasing contempo-rary watches
lsquoWatch price depreciation is the cost of ownership just as it is with a luxury carrsquo he says lsquoIf the value goes up then
58 March 2014 | inspired
1880The first water- resistant watch incorpo-rating a screwed case is produced by Genevan watchmaker Franccedilois Borgel
1889The first known patent for a wristwatch is filed in Bern Switzerland
1890Dialmaker A Beyeler invents a transfer press for applying numerals and letters to dials
1892Auguste Verneuil in France produces the first synthetic jewels to be used in watchmaking
1904Wens Wilsdorf launches large-scale production of a womenrsquos wristwatch
1924John Harwood files the
first Swiss patent for a self-winding wristwatch with a central oscillating weight
1925The first known wrist-watch with a perpetual calendar is manufactured using a pendant watch movement
1926Rolex creates the Oyster wristwatch with a water-resistant case and crown
1966The first quartz wrist-watch prototype is produced
1969The first quartz watch
with an LED display appears
1978Quartz watches overtake mechanical watches in popularity
2005Creation of the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie Seiko launches the spring drive Kinetic the first self-winding mechanical watch with an electro-magnetic escapement
A Patek Philippe pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon recently sold for pound807000
inspired | March 2014 59
online retailers from the comfort of your homeSince 2006 DM London has quietly estab-
lished a powerful presence for itself in the UK retail watch market with the acquisition of The Watch Hut and The Watch Gallery DM London chairman David Coleridge says the company has capitalised on the increasing willingness of buy-ers to purchase online
lsquoHaving decided that they would like to buy a watch for themselves or someone elsersquo he says lsquopeople start to do their research More often than not this starts online nowadays where they com-pare brands performance and functions
lsquoAs trust in the online marketplace has devel-oped many want to buy online because it is convenient and saves time Shopping online becomes a habit established sites build trust and awareness with customers which gives custom-ers the confidence to buy more expensive itemsrsquo
He adds lsquoOur challenge is to make the online environment as attractive informative and enjoy-able as a high street store Then customers will decide to spend onlinersquo
Coleridge believes a multi-channel approach is the way forward for retailers He says lsquoWithout doubt the future is multi-channel selling ndash a combination of direct selling on the internet and various forms of click and collect ndash combined with beautiful stores on the high street
Over the past few years demand for luxury watches (particularly contemporary models) has spiked sharply in Asia and according to some specialists emerging affluence in the
of course thatrsquos an added benefit However he adds lsquoPrice appreciation is still quite rare with modern watches There is some poten-tial for appreciation but probably only with ultra-limited editions A purchase has to be
seen as a medium- to long-term invest-ment One should buy a timepiece first out of love for the brand or [the watchrsquos] complicationrsquo
The watch brands that offer the greatest assurance of appreci-
ation include Cartier Patek Philippe Rolex Audemars
Piguet A Lange amp Sohne Breguet and Vacheron Constantin All enjoy views from the top of
the watchmaking hierarchy thanks to their longstand-ing histories and well-established brand identities
Relative new-comers to the industry such as Richard Mille and Roger Dubuis have carved out a niche for
themselves with their revolutionary designs and
space-age technologies but it remains to be seen just how well the values of their timepieces will stand up on the secondary market
According to Nathaniel Borgelt a specialist at auction house Sothebyrsquos
some modern watches have already achieved good prices at auction but these (like the Patek Philippe Sky Moon Tourbillon) were highly exclusive models when new
lsquoSome limited edition pieces currently fetch incredible prices at auctionrsquo he says lsquoAnd there is a select group of modern mod-els that could compete with a certain sector of the vintage market based on their brand innovative features such as materials or com-plications and avant-garde designs
Buying these has now become a whole lot easier The luxury watch retailing land-scape is changing and the traditional pattern of physically walking into a luxury salon to buy a watch is gradually being replaced by a trend towards visiting the websites of the big
LUXURY WATCHES
A Lange amp Sohne (above) is a long-standing high-end watchmaker Comparative new-comer Roger Dubuis (right) is forging a strong reputation
inspired | March 2014 PB60 March 2014 | inspired
helpthewatchgallerycom
Hublot ClassiC FusiontHe WatCH Gallery exClusive
The Watch Gallery and Hublot have joined forces to create two very special limited edition watches Both are limited to just 15 pieces worldwide and have been specifically designed to feature The Watch Gallery blue brand colour on the hands and tinted open case back
SelfridgeS OxfOrd StreetWeStfield lOndOnMancheSter exchange Square
wwwthewatchgallerycomhublot-watches
Far East has kept global values strong while other markets around the world continue to recover from recession
Despite the market boost from growing prosperity in Asia there are signs that the market is becoming saturated and that globally the new watch market isnrsquot as robust as some commentators suggest
It may still be a good time to buy but its important to know what you want and what yoursquore buying Modern watchmakers such as Richard Mille Roger Dubuis and Greubel Forsey are producing beautiful timepieces but because of their limited foothold in the market itrsquos difficult to predict their long-term success and desirability They donrsquot yet have the brand power that might ensure the value of their
watches in the secondhand market remains highSuch producers might one day stand eye to
eye with the most desirable brands such as Patek Philippe and Rolex but achieving that kind of parity wonrsquot be easy Collectors looking to invest in timepieces are advised to keep an open mind about modern producers uncertainty is the one aspect of modern luxury watch market most experts tend to agree on
That said the buoyancy in the watch market suggests that plenty of buyers are unconcerned about future values For them itrsquos all about the appreciation of the watch itself People buy watches because they bring them pleasure ndash and say some-thing about who they are
LUXURY WATCHES
Contemporary watches such as those made by Hublot (left) have yet to show they will have the lasting appeal of watches such as Cartierrsquos Rotonde de Cartier Astrocalendaire (right)
inspired | March 2014 63
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Conn
oisseur
Conn
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Conn
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Conn
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Conn
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Inside
Conn
oisseur
TO THE CONNOISSEUR section of Inspired a showcase for the finer things in life for those who truly appreciate them
Enjoying the fruits of your labour away from the relentless demands of our age poses its own challenges and quandaries Would a tropical idyll restore your ebbing energy levels Might a break based around hair-raising activities revive them even more effectively Perhaps reawakening a dormant passion for fine wines or luxury cars would be the most enjoyable reward for your industry
A luxury tropical holiday is probably near the top of most peoplersquos wish lists We take a look at some of the most tantalising options
The arrival of BMWrsquos new super coupe is featured on page 50 BMW aficionados and petrolheads alike are certain to be won over by its head-turning looks and mouthwatering specs
Gems come under the microscope on page 53 A rare coloured diamond can be a joy as well an appreciating asset
Wine is on the menu on page 54 where we explore the charms of Argentinian Malbec
Watches are often treasured objects and the best can turn out to be shrewd investments We look at the secondary watch market and the growth of online retailing on page 58 Enjoy
Welcome
40 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
FIVE TOP PRIVATE ISLAND RETREATSIslandFantasy
Top-rated resorts and hotels offer a variety of temptations and services to impress even the most discerning tastes but there is no better way to escape the rigours and
stresses of daily life than cutting off from the outside world while still enjoying lavish service
in the pinnacle of all resorts the private islandThere are thousands of small islands around
the world but only a few have chosen to cater to the most discriminating travellers seeking a rarified yet perfect world of quiet and relaxed luxury We look at five of the worldrsquos top private islands destinations where your holiday is certain to be an exceptional experience
TRAVEL
Necker Island is owned by Sir Richard Branson and guests stay in his home The island has become a popular des-tination for some of the worldrsquos most prominent figures as a hideaway from lifersquos stresses and strains
Because Necker Island is a resi-dence and not a resort guests who rent the island are treated as owners and catered for in a unique way
The74-acre island is fringed with beautiful white beaches and surrounded by turquoise waters and coral reefs It boasts every resort-type amenity guests can spend their days being pampered in the spa explor-ing underwater reefs in a submarine lounging by the pool bar or swimming in one of the worldrsquos most elab-orate private pools
Haute cuisine is a highlight for most guests ndash rates are fully inclusive of all food and drink A team of chefs creates bespoke menus featuring anything from lobster and caviar to a Sunday roast And because Necker is a home first and a resort second guests decide whether dining will be formal or informal inside or outside themed or traditional
The bar is stocked with international wines top-quality spirits and beers and a world renowned house champagne while special orders can be shipped in at no extra charge ndash unless an item is particularly rare Every service and amenity is available around the clock and guests are encouraged to treat Necker as their own home
As youLike it
NECKER ISLAND
42 March 2014 | inspired
Unalloyed luxury and an impressive range of amenities make Necker one of the most desirable island destinations in the world
The Jumby Bay resort which is only accessible by boat from Antigua is a Caribbean hideaway owned by Rosewood Resorts It is perfect for those seeking either relaxation or spirited adventure
You can rent the island resort entirely for your stay or simply take a room Those opt-ing for exclusive use of the island will have the resortrsquos two pools three tennis courts fitness centre croquet field and putting green to themselves
A wide range of water sports are available and guests can indulge in as much adventure or relaxation as they want during their stay The resort is ideal for large family
reunions or corporate retreats ndash 40 guest rooms and suites are available on the island
Executive chef Sylvain Hervochon celebrates gastron-omy ndash and mixology (cocktail making) ndash with casual elegance by creating Caribbean-style dishes inspired by fresh local ingredients and incorporating international influences
Jumby Bayrsquos rates start at pound150000 for four nights based on double occupancy between May and December Visit wwwrosewoodhotelscomenjumby-bay-antigua for further information
Fine BalanceCaribbean ambiance international sophistication and adventurous activities make Jumby Bay a compelling choice
JUMBY BAY
Just laze by the pool or venture beyond to dive in the turquoise waters of the South Pacific among stunning reefs and a dazzling array of marine creatures
Isle of PlentyT
he private island of Laucala in the South Pacific is a 3500-acre site in a picturesque rainforest-laced land-scape Enchanting deserted beaches nestle among coconut plantations organic farms and lush green vol-canic mountains
The resort offers an outstanding level of refined lux-ury as well as a compelling collection of sporting and cultural activities diving among iridescent marine life in the warm turquoise waters guided rainforest tours horse riding surfing and golfing on the 18-hole cham-pionship course The island is a superb choice for an escape from civilization whether you want an adven-ture in the wild or simply to relax in one of Laucalarsquos five restaurants and bars
Rates are available on request Visit wwwlaucalacom for further details
TRAVEL
LAUCALA ISLAND
inspired | March 2014 4544 March 2014 | inspired
Lush green surroundings sensitive development and beautiful beaches help Laucala island conjure up a complete South Seas experience
Isle of Plenty
inspired | March 2014 4544 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
inspired | March 2014 4746 March 2014 | inspired
Slow LaneSlow
Pulau Joyo is a seductively serene environment of pristine beaches surrounded by clear blue sea in Indonesiarsquos Riau Archipelago Accessible from Singapore or Bintan Pulau Joyo is a true castaway island offering every resort luxury
amid untouched natural beauty Pulau Joyo is famous for its remarkable sunsets and
brightly star-lit sky The resort can host 28 guests and 20 staff are on hand to cater to their every need Guests stay in open driftwood lsquopalacesrsquo that lsquoallow the sea inrsquoDespite its desert island appeal Pulau Joyo offers every modern convenience a range of adrenaline boosting activities and more relaxing options such as spa treatments and massages
The resortrsquos cuisine focuses on western and Indonesian dishes Meals are usually served buffet style and feature grilled fish squid prawns beef and chicken as well as many curry dishes Side dishes include fresh garden salads pasta salads boiled or steamed leafy greens and grilled aubergine (an island favourite) Prawn and tofu kebabs appear from time to time as does satay The chef will often provide a selection of freshly picked fruit and homemade cakes for dessert Itrsquos worth noting that the management will not serve pork or shellfish on this private island
Pulau Joyo may not be as refined as some islands but itrsquos an excellent choice for those who want a more casual laidback island experience that replicates the castaway experience like perhaps no other
Rates start at pound1913 a night More information is available at wwwpulau-joyocom
Wannabe castaways may find Pulau Joyorsquos purer simpler take on the luxury island experience more to their taste
PULAU JOYO
inspired | March 2014 4746 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
In the Fijian island paradise of Dolphin Island a small army of staff await to meet guestsrsquo every need On arriving ndash by boat helicopter or float plane ndash visitors are invariably struck by the beauty of the island and the luxuri-ous accommodation that awaits them amid 14-acres of lush tropical gardens
Three traditional palm-thatched bures individually designed by world renowned interior designer Virginia Fisher sit in an elevated position around the resortrsquos infinity pool
Guests are brought fresh tropical fish to choose each day that are cooked to perfec-
tion within hours of leaving the water The culinary focus is on
organic produce and ingredi-ents unique to Fijian cuisine but meals are tailored to guestsrsquo personal tastes Papayas man-goes bananas and pineapples
are plentiful throughout the day When it comes to recreation the
14-acre island is an expansive play-ground offering a diverse range of watersports as well as diving opportunities on Fijirsquos coral reefs
Rates start at pound720 a night More information is avail-able at wwwdolphinislandfijicom
Fijian Paean
Traditional features modern comforts and excellent facilities make for a harmonious whole on this Fijian island
DOLPHIN ISLAND
48 March 2014 | inspired
Pictured slightly larger than actual size
Big Pilotrsquos Watch Ref 5009
Your wrist never felt this big before The
case of the top model in the IWC Pilotrsquos
Watch range is a gigantic 462 mm in diashy
meter And the technology inside it is
even more impressive the largest IWCshy
manufactured automatic movement with
its Pellaton winding system is protected
against strong magnetic fields by a softshy
iron inner case And needless to say enshy
vious glances iwc engineered for men
Mechanical IWCshymanufactured movement Pellaton
automatic winding system 7shyday power reserve
with display (figure) Date display Softshyiron inner
case for protection against magnetic fields
Antireflective sapphire glass Watershyresistant 6 bar
Stainless steel
IWC Schaffhausen Switzerland iwccom The worldrsquos finest timepieces are exclusively available from selected watch specialists
For an illustrated catalogue or list of nationwide concessionaires please contact IWC UK Tel 0845 337 1868 Eshymail infoshyukiwccom
CARS
MunichLegend
50 March 2014 | inspired
BMW fanatics can open their eyes ndash the M4 has arrived
Most BMW aficionados are proba-bly pretty sad to see production of the M3 coupe ndash quite possibly the companyrsquos most noteworthy and celebrated model ndash end after almost 30 years Ever since the first wide-body E30 M3 saw the
light of day in 1985 drivers have loved the sporty coupe for its incredible balance intoxicating power and of course solid build quality
The model never got stale in all that time and always remained the poster child for the M division so itrsquos a lit-tle weird that BMW has apparently decided to axe it In truth though they havenrsquot really dropped the M3 The M3 sedan will continue to be produced in 2014 so all
is not lost Moreover BMW seems to be adopting a pat-tern of giving its sedans odd-numbered titles only and its coupes even-numbered titles only so the 4-Series and especially the M4 concept that debuted at Pebble Beach Monterey California will fill the gap left by the M3 Many people have been awaiting the new super coupe with great expectancy but can it fill in for the M3
The journalists who swarmed over the M4 concept at Pebble Beach were obviously much more interested in it than the somewhat predictable 428i that was also there Finished in an eye-catching colour called Aurum Dust (which actually looks a lot like the old M3rsquos Phoenix Yellow colour) the car presented in California may be a concept but typically BMW M cars donrsquot change much before they finally hit the showroom
MunichLegend
inspired | March 2014 51
CARS
52 March 2014 | inspired
From front to back the bodywork is manifestly differ-ent and much more aggressive looking than a standard 4-Series car It really looks to pretty much pick up where the E92E93 M3 coupe left off especially with its undeniably cool domed hood Wide wheel arches big wheels wrapped in low-profile tyres more than enough M badges and a well-executed double-bubble roof make the already underwhelming existing 4-Series coupe look even more pedestrian
Power for the new M4 is likely to come from a three-litre twin-turbo straight-six engine While the horsepower probably wonrsquot differ much from the M3rsquos old 4-litre V-8 it will generate more than 100lbft more in torque almost 400 in total With the M4 being a lighter 3300lb in weight the M4 promises to be an excit-ing worthy car A proper six-speed manual may be in the mix alongside the now obligatory dual clutch and paddles option
The best way to look at the M4 however it ends up is not as a new car but as a new and improved M3 thatrsquos just getting a new name The decision to rename the coupe is a strange one but thankfully BMW apparently felt the 3-Series coupe had made such an identity for itself that a new model was needed albeit in a slightly different incarnation
With BMW embarking on some new-ageish ideas such as its 1-Series ActiveE and the soon-to-arrive lsquoirsquo range of cars itrsquos nice to see the company also stick to classics such as the heart-stopping sports coupe even if the latest model does come with a new name
Seductive curves and racier performance make the BMW M4 a more than acceptable replacement for the M3 super coupe
SparklingForm Coloured diamonds are making their mark
One of the main factors that deter-mines the value of what we ordinarily think of as diamonds is their purity the degree to which col-our is absent in the gem However with coloured diamonds the extent to which they are saturated with
colour is a principal determinant of their valueColoured diamonds come in 12 basic colours more
than 90 secondary hues and nine intensity levels The depth of their colour is what really differentiates these diamonds from their colourless counterparts
Natural coloured diamonds are 10000 times rarer than typical colourless diamonds one of several rea-sons why they are treasured by the rich and famous yet remain unknown to most other people ndash despite hav-ing been around for centuries
Of course some colours are rarer than others Red violet and purple stones are as rare as the proverbial hensrsquo teeth while green and blue are also rare The most popular colours are pink and yellow (or canary) They also come in white grey orange black and lsquochame-leonrsquo form
A pinkie ring encrusted with a large coloured dia-mond has become a status symbol for men in Asia That little stone is an unregistered asset that could quickly be sold for millions of dollars should the need arise
Coloured diamonds are durable and never lose their sparkle or lustre so they are assets that can be enjoyed every day unlike stocks or bonds And they have proved to be fantastic investments having steadily appreciated in price with relatively little volatility for more than a decade They even held their own during the most recent financial crisis
Coloured diamonds are auctioned by reputable
auction houses such a Sothebyrsquos and Christiersquos where prices for large unique pink red blue or yellow stones can reach in excess of $2 million (pound12 million) a carat and other stones regularly sell for $1 million a carat
They are often bought by high-net-worth individu-als as an insurance policy Instead of stashing cash in undeclared bank accounts and potentially incurring the wrath of the authorities the wealthy can purchase some loose yellow diamonds to secure their future
Clearly coloured diamonds are much more than a magnificent indulgence
GEMS
inspired | March 2014 53PB March 2014 | inspired
WINE
Make the most of the deeply
satisfying Malbec wines emerging from Argentina
and perhaps even enjoy a return on a shrewd
investment says Ewan Lacey
Finding a red wine to enjoy in spring is a delicate balancing act The shock of seeing sunlight after a dark winter fosters in us a desire to drink some-thing refreshing while the still-cool temperatures demand something with comforting depth
Increasingly Malbec wines particularly those from Argentina provide a perfect solution to this quandary And while there are plenty of delicious wines for infor-mal occasions what is most interesting is the emergence of finer Malbec wines Some are so good they may well have ageing potential raising the intriguing possibility that the wine may one day become collectable
Malbec is the most popular wine among those aged 25-34 and is now becoming a fixture on most restaurant wine lists There are several reasons for its success the word Malbec is easy to pronounce the wine goes well with red meat the Malbec grape can be turned into wines that are both relatively easy to drink and packed with flavour and decent wines are available at reason-able prices Malbec is deep fruity and charming and it delivers instant pleasure ndash claret on a motorbike
The Malbec grape originated in France and it remains one of the permitted varieties used to make Bordeaux However it has gained prominence through the work of the post-junta Argentine wine industry
I recently had the pleasure of tasting some very fine Malbecs with Laura Catena managing director at the Catena Zapata winery and president of the International Wine and Spirit Competition She opened my
Mendoza Marvels
inspired | March 2014 55
WINE
eyes to the potential of this grape variety when handled with care
Laurarsquos family business makes a range of wines but the wine that truly astonished me was the Nicasia Vineyard Malbec 2006 The wine is perfumed with floral and fruit notes and it is smooth and soft at first Like all great wines it has many layers of flavour warm bursts of cherry and black-currant cede centre stage to deeper darker caramel and mocha notes and a touch of spice Therersquos an amazing depth of flavour and the finish is long and lingering Whatrsquos more at nearly eight years old it still has a slight purple tinge and tastes extremely fresh There is every indication that it will age beautifully for at least another decade
The winersquos character is heavily influenced by the alti-tude the grapes used to make it are grown at (1180m
above sea level) At this elevation the grapes ripen in bright sun but lsquorelaxrsquo during the cool evenings The fact that the wine is made in tiny quantities (eight barrels only) means every care can be taken during the winemak-ing process to ensure the wine is allowed to show its grown-up side The cost per bot-tle of pound70 is not insubstantial but neither is the wine
We cannot know whether these wines will ever become investments in the way the wines of Bordeaux have Whatrsquos cer-tain is that Malbec wines have a very rare quality a balance of finesse and power that
can delight wine lovers and linger in their memories
Ewan Lacey is a leading wine expert and general manager of the International Wine and Spirit Competition He has appeared on BBC television and radio as well as Channel 4 and written for the national press
Laura Catena is managing director at the Catena Zapata winery (above)
THE INTERNATIONAL WINE AND SPIRIT COMPETITIONThe International Wine and Spirit Competition has been the premier drinks competition in the world for 45 years Each year it receives and reviews thousands of wines and spirits and presents qual-ity awards to producers
More than anything the IWSC exists to help
people make better deci-sions particularly when buying wines and spirits An IWSC award on a bot-tle of wine is a guarantee
of quality backed not only by a rigorous and strin-gent judging process but also by the skill of the judges who are drawn from the ranks of masters of wine master distill-ers industry leaders and commentators
Each year the IWSC honours a leading figure
in the drinks industry with the presidency of the competition The current president is Laura Catena who succeeds a nota-ble line of predecessors including Prince Robert of Luxembourg winemakers Piero Antinori and Warren Winiarski and Baroness Philippine de Rothschild
56 March 2014 | inspired
LUXURY WATCHES
Time is preciousA
t a recent watch auc-tion in Geneva at Antiquorum ndash the worldrsquos premiere auc-tion house for modern and vintage time pieces ndash a Patek Philippe
pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon watch emerged as the auctionrsquos top lot and sold for 12 million Swiss francs (pound807000)
Unlike most of the timepieces sold at auctions outside Asia this particular Patek watch ndash the most complicated wristwatch the Swiss watchmaker has ever produced ndash was not a vintage model
That Geneva auction raised intriguing
1284Clocks with weights gears and regulators start to appear mostly with no dial to strike the important moments of daily life
Around 1410The mainspring is devel-oped Combined with the fusee this innovation makes possible the truly portable domestic clock
1492The mechanical watch appears simultaneously in Italy Germany and France
1675Christian Huygens invents the spiral balance spring
for watches significantly improving their accuracy
1704The first watch with jew-els is produced by French watchmaker de Beaufreacute
1714The British parliament offers pound20000 to who-ever can a find a method to determine longitude
1766Parliament publishes the rating results for John Harrisonrsquos H4 marine timekeeper Harrisonrsquos highly accurate marine clock solution to the problem of determining logitude wins him part of the pound20000 prize
1787Pierre-Freacutedeacuteric Ingold is born an important pio-neer in mechanised timepiece production and the use of interchangea-ble parts
1790Jacquet-Droz and Leschot manufactures a watch attached to a strap
1839Vacheron amp Constantin developes a full set of machine tools for manu-facturing its watches
1875Calcium sulphate is the first luminescent sub-stance to be used for numerals and hands
TIMEKEEPING MILESTONES
questions Are modern luxury timepieces every bit as appealing as the vintage watches that typically command top prices at auc-tion And does that Geneva auction tell us anything about the contemporary watch market as a whole
Julien Schaerer Antiquorumrsquos managing director in Geneva says top-quality vintage watches often appreciate in value over the long term But he urges buyers for whom appreciation is an important consideration to be cautious about purchasing contempo-rary watches
lsquoWatch price depreciation is the cost of ownership just as it is with a luxury carrsquo he says lsquoIf the value goes up then
58 March 2014 | inspired
1880The first water- resistant watch incorpo-rating a screwed case is produced by Genevan watchmaker Franccedilois Borgel
1889The first known patent for a wristwatch is filed in Bern Switzerland
1890Dialmaker A Beyeler invents a transfer press for applying numerals and letters to dials
1892Auguste Verneuil in France produces the first synthetic jewels to be used in watchmaking
1904Wens Wilsdorf launches large-scale production of a womenrsquos wristwatch
1924John Harwood files the
first Swiss patent for a self-winding wristwatch with a central oscillating weight
1925The first known wrist-watch with a perpetual calendar is manufactured using a pendant watch movement
1926Rolex creates the Oyster wristwatch with a water-resistant case and crown
1966The first quartz wrist-watch prototype is produced
1969The first quartz watch
with an LED display appears
1978Quartz watches overtake mechanical watches in popularity
2005Creation of the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie Seiko launches the spring drive Kinetic the first self-winding mechanical watch with an electro-magnetic escapement
A Patek Philippe pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon recently sold for pound807000
inspired | March 2014 59
online retailers from the comfort of your homeSince 2006 DM London has quietly estab-
lished a powerful presence for itself in the UK retail watch market with the acquisition of The Watch Hut and The Watch Gallery DM London chairman David Coleridge says the company has capitalised on the increasing willingness of buy-ers to purchase online
lsquoHaving decided that they would like to buy a watch for themselves or someone elsersquo he says lsquopeople start to do their research More often than not this starts online nowadays where they com-pare brands performance and functions
lsquoAs trust in the online marketplace has devel-oped many want to buy online because it is convenient and saves time Shopping online becomes a habit established sites build trust and awareness with customers which gives custom-ers the confidence to buy more expensive itemsrsquo
He adds lsquoOur challenge is to make the online environment as attractive informative and enjoy-able as a high street store Then customers will decide to spend onlinersquo
Coleridge believes a multi-channel approach is the way forward for retailers He says lsquoWithout doubt the future is multi-channel selling ndash a combination of direct selling on the internet and various forms of click and collect ndash combined with beautiful stores on the high street
Over the past few years demand for luxury watches (particularly contemporary models) has spiked sharply in Asia and according to some specialists emerging affluence in the
of course thatrsquos an added benefit However he adds lsquoPrice appreciation is still quite rare with modern watches There is some poten-tial for appreciation but probably only with ultra-limited editions A purchase has to be
seen as a medium- to long-term invest-ment One should buy a timepiece first out of love for the brand or [the watchrsquos] complicationrsquo
The watch brands that offer the greatest assurance of appreci-
ation include Cartier Patek Philippe Rolex Audemars
Piguet A Lange amp Sohne Breguet and Vacheron Constantin All enjoy views from the top of
the watchmaking hierarchy thanks to their longstand-ing histories and well-established brand identities
Relative new-comers to the industry such as Richard Mille and Roger Dubuis have carved out a niche for
themselves with their revolutionary designs and
space-age technologies but it remains to be seen just how well the values of their timepieces will stand up on the secondary market
According to Nathaniel Borgelt a specialist at auction house Sothebyrsquos
some modern watches have already achieved good prices at auction but these (like the Patek Philippe Sky Moon Tourbillon) were highly exclusive models when new
lsquoSome limited edition pieces currently fetch incredible prices at auctionrsquo he says lsquoAnd there is a select group of modern mod-els that could compete with a certain sector of the vintage market based on their brand innovative features such as materials or com-plications and avant-garde designs
Buying these has now become a whole lot easier The luxury watch retailing land-scape is changing and the traditional pattern of physically walking into a luxury salon to buy a watch is gradually being replaced by a trend towards visiting the websites of the big
LUXURY WATCHES
A Lange amp Sohne (above) is a long-standing high-end watchmaker Comparative new-comer Roger Dubuis (right) is forging a strong reputation
inspired | March 2014 PB60 March 2014 | inspired
helpthewatchgallerycom
Hublot ClassiC FusiontHe WatCH Gallery exClusive
The Watch Gallery and Hublot have joined forces to create two very special limited edition watches Both are limited to just 15 pieces worldwide and have been specifically designed to feature The Watch Gallery blue brand colour on the hands and tinted open case back
SelfridgeS OxfOrd StreetWeStfield lOndOnMancheSter exchange Square
wwwthewatchgallerycomhublot-watches
Far East has kept global values strong while other markets around the world continue to recover from recession
Despite the market boost from growing prosperity in Asia there are signs that the market is becoming saturated and that globally the new watch market isnrsquot as robust as some commentators suggest
It may still be a good time to buy but its important to know what you want and what yoursquore buying Modern watchmakers such as Richard Mille Roger Dubuis and Greubel Forsey are producing beautiful timepieces but because of their limited foothold in the market itrsquos difficult to predict their long-term success and desirability They donrsquot yet have the brand power that might ensure the value of their
watches in the secondhand market remains highSuch producers might one day stand eye to
eye with the most desirable brands such as Patek Philippe and Rolex but achieving that kind of parity wonrsquot be easy Collectors looking to invest in timepieces are advised to keep an open mind about modern producers uncertainty is the one aspect of modern luxury watch market most experts tend to agree on
That said the buoyancy in the watch market suggests that plenty of buyers are unconcerned about future values For them itrsquos all about the appreciation of the watch itself People buy watches because they bring them pleasure ndash and say some-thing about who they are
LUXURY WATCHES
Contemporary watches such as those made by Hublot (left) have yet to show they will have the lasting appeal of watches such as Cartierrsquos Rotonde de Cartier Astrocalendaire (right)
inspired | March 2014 63
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Conn
oisseur
TO THE CONNOISSEUR section of Inspired a showcase for the finer things in life for those who truly appreciate them
Enjoying the fruits of your labour away from the relentless demands of our age poses its own challenges and quandaries Would a tropical idyll restore your ebbing energy levels Might a break based around hair-raising activities revive them even more effectively Perhaps reawakening a dormant passion for fine wines or luxury cars would be the most enjoyable reward for your industry
A luxury tropical holiday is probably near the top of most peoplersquos wish lists We take a look at some of the most tantalising options
The arrival of BMWrsquos new super coupe is featured on page 50 BMW aficionados and petrolheads alike are certain to be won over by its head-turning looks and mouthwatering specs
Gems come under the microscope on page 53 A rare coloured diamond can be a joy as well an appreciating asset
Wine is on the menu on page 54 where we explore the charms of Argentinian Malbec
Watches are often treasured objects and the best can turn out to be shrewd investments We look at the secondary watch market and the growth of online retailing on page 58 Enjoy
Welcome
40 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
FIVE TOP PRIVATE ISLAND RETREATSIslandFantasy
Top-rated resorts and hotels offer a variety of temptations and services to impress even the most discerning tastes but there is no better way to escape the rigours and
stresses of daily life than cutting off from the outside world while still enjoying lavish service
in the pinnacle of all resorts the private islandThere are thousands of small islands around
the world but only a few have chosen to cater to the most discriminating travellers seeking a rarified yet perfect world of quiet and relaxed luxury We look at five of the worldrsquos top private islands destinations where your holiday is certain to be an exceptional experience
TRAVEL
Necker Island is owned by Sir Richard Branson and guests stay in his home The island has become a popular des-tination for some of the worldrsquos most prominent figures as a hideaway from lifersquos stresses and strains
Because Necker Island is a resi-dence and not a resort guests who rent the island are treated as owners and catered for in a unique way
The74-acre island is fringed with beautiful white beaches and surrounded by turquoise waters and coral reefs It boasts every resort-type amenity guests can spend their days being pampered in the spa explor-ing underwater reefs in a submarine lounging by the pool bar or swimming in one of the worldrsquos most elab-orate private pools
Haute cuisine is a highlight for most guests ndash rates are fully inclusive of all food and drink A team of chefs creates bespoke menus featuring anything from lobster and caviar to a Sunday roast And because Necker is a home first and a resort second guests decide whether dining will be formal or informal inside or outside themed or traditional
The bar is stocked with international wines top-quality spirits and beers and a world renowned house champagne while special orders can be shipped in at no extra charge ndash unless an item is particularly rare Every service and amenity is available around the clock and guests are encouraged to treat Necker as their own home
As youLike it
NECKER ISLAND
42 March 2014 | inspired
Unalloyed luxury and an impressive range of amenities make Necker one of the most desirable island destinations in the world
The Jumby Bay resort which is only accessible by boat from Antigua is a Caribbean hideaway owned by Rosewood Resorts It is perfect for those seeking either relaxation or spirited adventure
You can rent the island resort entirely for your stay or simply take a room Those opt-ing for exclusive use of the island will have the resortrsquos two pools three tennis courts fitness centre croquet field and putting green to themselves
A wide range of water sports are available and guests can indulge in as much adventure or relaxation as they want during their stay The resort is ideal for large family
reunions or corporate retreats ndash 40 guest rooms and suites are available on the island
Executive chef Sylvain Hervochon celebrates gastron-omy ndash and mixology (cocktail making) ndash with casual elegance by creating Caribbean-style dishes inspired by fresh local ingredients and incorporating international influences
Jumby Bayrsquos rates start at pound150000 for four nights based on double occupancy between May and December Visit wwwrosewoodhotelscomenjumby-bay-antigua for further information
Fine BalanceCaribbean ambiance international sophistication and adventurous activities make Jumby Bay a compelling choice
JUMBY BAY
Just laze by the pool or venture beyond to dive in the turquoise waters of the South Pacific among stunning reefs and a dazzling array of marine creatures
Isle of PlentyT
he private island of Laucala in the South Pacific is a 3500-acre site in a picturesque rainforest-laced land-scape Enchanting deserted beaches nestle among coconut plantations organic farms and lush green vol-canic mountains
The resort offers an outstanding level of refined lux-ury as well as a compelling collection of sporting and cultural activities diving among iridescent marine life in the warm turquoise waters guided rainforest tours horse riding surfing and golfing on the 18-hole cham-pionship course The island is a superb choice for an escape from civilization whether you want an adven-ture in the wild or simply to relax in one of Laucalarsquos five restaurants and bars
Rates are available on request Visit wwwlaucalacom for further details
TRAVEL
LAUCALA ISLAND
inspired | March 2014 4544 March 2014 | inspired
Lush green surroundings sensitive development and beautiful beaches help Laucala island conjure up a complete South Seas experience
Isle of Plenty
inspired | March 2014 4544 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
inspired | March 2014 4746 March 2014 | inspired
Slow LaneSlow
Pulau Joyo is a seductively serene environment of pristine beaches surrounded by clear blue sea in Indonesiarsquos Riau Archipelago Accessible from Singapore or Bintan Pulau Joyo is a true castaway island offering every resort luxury
amid untouched natural beauty Pulau Joyo is famous for its remarkable sunsets and
brightly star-lit sky The resort can host 28 guests and 20 staff are on hand to cater to their every need Guests stay in open driftwood lsquopalacesrsquo that lsquoallow the sea inrsquoDespite its desert island appeal Pulau Joyo offers every modern convenience a range of adrenaline boosting activities and more relaxing options such as spa treatments and massages
The resortrsquos cuisine focuses on western and Indonesian dishes Meals are usually served buffet style and feature grilled fish squid prawns beef and chicken as well as many curry dishes Side dishes include fresh garden salads pasta salads boiled or steamed leafy greens and grilled aubergine (an island favourite) Prawn and tofu kebabs appear from time to time as does satay The chef will often provide a selection of freshly picked fruit and homemade cakes for dessert Itrsquos worth noting that the management will not serve pork or shellfish on this private island
Pulau Joyo may not be as refined as some islands but itrsquos an excellent choice for those who want a more casual laidback island experience that replicates the castaway experience like perhaps no other
Rates start at pound1913 a night More information is available at wwwpulau-joyocom
Wannabe castaways may find Pulau Joyorsquos purer simpler take on the luxury island experience more to their taste
PULAU JOYO
inspired | March 2014 4746 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
In the Fijian island paradise of Dolphin Island a small army of staff await to meet guestsrsquo every need On arriving ndash by boat helicopter or float plane ndash visitors are invariably struck by the beauty of the island and the luxuri-ous accommodation that awaits them amid 14-acres of lush tropical gardens
Three traditional palm-thatched bures individually designed by world renowned interior designer Virginia Fisher sit in an elevated position around the resortrsquos infinity pool
Guests are brought fresh tropical fish to choose each day that are cooked to perfec-
tion within hours of leaving the water The culinary focus is on
organic produce and ingredi-ents unique to Fijian cuisine but meals are tailored to guestsrsquo personal tastes Papayas man-goes bananas and pineapples
are plentiful throughout the day When it comes to recreation the
14-acre island is an expansive play-ground offering a diverse range of watersports as well as diving opportunities on Fijirsquos coral reefs
Rates start at pound720 a night More information is avail-able at wwwdolphinislandfijicom
Fijian Paean
Traditional features modern comforts and excellent facilities make for a harmonious whole on this Fijian island
DOLPHIN ISLAND
48 March 2014 | inspired
Pictured slightly larger than actual size
Big Pilotrsquos Watch Ref 5009
Your wrist never felt this big before The
case of the top model in the IWC Pilotrsquos
Watch range is a gigantic 462 mm in diashy
meter And the technology inside it is
even more impressive the largest IWCshy
manufactured automatic movement with
its Pellaton winding system is protected
against strong magnetic fields by a softshy
iron inner case And needless to say enshy
vious glances iwc engineered for men
Mechanical IWCshymanufactured movement Pellaton
automatic winding system 7shyday power reserve
with display (figure) Date display Softshyiron inner
case for protection against magnetic fields
Antireflective sapphire glass Watershyresistant 6 bar
Stainless steel
IWC Schaffhausen Switzerland iwccom The worldrsquos finest timepieces are exclusively available from selected watch specialists
For an illustrated catalogue or list of nationwide concessionaires please contact IWC UK Tel 0845 337 1868 Eshymail infoshyukiwccom
CARS
MunichLegend
50 March 2014 | inspired
BMW fanatics can open their eyes ndash the M4 has arrived
Most BMW aficionados are proba-bly pretty sad to see production of the M3 coupe ndash quite possibly the companyrsquos most noteworthy and celebrated model ndash end after almost 30 years Ever since the first wide-body E30 M3 saw the
light of day in 1985 drivers have loved the sporty coupe for its incredible balance intoxicating power and of course solid build quality
The model never got stale in all that time and always remained the poster child for the M division so itrsquos a lit-tle weird that BMW has apparently decided to axe it In truth though they havenrsquot really dropped the M3 The M3 sedan will continue to be produced in 2014 so all
is not lost Moreover BMW seems to be adopting a pat-tern of giving its sedans odd-numbered titles only and its coupes even-numbered titles only so the 4-Series and especially the M4 concept that debuted at Pebble Beach Monterey California will fill the gap left by the M3 Many people have been awaiting the new super coupe with great expectancy but can it fill in for the M3
The journalists who swarmed over the M4 concept at Pebble Beach were obviously much more interested in it than the somewhat predictable 428i that was also there Finished in an eye-catching colour called Aurum Dust (which actually looks a lot like the old M3rsquos Phoenix Yellow colour) the car presented in California may be a concept but typically BMW M cars donrsquot change much before they finally hit the showroom
MunichLegend
inspired | March 2014 51
CARS
52 March 2014 | inspired
From front to back the bodywork is manifestly differ-ent and much more aggressive looking than a standard 4-Series car It really looks to pretty much pick up where the E92E93 M3 coupe left off especially with its undeniably cool domed hood Wide wheel arches big wheels wrapped in low-profile tyres more than enough M badges and a well-executed double-bubble roof make the already underwhelming existing 4-Series coupe look even more pedestrian
Power for the new M4 is likely to come from a three-litre twin-turbo straight-six engine While the horsepower probably wonrsquot differ much from the M3rsquos old 4-litre V-8 it will generate more than 100lbft more in torque almost 400 in total With the M4 being a lighter 3300lb in weight the M4 promises to be an excit-ing worthy car A proper six-speed manual may be in the mix alongside the now obligatory dual clutch and paddles option
The best way to look at the M4 however it ends up is not as a new car but as a new and improved M3 thatrsquos just getting a new name The decision to rename the coupe is a strange one but thankfully BMW apparently felt the 3-Series coupe had made such an identity for itself that a new model was needed albeit in a slightly different incarnation
With BMW embarking on some new-ageish ideas such as its 1-Series ActiveE and the soon-to-arrive lsquoirsquo range of cars itrsquos nice to see the company also stick to classics such as the heart-stopping sports coupe even if the latest model does come with a new name
Seductive curves and racier performance make the BMW M4 a more than acceptable replacement for the M3 super coupe
SparklingForm Coloured diamonds are making their mark
One of the main factors that deter-mines the value of what we ordinarily think of as diamonds is their purity the degree to which col-our is absent in the gem However with coloured diamonds the extent to which they are saturated with
colour is a principal determinant of their valueColoured diamonds come in 12 basic colours more
than 90 secondary hues and nine intensity levels The depth of their colour is what really differentiates these diamonds from their colourless counterparts
Natural coloured diamonds are 10000 times rarer than typical colourless diamonds one of several rea-sons why they are treasured by the rich and famous yet remain unknown to most other people ndash despite hav-ing been around for centuries
Of course some colours are rarer than others Red violet and purple stones are as rare as the proverbial hensrsquo teeth while green and blue are also rare The most popular colours are pink and yellow (or canary) They also come in white grey orange black and lsquochame-leonrsquo form
A pinkie ring encrusted with a large coloured dia-mond has become a status symbol for men in Asia That little stone is an unregistered asset that could quickly be sold for millions of dollars should the need arise
Coloured diamonds are durable and never lose their sparkle or lustre so they are assets that can be enjoyed every day unlike stocks or bonds And they have proved to be fantastic investments having steadily appreciated in price with relatively little volatility for more than a decade They even held their own during the most recent financial crisis
Coloured diamonds are auctioned by reputable
auction houses such a Sothebyrsquos and Christiersquos where prices for large unique pink red blue or yellow stones can reach in excess of $2 million (pound12 million) a carat and other stones regularly sell for $1 million a carat
They are often bought by high-net-worth individu-als as an insurance policy Instead of stashing cash in undeclared bank accounts and potentially incurring the wrath of the authorities the wealthy can purchase some loose yellow diamonds to secure their future
Clearly coloured diamonds are much more than a magnificent indulgence
GEMS
inspired | March 2014 53PB March 2014 | inspired
WINE
Make the most of the deeply
satisfying Malbec wines emerging from Argentina
and perhaps even enjoy a return on a shrewd
investment says Ewan Lacey
Finding a red wine to enjoy in spring is a delicate balancing act The shock of seeing sunlight after a dark winter fosters in us a desire to drink some-thing refreshing while the still-cool temperatures demand something with comforting depth
Increasingly Malbec wines particularly those from Argentina provide a perfect solution to this quandary And while there are plenty of delicious wines for infor-mal occasions what is most interesting is the emergence of finer Malbec wines Some are so good they may well have ageing potential raising the intriguing possibility that the wine may one day become collectable
Malbec is the most popular wine among those aged 25-34 and is now becoming a fixture on most restaurant wine lists There are several reasons for its success the word Malbec is easy to pronounce the wine goes well with red meat the Malbec grape can be turned into wines that are both relatively easy to drink and packed with flavour and decent wines are available at reason-able prices Malbec is deep fruity and charming and it delivers instant pleasure ndash claret on a motorbike
The Malbec grape originated in France and it remains one of the permitted varieties used to make Bordeaux However it has gained prominence through the work of the post-junta Argentine wine industry
I recently had the pleasure of tasting some very fine Malbecs with Laura Catena managing director at the Catena Zapata winery and president of the International Wine and Spirit Competition She opened my
Mendoza Marvels
inspired | March 2014 55
WINE
eyes to the potential of this grape variety when handled with care
Laurarsquos family business makes a range of wines but the wine that truly astonished me was the Nicasia Vineyard Malbec 2006 The wine is perfumed with floral and fruit notes and it is smooth and soft at first Like all great wines it has many layers of flavour warm bursts of cherry and black-currant cede centre stage to deeper darker caramel and mocha notes and a touch of spice Therersquos an amazing depth of flavour and the finish is long and lingering Whatrsquos more at nearly eight years old it still has a slight purple tinge and tastes extremely fresh There is every indication that it will age beautifully for at least another decade
The winersquos character is heavily influenced by the alti-tude the grapes used to make it are grown at (1180m
above sea level) At this elevation the grapes ripen in bright sun but lsquorelaxrsquo during the cool evenings The fact that the wine is made in tiny quantities (eight barrels only) means every care can be taken during the winemak-ing process to ensure the wine is allowed to show its grown-up side The cost per bot-tle of pound70 is not insubstantial but neither is the wine
We cannot know whether these wines will ever become investments in the way the wines of Bordeaux have Whatrsquos cer-tain is that Malbec wines have a very rare quality a balance of finesse and power that
can delight wine lovers and linger in their memories
Ewan Lacey is a leading wine expert and general manager of the International Wine and Spirit Competition He has appeared on BBC television and radio as well as Channel 4 and written for the national press
Laura Catena is managing director at the Catena Zapata winery (above)
THE INTERNATIONAL WINE AND SPIRIT COMPETITIONThe International Wine and Spirit Competition has been the premier drinks competition in the world for 45 years Each year it receives and reviews thousands of wines and spirits and presents qual-ity awards to producers
More than anything the IWSC exists to help
people make better deci-sions particularly when buying wines and spirits An IWSC award on a bot-tle of wine is a guarantee
of quality backed not only by a rigorous and strin-gent judging process but also by the skill of the judges who are drawn from the ranks of masters of wine master distill-ers industry leaders and commentators
Each year the IWSC honours a leading figure
in the drinks industry with the presidency of the competition The current president is Laura Catena who succeeds a nota-ble line of predecessors including Prince Robert of Luxembourg winemakers Piero Antinori and Warren Winiarski and Baroness Philippine de Rothschild
56 March 2014 | inspired
LUXURY WATCHES
Time is preciousA
t a recent watch auc-tion in Geneva at Antiquorum ndash the worldrsquos premiere auc-tion house for modern and vintage time pieces ndash a Patek Philippe
pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon watch emerged as the auctionrsquos top lot and sold for 12 million Swiss francs (pound807000)
Unlike most of the timepieces sold at auctions outside Asia this particular Patek watch ndash the most complicated wristwatch the Swiss watchmaker has ever produced ndash was not a vintage model
That Geneva auction raised intriguing
1284Clocks with weights gears and regulators start to appear mostly with no dial to strike the important moments of daily life
Around 1410The mainspring is devel-oped Combined with the fusee this innovation makes possible the truly portable domestic clock
1492The mechanical watch appears simultaneously in Italy Germany and France
1675Christian Huygens invents the spiral balance spring
for watches significantly improving their accuracy
1704The first watch with jew-els is produced by French watchmaker de Beaufreacute
1714The British parliament offers pound20000 to who-ever can a find a method to determine longitude
1766Parliament publishes the rating results for John Harrisonrsquos H4 marine timekeeper Harrisonrsquos highly accurate marine clock solution to the problem of determining logitude wins him part of the pound20000 prize
1787Pierre-Freacutedeacuteric Ingold is born an important pio-neer in mechanised timepiece production and the use of interchangea-ble parts
1790Jacquet-Droz and Leschot manufactures a watch attached to a strap
1839Vacheron amp Constantin developes a full set of machine tools for manu-facturing its watches
1875Calcium sulphate is the first luminescent sub-stance to be used for numerals and hands
TIMEKEEPING MILESTONES
questions Are modern luxury timepieces every bit as appealing as the vintage watches that typically command top prices at auc-tion And does that Geneva auction tell us anything about the contemporary watch market as a whole
Julien Schaerer Antiquorumrsquos managing director in Geneva says top-quality vintage watches often appreciate in value over the long term But he urges buyers for whom appreciation is an important consideration to be cautious about purchasing contempo-rary watches
lsquoWatch price depreciation is the cost of ownership just as it is with a luxury carrsquo he says lsquoIf the value goes up then
58 March 2014 | inspired
1880The first water- resistant watch incorpo-rating a screwed case is produced by Genevan watchmaker Franccedilois Borgel
1889The first known patent for a wristwatch is filed in Bern Switzerland
1890Dialmaker A Beyeler invents a transfer press for applying numerals and letters to dials
1892Auguste Verneuil in France produces the first synthetic jewels to be used in watchmaking
1904Wens Wilsdorf launches large-scale production of a womenrsquos wristwatch
1924John Harwood files the
first Swiss patent for a self-winding wristwatch with a central oscillating weight
1925The first known wrist-watch with a perpetual calendar is manufactured using a pendant watch movement
1926Rolex creates the Oyster wristwatch with a water-resistant case and crown
1966The first quartz wrist-watch prototype is produced
1969The first quartz watch
with an LED display appears
1978Quartz watches overtake mechanical watches in popularity
2005Creation of the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie Seiko launches the spring drive Kinetic the first self-winding mechanical watch with an electro-magnetic escapement
A Patek Philippe pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon recently sold for pound807000
inspired | March 2014 59
online retailers from the comfort of your homeSince 2006 DM London has quietly estab-
lished a powerful presence for itself in the UK retail watch market with the acquisition of The Watch Hut and The Watch Gallery DM London chairman David Coleridge says the company has capitalised on the increasing willingness of buy-ers to purchase online
lsquoHaving decided that they would like to buy a watch for themselves or someone elsersquo he says lsquopeople start to do their research More often than not this starts online nowadays where they com-pare brands performance and functions
lsquoAs trust in the online marketplace has devel-oped many want to buy online because it is convenient and saves time Shopping online becomes a habit established sites build trust and awareness with customers which gives custom-ers the confidence to buy more expensive itemsrsquo
He adds lsquoOur challenge is to make the online environment as attractive informative and enjoy-able as a high street store Then customers will decide to spend onlinersquo
Coleridge believes a multi-channel approach is the way forward for retailers He says lsquoWithout doubt the future is multi-channel selling ndash a combination of direct selling on the internet and various forms of click and collect ndash combined with beautiful stores on the high street
Over the past few years demand for luxury watches (particularly contemporary models) has spiked sharply in Asia and according to some specialists emerging affluence in the
of course thatrsquos an added benefit However he adds lsquoPrice appreciation is still quite rare with modern watches There is some poten-tial for appreciation but probably only with ultra-limited editions A purchase has to be
seen as a medium- to long-term invest-ment One should buy a timepiece first out of love for the brand or [the watchrsquos] complicationrsquo
The watch brands that offer the greatest assurance of appreci-
ation include Cartier Patek Philippe Rolex Audemars
Piguet A Lange amp Sohne Breguet and Vacheron Constantin All enjoy views from the top of
the watchmaking hierarchy thanks to their longstand-ing histories and well-established brand identities
Relative new-comers to the industry such as Richard Mille and Roger Dubuis have carved out a niche for
themselves with their revolutionary designs and
space-age technologies but it remains to be seen just how well the values of their timepieces will stand up on the secondary market
According to Nathaniel Borgelt a specialist at auction house Sothebyrsquos
some modern watches have already achieved good prices at auction but these (like the Patek Philippe Sky Moon Tourbillon) were highly exclusive models when new
lsquoSome limited edition pieces currently fetch incredible prices at auctionrsquo he says lsquoAnd there is a select group of modern mod-els that could compete with a certain sector of the vintage market based on their brand innovative features such as materials or com-plications and avant-garde designs
Buying these has now become a whole lot easier The luxury watch retailing land-scape is changing and the traditional pattern of physically walking into a luxury salon to buy a watch is gradually being replaced by a trend towards visiting the websites of the big
LUXURY WATCHES
A Lange amp Sohne (above) is a long-standing high-end watchmaker Comparative new-comer Roger Dubuis (right) is forging a strong reputation
inspired | March 2014 PB60 March 2014 | inspired
helpthewatchgallerycom
Hublot ClassiC FusiontHe WatCH Gallery exClusive
The Watch Gallery and Hublot have joined forces to create two very special limited edition watches Both are limited to just 15 pieces worldwide and have been specifically designed to feature The Watch Gallery blue brand colour on the hands and tinted open case back
SelfridgeS OxfOrd StreetWeStfield lOndOnMancheSter exchange Square
wwwthewatchgallerycomhublot-watches
Far East has kept global values strong while other markets around the world continue to recover from recession
Despite the market boost from growing prosperity in Asia there are signs that the market is becoming saturated and that globally the new watch market isnrsquot as robust as some commentators suggest
It may still be a good time to buy but its important to know what you want and what yoursquore buying Modern watchmakers such as Richard Mille Roger Dubuis and Greubel Forsey are producing beautiful timepieces but because of their limited foothold in the market itrsquos difficult to predict their long-term success and desirability They donrsquot yet have the brand power that might ensure the value of their
watches in the secondhand market remains highSuch producers might one day stand eye to
eye with the most desirable brands such as Patek Philippe and Rolex but achieving that kind of parity wonrsquot be easy Collectors looking to invest in timepieces are advised to keep an open mind about modern producers uncertainty is the one aspect of modern luxury watch market most experts tend to agree on
That said the buoyancy in the watch market suggests that plenty of buyers are unconcerned about future values For them itrsquos all about the appreciation of the watch itself People buy watches because they bring them pleasure ndash and say some-thing about who they are
LUXURY WATCHES
Contemporary watches such as those made by Hublot (left) have yet to show they will have the lasting appeal of watches such as Cartierrsquos Rotonde de Cartier Astrocalendaire (right)
inspired | March 2014 63
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-
TRAVEL
FIVE TOP PRIVATE ISLAND RETREATSIslandFantasy
Top-rated resorts and hotels offer a variety of temptations and services to impress even the most discerning tastes but there is no better way to escape the rigours and
stresses of daily life than cutting off from the outside world while still enjoying lavish service
in the pinnacle of all resorts the private islandThere are thousands of small islands around
the world but only a few have chosen to cater to the most discriminating travellers seeking a rarified yet perfect world of quiet and relaxed luxury We look at five of the worldrsquos top private islands destinations where your holiday is certain to be an exceptional experience
TRAVEL
Necker Island is owned by Sir Richard Branson and guests stay in his home The island has become a popular des-tination for some of the worldrsquos most prominent figures as a hideaway from lifersquos stresses and strains
Because Necker Island is a resi-dence and not a resort guests who rent the island are treated as owners and catered for in a unique way
The74-acre island is fringed with beautiful white beaches and surrounded by turquoise waters and coral reefs It boasts every resort-type amenity guests can spend their days being pampered in the spa explor-ing underwater reefs in a submarine lounging by the pool bar or swimming in one of the worldrsquos most elab-orate private pools
Haute cuisine is a highlight for most guests ndash rates are fully inclusive of all food and drink A team of chefs creates bespoke menus featuring anything from lobster and caviar to a Sunday roast And because Necker is a home first and a resort second guests decide whether dining will be formal or informal inside or outside themed or traditional
The bar is stocked with international wines top-quality spirits and beers and a world renowned house champagne while special orders can be shipped in at no extra charge ndash unless an item is particularly rare Every service and amenity is available around the clock and guests are encouraged to treat Necker as their own home
As youLike it
NECKER ISLAND
42 March 2014 | inspired
Unalloyed luxury and an impressive range of amenities make Necker one of the most desirable island destinations in the world
The Jumby Bay resort which is only accessible by boat from Antigua is a Caribbean hideaway owned by Rosewood Resorts It is perfect for those seeking either relaxation or spirited adventure
You can rent the island resort entirely for your stay or simply take a room Those opt-ing for exclusive use of the island will have the resortrsquos two pools three tennis courts fitness centre croquet field and putting green to themselves
A wide range of water sports are available and guests can indulge in as much adventure or relaxation as they want during their stay The resort is ideal for large family
reunions or corporate retreats ndash 40 guest rooms and suites are available on the island
Executive chef Sylvain Hervochon celebrates gastron-omy ndash and mixology (cocktail making) ndash with casual elegance by creating Caribbean-style dishes inspired by fresh local ingredients and incorporating international influences
Jumby Bayrsquos rates start at pound150000 for four nights based on double occupancy between May and December Visit wwwrosewoodhotelscomenjumby-bay-antigua for further information
Fine BalanceCaribbean ambiance international sophistication and adventurous activities make Jumby Bay a compelling choice
JUMBY BAY
Just laze by the pool or venture beyond to dive in the turquoise waters of the South Pacific among stunning reefs and a dazzling array of marine creatures
Isle of PlentyT
he private island of Laucala in the South Pacific is a 3500-acre site in a picturesque rainforest-laced land-scape Enchanting deserted beaches nestle among coconut plantations organic farms and lush green vol-canic mountains
The resort offers an outstanding level of refined lux-ury as well as a compelling collection of sporting and cultural activities diving among iridescent marine life in the warm turquoise waters guided rainforest tours horse riding surfing and golfing on the 18-hole cham-pionship course The island is a superb choice for an escape from civilization whether you want an adven-ture in the wild or simply to relax in one of Laucalarsquos five restaurants and bars
Rates are available on request Visit wwwlaucalacom for further details
TRAVEL
LAUCALA ISLAND
inspired | March 2014 4544 March 2014 | inspired
Lush green surroundings sensitive development and beautiful beaches help Laucala island conjure up a complete South Seas experience
Isle of Plenty
inspired | March 2014 4544 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
inspired | March 2014 4746 March 2014 | inspired
Slow LaneSlow
Pulau Joyo is a seductively serene environment of pristine beaches surrounded by clear blue sea in Indonesiarsquos Riau Archipelago Accessible from Singapore or Bintan Pulau Joyo is a true castaway island offering every resort luxury
amid untouched natural beauty Pulau Joyo is famous for its remarkable sunsets and
brightly star-lit sky The resort can host 28 guests and 20 staff are on hand to cater to their every need Guests stay in open driftwood lsquopalacesrsquo that lsquoallow the sea inrsquoDespite its desert island appeal Pulau Joyo offers every modern convenience a range of adrenaline boosting activities and more relaxing options such as spa treatments and massages
The resortrsquos cuisine focuses on western and Indonesian dishes Meals are usually served buffet style and feature grilled fish squid prawns beef and chicken as well as many curry dishes Side dishes include fresh garden salads pasta salads boiled or steamed leafy greens and grilled aubergine (an island favourite) Prawn and tofu kebabs appear from time to time as does satay The chef will often provide a selection of freshly picked fruit and homemade cakes for dessert Itrsquos worth noting that the management will not serve pork or shellfish on this private island
Pulau Joyo may not be as refined as some islands but itrsquos an excellent choice for those who want a more casual laidback island experience that replicates the castaway experience like perhaps no other
Rates start at pound1913 a night More information is available at wwwpulau-joyocom
Wannabe castaways may find Pulau Joyorsquos purer simpler take on the luxury island experience more to their taste
PULAU JOYO
inspired | March 2014 4746 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
In the Fijian island paradise of Dolphin Island a small army of staff await to meet guestsrsquo every need On arriving ndash by boat helicopter or float plane ndash visitors are invariably struck by the beauty of the island and the luxuri-ous accommodation that awaits them amid 14-acres of lush tropical gardens
Three traditional palm-thatched bures individually designed by world renowned interior designer Virginia Fisher sit in an elevated position around the resortrsquos infinity pool
Guests are brought fresh tropical fish to choose each day that are cooked to perfec-
tion within hours of leaving the water The culinary focus is on
organic produce and ingredi-ents unique to Fijian cuisine but meals are tailored to guestsrsquo personal tastes Papayas man-goes bananas and pineapples
are plentiful throughout the day When it comes to recreation the
14-acre island is an expansive play-ground offering a diverse range of watersports as well as diving opportunities on Fijirsquos coral reefs
Rates start at pound720 a night More information is avail-able at wwwdolphinislandfijicom
Fijian Paean
Traditional features modern comforts and excellent facilities make for a harmonious whole on this Fijian island
DOLPHIN ISLAND
48 March 2014 | inspired
Pictured slightly larger than actual size
Big Pilotrsquos Watch Ref 5009
Your wrist never felt this big before The
case of the top model in the IWC Pilotrsquos
Watch range is a gigantic 462 mm in diashy
meter And the technology inside it is
even more impressive the largest IWCshy
manufactured automatic movement with
its Pellaton winding system is protected
against strong magnetic fields by a softshy
iron inner case And needless to say enshy
vious glances iwc engineered for men
Mechanical IWCshymanufactured movement Pellaton
automatic winding system 7shyday power reserve
with display (figure) Date display Softshyiron inner
case for protection against magnetic fields
Antireflective sapphire glass Watershyresistant 6 bar
Stainless steel
IWC Schaffhausen Switzerland iwccom The worldrsquos finest timepieces are exclusively available from selected watch specialists
For an illustrated catalogue or list of nationwide concessionaires please contact IWC UK Tel 0845 337 1868 Eshymail infoshyukiwccom
CARS
MunichLegend
50 March 2014 | inspired
BMW fanatics can open their eyes ndash the M4 has arrived
Most BMW aficionados are proba-bly pretty sad to see production of the M3 coupe ndash quite possibly the companyrsquos most noteworthy and celebrated model ndash end after almost 30 years Ever since the first wide-body E30 M3 saw the
light of day in 1985 drivers have loved the sporty coupe for its incredible balance intoxicating power and of course solid build quality
The model never got stale in all that time and always remained the poster child for the M division so itrsquos a lit-tle weird that BMW has apparently decided to axe it In truth though they havenrsquot really dropped the M3 The M3 sedan will continue to be produced in 2014 so all
is not lost Moreover BMW seems to be adopting a pat-tern of giving its sedans odd-numbered titles only and its coupes even-numbered titles only so the 4-Series and especially the M4 concept that debuted at Pebble Beach Monterey California will fill the gap left by the M3 Many people have been awaiting the new super coupe with great expectancy but can it fill in for the M3
The journalists who swarmed over the M4 concept at Pebble Beach were obviously much more interested in it than the somewhat predictable 428i that was also there Finished in an eye-catching colour called Aurum Dust (which actually looks a lot like the old M3rsquos Phoenix Yellow colour) the car presented in California may be a concept but typically BMW M cars donrsquot change much before they finally hit the showroom
MunichLegend
inspired | March 2014 51
CARS
52 March 2014 | inspired
From front to back the bodywork is manifestly differ-ent and much more aggressive looking than a standard 4-Series car It really looks to pretty much pick up where the E92E93 M3 coupe left off especially with its undeniably cool domed hood Wide wheel arches big wheels wrapped in low-profile tyres more than enough M badges and a well-executed double-bubble roof make the already underwhelming existing 4-Series coupe look even more pedestrian
Power for the new M4 is likely to come from a three-litre twin-turbo straight-six engine While the horsepower probably wonrsquot differ much from the M3rsquos old 4-litre V-8 it will generate more than 100lbft more in torque almost 400 in total With the M4 being a lighter 3300lb in weight the M4 promises to be an excit-ing worthy car A proper six-speed manual may be in the mix alongside the now obligatory dual clutch and paddles option
The best way to look at the M4 however it ends up is not as a new car but as a new and improved M3 thatrsquos just getting a new name The decision to rename the coupe is a strange one but thankfully BMW apparently felt the 3-Series coupe had made such an identity for itself that a new model was needed albeit in a slightly different incarnation
With BMW embarking on some new-ageish ideas such as its 1-Series ActiveE and the soon-to-arrive lsquoirsquo range of cars itrsquos nice to see the company also stick to classics such as the heart-stopping sports coupe even if the latest model does come with a new name
Seductive curves and racier performance make the BMW M4 a more than acceptable replacement for the M3 super coupe
SparklingForm Coloured diamonds are making their mark
One of the main factors that deter-mines the value of what we ordinarily think of as diamonds is their purity the degree to which col-our is absent in the gem However with coloured diamonds the extent to which they are saturated with
colour is a principal determinant of their valueColoured diamonds come in 12 basic colours more
than 90 secondary hues and nine intensity levels The depth of their colour is what really differentiates these diamonds from their colourless counterparts
Natural coloured diamonds are 10000 times rarer than typical colourless diamonds one of several rea-sons why they are treasured by the rich and famous yet remain unknown to most other people ndash despite hav-ing been around for centuries
Of course some colours are rarer than others Red violet and purple stones are as rare as the proverbial hensrsquo teeth while green and blue are also rare The most popular colours are pink and yellow (or canary) They also come in white grey orange black and lsquochame-leonrsquo form
A pinkie ring encrusted with a large coloured dia-mond has become a status symbol for men in Asia That little stone is an unregistered asset that could quickly be sold for millions of dollars should the need arise
Coloured diamonds are durable and never lose their sparkle or lustre so they are assets that can be enjoyed every day unlike stocks or bonds And they have proved to be fantastic investments having steadily appreciated in price with relatively little volatility for more than a decade They even held their own during the most recent financial crisis
Coloured diamonds are auctioned by reputable
auction houses such a Sothebyrsquos and Christiersquos where prices for large unique pink red blue or yellow stones can reach in excess of $2 million (pound12 million) a carat and other stones regularly sell for $1 million a carat
They are often bought by high-net-worth individu-als as an insurance policy Instead of stashing cash in undeclared bank accounts and potentially incurring the wrath of the authorities the wealthy can purchase some loose yellow diamonds to secure their future
Clearly coloured diamonds are much more than a magnificent indulgence
GEMS
inspired | March 2014 53PB March 2014 | inspired
WINE
Make the most of the deeply
satisfying Malbec wines emerging from Argentina
and perhaps even enjoy a return on a shrewd
investment says Ewan Lacey
Finding a red wine to enjoy in spring is a delicate balancing act The shock of seeing sunlight after a dark winter fosters in us a desire to drink some-thing refreshing while the still-cool temperatures demand something with comforting depth
Increasingly Malbec wines particularly those from Argentina provide a perfect solution to this quandary And while there are plenty of delicious wines for infor-mal occasions what is most interesting is the emergence of finer Malbec wines Some are so good they may well have ageing potential raising the intriguing possibility that the wine may one day become collectable
Malbec is the most popular wine among those aged 25-34 and is now becoming a fixture on most restaurant wine lists There are several reasons for its success the word Malbec is easy to pronounce the wine goes well with red meat the Malbec grape can be turned into wines that are both relatively easy to drink and packed with flavour and decent wines are available at reason-able prices Malbec is deep fruity and charming and it delivers instant pleasure ndash claret on a motorbike
The Malbec grape originated in France and it remains one of the permitted varieties used to make Bordeaux However it has gained prominence through the work of the post-junta Argentine wine industry
I recently had the pleasure of tasting some very fine Malbecs with Laura Catena managing director at the Catena Zapata winery and president of the International Wine and Spirit Competition She opened my
Mendoza Marvels
inspired | March 2014 55
WINE
eyes to the potential of this grape variety when handled with care
Laurarsquos family business makes a range of wines but the wine that truly astonished me was the Nicasia Vineyard Malbec 2006 The wine is perfumed with floral and fruit notes and it is smooth and soft at first Like all great wines it has many layers of flavour warm bursts of cherry and black-currant cede centre stage to deeper darker caramel and mocha notes and a touch of spice Therersquos an amazing depth of flavour and the finish is long and lingering Whatrsquos more at nearly eight years old it still has a slight purple tinge and tastes extremely fresh There is every indication that it will age beautifully for at least another decade
The winersquos character is heavily influenced by the alti-tude the grapes used to make it are grown at (1180m
above sea level) At this elevation the grapes ripen in bright sun but lsquorelaxrsquo during the cool evenings The fact that the wine is made in tiny quantities (eight barrels only) means every care can be taken during the winemak-ing process to ensure the wine is allowed to show its grown-up side The cost per bot-tle of pound70 is not insubstantial but neither is the wine
We cannot know whether these wines will ever become investments in the way the wines of Bordeaux have Whatrsquos cer-tain is that Malbec wines have a very rare quality a balance of finesse and power that
can delight wine lovers and linger in their memories
Ewan Lacey is a leading wine expert and general manager of the International Wine and Spirit Competition He has appeared on BBC television and radio as well as Channel 4 and written for the national press
Laura Catena is managing director at the Catena Zapata winery (above)
THE INTERNATIONAL WINE AND SPIRIT COMPETITIONThe International Wine and Spirit Competition has been the premier drinks competition in the world for 45 years Each year it receives and reviews thousands of wines and spirits and presents qual-ity awards to producers
More than anything the IWSC exists to help
people make better deci-sions particularly when buying wines and spirits An IWSC award on a bot-tle of wine is a guarantee
of quality backed not only by a rigorous and strin-gent judging process but also by the skill of the judges who are drawn from the ranks of masters of wine master distill-ers industry leaders and commentators
Each year the IWSC honours a leading figure
in the drinks industry with the presidency of the competition The current president is Laura Catena who succeeds a nota-ble line of predecessors including Prince Robert of Luxembourg winemakers Piero Antinori and Warren Winiarski and Baroness Philippine de Rothschild
56 March 2014 | inspired
LUXURY WATCHES
Time is preciousA
t a recent watch auc-tion in Geneva at Antiquorum ndash the worldrsquos premiere auc-tion house for modern and vintage time pieces ndash a Patek Philippe
pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon watch emerged as the auctionrsquos top lot and sold for 12 million Swiss francs (pound807000)
Unlike most of the timepieces sold at auctions outside Asia this particular Patek watch ndash the most complicated wristwatch the Swiss watchmaker has ever produced ndash was not a vintage model
That Geneva auction raised intriguing
1284Clocks with weights gears and regulators start to appear mostly with no dial to strike the important moments of daily life
Around 1410The mainspring is devel-oped Combined with the fusee this innovation makes possible the truly portable domestic clock
1492The mechanical watch appears simultaneously in Italy Germany and France
1675Christian Huygens invents the spiral balance spring
for watches significantly improving their accuracy
1704The first watch with jew-els is produced by French watchmaker de Beaufreacute
1714The British parliament offers pound20000 to who-ever can a find a method to determine longitude
1766Parliament publishes the rating results for John Harrisonrsquos H4 marine timekeeper Harrisonrsquos highly accurate marine clock solution to the problem of determining logitude wins him part of the pound20000 prize
1787Pierre-Freacutedeacuteric Ingold is born an important pio-neer in mechanised timepiece production and the use of interchangea-ble parts
1790Jacquet-Droz and Leschot manufactures a watch attached to a strap
1839Vacheron amp Constantin developes a full set of machine tools for manu-facturing its watches
1875Calcium sulphate is the first luminescent sub-stance to be used for numerals and hands
TIMEKEEPING MILESTONES
questions Are modern luxury timepieces every bit as appealing as the vintage watches that typically command top prices at auc-tion And does that Geneva auction tell us anything about the contemporary watch market as a whole
Julien Schaerer Antiquorumrsquos managing director in Geneva says top-quality vintage watches often appreciate in value over the long term But he urges buyers for whom appreciation is an important consideration to be cautious about purchasing contempo-rary watches
lsquoWatch price depreciation is the cost of ownership just as it is with a luxury carrsquo he says lsquoIf the value goes up then
58 March 2014 | inspired
1880The first water- resistant watch incorpo-rating a screwed case is produced by Genevan watchmaker Franccedilois Borgel
1889The first known patent for a wristwatch is filed in Bern Switzerland
1890Dialmaker A Beyeler invents a transfer press for applying numerals and letters to dials
1892Auguste Verneuil in France produces the first synthetic jewels to be used in watchmaking
1904Wens Wilsdorf launches large-scale production of a womenrsquos wristwatch
1924John Harwood files the
first Swiss patent for a self-winding wristwatch with a central oscillating weight
1925The first known wrist-watch with a perpetual calendar is manufactured using a pendant watch movement
1926Rolex creates the Oyster wristwatch with a water-resistant case and crown
1966The first quartz wrist-watch prototype is produced
1969The first quartz watch
with an LED display appears
1978Quartz watches overtake mechanical watches in popularity
2005Creation of the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie Seiko launches the spring drive Kinetic the first self-winding mechanical watch with an electro-magnetic escapement
A Patek Philippe pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon recently sold for pound807000
inspired | March 2014 59
online retailers from the comfort of your homeSince 2006 DM London has quietly estab-
lished a powerful presence for itself in the UK retail watch market with the acquisition of The Watch Hut and The Watch Gallery DM London chairman David Coleridge says the company has capitalised on the increasing willingness of buy-ers to purchase online
lsquoHaving decided that they would like to buy a watch for themselves or someone elsersquo he says lsquopeople start to do their research More often than not this starts online nowadays where they com-pare brands performance and functions
lsquoAs trust in the online marketplace has devel-oped many want to buy online because it is convenient and saves time Shopping online becomes a habit established sites build trust and awareness with customers which gives custom-ers the confidence to buy more expensive itemsrsquo
He adds lsquoOur challenge is to make the online environment as attractive informative and enjoy-able as a high street store Then customers will decide to spend onlinersquo
Coleridge believes a multi-channel approach is the way forward for retailers He says lsquoWithout doubt the future is multi-channel selling ndash a combination of direct selling on the internet and various forms of click and collect ndash combined with beautiful stores on the high street
Over the past few years demand for luxury watches (particularly contemporary models) has spiked sharply in Asia and according to some specialists emerging affluence in the
of course thatrsquos an added benefit However he adds lsquoPrice appreciation is still quite rare with modern watches There is some poten-tial for appreciation but probably only with ultra-limited editions A purchase has to be
seen as a medium- to long-term invest-ment One should buy a timepiece first out of love for the brand or [the watchrsquos] complicationrsquo
The watch brands that offer the greatest assurance of appreci-
ation include Cartier Patek Philippe Rolex Audemars
Piguet A Lange amp Sohne Breguet and Vacheron Constantin All enjoy views from the top of
the watchmaking hierarchy thanks to their longstand-ing histories and well-established brand identities
Relative new-comers to the industry such as Richard Mille and Roger Dubuis have carved out a niche for
themselves with their revolutionary designs and
space-age technologies but it remains to be seen just how well the values of their timepieces will stand up on the secondary market
According to Nathaniel Borgelt a specialist at auction house Sothebyrsquos
some modern watches have already achieved good prices at auction but these (like the Patek Philippe Sky Moon Tourbillon) were highly exclusive models when new
lsquoSome limited edition pieces currently fetch incredible prices at auctionrsquo he says lsquoAnd there is a select group of modern mod-els that could compete with a certain sector of the vintage market based on their brand innovative features such as materials or com-plications and avant-garde designs
Buying these has now become a whole lot easier The luxury watch retailing land-scape is changing and the traditional pattern of physically walking into a luxury salon to buy a watch is gradually being replaced by a trend towards visiting the websites of the big
LUXURY WATCHES
A Lange amp Sohne (above) is a long-standing high-end watchmaker Comparative new-comer Roger Dubuis (right) is forging a strong reputation
inspired | March 2014 PB60 March 2014 | inspired
helpthewatchgallerycom
Hublot ClassiC FusiontHe WatCH Gallery exClusive
The Watch Gallery and Hublot have joined forces to create two very special limited edition watches Both are limited to just 15 pieces worldwide and have been specifically designed to feature The Watch Gallery blue brand colour on the hands and tinted open case back
SelfridgeS OxfOrd StreetWeStfield lOndOnMancheSter exchange Square
wwwthewatchgallerycomhublot-watches
Far East has kept global values strong while other markets around the world continue to recover from recession
Despite the market boost from growing prosperity in Asia there are signs that the market is becoming saturated and that globally the new watch market isnrsquot as robust as some commentators suggest
It may still be a good time to buy but its important to know what you want and what yoursquore buying Modern watchmakers such as Richard Mille Roger Dubuis and Greubel Forsey are producing beautiful timepieces but because of their limited foothold in the market itrsquos difficult to predict their long-term success and desirability They donrsquot yet have the brand power that might ensure the value of their
watches in the secondhand market remains highSuch producers might one day stand eye to
eye with the most desirable brands such as Patek Philippe and Rolex but achieving that kind of parity wonrsquot be easy Collectors looking to invest in timepieces are advised to keep an open mind about modern producers uncertainty is the one aspect of modern luxury watch market most experts tend to agree on
That said the buoyancy in the watch market suggests that plenty of buyers are unconcerned about future values For them itrsquos all about the appreciation of the watch itself People buy watches because they bring them pleasure ndash and say some-thing about who they are
LUXURY WATCHES
Contemporary watches such as those made by Hublot (left) have yet to show they will have the lasting appeal of watches such as Cartierrsquos Rotonde de Cartier Astrocalendaire (right)
inspired | March 2014 63
- inspirep01
- inspirep02
- inspirep03
- inspirep04
- inspirep05
- inspirep06
- inspirep07
- inspirep08
- inspirep09
- inspirep10
- inspirep11
- inspirep12
- inspirep13
- inspirep14
- inspirep15
- inspirep16
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-
TRAVEL
Necker Island is owned by Sir Richard Branson and guests stay in his home The island has become a popular des-tination for some of the worldrsquos most prominent figures as a hideaway from lifersquos stresses and strains
Because Necker Island is a resi-dence and not a resort guests who rent the island are treated as owners and catered for in a unique way
The74-acre island is fringed with beautiful white beaches and surrounded by turquoise waters and coral reefs It boasts every resort-type amenity guests can spend their days being pampered in the spa explor-ing underwater reefs in a submarine lounging by the pool bar or swimming in one of the worldrsquos most elab-orate private pools
Haute cuisine is a highlight for most guests ndash rates are fully inclusive of all food and drink A team of chefs creates bespoke menus featuring anything from lobster and caviar to a Sunday roast And because Necker is a home first and a resort second guests decide whether dining will be formal or informal inside or outside themed or traditional
The bar is stocked with international wines top-quality spirits and beers and a world renowned house champagne while special orders can be shipped in at no extra charge ndash unless an item is particularly rare Every service and amenity is available around the clock and guests are encouraged to treat Necker as their own home
As youLike it
NECKER ISLAND
42 March 2014 | inspired
Unalloyed luxury and an impressive range of amenities make Necker one of the most desirable island destinations in the world
The Jumby Bay resort which is only accessible by boat from Antigua is a Caribbean hideaway owned by Rosewood Resorts It is perfect for those seeking either relaxation or spirited adventure
You can rent the island resort entirely for your stay or simply take a room Those opt-ing for exclusive use of the island will have the resortrsquos two pools three tennis courts fitness centre croquet field and putting green to themselves
A wide range of water sports are available and guests can indulge in as much adventure or relaxation as they want during their stay The resort is ideal for large family
reunions or corporate retreats ndash 40 guest rooms and suites are available on the island
Executive chef Sylvain Hervochon celebrates gastron-omy ndash and mixology (cocktail making) ndash with casual elegance by creating Caribbean-style dishes inspired by fresh local ingredients and incorporating international influences
Jumby Bayrsquos rates start at pound150000 for four nights based on double occupancy between May and December Visit wwwrosewoodhotelscomenjumby-bay-antigua for further information
Fine BalanceCaribbean ambiance international sophistication and adventurous activities make Jumby Bay a compelling choice
JUMBY BAY
Just laze by the pool or venture beyond to dive in the turquoise waters of the South Pacific among stunning reefs and a dazzling array of marine creatures
Isle of PlentyT
he private island of Laucala in the South Pacific is a 3500-acre site in a picturesque rainforest-laced land-scape Enchanting deserted beaches nestle among coconut plantations organic farms and lush green vol-canic mountains
The resort offers an outstanding level of refined lux-ury as well as a compelling collection of sporting and cultural activities diving among iridescent marine life in the warm turquoise waters guided rainforest tours horse riding surfing and golfing on the 18-hole cham-pionship course The island is a superb choice for an escape from civilization whether you want an adven-ture in the wild or simply to relax in one of Laucalarsquos five restaurants and bars
Rates are available on request Visit wwwlaucalacom for further details
TRAVEL
LAUCALA ISLAND
inspired | March 2014 4544 March 2014 | inspired
Lush green surroundings sensitive development and beautiful beaches help Laucala island conjure up a complete South Seas experience
Isle of Plenty
inspired | March 2014 4544 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
inspired | March 2014 4746 March 2014 | inspired
Slow LaneSlow
Pulau Joyo is a seductively serene environment of pristine beaches surrounded by clear blue sea in Indonesiarsquos Riau Archipelago Accessible from Singapore or Bintan Pulau Joyo is a true castaway island offering every resort luxury
amid untouched natural beauty Pulau Joyo is famous for its remarkable sunsets and
brightly star-lit sky The resort can host 28 guests and 20 staff are on hand to cater to their every need Guests stay in open driftwood lsquopalacesrsquo that lsquoallow the sea inrsquoDespite its desert island appeal Pulau Joyo offers every modern convenience a range of adrenaline boosting activities and more relaxing options such as spa treatments and massages
The resortrsquos cuisine focuses on western and Indonesian dishes Meals are usually served buffet style and feature grilled fish squid prawns beef and chicken as well as many curry dishes Side dishes include fresh garden salads pasta salads boiled or steamed leafy greens and grilled aubergine (an island favourite) Prawn and tofu kebabs appear from time to time as does satay The chef will often provide a selection of freshly picked fruit and homemade cakes for dessert Itrsquos worth noting that the management will not serve pork or shellfish on this private island
Pulau Joyo may not be as refined as some islands but itrsquos an excellent choice for those who want a more casual laidback island experience that replicates the castaway experience like perhaps no other
Rates start at pound1913 a night More information is available at wwwpulau-joyocom
Wannabe castaways may find Pulau Joyorsquos purer simpler take on the luxury island experience more to their taste
PULAU JOYO
inspired | March 2014 4746 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
In the Fijian island paradise of Dolphin Island a small army of staff await to meet guestsrsquo every need On arriving ndash by boat helicopter or float plane ndash visitors are invariably struck by the beauty of the island and the luxuri-ous accommodation that awaits them amid 14-acres of lush tropical gardens
Three traditional palm-thatched bures individually designed by world renowned interior designer Virginia Fisher sit in an elevated position around the resortrsquos infinity pool
Guests are brought fresh tropical fish to choose each day that are cooked to perfec-
tion within hours of leaving the water The culinary focus is on
organic produce and ingredi-ents unique to Fijian cuisine but meals are tailored to guestsrsquo personal tastes Papayas man-goes bananas and pineapples
are plentiful throughout the day When it comes to recreation the
14-acre island is an expansive play-ground offering a diverse range of watersports as well as diving opportunities on Fijirsquos coral reefs
Rates start at pound720 a night More information is avail-able at wwwdolphinislandfijicom
Fijian Paean
Traditional features modern comforts and excellent facilities make for a harmonious whole on this Fijian island
DOLPHIN ISLAND
48 March 2014 | inspired
Pictured slightly larger than actual size
Big Pilotrsquos Watch Ref 5009
Your wrist never felt this big before The
case of the top model in the IWC Pilotrsquos
Watch range is a gigantic 462 mm in diashy
meter And the technology inside it is
even more impressive the largest IWCshy
manufactured automatic movement with
its Pellaton winding system is protected
against strong magnetic fields by a softshy
iron inner case And needless to say enshy
vious glances iwc engineered for men
Mechanical IWCshymanufactured movement Pellaton
automatic winding system 7shyday power reserve
with display (figure) Date display Softshyiron inner
case for protection against magnetic fields
Antireflective sapphire glass Watershyresistant 6 bar
Stainless steel
IWC Schaffhausen Switzerland iwccom The worldrsquos finest timepieces are exclusively available from selected watch specialists
For an illustrated catalogue or list of nationwide concessionaires please contact IWC UK Tel 0845 337 1868 Eshymail infoshyukiwccom
CARS
MunichLegend
50 March 2014 | inspired
BMW fanatics can open their eyes ndash the M4 has arrived
Most BMW aficionados are proba-bly pretty sad to see production of the M3 coupe ndash quite possibly the companyrsquos most noteworthy and celebrated model ndash end after almost 30 years Ever since the first wide-body E30 M3 saw the
light of day in 1985 drivers have loved the sporty coupe for its incredible balance intoxicating power and of course solid build quality
The model never got stale in all that time and always remained the poster child for the M division so itrsquos a lit-tle weird that BMW has apparently decided to axe it In truth though they havenrsquot really dropped the M3 The M3 sedan will continue to be produced in 2014 so all
is not lost Moreover BMW seems to be adopting a pat-tern of giving its sedans odd-numbered titles only and its coupes even-numbered titles only so the 4-Series and especially the M4 concept that debuted at Pebble Beach Monterey California will fill the gap left by the M3 Many people have been awaiting the new super coupe with great expectancy but can it fill in for the M3
The journalists who swarmed over the M4 concept at Pebble Beach were obviously much more interested in it than the somewhat predictable 428i that was also there Finished in an eye-catching colour called Aurum Dust (which actually looks a lot like the old M3rsquos Phoenix Yellow colour) the car presented in California may be a concept but typically BMW M cars donrsquot change much before they finally hit the showroom
MunichLegend
inspired | March 2014 51
CARS
52 March 2014 | inspired
From front to back the bodywork is manifestly differ-ent and much more aggressive looking than a standard 4-Series car It really looks to pretty much pick up where the E92E93 M3 coupe left off especially with its undeniably cool domed hood Wide wheel arches big wheels wrapped in low-profile tyres more than enough M badges and a well-executed double-bubble roof make the already underwhelming existing 4-Series coupe look even more pedestrian
Power for the new M4 is likely to come from a three-litre twin-turbo straight-six engine While the horsepower probably wonrsquot differ much from the M3rsquos old 4-litre V-8 it will generate more than 100lbft more in torque almost 400 in total With the M4 being a lighter 3300lb in weight the M4 promises to be an excit-ing worthy car A proper six-speed manual may be in the mix alongside the now obligatory dual clutch and paddles option
The best way to look at the M4 however it ends up is not as a new car but as a new and improved M3 thatrsquos just getting a new name The decision to rename the coupe is a strange one but thankfully BMW apparently felt the 3-Series coupe had made such an identity for itself that a new model was needed albeit in a slightly different incarnation
With BMW embarking on some new-ageish ideas such as its 1-Series ActiveE and the soon-to-arrive lsquoirsquo range of cars itrsquos nice to see the company also stick to classics such as the heart-stopping sports coupe even if the latest model does come with a new name
Seductive curves and racier performance make the BMW M4 a more than acceptable replacement for the M3 super coupe
SparklingForm Coloured diamonds are making their mark
One of the main factors that deter-mines the value of what we ordinarily think of as diamonds is their purity the degree to which col-our is absent in the gem However with coloured diamonds the extent to which they are saturated with
colour is a principal determinant of their valueColoured diamonds come in 12 basic colours more
than 90 secondary hues and nine intensity levels The depth of their colour is what really differentiates these diamonds from their colourless counterparts
Natural coloured diamonds are 10000 times rarer than typical colourless diamonds one of several rea-sons why they are treasured by the rich and famous yet remain unknown to most other people ndash despite hav-ing been around for centuries
Of course some colours are rarer than others Red violet and purple stones are as rare as the proverbial hensrsquo teeth while green and blue are also rare The most popular colours are pink and yellow (or canary) They also come in white grey orange black and lsquochame-leonrsquo form
A pinkie ring encrusted with a large coloured dia-mond has become a status symbol for men in Asia That little stone is an unregistered asset that could quickly be sold for millions of dollars should the need arise
Coloured diamonds are durable and never lose their sparkle or lustre so they are assets that can be enjoyed every day unlike stocks or bonds And they have proved to be fantastic investments having steadily appreciated in price with relatively little volatility for more than a decade They even held their own during the most recent financial crisis
Coloured diamonds are auctioned by reputable
auction houses such a Sothebyrsquos and Christiersquos where prices for large unique pink red blue or yellow stones can reach in excess of $2 million (pound12 million) a carat and other stones regularly sell for $1 million a carat
They are often bought by high-net-worth individu-als as an insurance policy Instead of stashing cash in undeclared bank accounts and potentially incurring the wrath of the authorities the wealthy can purchase some loose yellow diamonds to secure their future
Clearly coloured diamonds are much more than a magnificent indulgence
GEMS
inspired | March 2014 53PB March 2014 | inspired
WINE
Make the most of the deeply
satisfying Malbec wines emerging from Argentina
and perhaps even enjoy a return on a shrewd
investment says Ewan Lacey
Finding a red wine to enjoy in spring is a delicate balancing act The shock of seeing sunlight after a dark winter fosters in us a desire to drink some-thing refreshing while the still-cool temperatures demand something with comforting depth
Increasingly Malbec wines particularly those from Argentina provide a perfect solution to this quandary And while there are plenty of delicious wines for infor-mal occasions what is most interesting is the emergence of finer Malbec wines Some are so good they may well have ageing potential raising the intriguing possibility that the wine may one day become collectable
Malbec is the most popular wine among those aged 25-34 and is now becoming a fixture on most restaurant wine lists There are several reasons for its success the word Malbec is easy to pronounce the wine goes well with red meat the Malbec grape can be turned into wines that are both relatively easy to drink and packed with flavour and decent wines are available at reason-able prices Malbec is deep fruity and charming and it delivers instant pleasure ndash claret on a motorbike
The Malbec grape originated in France and it remains one of the permitted varieties used to make Bordeaux However it has gained prominence through the work of the post-junta Argentine wine industry
I recently had the pleasure of tasting some very fine Malbecs with Laura Catena managing director at the Catena Zapata winery and president of the International Wine and Spirit Competition She opened my
Mendoza Marvels
inspired | March 2014 55
WINE
eyes to the potential of this grape variety when handled with care
Laurarsquos family business makes a range of wines but the wine that truly astonished me was the Nicasia Vineyard Malbec 2006 The wine is perfumed with floral and fruit notes and it is smooth and soft at first Like all great wines it has many layers of flavour warm bursts of cherry and black-currant cede centre stage to deeper darker caramel and mocha notes and a touch of spice Therersquos an amazing depth of flavour and the finish is long and lingering Whatrsquos more at nearly eight years old it still has a slight purple tinge and tastes extremely fresh There is every indication that it will age beautifully for at least another decade
The winersquos character is heavily influenced by the alti-tude the grapes used to make it are grown at (1180m
above sea level) At this elevation the grapes ripen in bright sun but lsquorelaxrsquo during the cool evenings The fact that the wine is made in tiny quantities (eight barrels only) means every care can be taken during the winemak-ing process to ensure the wine is allowed to show its grown-up side The cost per bot-tle of pound70 is not insubstantial but neither is the wine
We cannot know whether these wines will ever become investments in the way the wines of Bordeaux have Whatrsquos cer-tain is that Malbec wines have a very rare quality a balance of finesse and power that
can delight wine lovers and linger in their memories
Ewan Lacey is a leading wine expert and general manager of the International Wine and Spirit Competition He has appeared on BBC television and radio as well as Channel 4 and written for the national press
Laura Catena is managing director at the Catena Zapata winery (above)
THE INTERNATIONAL WINE AND SPIRIT COMPETITIONThe International Wine and Spirit Competition has been the premier drinks competition in the world for 45 years Each year it receives and reviews thousands of wines and spirits and presents qual-ity awards to producers
More than anything the IWSC exists to help
people make better deci-sions particularly when buying wines and spirits An IWSC award on a bot-tle of wine is a guarantee
of quality backed not only by a rigorous and strin-gent judging process but also by the skill of the judges who are drawn from the ranks of masters of wine master distill-ers industry leaders and commentators
Each year the IWSC honours a leading figure
in the drinks industry with the presidency of the competition The current president is Laura Catena who succeeds a nota-ble line of predecessors including Prince Robert of Luxembourg winemakers Piero Antinori and Warren Winiarski and Baroness Philippine de Rothschild
56 March 2014 | inspired
LUXURY WATCHES
Time is preciousA
t a recent watch auc-tion in Geneva at Antiquorum ndash the worldrsquos premiere auc-tion house for modern and vintage time pieces ndash a Patek Philippe
pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon watch emerged as the auctionrsquos top lot and sold for 12 million Swiss francs (pound807000)
Unlike most of the timepieces sold at auctions outside Asia this particular Patek watch ndash the most complicated wristwatch the Swiss watchmaker has ever produced ndash was not a vintage model
That Geneva auction raised intriguing
1284Clocks with weights gears and regulators start to appear mostly with no dial to strike the important moments of daily life
Around 1410The mainspring is devel-oped Combined with the fusee this innovation makes possible the truly portable domestic clock
1492The mechanical watch appears simultaneously in Italy Germany and France
1675Christian Huygens invents the spiral balance spring
for watches significantly improving their accuracy
1704The first watch with jew-els is produced by French watchmaker de Beaufreacute
1714The British parliament offers pound20000 to who-ever can a find a method to determine longitude
1766Parliament publishes the rating results for John Harrisonrsquos H4 marine timekeeper Harrisonrsquos highly accurate marine clock solution to the problem of determining logitude wins him part of the pound20000 prize
1787Pierre-Freacutedeacuteric Ingold is born an important pio-neer in mechanised timepiece production and the use of interchangea-ble parts
1790Jacquet-Droz and Leschot manufactures a watch attached to a strap
1839Vacheron amp Constantin developes a full set of machine tools for manu-facturing its watches
1875Calcium sulphate is the first luminescent sub-stance to be used for numerals and hands
TIMEKEEPING MILESTONES
questions Are modern luxury timepieces every bit as appealing as the vintage watches that typically command top prices at auc-tion And does that Geneva auction tell us anything about the contemporary watch market as a whole
Julien Schaerer Antiquorumrsquos managing director in Geneva says top-quality vintage watches often appreciate in value over the long term But he urges buyers for whom appreciation is an important consideration to be cautious about purchasing contempo-rary watches
lsquoWatch price depreciation is the cost of ownership just as it is with a luxury carrsquo he says lsquoIf the value goes up then
58 March 2014 | inspired
1880The first water- resistant watch incorpo-rating a screwed case is produced by Genevan watchmaker Franccedilois Borgel
1889The first known patent for a wristwatch is filed in Bern Switzerland
1890Dialmaker A Beyeler invents a transfer press for applying numerals and letters to dials
1892Auguste Verneuil in France produces the first synthetic jewels to be used in watchmaking
1904Wens Wilsdorf launches large-scale production of a womenrsquos wristwatch
1924John Harwood files the
first Swiss patent for a self-winding wristwatch with a central oscillating weight
1925The first known wrist-watch with a perpetual calendar is manufactured using a pendant watch movement
1926Rolex creates the Oyster wristwatch with a water-resistant case and crown
1966The first quartz wrist-watch prototype is produced
1969The first quartz watch
with an LED display appears
1978Quartz watches overtake mechanical watches in popularity
2005Creation of the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie Seiko launches the spring drive Kinetic the first self-winding mechanical watch with an electro-magnetic escapement
A Patek Philippe pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon recently sold for pound807000
inspired | March 2014 59
online retailers from the comfort of your homeSince 2006 DM London has quietly estab-
lished a powerful presence for itself in the UK retail watch market with the acquisition of The Watch Hut and The Watch Gallery DM London chairman David Coleridge says the company has capitalised on the increasing willingness of buy-ers to purchase online
lsquoHaving decided that they would like to buy a watch for themselves or someone elsersquo he says lsquopeople start to do their research More often than not this starts online nowadays where they com-pare brands performance and functions
lsquoAs trust in the online marketplace has devel-oped many want to buy online because it is convenient and saves time Shopping online becomes a habit established sites build trust and awareness with customers which gives custom-ers the confidence to buy more expensive itemsrsquo
He adds lsquoOur challenge is to make the online environment as attractive informative and enjoy-able as a high street store Then customers will decide to spend onlinersquo
Coleridge believes a multi-channel approach is the way forward for retailers He says lsquoWithout doubt the future is multi-channel selling ndash a combination of direct selling on the internet and various forms of click and collect ndash combined with beautiful stores on the high street
Over the past few years demand for luxury watches (particularly contemporary models) has spiked sharply in Asia and according to some specialists emerging affluence in the
of course thatrsquos an added benefit However he adds lsquoPrice appreciation is still quite rare with modern watches There is some poten-tial for appreciation but probably only with ultra-limited editions A purchase has to be
seen as a medium- to long-term invest-ment One should buy a timepiece first out of love for the brand or [the watchrsquos] complicationrsquo
The watch brands that offer the greatest assurance of appreci-
ation include Cartier Patek Philippe Rolex Audemars
Piguet A Lange amp Sohne Breguet and Vacheron Constantin All enjoy views from the top of
the watchmaking hierarchy thanks to their longstand-ing histories and well-established brand identities
Relative new-comers to the industry such as Richard Mille and Roger Dubuis have carved out a niche for
themselves with their revolutionary designs and
space-age technologies but it remains to be seen just how well the values of their timepieces will stand up on the secondary market
According to Nathaniel Borgelt a specialist at auction house Sothebyrsquos
some modern watches have already achieved good prices at auction but these (like the Patek Philippe Sky Moon Tourbillon) were highly exclusive models when new
lsquoSome limited edition pieces currently fetch incredible prices at auctionrsquo he says lsquoAnd there is a select group of modern mod-els that could compete with a certain sector of the vintage market based on their brand innovative features such as materials or com-plications and avant-garde designs
Buying these has now become a whole lot easier The luxury watch retailing land-scape is changing and the traditional pattern of physically walking into a luxury salon to buy a watch is gradually being replaced by a trend towards visiting the websites of the big
LUXURY WATCHES
A Lange amp Sohne (above) is a long-standing high-end watchmaker Comparative new-comer Roger Dubuis (right) is forging a strong reputation
inspired | March 2014 PB60 March 2014 | inspired
helpthewatchgallerycom
Hublot ClassiC FusiontHe WatCH Gallery exClusive
The Watch Gallery and Hublot have joined forces to create two very special limited edition watches Both are limited to just 15 pieces worldwide and have been specifically designed to feature The Watch Gallery blue brand colour on the hands and tinted open case back
SelfridgeS OxfOrd StreetWeStfield lOndOnMancheSter exchange Square
wwwthewatchgallerycomhublot-watches
Far East has kept global values strong while other markets around the world continue to recover from recession
Despite the market boost from growing prosperity in Asia there are signs that the market is becoming saturated and that globally the new watch market isnrsquot as robust as some commentators suggest
It may still be a good time to buy but its important to know what you want and what yoursquore buying Modern watchmakers such as Richard Mille Roger Dubuis and Greubel Forsey are producing beautiful timepieces but because of their limited foothold in the market itrsquos difficult to predict their long-term success and desirability They donrsquot yet have the brand power that might ensure the value of their
watches in the secondhand market remains highSuch producers might one day stand eye to
eye with the most desirable brands such as Patek Philippe and Rolex but achieving that kind of parity wonrsquot be easy Collectors looking to invest in timepieces are advised to keep an open mind about modern producers uncertainty is the one aspect of modern luxury watch market most experts tend to agree on
That said the buoyancy in the watch market suggests that plenty of buyers are unconcerned about future values For them itrsquos all about the appreciation of the watch itself People buy watches because they bring them pleasure ndash and say some-thing about who they are
LUXURY WATCHES
Contemporary watches such as those made by Hublot (left) have yet to show they will have the lasting appeal of watches such as Cartierrsquos Rotonde de Cartier Astrocalendaire (right)
inspired | March 2014 63
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-
The Jumby Bay resort which is only accessible by boat from Antigua is a Caribbean hideaway owned by Rosewood Resorts It is perfect for those seeking either relaxation or spirited adventure
You can rent the island resort entirely for your stay or simply take a room Those opt-ing for exclusive use of the island will have the resortrsquos two pools three tennis courts fitness centre croquet field and putting green to themselves
A wide range of water sports are available and guests can indulge in as much adventure or relaxation as they want during their stay The resort is ideal for large family
reunions or corporate retreats ndash 40 guest rooms and suites are available on the island
Executive chef Sylvain Hervochon celebrates gastron-omy ndash and mixology (cocktail making) ndash with casual elegance by creating Caribbean-style dishes inspired by fresh local ingredients and incorporating international influences
Jumby Bayrsquos rates start at pound150000 for four nights based on double occupancy between May and December Visit wwwrosewoodhotelscomenjumby-bay-antigua for further information
Fine BalanceCaribbean ambiance international sophistication and adventurous activities make Jumby Bay a compelling choice
JUMBY BAY
Just laze by the pool or venture beyond to dive in the turquoise waters of the South Pacific among stunning reefs and a dazzling array of marine creatures
Isle of PlentyT
he private island of Laucala in the South Pacific is a 3500-acre site in a picturesque rainforest-laced land-scape Enchanting deserted beaches nestle among coconut plantations organic farms and lush green vol-canic mountains
The resort offers an outstanding level of refined lux-ury as well as a compelling collection of sporting and cultural activities diving among iridescent marine life in the warm turquoise waters guided rainforest tours horse riding surfing and golfing on the 18-hole cham-pionship course The island is a superb choice for an escape from civilization whether you want an adven-ture in the wild or simply to relax in one of Laucalarsquos five restaurants and bars
Rates are available on request Visit wwwlaucalacom for further details
TRAVEL
LAUCALA ISLAND
inspired | March 2014 4544 March 2014 | inspired
Lush green surroundings sensitive development and beautiful beaches help Laucala island conjure up a complete South Seas experience
Isle of Plenty
inspired | March 2014 4544 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
inspired | March 2014 4746 March 2014 | inspired
Slow LaneSlow
Pulau Joyo is a seductively serene environment of pristine beaches surrounded by clear blue sea in Indonesiarsquos Riau Archipelago Accessible from Singapore or Bintan Pulau Joyo is a true castaway island offering every resort luxury
amid untouched natural beauty Pulau Joyo is famous for its remarkable sunsets and
brightly star-lit sky The resort can host 28 guests and 20 staff are on hand to cater to their every need Guests stay in open driftwood lsquopalacesrsquo that lsquoallow the sea inrsquoDespite its desert island appeal Pulau Joyo offers every modern convenience a range of adrenaline boosting activities and more relaxing options such as spa treatments and massages
The resortrsquos cuisine focuses on western and Indonesian dishes Meals are usually served buffet style and feature grilled fish squid prawns beef and chicken as well as many curry dishes Side dishes include fresh garden salads pasta salads boiled or steamed leafy greens and grilled aubergine (an island favourite) Prawn and tofu kebabs appear from time to time as does satay The chef will often provide a selection of freshly picked fruit and homemade cakes for dessert Itrsquos worth noting that the management will not serve pork or shellfish on this private island
Pulau Joyo may not be as refined as some islands but itrsquos an excellent choice for those who want a more casual laidback island experience that replicates the castaway experience like perhaps no other
Rates start at pound1913 a night More information is available at wwwpulau-joyocom
Wannabe castaways may find Pulau Joyorsquos purer simpler take on the luxury island experience more to their taste
PULAU JOYO
inspired | March 2014 4746 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
In the Fijian island paradise of Dolphin Island a small army of staff await to meet guestsrsquo every need On arriving ndash by boat helicopter or float plane ndash visitors are invariably struck by the beauty of the island and the luxuri-ous accommodation that awaits them amid 14-acres of lush tropical gardens
Three traditional palm-thatched bures individually designed by world renowned interior designer Virginia Fisher sit in an elevated position around the resortrsquos infinity pool
Guests are brought fresh tropical fish to choose each day that are cooked to perfec-
tion within hours of leaving the water The culinary focus is on
organic produce and ingredi-ents unique to Fijian cuisine but meals are tailored to guestsrsquo personal tastes Papayas man-goes bananas and pineapples
are plentiful throughout the day When it comes to recreation the
14-acre island is an expansive play-ground offering a diverse range of watersports as well as diving opportunities on Fijirsquos coral reefs
Rates start at pound720 a night More information is avail-able at wwwdolphinislandfijicom
Fijian Paean
Traditional features modern comforts and excellent facilities make for a harmonious whole on this Fijian island
DOLPHIN ISLAND
48 March 2014 | inspired
Pictured slightly larger than actual size
Big Pilotrsquos Watch Ref 5009
Your wrist never felt this big before The
case of the top model in the IWC Pilotrsquos
Watch range is a gigantic 462 mm in diashy
meter And the technology inside it is
even more impressive the largest IWCshy
manufactured automatic movement with
its Pellaton winding system is protected
against strong magnetic fields by a softshy
iron inner case And needless to say enshy
vious glances iwc engineered for men
Mechanical IWCshymanufactured movement Pellaton
automatic winding system 7shyday power reserve
with display (figure) Date display Softshyiron inner
case for protection against magnetic fields
Antireflective sapphire glass Watershyresistant 6 bar
Stainless steel
IWC Schaffhausen Switzerland iwccom The worldrsquos finest timepieces are exclusively available from selected watch specialists
For an illustrated catalogue or list of nationwide concessionaires please contact IWC UK Tel 0845 337 1868 Eshymail infoshyukiwccom
CARS
MunichLegend
50 March 2014 | inspired
BMW fanatics can open their eyes ndash the M4 has arrived
Most BMW aficionados are proba-bly pretty sad to see production of the M3 coupe ndash quite possibly the companyrsquos most noteworthy and celebrated model ndash end after almost 30 years Ever since the first wide-body E30 M3 saw the
light of day in 1985 drivers have loved the sporty coupe for its incredible balance intoxicating power and of course solid build quality
The model never got stale in all that time and always remained the poster child for the M division so itrsquos a lit-tle weird that BMW has apparently decided to axe it In truth though they havenrsquot really dropped the M3 The M3 sedan will continue to be produced in 2014 so all
is not lost Moreover BMW seems to be adopting a pat-tern of giving its sedans odd-numbered titles only and its coupes even-numbered titles only so the 4-Series and especially the M4 concept that debuted at Pebble Beach Monterey California will fill the gap left by the M3 Many people have been awaiting the new super coupe with great expectancy but can it fill in for the M3
The journalists who swarmed over the M4 concept at Pebble Beach were obviously much more interested in it than the somewhat predictable 428i that was also there Finished in an eye-catching colour called Aurum Dust (which actually looks a lot like the old M3rsquos Phoenix Yellow colour) the car presented in California may be a concept but typically BMW M cars donrsquot change much before they finally hit the showroom
MunichLegend
inspired | March 2014 51
CARS
52 March 2014 | inspired
From front to back the bodywork is manifestly differ-ent and much more aggressive looking than a standard 4-Series car It really looks to pretty much pick up where the E92E93 M3 coupe left off especially with its undeniably cool domed hood Wide wheel arches big wheels wrapped in low-profile tyres more than enough M badges and a well-executed double-bubble roof make the already underwhelming existing 4-Series coupe look even more pedestrian
Power for the new M4 is likely to come from a three-litre twin-turbo straight-six engine While the horsepower probably wonrsquot differ much from the M3rsquos old 4-litre V-8 it will generate more than 100lbft more in torque almost 400 in total With the M4 being a lighter 3300lb in weight the M4 promises to be an excit-ing worthy car A proper six-speed manual may be in the mix alongside the now obligatory dual clutch and paddles option
The best way to look at the M4 however it ends up is not as a new car but as a new and improved M3 thatrsquos just getting a new name The decision to rename the coupe is a strange one but thankfully BMW apparently felt the 3-Series coupe had made such an identity for itself that a new model was needed albeit in a slightly different incarnation
With BMW embarking on some new-ageish ideas such as its 1-Series ActiveE and the soon-to-arrive lsquoirsquo range of cars itrsquos nice to see the company also stick to classics such as the heart-stopping sports coupe even if the latest model does come with a new name
Seductive curves and racier performance make the BMW M4 a more than acceptable replacement for the M3 super coupe
SparklingForm Coloured diamonds are making their mark
One of the main factors that deter-mines the value of what we ordinarily think of as diamonds is their purity the degree to which col-our is absent in the gem However with coloured diamonds the extent to which they are saturated with
colour is a principal determinant of their valueColoured diamonds come in 12 basic colours more
than 90 secondary hues and nine intensity levels The depth of their colour is what really differentiates these diamonds from their colourless counterparts
Natural coloured diamonds are 10000 times rarer than typical colourless diamonds one of several rea-sons why they are treasured by the rich and famous yet remain unknown to most other people ndash despite hav-ing been around for centuries
Of course some colours are rarer than others Red violet and purple stones are as rare as the proverbial hensrsquo teeth while green and blue are also rare The most popular colours are pink and yellow (or canary) They also come in white grey orange black and lsquochame-leonrsquo form
A pinkie ring encrusted with a large coloured dia-mond has become a status symbol for men in Asia That little stone is an unregistered asset that could quickly be sold for millions of dollars should the need arise
Coloured diamonds are durable and never lose their sparkle or lustre so they are assets that can be enjoyed every day unlike stocks or bonds And they have proved to be fantastic investments having steadily appreciated in price with relatively little volatility for more than a decade They even held their own during the most recent financial crisis
Coloured diamonds are auctioned by reputable
auction houses such a Sothebyrsquos and Christiersquos where prices for large unique pink red blue or yellow stones can reach in excess of $2 million (pound12 million) a carat and other stones regularly sell for $1 million a carat
They are often bought by high-net-worth individu-als as an insurance policy Instead of stashing cash in undeclared bank accounts and potentially incurring the wrath of the authorities the wealthy can purchase some loose yellow diamonds to secure their future
Clearly coloured diamonds are much more than a magnificent indulgence
GEMS
inspired | March 2014 53PB March 2014 | inspired
WINE
Make the most of the deeply
satisfying Malbec wines emerging from Argentina
and perhaps even enjoy a return on a shrewd
investment says Ewan Lacey
Finding a red wine to enjoy in spring is a delicate balancing act The shock of seeing sunlight after a dark winter fosters in us a desire to drink some-thing refreshing while the still-cool temperatures demand something with comforting depth
Increasingly Malbec wines particularly those from Argentina provide a perfect solution to this quandary And while there are plenty of delicious wines for infor-mal occasions what is most interesting is the emergence of finer Malbec wines Some are so good they may well have ageing potential raising the intriguing possibility that the wine may one day become collectable
Malbec is the most popular wine among those aged 25-34 and is now becoming a fixture on most restaurant wine lists There are several reasons for its success the word Malbec is easy to pronounce the wine goes well with red meat the Malbec grape can be turned into wines that are both relatively easy to drink and packed with flavour and decent wines are available at reason-able prices Malbec is deep fruity and charming and it delivers instant pleasure ndash claret on a motorbike
The Malbec grape originated in France and it remains one of the permitted varieties used to make Bordeaux However it has gained prominence through the work of the post-junta Argentine wine industry
I recently had the pleasure of tasting some very fine Malbecs with Laura Catena managing director at the Catena Zapata winery and president of the International Wine and Spirit Competition She opened my
Mendoza Marvels
inspired | March 2014 55
WINE
eyes to the potential of this grape variety when handled with care
Laurarsquos family business makes a range of wines but the wine that truly astonished me was the Nicasia Vineyard Malbec 2006 The wine is perfumed with floral and fruit notes and it is smooth and soft at first Like all great wines it has many layers of flavour warm bursts of cherry and black-currant cede centre stage to deeper darker caramel and mocha notes and a touch of spice Therersquos an amazing depth of flavour and the finish is long and lingering Whatrsquos more at nearly eight years old it still has a slight purple tinge and tastes extremely fresh There is every indication that it will age beautifully for at least another decade
The winersquos character is heavily influenced by the alti-tude the grapes used to make it are grown at (1180m
above sea level) At this elevation the grapes ripen in bright sun but lsquorelaxrsquo during the cool evenings The fact that the wine is made in tiny quantities (eight barrels only) means every care can be taken during the winemak-ing process to ensure the wine is allowed to show its grown-up side The cost per bot-tle of pound70 is not insubstantial but neither is the wine
We cannot know whether these wines will ever become investments in the way the wines of Bordeaux have Whatrsquos cer-tain is that Malbec wines have a very rare quality a balance of finesse and power that
can delight wine lovers and linger in their memories
Ewan Lacey is a leading wine expert and general manager of the International Wine and Spirit Competition He has appeared on BBC television and radio as well as Channel 4 and written for the national press
Laura Catena is managing director at the Catena Zapata winery (above)
THE INTERNATIONAL WINE AND SPIRIT COMPETITIONThe International Wine and Spirit Competition has been the premier drinks competition in the world for 45 years Each year it receives and reviews thousands of wines and spirits and presents qual-ity awards to producers
More than anything the IWSC exists to help
people make better deci-sions particularly when buying wines and spirits An IWSC award on a bot-tle of wine is a guarantee
of quality backed not only by a rigorous and strin-gent judging process but also by the skill of the judges who are drawn from the ranks of masters of wine master distill-ers industry leaders and commentators
Each year the IWSC honours a leading figure
in the drinks industry with the presidency of the competition The current president is Laura Catena who succeeds a nota-ble line of predecessors including Prince Robert of Luxembourg winemakers Piero Antinori and Warren Winiarski and Baroness Philippine de Rothschild
56 March 2014 | inspired
LUXURY WATCHES
Time is preciousA
t a recent watch auc-tion in Geneva at Antiquorum ndash the worldrsquos premiere auc-tion house for modern and vintage time pieces ndash a Patek Philippe
pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon watch emerged as the auctionrsquos top lot and sold for 12 million Swiss francs (pound807000)
Unlike most of the timepieces sold at auctions outside Asia this particular Patek watch ndash the most complicated wristwatch the Swiss watchmaker has ever produced ndash was not a vintage model
That Geneva auction raised intriguing
1284Clocks with weights gears and regulators start to appear mostly with no dial to strike the important moments of daily life
Around 1410The mainspring is devel-oped Combined with the fusee this innovation makes possible the truly portable domestic clock
1492The mechanical watch appears simultaneously in Italy Germany and France
1675Christian Huygens invents the spiral balance spring
for watches significantly improving their accuracy
1704The first watch with jew-els is produced by French watchmaker de Beaufreacute
1714The British parliament offers pound20000 to who-ever can a find a method to determine longitude
1766Parliament publishes the rating results for John Harrisonrsquos H4 marine timekeeper Harrisonrsquos highly accurate marine clock solution to the problem of determining logitude wins him part of the pound20000 prize
1787Pierre-Freacutedeacuteric Ingold is born an important pio-neer in mechanised timepiece production and the use of interchangea-ble parts
1790Jacquet-Droz and Leschot manufactures a watch attached to a strap
1839Vacheron amp Constantin developes a full set of machine tools for manu-facturing its watches
1875Calcium sulphate is the first luminescent sub-stance to be used for numerals and hands
TIMEKEEPING MILESTONES
questions Are modern luxury timepieces every bit as appealing as the vintage watches that typically command top prices at auc-tion And does that Geneva auction tell us anything about the contemporary watch market as a whole
Julien Schaerer Antiquorumrsquos managing director in Geneva says top-quality vintage watches often appreciate in value over the long term But he urges buyers for whom appreciation is an important consideration to be cautious about purchasing contempo-rary watches
lsquoWatch price depreciation is the cost of ownership just as it is with a luxury carrsquo he says lsquoIf the value goes up then
58 March 2014 | inspired
1880The first water- resistant watch incorpo-rating a screwed case is produced by Genevan watchmaker Franccedilois Borgel
1889The first known patent for a wristwatch is filed in Bern Switzerland
1890Dialmaker A Beyeler invents a transfer press for applying numerals and letters to dials
1892Auguste Verneuil in France produces the first synthetic jewels to be used in watchmaking
1904Wens Wilsdorf launches large-scale production of a womenrsquos wristwatch
1924John Harwood files the
first Swiss patent for a self-winding wristwatch with a central oscillating weight
1925The first known wrist-watch with a perpetual calendar is manufactured using a pendant watch movement
1926Rolex creates the Oyster wristwatch with a water-resistant case and crown
1966The first quartz wrist-watch prototype is produced
1969The first quartz watch
with an LED display appears
1978Quartz watches overtake mechanical watches in popularity
2005Creation of the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie Seiko launches the spring drive Kinetic the first self-winding mechanical watch with an electro-magnetic escapement
A Patek Philippe pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon recently sold for pound807000
inspired | March 2014 59
online retailers from the comfort of your homeSince 2006 DM London has quietly estab-
lished a powerful presence for itself in the UK retail watch market with the acquisition of The Watch Hut and The Watch Gallery DM London chairman David Coleridge says the company has capitalised on the increasing willingness of buy-ers to purchase online
lsquoHaving decided that they would like to buy a watch for themselves or someone elsersquo he says lsquopeople start to do their research More often than not this starts online nowadays where they com-pare brands performance and functions
lsquoAs trust in the online marketplace has devel-oped many want to buy online because it is convenient and saves time Shopping online becomes a habit established sites build trust and awareness with customers which gives custom-ers the confidence to buy more expensive itemsrsquo
He adds lsquoOur challenge is to make the online environment as attractive informative and enjoy-able as a high street store Then customers will decide to spend onlinersquo
Coleridge believes a multi-channel approach is the way forward for retailers He says lsquoWithout doubt the future is multi-channel selling ndash a combination of direct selling on the internet and various forms of click and collect ndash combined with beautiful stores on the high street
Over the past few years demand for luxury watches (particularly contemporary models) has spiked sharply in Asia and according to some specialists emerging affluence in the
of course thatrsquos an added benefit However he adds lsquoPrice appreciation is still quite rare with modern watches There is some poten-tial for appreciation but probably only with ultra-limited editions A purchase has to be
seen as a medium- to long-term invest-ment One should buy a timepiece first out of love for the brand or [the watchrsquos] complicationrsquo
The watch brands that offer the greatest assurance of appreci-
ation include Cartier Patek Philippe Rolex Audemars
Piguet A Lange amp Sohne Breguet and Vacheron Constantin All enjoy views from the top of
the watchmaking hierarchy thanks to their longstand-ing histories and well-established brand identities
Relative new-comers to the industry such as Richard Mille and Roger Dubuis have carved out a niche for
themselves with their revolutionary designs and
space-age technologies but it remains to be seen just how well the values of their timepieces will stand up on the secondary market
According to Nathaniel Borgelt a specialist at auction house Sothebyrsquos
some modern watches have already achieved good prices at auction but these (like the Patek Philippe Sky Moon Tourbillon) were highly exclusive models when new
lsquoSome limited edition pieces currently fetch incredible prices at auctionrsquo he says lsquoAnd there is a select group of modern mod-els that could compete with a certain sector of the vintage market based on their brand innovative features such as materials or com-plications and avant-garde designs
Buying these has now become a whole lot easier The luxury watch retailing land-scape is changing and the traditional pattern of physically walking into a luxury salon to buy a watch is gradually being replaced by a trend towards visiting the websites of the big
LUXURY WATCHES
A Lange amp Sohne (above) is a long-standing high-end watchmaker Comparative new-comer Roger Dubuis (right) is forging a strong reputation
inspired | March 2014 PB60 March 2014 | inspired
helpthewatchgallerycom
Hublot ClassiC FusiontHe WatCH Gallery exClusive
The Watch Gallery and Hublot have joined forces to create two very special limited edition watches Both are limited to just 15 pieces worldwide and have been specifically designed to feature The Watch Gallery blue brand colour on the hands and tinted open case back
SelfridgeS OxfOrd StreetWeStfield lOndOnMancheSter exchange Square
wwwthewatchgallerycomhublot-watches
Far East has kept global values strong while other markets around the world continue to recover from recession
Despite the market boost from growing prosperity in Asia there are signs that the market is becoming saturated and that globally the new watch market isnrsquot as robust as some commentators suggest
It may still be a good time to buy but its important to know what you want and what yoursquore buying Modern watchmakers such as Richard Mille Roger Dubuis and Greubel Forsey are producing beautiful timepieces but because of their limited foothold in the market itrsquos difficult to predict their long-term success and desirability They donrsquot yet have the brand power that might ensure the value of their
watches in the secondhand market remains highSuch producers might one day stand eye to
eye with the most desirable brands such as Patek Philippe and Rolex but achieving that kind of parity wonrsquot be easy Collectors looking to invest in timepieces are advised to keep an open mind about modern producers uncertainty is the one aspect of modern luxury watch market most experts tend to agree on
That said the buoyancy in the watch market suggests that plenty of buyers are unconcerned about future values For them itrsquos all about the appreciation of the watch itself People buy watches because they bring them pleasure ndash and say some-thing about who they are
LUXURY WATCHES
Contemporary watches such as those made by Hublot (left) have yet to show they will have the lasting appeal of watches such as Cartierrsquos Rotonde de Cartier Astrocalendaire (right)
inspired | March 2014 63
- inspirep01
- inspirep02
- inspirep03
- inspirep04
- inspirep05
- inspirep06
- inspirep07
- inspirep08
- inspirep09
- inspirep10
- inspirep11
- inspirep12
- inspirep13
- inspirep14
- inspirep15
- inspirep16
- inspirep17
- inspirep18
- inspirep19
- inspirep20
- inspirep21
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- inspirep25
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- inspirep29
- inspirep30
- inspirep31
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- inspirep33
- inspirep34
- inspirep35
- inspirep36
- inspirep37
- inspirep38
- inspirep39
- inspirep40
- inspirep41
- inspirep42
- inspirep43
- inspirep44
- inspirep45
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- inspirep58
- inspirep59
- inspirep60
- inspirep61
- inspirep62
- inspirep63
-
Just laze by the pool or venture beyond to dive in the turquoise waters of the South Pacific among stunning reefs and a dazzling array of marine creatures
Isle of PlentyT
he private island of Laucala in the South Pacific is a 3500-acre site in a picturesque rainforest-laced land-scape Enchanting deserted beaches nestle among coconut plantations organic farms and lush green vol-canic mountains
The resort offers an outstanding level of refined lux-ury as well as a compelling collection of sporting and cultural activities diving among iridescent marine life in the warm turquoise waters guided rainforest tours horse riding surfing and golfing on the 18-hole cham-pionship course The island is a superb choice for an escape from civilization whether you want an adven-ture in the wild or simply to relax in one of Laucalarsquos five restaurants and bars
Rates are available on request Visit wwwlaucalacom for further details
TRAVEL
LAUCALA ISLAND
inspired | March 2014 4544 March 2014 | inspired
Lush green surroundings sensitive development and beautiful beaches help Laucala island conjure up a complete South Seas experience
Isle of Plenty
inspired | March 2014 4544 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
inspired | March 2014 4746 March 2014 | inspired
Slow LaneSlow
Pulau Joyo is a seductively serene environment of pristine beaches surrounded by clear blue sea in Indonesiarsquos Riau Archipelago Accessible from Singapore or Bintan Pulau Joyo is a true castaway island offering every resort luxury
amid untouched natural beauty Pulau Joyo is famous for its remarkable sunsets and
brightly star-lit sky The resort can host 28 guests and 20 staff are on hand to cater to their every need Guests stay in open driftwood lsquopalacesrsquo that lsquoallow the sea inrsquoDespite its desert island appeal Pulau Joyo offers every modern convenience a range of adrenaline boosting activities and more relaxing options such as spa treatments and massages
The resortrsquos cuisine focuses on western and Indonesian dishes Meals are usually served buffet style and feature grilled fish squid prawns beef and chicken as well as many curry dishes Side dishes include fresh garden salads pasta salads boiled or steamed leafy greens and grilled aubergine (an island favourite) Prawn and tofu kebabs appear from time to time as does satay The chef will often provide a selection of freshly picked fruit and homemade cakes for dessert Itrsquos worth noting that the management will not serve pork or shellfish on this private island
Pulau Joyo may not be as refined as some islands but itrsquos an excellent choice for those who want a more casual laidback island experience that replicates the castaway experience like perhaps no other
Rates start at pound1913 a night More information is available at wwwpulau-joyocom
Wannabe castaways may find Pulau Joyorsquos purer simpler take on the luxury island experience more to their taste
PULAU JOYO
inspired | March 2014 4746 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
In the Fijian island paradise of Dolphin Island a small army of staff await to meet guestsrsquo every need On arriving ndash by boat helicopter or float plane ndash visitors are invariably struck by the beauty of the island and the luxuri-ous accommodation that awaits them amid 14-acres of lush tropical gardens
Three traditional palm-thatched bures individually designed by world renowned interior designer Virginia Fisher sit in an elevated position around the resortrsquos infinity pool
Guests are brought fresh tropical fish to choose each day that are cooked to perfec-
tion within hours of leaving the water The culinary focus is on
organic produce and ingredi-ents unique to Fijian cuisine but meals are tailored to guestsrsquo personal tastes Papayas man-goes bananas and pineapples
are plentiful throughout the day When it comes to recreation the
14-acre island is an expansive play-ground offering a diverse range of watersports as well as diving opportunities on Fijirsquos coral reefs
Rates start at pound720 a night More information is avail-able at wwwdolphinislandfijicom
Fijian Paean
Traditional features modern comforts and excellent facilities make for a harmonious whole on this Fijian island
DOLPHIN ISLAND
48 March 2014 | inspired
Pictured slightly larger than actual size
Big Pilotrsquos Watch Ref 5009
Your wrist never felt this big before The
case of the top model in the IWC Pilotrsquos
Watch range is a gigantic 462 mm in diashy
meter And the technology inside it is
even more impressive the largest IWCshy
manufactured automatic movement with
its Pellaton winding system is protected
against strong magnetic fields by a softshy
iron inner case And needless to say enshy
vious glances iwc engineered for men
Mechanical IWCshymanufactured movement Pellaton
automatic winding system 7shyday power reserve
with display (figure) Date display Softshyiron inner
case for protection against magnetic fields
Antireflective sapphire glass Watershyresistant 6 bar
Stainless steel
IWC Schaffhausen Switzerland iwccom The worldrsquos finest timepieces are exclusively available from selected watch specialists
For an illustrated catalogue or list of nationwide concessionaires please contact IWC UK Tel 0845 337 1868 Eshymail infoshyukiwccom
CARS
MunichLegend
50 March 2014 | inspired
BMW fanatics can open their eyes ndash the M4 has arrived
Most BMW aficionados are proba-bly pretty sad to see production of the M3 coupe ndash quite possibly the companyrsquos most noteworthy and celebrated model ndash end after almost 30 years Ever since the first wide-body E30 M3 saw the
light of day in 1985 drivers have loved the sporty coupe for its incredible balance intoxicating power and of course solid build quality
The model never got stale in all that time and always remained the poster child for the M division so itrsquos a lit-tle weird that BMW has apparently decided to axe it In truth though they havenrsquot really dropped the M3 The M3 sedan will continue to be produced in 2014 so all
is not lost Moreover BMW seems to be adopting a pat-tern of giving its sedans odd-numbered titles only and its coupes even-numbered titles only so the 4-Series and especially the M4 concept that debuted at Pebble Beach Monterey California will fill the gap left by the M3 Many people have been awaiting the new super coupe with great expectancy but can it fill in for the M3
The journalists who swarmed over the M4 concept at Pebble Beach were obviously much more interested in it than the somewhat predictable 428i that was also there Finished in an eye-catching colour called Aurum Dust (which actually looks a lot like the old M3rsquos Phoenix Yellow colour) the car presented in California may be a concept but typically BMW M cars donrsquot change much before they finally hit the showroom
MunichLegend
inspired | March 2014 51
CARS
52 March 2014 | inspired
From front to back the bodywork is manifestly differ-ent and much more aggressive looking than a standard 4-Series car It really looks to pretty much pick up where the E92E93 M3 coupe left off especially with its undeniably cool domed hood Wide wheel arches big wheels wrapped in low-profile tyres more than enough M badges and a well-executed double-bubble roof make the already underwhelming existing 4-Series coupe look even more pedestrian
Power for the new M4 is likely to come from a three-litre twin-turbo straight-six engine While the horsepower probably wonrsquot differ much from the M3rsquos old 4-litre V-8 it will generate more than 100lbft more in torque almost 400 in total With the M4 being a lighter 3300lb in weight the M4 promises to be an excit-ing worthy car A proper six-speed manual may be in the mix alongside the now obligatory dual clutch and paddles option
The best way to look at the M4 however it ends up is not as a new car but as a new and improved M3 thatrsquos just getting a new name The decision to rename the coupe is a strange one but thankfully BMW apparently felt the 3-Series coupe had made such an identity for itself that a new model was needed albeit in a slightly different incarnation
With BMW embarking on some new-ageish ideas such as its 1-Series ActiveE and the soon-to-arrive lsquoirsquo range of cars itrsquos nice to see the company also stick to classics such as the heart-stopping sports coupe even if the latest model does come with a new name
Seductive curves and racier performance make the BMW M4 a more than acceptable replacement for the M3 super coupe
SparklingForm Coloured diamonds are making their mark
One of the main factors that deter-mines the value of what we ordinarily think of as diamonds is their purity the degree to which col-our is absent in the gem However with coloured diamonds the extent to which they are saturated with
colour is a principal determinant of their valueColoured diamonds come in 12 basic colours more
than 90 secondary hues and nine intensity levels The depth of their colour is what really differentiates these diamonds from their colourless counterparts
Natural coloured diamonds are 10000 times rarer than typical colourless diamonds one of several rea-sons why they are treasured by the rich and famous yet remain unknown to most other people ndash despite hav-ing been around for centuries
Of course some colours are rarer than others Red violet and purple stones are as rare as the proverbial hensrsquo teeth while green and blue are also rare The most popular colours are pink and yellow (or canary) They also come in white grey orange black and lsquochame-leonrsquo form
A pinkie ring encrusted with a large coloured dia-mond has become a status symbol for men in Asia That little stone is an unregistered asset that could quickly be sold for millions of dollars should the need arise
Coloured diamonds are durable and never lose their sparkle or lustre so they are assets that can be enjoyed every day unlike stocks or bonds And they have proved to be fantastic investments having steadily appreciated in price with relatively little volatility for more than a decade They even held their own during the most recent financial crisis
Coloured diamonds are auctioned by reputable
auction houses such a Sothebyrsquos and Christiersquos where prices for large unique pink red blue or yellow stones can reach in excess of $2 million (pound12 million) a carat and other stones regularly sell for $1 million a carat
They are often bought by high-net-worth individu-als as an insurance policy Instead of stashing cash in undeclared bank accounts and potentially incurring the wrath of the authorities the wealthy can purchase some loose yellow diamonds to secure their future
Clearly coloured diamonds are much more than a magnificent indulgence
GEMS
inspired | March 2014 53PB March 2014 | inspired
WINE
Make the most of the deeply
satisfying Malbec wines emerging from Argentina
and perhaps even enjoy a return on a shrewd
investment says Ewan Lacey
Finding a red wine to enjoy in spring is a delicate balancing act The shock of seeing sunlight after a dark winter fosters in us a desire to drink some-thing refreshing while the still-cool temperatures demand something with comforting depth
Increasingly Malbec wines particularly those from Argentina provide a perfect solution to this quandary And while there are plenty of delicious wines for infor-mal occasions what is most interesting is the emergence of finer Malbec wines Some are so good they may well have ageing potential raising the intriguing possibility that the wine may one day become collectable
Malbec is the most popular wine among those aged 25-34 and is now becoming a fixture on most restaurant wine lists There are several reasons for its success the word Malbec is easy to pronounce the wine goes well with red meat the Malbec grape can be turned into wines that are both relatively easy to drink and packed with flavour and decent wines are available at reason-able prices Malbec is deep fruity and charming and it delivers instant pleasure ndash claret on a motorbike
The Malbec grape originated in France and it remains one of the permitted varieties used to make Bordeaux However it has gained prominence through the work of the post-junta Argentine wine industry
I recently had the pleasure of tasting some very fine Malbecs with Laura Catena managing director at the Catena Zapata winery and president of the International Wine and Spirit Competition She opened my
Mendoza Marvels
inspired | March 2014 55
WINE
eyes to the potential of this grape variety when handled with care
Laurarsquos family business makes a range of wines but the wine that truly astonished me was the Nicasia Vineyard Malbec 2006 The wine is perfumed with floral and fruit notes and it is smooth and soft at first Like all great wines it has many layers of flavour warm bursts of cherry and black-currant cede centre stage to deeper darker caramel and mocha notes and a touch of spice Therersquos an amazing depth of flavour and the finish is long and lingering Whatrsquos more at nearly eight years old it still has a slight purple tinge and tastes extremely fresh There is every indication that it will age beautifully for at least another decade
The winersquos character is heavily influenced by the alti-tude the grapes used to make it are grown at (1180m
above sea level) At this elevation the grapes ripen in bright sun but lsquorelaxrsquo during the cool evenings The fact that the wine is made in tiny quantities (eight barrels only) means every care can be taken during the winemak-ing process to ensure the wine is allowed to show its grown-up side The cost per bot-tle of pound70 is not insubstantial but neither is the wine
We cannot know whether these wines will ever become investments in the way the wines of Bordeaux have Whatrsquos cer-tain is that Malbec wines have a very rare quality a balance of finesse and power that
can delight wine lovers and linger in their memories
Ewan Lacey is a leading wine expert and general manager of the International Wine and Spirit Competition He has appeared on BBC television and radio as well as Channel 4 and written for the national press
Laura Catena is managing director at the Catena Zapata winery (above)
THE INTERNATIONAL WINE AND SPIRIT COMPETITIONThe International Wine and Spirit Competition has been the premier drinks competition in the world for 45 years Each year it receives and reviews thousands of wines and spirits and presents qual-ity awards to producers
More than anything the IWSC exists to help
people make better deci-sions particularly when buying wines and spirits An IWSC award on a bot-tle of wine is a guarantee
of quality backed not only by a rigorous and strin-gent judging process but also by the skill of the judges who are drawn from the ranks of masters of wine master distill-ers industry leaders and commentators
Each year the IWSC honours a leading figure
in the drinks industry with the presidency of the competition The current president is Laura Catena who succeeds a nota-ble line of predecessors including Prince Robert of Luxembourg winemakers Piero Antinori and Warren Winiarski and Baroness Philippine de Rothschild
56 March 2014 | inspired
LUXURY WATCHES
Time is preciousA
t a recent watch auc-tion in Geneva at Antiquorum ndash the worldrsquos premiere auc-tion house for modern and vintage time pieces ndash a Patek Philippe
pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon watch emerged as the auctionrsquos top lot and sold for 12 million Swiss francs (pound807000)
Unlike most of the timepieces sold at auctions outside Asia this particular Patek watch ndash the most complicated wristwatch the Swiss watchmaker has ever produced ndash was not a vintage model
That Geneva auction raised intriguing
1284Clocks with weights gears and regulators start to appear mostly with no dial to strike the important moments of daily life
Around 1410The mainspring is devel-oped Combined with the fusee this innovation makes possible the truly portable domestic clock
1492The mechanical watch appears simultaneously in Italy Germany and France
1675Christian Huygens invents the spiral balance spring
for watches significantly improving their accuracy
1704The first watch with jew-els is produced by French watchmaker de Beaufreacute
1714The British parliament offers pound20000 to who-ever can a find a method to determine longitude
1766Parliament publishes the rating results for John Harrisonrsquos H4 marine timekeeper Harrisonrsquos highly accurate marine clock solution to the problem of determining logitude wins him part of the pound20000 prize
1787Pierre-Freacutedeacuteric Ingold is born an important pio-neer in mechanised timepiece production and the use of interchangea-ble parts
1790Jacquet-Droz and Leschot manufactures a watch attached to a strap
1839Vacheron amp Constantin developes a full set of machine tools for manu-facturing its watches
1875Calcium sulphate is the first luminescent sub-stance to be used for numerals and hands
TIMEKEEPING MILESTONES
questions Are modern luxury timepieces every bit as appealing as the vintage watches that typically command top prices at auc-tion And does that Geneva auction tell us anything about the contemporary watch market as a whole
Julien Schaerer Antiquorumrsquos managing director in Geneva says top-quality vintage watches often appreciate in value over the long term But he urges buyers for whom appreciation is an important consideration to be cautious about purchasing contempo-rary watches
lsquoWatch price depreciation is the cost of ownership just as it is with a luxury carrsquo he says lsquoIf the value goes up then
58 March 2014 | inspired
1880The first water- resistant watch incorpo-rating a screwed case is produced by Genevan watchmaker Franccedilois Borgel
1889The first known patent for a wristwatch is filed in Bern Switzerland
1890Dialmaker A Beyeler invents a transfer press for applying numerals and letters to dials
1892Auguste Verneuil in France produces the first synthetic jewels to be used in watchmaking
1904Wens Wilsdorf launches large-scale production of a womenrsquos wristwatch
1924John Harwood files the
first Swiss patent for a self-winding wristwatch with a central oscillating weight
1925The first known wrist-watch with a perpetual calendar is manufactured using a pendant watch movement
1926Rolex creates the Oyster wristwatch with a water-resistant case and crown
1966The first quartz wrist-watch prototype is produced
1969The first quartz watch
with an LED display appears
1978Quartz watches overtake mechanical watches in popularity
2005Creation of the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie Seiko launches the spring drive Kinetic the first self-winding mechanical watch with an electro-magnetic escapement
A Patek Philippe pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon recently sold for pound807000
inspired | March 2014 59
online retailers from the comfort of your homeSince 2006 DM London has quietly estab-
lished a powerful presence for itself in the UK retail watch market with the acquisition of The Watch Hut and The Watch Gallery DM London chairman David Coleridge says the company has capitalised on the increasing willingness of buy-ers to purchase online
lsquoHaving decided that they would like to buy a watch for themselves or someone elsersquo he says lsquopeople start to do their research More often than not this starts online nowadays where they com-pare brands performance and functions
lsquoAs trust in the online marketplace has devel-oped many want to buy online because it is convenient and saves time Shopping online becomes a habit established sites build trust and awareness with customers which gives custom-ers the confidence to buy more expensive itemsrsquo
He adds lsquoOur challenge is to make the online environment as attractive informative and enjoy-able as a high street store Then customers will decide to spend onlinersquo
Coleridge believes a multi-channel approach is the way forward for retailers He says lsquoWithout doubt the future is multi-channel selling ndash a combination of direct selling on the internet and various forms of click and collect ndash combined with beautiful stores on the high street
Over the past few years demand for luxury watches (particularly contemporary models) has spiked sharply in Asia and according to some specialists emerging affluence in the
of course thatrsquos an added benefit However he adds lsquoPrice appreciation is still quite rare with modern watches There is some poten-tial for appreciation but probably only with ultra-limited editions A purchase has to be
seen as a medium- to long-term invest-ment One should buy a timepiece first out of love for the brand or [the watchrsquos] complicationrsquo
The watch brands that offer the greatest assurance of appreci-
ation include Cartier Patek Philippe Rolex Audemars
Piguet A Lange amp Sohne Breguet and Vacheron Constantin All enjoy views from the top of
the watchmaking hierarchy thanks to their longstand-ing histories and well-established brand identities
Relative new-comers to the industry such as Richard Mille and Roger Dubuis have carved out a niche for
themselves with their revolutionary designs and
space-age technologies but it remains to be seen just how well the values of their timepieces will stand up on the secondary market
According to Nathaniel Borgelt a specialist at auction house Sothebyrsquos
some modern watches have already achieved good prices at auction but these (like the Patek Philippe Sky Moon Tourbillon) were highly exclusive models when new
lsquoSome limited edition pieces currently fetch incredible prices at auctionrsquo he says lsquoAnd there is a select group of modern mod-els that could compete with a certain sector of the vintage market based on their brand innovative features such as materials or com-plications and avant-garde designs
Buying these has now become a whole lot easier The luxury watch retailing land-scape is changing and the traditional pattern of physically walking into a luxury salon to buy a watch is gradually being replaced by a trend towards visiting the websites of the big
LUXURY WATCHES
A Lange amp Sohne (above) is a long-standing high-end watchmaker Comparative new-comer Roger Dubuis (right) is forging a strong reputation
inspired | March 2014 PB60 March 2014 | inspired
helpthewatchgallerycom
Hublot ClassiC FusiontHe WatCH Gallery exClusive
The Watch Gallery and Hublot have joined forces to create two very special limited edition watches Both are limited to just 15 pieces worldwide and have been specifically designed to feature The Watch Gallery blue brand colour on the hands and tinted open case back
SelfridgeS OxfOrd StreetWeStfield lOndOnMancheSter exchange Square
wwwthewatchgallerycomhublot-watches
Far East has kept global values strong while other markets around the world continue to recover from recession
Despite the market boost from growing prosperity in Asia there are signs that the market is becoming saturated and that globally the new watch market isnrsquot as robust as some commentators suggest
It may still be a good time to buy but its important to know what you want and what yoursquore buying Modern watchmakers such as Richard Mille Roger Dubuis and Greubel Forsey are producing beautiful timepieces but because of their limited foothold in the market itrsquos difficult to predict their long-term success and desirability They donrsquot yet have the brand power that might ensure the value of their
watches in the secondhand market remains highSuch producers might one day stand eye to
eye with the most desirable brands such as Patek Philippe and Rolex but achieving that kind of parity wonrsquot be easy Collectors looking to invest in timepieces are advised to keep an open mind about modern producers uncertainty is the one aspect of modern luxury watch market most experts tend to agree on
That said the buoyancy in the watch market suggests that plenty of buyers are unconcerned about future values For them itrsquos all about the appreciation of the watch itself People buy watches because they bring them pleasure ndash and say some-thing about who they are
LUXURY WATCHES
Contemporary watches such as those made by Hublot (left) have yet to show they will have the lasting appeal of watches such as Cartierrsquos Rotonde de Cartier Astrocalendaire (right)
inspired | March 2014 63
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-
Lush green surroundings sensitive development and beautiful beaches help Laucala island conjure up a complete South Seas experience
Isle of Plenty
inspired | March 2014 4544 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
inspired | March 2014 4746 March 2014 | inspired
Slow LaneSlow
Pulau Joyo is a seductively serene environment of pristine beaches surrounded by clear blue sea in Indonesiarsquos Riau Archipelago Accessible from Singapore or Bintan Pulau Joyo is a true castaway island offering every resort luxury
amid untouched natural beauty Pulau Joyo is famous for its remarkable sunsets and
brightly star-lit sky The resort can host 28 guests and 20 staff are on hand to cater to their every need Guests stay in open driftwood lsquopalacesrsquo that lsquoallow the sea inrsquoDespite its desert island appeal Pulau Joyo offers every modern convenience a range of adrenaline boosting activities and more relaxing options such as spa treatments and massages
The resortrsquos cuisine focuses on western and Indonesian dishes Meals are usually served buffet style and feature grilled fish squid prawns beef and chicken as well as many curry dishes Side dishes include fresh garden salads pasta salads boiled or steamed leafy greens and grilled aubergine (an island favourite) Prawn and tofu kebabs appear from time to time as does satay The chef will often provide a selection of freshly picked fruit and homemade cakes for dessert Itrsquos worth noting that the management will not serve pork or shellfish on this private island
Pulau Joyo may not be as refined as some islands but itrsquos an excellent choice for those who want a more casual laidback island experience that replicates the castaway experience like perhaps no other
Rates start at pound1913 a night More information is available at wwwpulau-joyocom
Wannabe castaways may find Pulau Joyorsquos purer simpler take on the luxury island experience more to their taste
PULAU JOYO
inspired | March 2014 4746 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
In the Fijian island paradise of Dolphin Island a small army of staff await to meet guestsrsquo every need On arriving ndash by boat helicopter or float plane ndash visitors are invariably struck by the beauty of the island and the luxuri-ous accommodation that awaits them amid 14-acres of lush tropical gardens
Three traditional palm-thatched bures individually designed by world renowned interior designer Virginia Fisher sit in an elevated position around the resortrsquos infinity pool
Guests are brought fresh tropical fish to choose each day that are cooked to perfec-
tion within hours of leaving the water The culinary focus is on
organic produce and ingredi-ents unique to Fijian cuisine but meals are tailored to guestsrsquo personal tastes Papayas man-goes bananas and pineapples
are plentiful throughout the day When it comes to recreation the
14-acre island is an expansive play-ground offering a diverse range of watersports as well as diving opportunities on Fijirsquos coral reefs
Rates start at pound720 a night More information is avail-able at wwwdolphinislandfijicom
Fijian Paean
Traditional features modern comforts and excellent facilities make for a harmonious whole on this Fijian island
DOLPHIN ISLAND
48 March 2014 | inspired
Pictured slightly larger than actual size
Big Pilotrsquos Watch Ref 5009
Your wrist never felt this big before The
case of the top model in the IWC Pilotrsquos
Watch range is a gigantic 462 mm in diashy
meter And the technology inside it is
even more impressive the largest IWCshy
manufactured automatic movement with
its Pellaton winding system is protected
against strong magnetic fields by a softshy
iron inner case And needless to say enshy
vious glances iwc engineered for men
Mechanical IWCshymanufactured movement Pellaton
automatic winding system 7shyday power reserve
with display (figure) Date display Softshyiron inner
case for protection against magnetic fields
Antireflective sapphire glass Watershyresistant 6 bar
Stainless steel
IWC Schaffhausen Switzerland iwccom The worldrsquos finest timepieces are exclusively available from selected watch specialists
For an illustrated catalogue or list of nationwide concessionaires please contact IWC UK Tel 0845 337 1868 Eshymail infoshyukiwccom
CARS
MunichLegend
50 March 2014 | inspired
BMW fanatics can open their eyes ndash the M4 has arrived
Most BMW aficionados are proba-bly pretty sad to see production of the M3 coupe ndash quite possibly the companyrsquos most noteworthy and celebrated model ndash end after almost 30 years Ever since the first wide-body E30 M3 saw the
light of day in 1985 drivers have loved the sporty coupe for its incredible balance intoxicating power and of course solid build quality
The model never got stale in all that time and always remained the poster child for the M division so itrsquos a lit-tle weird that BMW has apparently decided to axe it In truth though they havenrsquot really dropped the M3 The M3 sedan will continue to be produced in 2014 so all
is not lost Moreover BMW seems to be adopting a pat-tern of giving its sedans odd-numbered titles only and its coupes even-numbered titles only so the 4-Series and especially the M4 concept that debuted at Pebble Beach Monterey California will fill the gap left by the M3 Many people have been awaiting the new super coupe with great expectancy but can it fill in for the M3
The journalists who swarmed over the M4 concept at Pebble Beach were obviously much more interested in it than the somewhat predictable 428i that was also there Finished in an eye-catching colour called Aurum Dust (which actually looks a lot like the old M3rsquos Phoenix Yellow colour) the car presented in California may be a concept but typically BMW M cars donrsquot change much before they finally hit the showroom
MunichLegend
inspired | March 2014 51
CARS
52 March 2014 | inspired
From front to back the bodywork is manifestly differ-ent and much more aggressive looking than a standard 4-Series car It really looks to pretty much pick up where the E92E93 M3 coupe left off especially with its undeniably cool domed hood Wide wheel arches big wheels wrapped in low-profile tyres more than enough M badges and a well-executed double-bubble roof make the already underwhelming existing 4-Series coupe look even more pedestrian
Power for the new M4 is likely to come from a three-litre twin-turbo straight-six engine While the horsepower probably wonrsquot differ much from the M3rsquos old 4-litre V-8 it will generate more than 100lbft more in torque almost 400 in total With the M4 being a lighter 3300lb in weight the M4 promises to be an excit-ing worthy car A proper six-speed manual may be in the mix alongside the now obligatory dual clutch and paddles option
The best way to look at the M4 however it ends up is not as a new car but as a new and improved M3 thatrsquos just getting a new name The decision to rename the coupe is a strange one but thankfully BMW apparently felt the 3-Series coupe had made such an identity for itself that a new model was needed albeit in a slightly different incarnation
With BMW embarking on some new-ageish ideas such as its 1-Series ActiveE and the soon-to-arrive lsquoirsquo range of cars itrsquos nice to see the company also stick to classics such as the heart-stopping sports coupe even if the latest model does come with a new name
Seductive curves and racier performance make the BMW M4 a more than acceptable replacement for the M3 super coupe
SparklingForm Coloured diamonds are making their mark
One of the main factors that deter-mines the value of what we ordinarily think of as diamonds is their purity the degree to which col-our is absent in the gem However with coloured diamonds the extent to which they are saturated with
colour is a principal determinant of their valueColoured diamonds come in 12 basic colours more
than 90 secondary hues and nine intensity levels The depth of their colour is what really differentiates these diamonds from their colourless counterparts
Natural coloured diamonds are 10000 times rarer than typical colourless diamonds one of several rea-sons why they are treasured by the rich and famous yet remain unknown to most other people ndash despite hav-ing been around for centuries
Of course some colours are rarer than others Red violet and purple stones are as rare as the proverbial hensrsquo teeth while green and blue are also rare The most popular colours are pink and yellow (or canary) They also come in white grey orange black and lsquochame-leonrsquo form
A pinkie ring encrusted with a large coloured dia-mond has become a status symbol for men in Asia That little stone is an unregistered asset that could quickly be sold for millions of dollars should the need arise
Coloured diamonds are durable and never lose their sparkle or lustre so they are assets that can be enjoyed every day unlike stocks or bonds And they have proved to be fantastic investments having steadily appreciated in price with relatively little volatility for more than a decade They even held their own during the most recent financial crisis
Coloured diamonds are auctioned by reputable
auction houses such a Sothebyrsquos and Christiersquos where prices for large unique pink red blue or yellow stones can reach in excess of $2 million (pound12 million) a carat and other stones regularly sell for $1 million a carat
They are often bought by high-net-worth individu-als as an insurance policy Instead of stashing cash in undeclared bank accounts and potentially incurring the wrath of the authorities the wealthy can purchase some loose yellow diamonds to secure their future
Clearly coloured diamonds are much more than a magnificent indulgence
GEMS
inspired | March 2014 53PB March 2014 | inspired
WINE
Make the most of the deeply
satisfying Malbec wines emerging from Argentina
and perhaps even enjoy a return on a shrewd
investment says Ewan Lacey
Finding a red wine to enjoy in spring is a delicate balancing act The shock of seeing sunlight after a dark winter fosters in us a desire to drink some-thing refreshing while the still-cool temperatures demand something with comforting depth
Increasingly Malbec wines particularly those from Argentina provide a perfect solution to this quandary And while there are plenty of delicious wines for infor-mal occasions what is most interesting is the emergence of finer Malbec wines Some are so good they may well have ageing potential raising the intriguing possibility that the wine may one day become collectable
Malbec is the most popular wine among those aged 25-34 and is now becoming a fixture on most restaurant wine lists There are several reasons for its success the word Malbec is easy to pronounce the wine goes well with red meat the Malbec grape can be turned into wines that are both relatively easy to drink and packed with flavour and decent wines are available at reason-able prices Malbec is deep fruity and charming and it delivers instant pleasure ndash claret on a motorbike
The Malbec grape originated in France and it remains one of the permitted varieties used to make Bordeaux However it has gained prominence through the work of the post-junta Argentine wine industry
I recently had the pleasure of tasting some very fine Malbecs with Laura Catena managing director at the Catena Zapata winery and president of the International Wine and Spirit Competition She opened my
Mendoza Marvels
inspired | March 2014 55
WINE
eyes to the potential of this grape variety when handled with care
Laurarsquos family business makes a range of wines but the wine that truly astonished me was the Nicasia Vineyard Malbec 2006 The wine is perfumed with floral and fruit notes and it is smooth and soft at first Like all great wines it has many layers of flavour warm bursts of cherry and black-currant cede centre stage to deeper darker caramel and mocha notes and a touch of spice Therersquos an amazing depth of flavour and the finish is long and lingering Whatrsquos more at nearly eight years old it still has a slight purple tinge and tastes extremely fresh There is every indication that it will age beautifully for at least another decade
The winersquos character is heavily influenced by the alti-tude the grapes used to make it are grown at (1180m
above sea level) At this elevation the grapes ripen in bright sun but lsquorelaxrsquo during the cool evenings The fact that the wine is made in tiny quantities (eight barrels only) means every care can be taken during the winemak-ing process to ensure the wine is allowed to show its grown-up side The cost per bot-tle of pound70 is not insubstantial but neither is the wine
We cannot know whether these wines will ever become investments in the way the wines of Bordeaux have Whatrsquos cer-tain is that Malbec wines have a very rare quality a balance of finesse and power that
can delight wine lovers and linger in their memories
Ewan Lacey is a leading wine expert and general manager of the International Wine and Spirit Competition He has appeared on BBC television and radio as well as Channel 4 and written for the national press
Laura Catena is managing director at the Catena Zapata winery (above)
THE INTERNATIONAL WINE AND SPIRIT COMPETITIONThe International Wine and Spirit Competition has been the premier drinks competition in the world for 45 years Each year it receives and reviews thousands of wines and spirits and presents qual-ity awards to producers
More than anything the IWSC exists to help
people make better deci-sions particularly when buying wines and spirits An IWSC award on a bot-tle of wine is a guarantee
of quality backed not only by a rigorous and strin-gent judging process but also by the skill of the judges who are drawn from the ranks of masters of wine master distill-ers industry leaders and commentators
Each year the IWSC honours a leading figure
in the drinks industry with the presidency of the competition The current president is Laura Catena who succeeds a nota-ble line of predecessors including Prince Robert of Luxembourg winemakers Piero Antinori and Warren Winiarski and Baroness Philippine de Rothschild
56 March 2014 | inspired
LUXURY WATCHES
Time is preciousA
t a recent watch auc-tion in Geneva at Antiquorum ndash the worldrsquos premiere auc-tion house for modern and vintage time pieces ndash a Patek Philippe
pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon watch emerged as the auctionrsquos top lot and sold for 12 million Swiss francs (pound807000)
Unlike most of the timepieces sold at auctions outside Asia this particular Patek watch ndash the most complicated wristwatch the Swiss watchmaker has ever produced ndash was not a vintage model
That Geneva auction raised intriguing
1284Clocks with weights gears and regulators start to appear mostly with no dial to strike the important moments of daily life
Around 1410The mainspring is devel-oped Combined with the fusee this innovation makes possible the truly portable domestic clock
1492The mechanical watch appears simultaneously in Italy Germany and France
1675Christian Huygens invents the spiral balance spring
for watches significantly improving their accuracy
1704The first watch with jew-els is produced by French watchmaker de Beaufreacute
1714The British parliament offers pound20000 to who-ever can a find a method to determine longitude
1766Parliament publishes the rating results for John Harrisonrsquos H4 marine timekeeper Harrisonrsquos highly accurate marine clock solution to the problem of determining logitude wins him part of the pound20000 prize
1787Pierre-Freacutedeacuteric Ingold is born an important pio-neer in mechanised timepiece production and the use of interchangea-ble parts
1790Jacquet-Droz and Leschot manufactures a watch attached to a strap
1839Vacheron amp Constantin developes a full set of machine tools for manu-facturing its watches
1875Calcium sulphate is the first luminescent sub-stance to be used for numerals and hands
TIMEKEEPING MILESTONES
questions Are modern luxury timepieces every bit as appealing as the vintage watches that typically command top prices at auc-tion And does that Geneva auction tell us anything about the contemporary watch market as a whole
Julien Schaerer Antiquorumrsquos managing director in Geneva says top-quality vintage watches often appreciate in value over the long term But he urges buyers for whom appreciation is an important consideration to be cautious about purchasing contempo-rary watches
lsquoWatch price depreciation is the cost of ownership just as it is with a luxury carrsquo he says lsquoIf the value goes up then
58 March 2014 | inspired
1880The first water- resistant watch incorpo-rating a screwed case is produced by Genevan watchmaker Franccedilois Borgel
1889The first known patent for a wristwatch is filed in Bern Switzerland
1890Dialmaker A Beyeler invents a transfer press for applying numerals and letters to dials
1892Auguste Verneuil in France produces the first synthetic jewels to be used in watchmaking
1904Wens Wilsdorf launches large-scale production of a womenrsquos wristwatch
1924John Harwood files the
first Swiss patent for a self-winding wristwatch with a central oscillating weight
1925The first known wrist-watch with a perpetual calendar is manufactured using a pendant watch movement
1926Rolex creates the Oyster wristwatch with a water-resistant case and crown
1966The first quartz wrist-watch prototype is produced
1969The first quartz watch
with an LED display appears
1978Quartz watches overtake mechanical watches in popularity
2005Creation of the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie Seiko launches the spring drive Kinetic the first self-winding mechanical watch with an electro-magnetic escapement
A Patek Philippe pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon recently sold for pound807000
inspired | March 2014 59
online retailers from the comfort of your homeSince 2006 DM London has quietly estab-
lished a powerful presence for itself in the UK retail watch market with the acquisition of The Watch Hut and The Watch Gallery DM London chairman David Coleridge says the company has capitalised on the increasing willingness of buy-ers to purchase online
lsquoHaving decided that they would like to buy a watch for themselves or someone elsersquo he says lsquopeople start to do their research More often than not this starts online nowadays where they com-pare brands performance and functions
lsquoAs trust in the online marketplace has devel-oped many want to buy online because it is convenient and saves time Shopping online becomes a habit established sites build trust and awareness with customers which gives custom-ers the confidence to buy more expensive itemsrsquo
He adds lsquoOur challenge is to make the online environment as attractive informative and enjoy-able as a high street store Then customers will decide to spend onlinersquo
Coleridge believes a multi-channel approach is the way forward for retailers He says lsquoWithout doubt the future is multi-channel selling ndash a combination of direct selling on the internet and various forms of click and collect ndash combined with beautiful stores on the high street
Over the past few years demand for luxury watches (particularly contemporary models) has spiked sharply in Asia and according to some specialists emerging affluence in the
of course thatrsquos an added benefit However he adds lsquoPrice appreciation is still quite rare with modern watches There is some poten-tial for appreciation but probably only with ultra-limited editions A purchase has to be
seen as a medium- to long-term invest-ment One should buy a timepiece first out of love for the brand or [the watchrsquos] complicationrsquo
The watch brands that offer the greatest assurance of appreci-
ation include Cartier Patek Philippe Rolex Audemars
Piguet A Lange amp Sohne Breguet and Vacheron Constantin All enjoy views from the top of
the watchmaking hierarchy thanks to their longstand-ing histories and well-established brand identities
Relative new-comers to the industry such as Richard Mille and Roger Dubuis have carved out a niche for
themselves with their revolutionary designs and
space-age technologies but it remains to be seen just how well the values of their timepieces will stand up on the secondary market
According to Nathaniel Borgelt a specialist at auction house Sothebyrsquos
some modern watches have already achieved good prices at auction but these (like the Patek Philippe Sky Moon Tourbillon) were highly exclusive models when new
lsquoSome limited edition pieces currently fetch incredible prices at auctionrsquo he says lsquoAnd there is a select group of modern mod-els that could compete with a certain sector of the vintage market based on their brand innovative features such as materials or com-plications and avant-garde designs
Buying these has now become a whole lot easier The luxury watch retailing land-scape is changing and the traditional pattern of physically walking into a luxury salon to buy a watch is gradually being replaced by a trend towards visiting the websites of the big
LUXURY WATCHES
A Lange amp Sohne (above) is a long-standing high-end watchmaker Comparative new-comer Roger Dubuis (right) is forging a strong reputation
inspired | March 2014 PB60 March 2014 | inspired
helpthewatchgallerycom
Hublot ClassiC FusiontHe WatCH Gallery exClusive
The Watch Gallery and Hublot have joined forces to create two very special limited edition watches Both are limited to just 15 pieces worldwide and have been specifically designed to feature The Watch Gallery blue brand colour on the hands and tinted open case back
SelfridgeS OxfOrd StreetWeStfield lOndOnMancheSter exchange Square
wwwthewatchgallerycomhublot-watches
Far East has kept global values strong while other markets around the world continue to recover from recession
Despite the market boost from growing prosperity in Asia there are signs that the market is becoming saturated and that globally the new watch market isnrsquot as robust as some commentators suggest
It may still be a good time to buy but its important to know what you want and what yoursquore buying Modern watchmakers such as Richard Mille Roger Dubuis and Greubel Forsey are producing beautiful timepieces but because of their limited foothold in the market itrsquos difficult to predict their long-term success and desirability They donrsquot yet have the brand power that might ensure the value of their
watches in the secondhand market remains highSuch producers might one day stand eye to
eye with the most desirable brands such as Patek Philippe and Rolex but achieving that kind of parity wonrsquot be easy Collectors looking to invest in timepieces are advised to keep an open mind about modern producers uncertainty is the one aspect of modern luxury watch market most experts tend to agree on
That said the buoyancy in the watch market suggests that plenty of buyers are unconcerned about future values For them itrsquos all about the appreciation of the watch itself People buy watches because they bring them pleasure ndash and say some-thing about who they are
LUXURY WATCHES
Contemporary watches such as those made by Hublot (left) have yet to show they will have the lasting appeal of watches such as Cartierrsquos Rotonde de Cartier Astrocalendaire (right)
inspired | March 2014 63
- inspirep01
- inspirep02
- inspirep03
- inspirep04
- inspirep05
- inspirep06
- inspirep07
- inspirep08
- inspirep09
- inspirep10
- inspirep11
- inspirep12
- inspirep13
- inspirep14
- inspirep15
- inspirep16
- inspirep17
- inspirep18
- inspirep19
- inspirep20
- inspirep21
- inspirep22
- inspirep23
- inspirep24
- inspirep25
- inspirep26
- inspirep27
- inspirep28
- inspirep29
- inspirep30
- inspirep31
- inspirep32
- inspirep33
- inspirep34
- inspirep35
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- inspirep37
- inspirep38
- inspirep39
- inspirep40
- inspirep41
- inspirep42
- inspirep43
- inspirep44
- inspirep45
- inspirep46
- inspirep47
- inspirep48
- inspirep49
- inspirep50
- inspirep51
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- inspirep53
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- inspirep61
- inspirep62
- inspirep63
-
TRAVEL
inspired | March 2014 4746 March 2014 | inspired
Slow LaneSlow
Pulau Joyo is a seductively serene environment of pristine beaches surrounded by clear blue sea in Indonesiarsquos Riau Archipelago Accessible from Singapore or Bintan Pulau Joyo is a true castaway island offering every resort luxury
amid untouched natural beauty Pulau Joyo is famous for its remarkable sunsets and
brightly star-lit sky The resort can host 28 guests and 20 staff are on hand to cater to their every need Guests stay in open driftwood lsquopalacesrsquo that lsquoallow the sea inrsquoDespite its desert island appeal Pulau Joyo offers every modern convenience a range of adrenaline boosting activities and more relaxing options such as spa treatments and massages
The resortrsquos cuisine focuses on western and Indonesian dishes Meals are usually served buffet style and feature grilled fish squid prawns beef and chicken as well as many curry dishes Side dishes include fresh garden salads pasta salads boiled or steamed leafy greens and grilled aubergine (an island favourite) Prawn and tofu kebabs appear from time to time as does satay The chef will often provide a selection of freshly picked fruit and homemade cakes for dessert Itrsquos worth noting that the management will not serve pork or shellfish on this private island
Pulau Joyo may not be as refined as some islands but itrsquos an excellent choice for those who want a more casual laidback island experience that replicates the castaway experience like perhaps no other
Rates start at pound1913 a night More information is available at wwwpulau-joyocom
Wannabe castaways may find Pulau Joyorsquos purer simpler take on the luxury island experience more to their taste
PULAU JOYO
inspired | March 2014 4746 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
In the Fijian island paradise of Dolphin Island a small army of staff await to meet guestsrsquo every need On arriving ndash by boat helicopter or float plane ndash visitors are invariably struck by the beauty of the island and the luxuri-ous accommodation that awaits them amid 14-acres of lush tropical gardens
Three traditional palm-thatched bures individually designed by world renowned interior designer Virginia Fisher sit in an elevated position around the resortrsquos infinity pool
Guests are brought fresh tropical fish to choose each day that are cooked to perfec-
tion within hours of leaving the water The culinary focus is on
organic produce and ingredi-ents unique to Fijian cuisine but meals are tailored to guestsrsquo personal tastes Papayas man-goes bananas and pineapples
are plentiful throughout the day When it comes to recreation the
14-acre island is an expansive play-ground offering a diverse range of watersports as well as diving opportunities on Fijirsquos coral reefs
Rates start at pound720 a night More information is avail-able at wwwdolphinislandfijicom
Fijian Paean
Traditional features modern comforts and excellent facilities make for a harmonious whole on this Fijian island
DOLPHIN ISLAND
48 March 2014 | inspired
Pictured slightly larger than actual size
Big Pilotrsquos Watch Ref 5009
Your wrist never felt this big before The
case of the top model in the IWC Pilotrsquos
Watch range is a gigantic 462 mm in diashy
meter And the technology inside it is
even more impressive the largest IWCshy
manufactured automatic movement with
its Pellaton winding system is protected
against strong magnetic fields by a softshy
iron inner case And needless to say enshy
vious glances iwc engineered for men
Mechanical IWCshymanufactured movement Pellaton
automatic winding system 7shyday power reserve
with display (figure) Date display Softshyiron inner
case for protection against magnetic fields
Antireflective sapphire glass Watershyresistant 6 bar
Stainless steel
IWC Schaffhausen Switzerland iwccom The worldrsquos finest timepieces are exclusively available from selected watch specialists
For an illustrated catalogue or list of nationwide concessionaires please contact IWC UK Tel 0845 337 1868 Eshymail infoshyukiwccom
CARS
MunichLegend
50 March 2014 | inspired
BMW fanatics can open their eyes ndash the M4 has arrived
Most BMW aficionados are proba-bly pretty sad to see production of the M3 coupe ndash quite possibly the companyrsquos most noteworthy and celebrated model ndash end after almost 30 years Ever since the first wide-body E30 M3 saw the
light of day in 1985 drivers have loved the sporty coupe for its incredible balance intoxicating power and of course solid build quality
The model never got stale in all that time and always remained the poster child for the M division so itrsquos a lit-tle weird that BMW has apparently decided to axe it In truth though they havenrsquot really dropped the M3 The M3 sedan will continue to be produced in 2014 so all
is not lost Moreover BMW seems to be adopting a pat-tern of giving its sedans odd-numbered titles only and its coupes even-numbered titles only so the 4-Series and especially the M4 concept that debuted at Pebble Beach Monterey California will fill the gap left by the M3 Many people have been awaiting the new super coupe with great expectancy but can it fill in for the M3
The journalists who swarmed over the M4 concept at Pebble Beach were obviously much more interested in it than the somewhat predictable 428i that was also there Finished in an eye-catching colour called Aurum Dust (which actually looks a lot like the old M3rsquos Phoenix Yellow colour) the car presented in California may be a concept but typically BMW M cars donrsquot change much before they finally hit the showroom
MunichLegend
inspired | March 2014 51
CARS
52 March 2014 | inspired
From front to back the bodywork is manifestly differ-ent and much more aggressive looking than a standard 4-Series car It really looks to pretty much pick up where the E92E93 M3 coupe left off especially with its undeniably cool domed hood Wide wheel arches big wheels wrapped in low-profile tyres more than enough M badges and a well-executed double-bubble roof make the already underwhelming existing 4-Series coupe look even more pedestrian
Power for the new M4 is likely to come from a three-litre twin-turbo straight-six engine While the horsepower probably wonrsquot differ much from the M3rsquos old 4-litre V-8 it will generate more than 100lbft more in torque almost 400 in total With the M4 being a lighter 3300lb in weight the M4 promises to be an excit-ing worthy car A proper six-speed manual may be in the mix alongside the now obligatory dual clutch and paddles option
The best way to look at the M4 however it ends up is not as a new car but as a new and improved M3 thatrsquos just getting a new name The decision to rename the coupe is a strange one but thankfully BMW apparently felt the 3-Series coupe had made such an identity for itself that a new model was needed albeit in a slightly different incarnation
With BMW embarking on some new-ageish ideas such as its 1-Series ActiveE and the soon-to-arrive lsquoirsquo range of cars itrsquos nice to see the company also stick to classics such as the heart-stopping sports coupe even if the latest model does come with a new name
Seductive curves and racier performance make the BMW M4 a more than acceptable replacement for the M3 super coupe
SparklingForm Coloured diamonds are making their mark
One of the main factors that deter-mines the value of what we ordinarily think of as diamonds is their purity the degree to which col-our is absent in the gem However with coloured diamonds the extent to which they are saturated with
colour is a principal determinant of their valueColoured diamonds come in 12 basic colours more
than 90 secondary hues and nine intensity levels The depth of their colour is what really differentiates these diamonds from their colourless counterparts
Natural coloured diamonds are 10000 times rarer than typical colourless diamonds one of several rea-sons why they are treasured by the rich and famous yet remain unknown to most other people ndash despite hav-ing been around for centuries
Of course some colours are rarer than others Red violet and purple stones are as rare as the proverbial hensrsquo teeth while green and blue are also rare The most popular colours are pink and yellow (or canary) They also come in white grey orange black and lsquochame-leonrsquo form
A pinkie ring encrusted with a large coloured dia-mond has become a status symbol for men in Asia That little stone is an unregistered asset that could quickly be sold for millions of dollars should the need arise
Coloured diamonds are durable and never lose their sparkle or lustre so they are assets that can be enjoyed every day unlike stocks or bonds And they have proved to be fantastic investments having steadily appreciated in price with relatively little volatility for more than a decade They even held their own during the most recent financial crisis
Coloured diamonds are auctioned by reputable
auction houses such a Sothebyrsquos and Christiersquos where prices for large unique pink red blue or yellow stones can reach in excess of $2 million (pound12 million) a carat and other stones regularly sell for $1 million a carat
They are often bought by high-net-worth individu-als as an insurance policy Instead of stashing cash in undeclared bank accounts and potentially incurring the wrath of the authorities the wealthy can purchase some loose yellow diamonds to secure their future
Clearly coloured diamonds are much more than a magnificent indulgence
GEMS
inspired | March 2014 53PB March 2014 | inspired
WINE
Make the most of the deeply
satisfying Malbec wines emerging from Argentina
and perhaps even enjoy a return on a shrewd
investment says Ewan Lacey
Finding a red wine to enjoy in spring is a delicate balancing act The shock of seeing sunlight after a dark winter fosters in us a desire to drink some-thing refreshing while the still-cool temperatures demand something with comforting depth
Increasingly Malbec wines particularly those from Argentina provide a perfect solution to this quandary And while there are plenty of delicious wines for infor-mal occasions what is most interesting is the emergence of finer Malbec wines Some are so good they may well have ageing potential raising the intriguing possibility that the wine may one day become collectable
Malbec is the most popular wine among those aged 25-34 and is now becoming a fixture on most restaurant wine lists There are several reasons for its success the word Malbec is easy to pronounce the wine goes well with red meat the Malbec grape can be turned into wines that are both relatively easy to drink and packed with flavour and decent wines are available at reason-able prices Malbec is deep fruity and charming and it delivers instant pleasure ndash claret on a motorbike
The Malbec grape originated in France and it remains one of the permitted varieties used to make Bordeaux However it has gained prominence through the work of the post-junta Argentine wine industry
I recently had the pleasure of tasting some very fine Malbecs with Laura Catena managing director at the Catena Zapata winery and president of the International Wine and Spirit Competition She opened my
Mendoza Marvels
inspired | March 2014 55
WINE
eyes to the potential of this grape variety when handled with care
Laurarsquos family business makes a range of wines but the wine that truly astonished me was the Nicasia Vineyard Malbec 2006 The wine is perfumed with floral and fruit notes and it is smooth and soft at first Like all great wines it has many layers of flavour warm bursts of cherry and black-currant cede centre stage to deeper darker caramel and mocha notes and a touch of spice Therersquos an amazing depth of flavour and the finish is long and lingering Whatrsquos more at nearly eight years old it still has a slight purple tinge and tastes extremely fresh There is every indication that it will age beautifully for at least another decade
The winersquos character is heavily influenced by the alti-tude the grapes used to make it are grown at (1180m
above sea level) At this elevation the grapes ripen in bright sun but lsquorelaxrsquo during the cool evenings The fact that the wine is made in tiny quantities (eight barrels only) means every care can be taken during the winemak-ing process to ensure the wine is allowed to show its grown-up side The cost per bot-tle of pound70 is not insubstantial but neither is the wine
We cannot know whether these wines will ever become investments in the way the wines of Bordeaux have Whatrsquos cer-tain is that Malbec wines have a very rare quality a balance of finesse and power that
can delight wine lovers and linger in their memories
Ewan Lacey is a leading wine expert and general manager of the International Wine and Spirit Competition He has appeared on BBC television and radio as well as Channel 4 and written for the national press
Laura Catena is managing director at the Catena Zapata winery (above)
THE INTERNATIONAL WINE AND SPIRIT COMPETITIONThe International Wine and Spirit Competition has been the premier drinks competition in the world for 45 years Each year it receives and reviews thousands of wines and spirits and presents qual-ity awards to producers
More than anything the IWSC exists to help
people make better deci-sions particularly when buying wines and spirits An IWSC award on a bot-tle of wine is a guarantee
of quality backed not only by a rigorous and strin-gent judging process but also by the skill of the judges who are drawn from the ranks of masters of wine master distill-ers industry leaders and commentators
Each year the IWSC honours a leading figure
in the drinks industry with the presidency of the competition The current president is Laura Catena who succeeds a nota-ble line of predecessors including Prince Robert of Luxembourg winemakers Piero Antinori and Warren Winiarski and Baroness Philippine de Rothschild
56 March 2014 | inspired
LUXURY WATCHES
Time is preciousA
t a recent watch auc-tion in Geneva at Antiquorum ndash the worldrsquos premiere auc-tion house for modern and vintage time pieces ndash a Patek Philippe
pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon watch emerged as the auctionrsquos top lot and sold for 12 million Swiss francs (pound807000)
Unlike most of the timepieces sold at auctions outside Asia this particular Patek watch ndash the most complicated wristwatch the Swiss watchmaker has ever produced ndash was not a vintage model
That Geneva auction raised intriguing
1284Clocks with weights gears and regulators start to appear mostly with no dial to strike the important moments of daily life
Around 1410The mainspring is devel-oped Combined with the fusee this innovation makes possible the truly portable domestic clock
1492The mechanical watch appears simultaneously in Italy Germany and France
1675Christian Huygens invents the spiral balance spring
for watches significantly improving their accuracy
1704The first watch with jew-els is produced by French watchmaker de Beaufreacute
1714The British parliament offers pound20000 to who-ever can a find a method to determine longitude
1766Parliament publishes the rating results for John Harrisonrsquos H4 marine timekeeper Harrisonrsquos highly accurate marine clock solution to the problem of determining logitude wins him part of the pound20000 prize
1787Pierre-Freacutedeacuteric Ingold is born an important pio-neer in mechanised timepiece production and the use of interchangea-ble parts
1790Jacquet-Droz and Leschot manufactures a watch attached to a strap
1839Vacheron amp Constantin developes a full set of machine tools for manu-facturing its watches
1875Calcium sulphate is the first luminescent sub-stance to be used for numerals and hands
TIMEKEEPING MILESTONES
questions Are modern luxury timepieces every bit as appealing as the vintage watches that typically command top prices at auc-tion And does that Geneva auction tell us anything about the contemporary watch market as a whole
Julien Schaerer Antiquorumrsquos managing director in Geneva says top-quality vintage watches often appreciate in value over the long term But he urges buyers for whom appreciation is an important consideration to be cautious about purchasing contempo-rary watches
lsquoWatch price depreciation is the cost of ownership just as it is with a luxury carrsquo he says lsquoIf the value goes up then
58 March 2014 | inspired
1880The first water- resistant watch incorpo-rating a screwed case is produced by Genevan watchmaker Franccedilois Borgel
1889The first known patent for a wristwatch is filed in Bern Switzerland
1890Dialmaker A Beyeler invents a transfer press for applying numerals and letters to dials
1892Auguste Verneuil in France produces the first synthetic jewels to be used in watchmaking
1904Wens Wilsdorf launches large-scale production of a womenrsquos wristwatch
1924John Harwood files the
first Swiss patent for a self-winding wristwatch with a central oscillating weight
1925The first known wrist-watch with a perpetual calendar is manufactured using a pendant watch movement
1926Rolex creates the Oyster wristwatch with a water-resistant case and crown
1966The first quartz wrist-watch prototype is produced
1969The first quartz watch
with an LED display appears
1978Quartz watches overtake mechanical watches in popularity
2005Creation of the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie Seiko launches the spring drive Kinetic the first self-winding mechanical watch with an electro-magnetic escapement
A Patek Philippe pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon recently sold for pound807000
inspired | March 2014 59
online retailers from the comfort of your homeSince 2006 DM London has quietly estab-
lished a powerful presence for itself in the UK retail watch market with the acquisition of The Watch Hut and The Watch Gallery DM London chairman David Coleridge says the company has capitalised on the increasing willingness of buy-ers to purchase online
lsquoHaving decided that they would like to buy a watch for themselves or someone elsersquo he says lsquopeople start to do their research More often than not this starts online nowadays where they com-pare brands performance and functions
lsquoAs trust in the online marketplace has devel-oped many want to buy online because it is convenient and saves time Shopping online becomes a habit established sites build trust and awareness with customers which gives custom-ers the confidence to buy more expensive itemsrsquo
He adds lsquoOur challenge is to make the online environment as attractive informative and enjoy-able as a high street store Then customers will decide to spend onlinersquo
Coleridge believes a multi-channel approach is the way forward for retailers He says lsquoWithout doubt the future is multi-channel selling ndash a combination of direct selling on the internet and various forms of click and collect ndash combined with beautiful stores on the high street
Over the past few years demand for luxury watches (particularly contemporary models) has spiked sharply in Asia and according to some specialists emerging affluence in the
of course thatrsquos an added benefit However he adds lsquoPrice appreciation is still quite rare with modern watches There is some poten-tial for appreciation but probably only with ultra-limited editions A purchase has to be
seen as a medium- to long-term invest-ment One should buy a timepiece first out of love for the brand or [the watchrsquos] complicationrsquo
The watch brands that offer the greatest assurance of appreci-
ation include Cartier Patek Philippe Rolex Audemars
Piguet A Lange amp Sohne Breguet and Vacheron Constantin All enjoy views from the top of
the watchmaking hierarchy thanks to their longstand-ing histories and well-established brand identities
Relative new-comers to the industry such as Richard Mille and Roger Dubuis have carved out a niche for
themselves with their revolutionary designs and
space-age technologies but it remains to be seen just how well the values of their timepieces will stand up on the secondary market
According to Nathaniel Borgelt a specialist at auction house Sothebyrsquos
some modern watches have already achieved good prices at auction but these (like the Patek Philippe Sky Moon Tourbillon) were highly exclusive models when new
lsquoSome limited edition pieces currently fetch incredible prices at auctionrsquo he says lsquoAnd there is a select group of modern mod-els that could compete with a certain sector of the vintage market based on their brand innovative features such as materials or com-plications and avant-garde designs
Buying these has now become a whole lot easier The luxury watch retailing land-scape is changing and the traditional pattern of physically walking into a luxury salon to buy a watch is gradually being replaced by a trend towards visiting the websites of the big
LUXURY WATCHES
A Lange amp Sohne (above) is a long-standing high-end watchmaker Comparative new-comer Roger Dubuis (right) is forging a strong reputation
inspired | March 2014 PB60 March 2014 | inspired
helpthewatchgallerycom
Hublot ClassiC FusiontHe WatCH Gallery exClusive
The Watch Gallery and Hublot have joined forces to create two very special limited edition watches Both are limited to just 15 pieces worldwide and have been specifically designed to feature The Watch Gallery blue brand colour on the hands and tinted open case back
SelfridgeS OxfOrd StreetWeStfield lOndOnMancheSter exchange Square
wwwthewatchgallerycomhublot-watches
Far East has kept global values strong while other markets around the world continue to recover from recession
Despite the market boost from growing prosperity in Asia there are signs that the market is becoming saturated and that globally the new watch market isnrsquot as robust as some commentators suggest
It may still be a good time to buy but its important to know what you want and what yoursquore buying Modern watchmakers such as Richard Mille Roger Dubuis and Greubel Forsey are producing beautiful timepieces but because of their limited foothold in the market itrsquos difficult to predict their long-term success and desirability They donrsquot yet have the brand power that might ensure the value of their
watches in the secondhand market remains highSuch producers might one day stand eye to
eye with the most desirable brands such as Patek Philippe and Rolex but achieving that kind of parity wonrsquot be easy Collectors looking to invest in timepieces are advised to keep an open mind about modern producers uncertainty is the one aspect of modern luxury watch market most experts tend to agree on
That said the buoyancy in the watch market suggests that plenty of buyers are unconcerned about future values For them itrsquos all about the appreciation of the watch itself People buy watches because they bring them pleasure ndash and say some-thing about who they are
LUXURY WATCHES
Contemporary watches such as those made by Hublot (left) have yet to show they will have the lasting appeal of watches such as Cartierrsquos Rotonde de Cartier Astrocalendaire (right)
inspired | March 2014 63
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Slow LaneSlow
Pulau Joyo is a seductively serene environment of pristine beaches surrounded by clear blue sea in Indonesiarsquos Riau Archipelago Accessible from Singapore or Bintan Pulau Joyo is a true castaway island offering every resort luxury
amid untouched natural beauty Pulau Joyo is famous for its remarkable sunsets and
brightly star-lit sky The resort can host 28 guests and 20 staff are on hand to cater to their every need Guests stay in open driftwood lsquopalacesrsquo that lsquoallow the sea inrsquoDespite its desert island appeal Pulau Joyo offers every modern convenience a range of adrenaline boosting activities and more relaxing options such as spa treatments and massages
The resortrsquos cuisine focuses on western and Indonesian dishes Meals are usually served buffet style and feature grilled fish squid prawns beef and chicken as well as many curry dishes Side dishes include fresh garden salads pasta salads boiled or steamed leafy greens and grilled aubergine (an island favourite) Prawn and tofu kebabs appear from time to time as does satay The chef will often provide a selection of freshly picked fruit and homemade cakes for dessert Itrsquos worth noting that the management will not serve pork or shellfish on this private island
Pulau Joyo may not be as refined as some islands but itrsquos an excellent choice for those who want a more casual laidback island experience that replicates the castaway experience like perhaps no other
Rates start at pound1913 a night More information is available at wwwpulau-joyocom
Wannabe castaways may find Pulau Joyorsquos purer simpler take on the luxury island experience more to their taste
PULAU JOYO
inspired | March 2014 4746 March 2014 | inspired
TRAVEL
In the Fijian island paradise of Dolphin Island a small army of staff await to meet guestsrsquo every need On arriving ndash by boat helicopter or float plane ndash visitors are invariably struck by the beauty of the island and the luxuri-ous accommodation that awaits them amid 14-acres of lush tropical gardens
Three traditional palm-thatched bures individually designed by world renowned interior designer Virginia Fisher sit in an elevated position around the resortrsquos infinity pool
Guests are brought fresh tropical fish to choose each day that are cooked to perfec-
tion within hours of leaving the water The culinary focus is on
organic produce and ingredi-ents unique to Fijian cuisine but meals are tailored to guestsrsquo personal tastes Papayas man-goes bananas and pineapples
are plentiful throughout the day When it comes to recreation the
14-acre island is an expansive play-ground offering a diverse range of watersports as well as diving opportunities on Fijirsquos coral reefs
Rates start at pound720 a night More information is avail-able at wwwdolphinislandfijicom
Fijian Paean
Traditional features modern comforts and excellent facilities make for a harmonious whole on this Fijian island
DOLPHIN ISLAND
48 March 2014 | inspired
Pictured slightly larger than actual size
Big Pilotrsquos Watch Ref 5009
Your wrist never felt this big before The
case of the top model in the IWC Pilotrsquos
Watch range is a gigantic 462 mm in diashy
meter And the technology inside it is
even more impressive the largest IWCshy
manufactured automatic movement with
its Pellaton winding system is protected
against strong magnetic fields by a softshy
iron inner case And needless to say enshy
vious glances iwc engineered for men
Mechanical IWCshymanufactured movement Pellaton
automatic winding system 7shyday power reserve
with display (figure) Date display Softshyiron inner
case for protection against magnetic fields
Antireflective sapphire glass Watershyresistant 6 bar
Stainless steel
IWC Schaffhausen Switzerland iwccom The worldrsquos finest timepieces are exclusively available from selected watch specialists
For an illustrated catalogue or list of nationwide concessionaires please contact IWC UK Tel 0845 337 1868 Eshymail infoshyukiwccom
CARS
MunichLegend
50 March 2014 | inspired
BMW fanatics can open their eyes ndash the M4 has arrived
Most BMW aficionados are proba-bly pretty sad to see production of the M3 coupe ndash quite possibly the companyrsquos most noteworthy and celebrated model ndash end after almost 30 years Ever since the first wide-body E30 M3 saw the
light of day in 1985 drivers have loved the sporty coupe for its incredible balance intoxicating power and of course solid build quality
The model never got stale in all that time and always remained the poster child for the M division so itrsquos a lit-tle weird that BMW has apparently decided to axe it In truth though they havenrsquot really dropped the M3 The M3 sedan will continue to be produced in 2014 so all
is not lost Moreover BMW seems to be adopting a pat-tern of giving its sedans odd-numbered titles only and its coupes even-numbered titles only so the 4-Series and especially the M4 concept that debuted at Pebble Beach Monterey California will fill the gap left by the M3 Many people have been awaiting the new super coupe with great expectancy but can it fill in for the M3
The journalists who swarmed over the M4 concept at Pebble Beach were obviously much more interested in it than the somewhat predictable 428i that was also there Finished in an eye-catching colour called Aurum Dust (which actually looks a lot like the old M3rsquos Phoenix Yellow colour) the car presented in California may be a concept but typically BMW M cars donrsquot change much before they finally hit the showroom
MunichLegend
inspired | March 2014 51
CARS
52 March 2014 | inspired
From front to back the bodywork is manifestly differ-ent and much more aggressive looking than a standard 4-Series car It really looks to pretty much pick up where the E92E93 M3 coupe left off especially with its undeniably cool domed hood Wide wheel arches big wheels wrapped in low-profile tyres more than enough M badges and a well-executed double-bubble roof make the already underwhelming existing 4-Series coupe look even more pedestrian
Power for the new M4 is likely to come from a three-litre twin-turbo straight-six engine While the horsepower probably wonrsquot differ much from the M3rsquos old 4-litre V-8 it will generate more than 100lbft more in torque almost 400 in total With the M4 being a lighter 3300lb in weight the M4 promises to be an excit-ing worthy car A proper six-speed manual may be in the mix alongside the now obligatory dual clutch and paddles option
The best way to look at the M4 however it ends up is not as a new car but as a new and improved M3 thatrsquos just getting a new name The decision to rename the coupe is a strange one but thankfully BMW apparently felt the 3-Series coupe had made such an identity for itself that a new model was needed albeit in a slightly different incarnation
With BMW embarking on some new-ageish ideas such as its 1-Series ActiveE and the soon-to-arrive lsquoirsquo range of cars itrsquos nice to see the company also stick to classics such as the heart-stopping sports coupe even if the latest model does come with a new name
Seductive curves and racier performance make the BMW M4 a more than acceptable replacement for the M3 super coupe
SparklingForm Coloured diamonds are making their mark
One of the main factors that deter-mines the value of what we ordinarily think of as diamonds is their purity the degree to which col-our is absent in the gem However with coloured diamonds the extent to which they are saturated with
colour is a principal determinant of their valueColoured diamonds come in 12 basic colours more
than 90 secondary hues and nine intensity levels The depth of their colour is what really differentiates these diamonds from their colourless counterparts
Natural coloured diamonds are 10000 times rarer than typical colourless diamonds one of several rea-sons why they are treasured by the rich and famous yet remain unknown to most other people ndash despite hav-ing been around for centuries
Of course some colours are rarer than others Red violet and purple stones are as rare as the proverbial hensrsquo teeth while green and blue are also rare The most popular colours are pink and yellow (or canary) They also come in white grey orange black and lsquochame-leonrsquo form
A pinkie ring encrusted with a large coloured dia-mond has become a status symbol for men in Asia That little stone is an unregistered asset that could quickly be sold for millions of dollars should the need arise
Coloured diamonds are durable and never lose their sparkle or lustre so they are assets that can be enjoyed every day unlike stocks or bonds And they have proved to be fantastic investments having steadily appreciated in price with relatively little volatility for more than a decade They even held their own during the most recent financial crisis
Coloured diamonds are auctioned by reputable
auction houses such a Sothebyrsquos and Christiersquos where prices for large unique pink red blue or yellow stones can reach in excess of $2 million (pound12 million) a carat and other stones regularly sell for $1 million a carat
They are often bought by high-net-worth individu-als as an insurance policy Instead of stashing cash in undeclared bank accounts and potentially incurring the wrath of the authorities the wealthy can purchase some loose yellow diamonds to secure their future
Clearly coloured diamonds are much more than a magnificent indulgence
GEMS
inspired | March 2014 53PB March 2014 | inspired
WINE
Make the most of the deeply
satisfying Malbec wines emerging from Argentina
and perhaps even enjoy a return on a shrewd
investment says Ewan Lacey
Finding a red wine to enjoy in spring is a delicate balancing act The shock of seeing sunlight after a dark winter fosters in us a desire to drink some-thing refreshing while the still-cool temperatures demand something with comforting depth
Increasingly Malbec wines particularly those from Argentina provide a perfect solution to this quandary And while there are plenty of delicious wines for infor-mal occasions what is most interesting is the emergence of finer Malbec wines Some are so good they may well have ageing potential raising the intriguing possibility that the wine may one day become collectable
Malbec is the most popular wine among those aged 25-34 and is now becoming a fixture on most restaurant wine lists There are several reasons for its success the word Malbec is easy to pronounce the wine goes well with red meat the Malbec grape can be turned into wines that are both relatively easy to drink and packed with flavour and decent wines are available at reason-able prices Malbec is deep fruity and charming and it delivers instant pleasure ndash claret on a motorbike
The Malbec grape originated in France and it remains one of the permitted varieties used to make Bordeaux However it has gained prominence through the work of the post-junta Argentine wine industry
I recently had the pleasure of tasting some very fine Malbecs with Laura Catena managing director at the Catena Zapata winery and president of the International Wine and Spirit Competition She opened my
Mendoza Marvels
inspired | March 2014 55
WINE
eyes to the potential of this grape variety when handled with care
Laurarsquos family business makes a range of wines but the wine that truly astonished me was the Nicasia Vineyard Malbec 2006 The wine is perfumed with floral and fruit notes and it is smooth and soft at first Like all great wines it has many layers of flavour warm bursts of cherry and black-currant cede centre stage to deeper darker caramel and mocha notes and a touch of spice Therersquos an amazing depth of flavour and the finish is long and lingering Whatrsquos more at nearly eight years old it still has a slight purple tinge and tastes extremely fresh There is every indication that it will age beautifully for at least another decade
The winersquos character is heavily influenced by the alti-tude the grapes used to make it are grown at (1180m
above sea level) At this elevation the grapes ripen in bright sun but lsquorelaxrsquo during the cool evenings The fact that the wine is made in tiny quantities (eight barrels only) means every care can be taken during the winemak-ing process to ensure the wine is allowed to show its grown-up side The cost per bot-tle of pound70 is not insubstantial but neither is the wine
We cannot know whether these wines will ever become investments in the way the wines of Bordeaux have Whatrsquos cer-tain is that Malbec wines have a very rare quality a balance of finesse and power that
can delight wine lovers and linger in their memories
Ewan Lacey is a leading wine expert and general manager of the International Wine and Spirit Competition He has appeared on BBC television and radio as well as Channel 4 and written for the national press
Laura Catena is managing director at the Catena Zapata winery (above)
THE INTERNATIONAL WINE AND SPIRIT COMPETITIONThe International Wine and Spirit Competition has been the premier drinks competition in the world for 45 years Each year it receives and reviews thousands of wines and spirits and presents qual-ity awards to producers
More than anything the IWSC exists to help
people make better deci-sions particularly when buying wines and spirits An IWSC award on a bot-tle of wine is a guarantee
of quality backed not only by a rigorous and strin-gent judging process but also by the skill of the judges who are drawn from the ranks of masters of wine master distill-ers industry leaders and commentators
Each year the IWSC honours a leading figure
in the drinks industry with the presidency of the competition The current president is Laura Catena who succeeds a nota-ble line of predecessors including Prince Robert of Luxembourg winemakers Piero Antinori and Warren Winiarski and Baroness Philippine de Rothschild
56 March 2014 | inspired
LUXURY WATCHES
Time is preciousA
t a recent watch auc-tion in Geneva at Antiquorum ndash the worldrsquos premiere auc-tion house for modern and vintage time pieces ndash a Patek Philippe
pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon watch emerged as the auctionrsquos top lot and sold for 12 million Swiss francs (pound807000)
Unlike most of the timepieces sold at auctions outside Asia this particular Patek watch ndash the most complicated wristwatch the Swiss watchmaker has ever produced ndash was not a vintage model
That Geneva auction raised intriguing
1284Clocks with weights gears and regulators start to appear mostly with no dial to strike the important moments of daily life
Around 1410The mainspring is devel-oped Combined with the fusee this innovation makes possible the truly portable domestic clock
1492The mechanical watch appears simultaneously in Italy Germany and France
1675Christian Huygens invents the spiral balance spring
for watches significantly improving their accuracy
1704The first watch with jew-els is produced by French watchmaker de Beaufreacute
1714The British parliament offers pound20000 to who-ever can a find a method to determine longitude
1766Parliament publishes the rating results for John Harrisonrsquos H4 marine timekeeper Harrisonrsquos highly accurate marine clock solution to the problem of determining logitude wins him part of the pound20000 prize
1787Pierre-Freacutedeacuteric Ingold is born an important pio-neer in mechanised timepiece production and the use of interchangea-ble parts
1790Jacquet-Droz and Leschot manufactures a watch attached to a strap
1839Vacheron amp Constantin developes a full set of machine tools for manu-facturing its watches
1875Calcium sulphate is the first luminescent sub-stance to be used for numerals and hands
TIMEKEEPING MILESTONES
questions Are modern luxury timepieces every bit as appealing as the vintage watches that typically command top prices at auc-tion And does that Geneva auction tell us anything about the contemporary watch market as a whole
Julien Schaerer Antiquorumrsquos managing director in Geneva says top-quality vintage watches often appreciate in value over the long term But he urges buyers for whom appreciation is an important consideration to be cautious about purchasing contempo-rary watches
lsquoWatch price depreciation is the cost of ownership just as it is with a luxury carrsquo he says lsquoIf the value goes up then
58 March 2014 | inspired
1880The first water- resistant watch incorpo-rating a screwed case is produced by Genevan watchmaker Franccedilois Borgel
1889The first known patent for a wristwatch is filed in Bern Switzerland
1890Dialmaker A Beyeler invents a transfer press for applying numerals and letters to dials
1892Auguste Verneuil in France produces the first synthetic jewels to be used in watchmaking
1904Wens Wilsdorf launches large-scale production of a womenrsquos wristwatch
1924John Harwood files the
first Swiss patent for a self-winding wristwatch with a central oscillating weight
1925The first known wrist-watch with a perpetual calendar is manufactured using a pendant watch movement
1926Rolex creates the Oyster wristwatch with a water-resistant case and crown
1966The first quartz wrist-watch prototype is produced
1969The first quartz watch
with an LED display appears
1978Quartz watches overtake mechanical watches in popularity
2005Creation of the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie Seiko launches the spring drive Kinetic the first self-winding mechanical watch with an electro-magnetic escapement
A Patek Philippe pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon recently sold for pound807000
inspired | March 2014 59
online retailers from the comfort of your homeSince 2006 DM London has quietly estab-
lished a powerful presence for itself in the UK retail watch market with the acquisition of The Watch Hut and The Watch Gallery DM London chairman David Coleridge says the company has capitalised on the increasing willingness of buy-ers to purchase online
lsquoHaving decided that they would like to buy a watch for themselves or someone elsersquo he says lsquopeople start to do their research More often than not this starts online nowadays where they com-pare brands performance and functions
lsquoAs trust in the online marketplace has devel-oped many want to buy online because it is convenient and saves time Shopping online becomes a habit established sites build trust and awareness with customers which gives custom-ers the confidence to buy more expensive itemsrsquo
He adds lsquoOur challenge is to make the online environment as attractive informative and enjoy-able as a high street store Then customers will decide to spend onlinersquo
Coleridge believes a multi-channel approach is the way forward for retailers He says lsquoWithout doubt the future is multi-channel selling ndash a combination of direct selling on the internet and various forms of click and collect ndash combined with beautiful stores on the high street
Over the past few years demand for luxury watches (particularly contemporary models) has spiked sharply in Asia and according to some specialists emerging affluence in the
of course thatrsquos an added benefit However he adds lsquoPrice appreciation is still quite rare with modern watches There is some poten-tial for appreciation but probably only with ultra-limited editions A purchase has to be
seen as a medium- to long-term invest-ment One should buy a timepiece first out of love for the brand or [the watchrsquos] complicationrsquo
The watch brands that offer the greatest assurance of appreci-
ation include Cartier Patek Philippe Rolex Audemars
Piguet A Lange amp Sohne Breguet and Vacheron Constantin All enjoy views from the top of
the watchmaking hierarchy thanks to their longstand-ing histories and well-established brand identities
Relative new-comers to the industry such as Richard Mille and Roger Dubuis have carved out a niche for
themselves with their revolutionary designs and
space-age technologies but it remains to be seen just how well the values of their timepieces will stand up on the secondary market
According to Nathaniel Borgelt a specialist at auction house Sothebyrsquos
some modern watches have already achieved good prices at auction but these (like the Patek Philippe Sky Moon Tourbillon) were highly exclusive models when new
lsquoSome limited edition pieces currently fetch incredible prices at auctionrsquo he says lsquoAnd there is a select group of modern mod-els that could compete with a certain sector of the vintage market based on their brand innovative features such as materials or com-plications and avant-garde designs
Buying these has now become a whole lot easier The luxury watch retailing land-scape is changing and the traditional pattern of physically walking into a luxury salon to buy a watch is gradually being replaced by a trend towards visiting the websites of the big
LUXURY WATCHES
A Lange amp Sohne (above) is a long-standing high-end watchmaker Comparative new-comer Roger Dubuis (right) is forging a strong reputation
inspired | March 2014 PB60 March 2014 | inspired
helpthewatchgallerycom
Hublot ClassiC FusiontHe WatCH Gallery exClusive
The Watch Gallery and Hublot have joined forces to create two very special limited edition watches Both are limited to just 15 pieces worldwide and have been specifically designed to feature The Watch Gallery blue brand colour on the hands and tinted open case back
SelfridgeS OxfOrd StreetWeStfield lOndOnMancheSter exchange Square
wwwthewatchgallerycomhublot-watches
Far East has kept global values strong while other markets around the world continue to recover from recession
Despite the market boost from growing prosperity in Asia there are signs that the market is becoming saturated and that globally the new watch market isnrsquot as robust as some commentators suggest
It may still be a good time to buy but its important to know what you want and what yoursquore buying Modern watchmakers such as Richard Mille Roger Dubuis and Greubel Forsey are producing beautiful timepieces but because of their limited foothold in the market itrsquos difficult to predict their long-term success and desirability They donrsquot yet have the brand power that might ensure the value of their
watches in the secondhand market remains highSuch producers might one day stand eye to
eye with the most desirable brands such as Patek Philippe and Rolex but achieving that kind of parity wonrsquot be easy Collectors looking to invest in timepieces are advised to keep an open mind about modern producers uncertainty is the one aspect of modern luxury watch market most experts tend to agree on
That said the buoyancy in the watch market suggests that plenty of buyers are unconcerned about future values For them itrsquos all about the appreciation of the watch itself People buy watches because they bring them pleasure ndash and say some-thing about who they are
LUXURY WATCHES
Contemporary watches such as those made by Hublot (left) have yet to show they will have the lasting appeal of watches such as Cartierrsquos Rotonde de Cartier Astrocalendaire (right)
inspired | March 2014 63
- inspirep01
- inspirep02
- inspirep03
- inspirep04
- inspirep05
- inspirep06
- inspirep07
- inspirep08
- inspirep09
- inspirep10
- inspirep11
- inspirep12
- inspirep13
- inspirep14
- inspirep15
- inspirep16
- inspirep17
- inspirep18
- inspirep19
- inspirep20
- inspirep21
- inspirep22
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- inspirep24
- inspirep25
- inspirep26
- inspirep27
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- inspirep29
- inspirep30
- inspirep31
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- inspirep33
- inspirep34
- inspirep35
- inspirep36
- inspirep37
- inspirep38
- inspirep39
- inspirep40
- inspirep41
- inspirep42
- inspirep43
- inspirep44
- inspirep45
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-
TRAVEL
In the Fijian island paradise of Dolphin Island a small army of staff await to meet guestsrsquo every need On arriving ndash by boat helicopter or float plane ndash visitors are invariably struck by the beauty of the island and the luxuri-ous accommodation that awaits them amid 14-acres of lush tropical gardens
Three traditional palm-thatched bures individually designed by world renowned interior designer Virginia Fisher sit in an elevated position around the resortrsquos infinity pool
Guests are brought fresh tropical fish to choose each day that are cooked to perfec-
tion within hours of leaving the water The culinary focus is on
organic produce and ingredi-ents unique to Fijian cuisine but meals are tailored to guestsrsquo personal tastes Papayas man-goes bananas and pineapples
are plentiful throughout the day When it comes to recreation the
14-acre island is an expansive play-ground offering a diverse range of watersports as well as diving opportunities on Fijirsquos coral reefs
Rates start at pound720 a night More information is avail-able at wwwdolphinislandfijicom
Fijian Paean
Traditional features modern comforts and excellent facilities make for a harmonious whole on this Fijian island
DOLPHIN ISLAND
48 March 2014 | inspired
Pictured slightly larger than actual size
Big Pilotrsquos Watch Ref 5009
Your wrist never felt this big before The
case of the top model in the IWC Pilotrsquos
Watch range is a gigantic 462 mm in diashy
meter And the technology inside it is
even more impressive the largest IWCshy
manufactured automatic movement with
its Pellaton winding system is protected
against strong magnetic fields by a softshy
iron inner case And needless to say enshy
vious glances iwc engineered for men
Mechanical IWCshymanufactured movement Pellaton
automatic winding system 7shyday power reserve
with display (figure) Date display Softshyiron inner
case for protection against magnetic fields
Antireflective sapphire glass Watershyresistant 6 bar
Stainless steel
IWC Schaffhausen Switzerland iwccom The worldrsquos finest timepieces are exclusively available from selected watch specialists
For an illustrated catalogue or list of nationwide concessionaires please contact IWC UK Tel 0845 337 1868 Eshymail infoshyukiwccom
CARS
MunichLegend
50 March 2014 | inspired
BMW fanatics can open their eyes ndash the M4 has arrived
Most BMW aficionados are proba-bly pretty sad to see production of the M3 coupe ndash quite possibly the companyrsquos most noteworthy and celebrated model ndash end after almost 30 years Ever since the first wide-body E30 M3 saw the
light of day in 1985 drivers have loved the sporty coupe for its incredible balance intoxicating power and of course solid build quality
The model never got stale in all that time and always remained the poster child for the M division so itrsquos a lit-tle weird that BMW has apparently decided to axe it In truth though they havenrsquot really dropped the M3 The M3 sedan will continue to be produced in 2014 so all
is not lost Moreover BMW seems to be adopting a pat-tern of giving its sedans odd-numbered titles only and its coupes even-numbered titles only so the 4-Series and especially the M4 concept that debuted at Pebble Beach Monterey California will fill the gap left by the M3 Many people have been awaiting the new super coupe with great expectancy but can it fill in for the M3
The journalists who swarmed over the M4 concept at Pebble Beach were obviously much more interested in it than the somewhat predictable 428i that was also there Finished in an eye-catching colour called Aurum Dust (which actually looks a lot like the old M3rsquos Phoenix Yellow colour) the car presented in California may be a concept but typically BMW M cars donrsquot change much before they finally hit the showroom
MunichLegend
inspired | March 2014 51
CARS
52 March 2014 | inspired
From front to back the bodywork is manifestly differ-ent and much more aggressive looking than a standard 4-Series car It really looks to pretty much pick up where the E92E93 M3 coupe left off especially with its undeniably cool domed hood Wide wheel arches big wheels wrapped in low-profile tyres more than enough M badges and a well-executed double-bubble roof make the already underwhelming existing 4-Series coupe look even more pedestrian
Power for the new M4 is likely to come from a three-litre twin-turbo straight-six engine While the horsepower probably wonrsquot differ much from the M3rsquos old 4-litre V-8 it will generate more than 100lbft more in torque almost 400 in total With the M4 being a lighter 3300lb in weight the M4 promises to be an excit-ing worthy car A proper six-speed manual may be in the mix alongside the now obligatory dual clutch and paddles option
The best way to look at the M4 however it ends up is not as a new car but as a new and improved M3 thatrsquos just getting a new name The decision to rename the coupe is a strange one but thankfully BMW apparently felt the 3-Series coupe had made such an identity for itself that a new model was needed albeit in a slightly different incarnation
With BMW embarking on some new-ageish ideas such as its 1-Series ActiveE and the soon-to-arrive lsquoirsquo range of cars itrsquos nice to see the company also stick to classics such as the heart-stopping sports coupe even if the latest model does come with a new name
Seductive curves and racier performance make the BMW M4 a more than acceptable replacement for the M3 super coupe
SparklingForm Coloured diamonds are making their mark
One of the main factors that deter-mines the value of what we ordinarily think of as diamonds is their purity the degree to which col-our is absent in the gem However with coloured diamonds the extent to which they are saturated with
colour is a principal determinant of their valueColoured diamonds come in 12 basic colours more
than 90 secondary hues and nine intensity levels The depth of their colour is what really differentiates these diamonds from their colourless counterparts
Natural coloured diamonds are 10000 times rarer than typical colourless diamonds one of several rea-sons why they are treasured by the rich and famous yet remain unknown to most other people ndash despite hav-ing been around for centuries
Of course some colours are rarer than others Red violet and purple stones are as rare as the proverbial hensrsquo teeth while green and blue are also rare The most popular colours are pink and yellow (or canary) They also come in white grey orange black and lsquochame-leonrsquo form
A pinkie ring encrusted with a large coloured dia-mond has become a status symbol for men in Asia That little stone is an unregistered asset that could quickly be sold for millions of dollars should the need arise
Coloured diamonds are durable and never lose their sparkle or lustre so they are assets that can be enjoyed every day unlike stocks or bonds And they have proved to be fantastic investments having steadily appreciated in price with relatively little volatility for more than a decade They even held their own during the most recent financial crisis
Coloured diamonds are auctioned by reputable
auction houses such a Sothebyrsquos and Christiersquos where prices for large unique pink red blue or yellow stones can reach in excess of $2 million (pound12 million) a carat and other stones regularly sell for $1 million a carat
They are often bought by high-net-worth individu-als as an insurance policy Instead of stashing cash in undeclared bank accounts and potentially incurring the wrath of the authorities the wealthy can purchase some loose yellow diamonds to secure their future
Clearly coloured diamonds are much more than a magnificent indulgence
GEMS
inspired | March 2014 53PB March 2014 | inspired
WINE
Make the most of the deeply
satisfying Malbec wines emerging from Argentina
and perhaps even enjoy a return on a shrewd
investment says Ewan Lacey
Finding a red wine to enjoy in spring is a delicate balancing act The shock of seeing sunlight after a dark winter fosters in us a desire to drink some-thing refreshing while the still-cool temperatures demand something with comforting depth
Increasingly Malbec wines particularly those from Argentina provide a perfect solution to this quandary And while there are plenty of delicious wines for infor-mal occasions what is most interesting is the emergence of finer Malbec wines Some are so good they may well have ageing potential raising the intriguing possibility that the wine may one day become collectable
Malbec is the most popular wine among those aged 25-34 and is now becoming a fixture on most restaurant wine lists There are several reasons for its success the word Malbec is easy to pronounce the wine goes well with red meat the Malbec grape can be turned into wines that are both relatively easy to drink and packed with flavour and decent wines are available at reason-able prices Malbec is deep fruity and charming and it delivers instant pleasure ndash claret on a motorbike
The Malbec grape originated in France and it remains one of the permitted varieties used to make Bordeaux However it has gained prominence through the work of the post-junta Argentine wine industry
I recently had the pleasure of tasting some very fine Malbecs with Laura Catena managing director at the Catena Zapata winery and president of the International Wine and Spirit Competition She opened my
Mendoza Marvels
inspired | March 2014 55
WINE
eyes to the potential of this grape variety when handled with care
Laurarsquos family business makes a range of wines but the wine that truly astonished me was the Nicasia Vineyard Malbec 2006 The wine is perfumed with floral and fruit notes and it is smooth and soft at first Like all great wines it has many layers of flavour warm bursts of cherry and black-currant cede centre stage to deeper darker caramel and mocha notes and a touch of spice Therersquos an amazing depth of flavour and the finish is long and lingering Whatrsquos more at nearly eight years old it still has a slight purple tinge and tastes extremely fresh There is every indication that it will age beautifully for at least another decade
The winersquos character is heavily influenced by the alti-tude the grapes used to make it are grown at (1180m
above sea level) At this elevation the grapes ripen in bright sun but lsquorelaxrsquo during the cool evenings The fact that the wine is made in tiny quantities (eight barrels only) means every care can be taken during the winemak-ing process to ensure the wine is allowed to show its grown-up side The cost per bot-tle of pound70 is not insubstantial but neither is the wine
We cannot know whether these wines will ever become investments in the way the wines of Bordeaux have Whatrsquos cer-tain is that Malbec wines have a very rare quality a balance of finesse and power that
can delight wine lovers and linger in their memories
Ewan Lacey is a leading wine expert and general manager of the International Wine and Spirit Competition He has appeared on BBC television and radio as well as Channel 4 and written for the national press
Laura Catena is managing director at the Catena Zapata winery (above)
THE INTERNATIONAL WINE AND SPIRIT COMPETITIONThe International Wine and Spirit Competition has been the premier drinks competition in the world for 45 years Each year it receives and reviews thousands of wines and spirits and presents qual-ity awards to producers
More than anything the IWSC exists to help
people make better deci-sions particularly when buying wines and spirits An IWSC award on a bot-tle of wine is a guarantee
of quality backed not only by a rigorous and strin-gent judging process but also by the skill of the judges who are drawn from the ranks of masters of wine master distill-ers industry leaders and commentators
Each year the IWSC honours a leading figure
in the drinks industry with the presidency of the competition The current president is Laura Catena who succeeds a nota-ble line of predecessors including Prince Robert of Luxembourg winemakers Piero Antinori and Warren Winiarski and Baroness Philippine de Rothschild
56 March 2014 | inspired
LUXURY WATCHES
Time is preciousA
t a recent watch auc-tion in Geneva at Antiquorum ndash the worldrsquos premiere auc-tion house for modern and vintage time pieces ndash a Patek Philippe
pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon watch emerged as the auctionrsquos top lot and sold for 12 million Swiss francs (pound807000)
Unlike most of the timepieces sold at auctions outside Asia this particular Patek watch ndash the most complicated wristwatch the Swiss watchmaker has ever produced ndash was not a vintage model
That Geneva auction raised intriguing
1284Clocks with weights gears and regulators start to appear mostly with no dial to strike the important moments of daily life
Around 1410The mainspring is devel-oped Combined with the fusee this innovation makes possible the truly portable domestic clock
1492The mechanical watch appears simultaneously in Italy Germany and France
1675Christian Huygens invents the spiral balance spring
for watches significantly improving their accuracy
1704The first watch with jew-els is produced by French watchmaker de Beaufreacute
1714The British parliament offers pound20000 to who-ever can a find a method to determine longitude
1766Parliament publishes the rating results for John Harrisonrsquos H4 marine timekeeper Harrisonrsquos highly accurate marine clock solution to the problem of determining logitude wins him part of the pound20000 prize
1787Pierre-Freacutedeacuteric Ingold is born an important pio-neer in mechanised timepiece production and the use of interchangea-ble parts
1790Jacquet-Droz and Leschot manufactures a watch attached to a strap
1839Vacheron amp Constantin developes a full set of machine tools for manu-facturing its watches
1875Calcium sulphate is the first luminescent sub-stance to be used for numerals and hands
TIMEKEEPING MILESTONES
questions Are modern luxury timepieces every bit as appealing as the vintage watches that typically command top prices at auc-tion And does that Geneva auction tell us anything about the contemporary watch market as a whole
Julien Schaerer Antiquorumrsquos managing director in Geneva says top-quality vintage watches often appreciate in value over the long term But he urges buyers for whom appreciation is an important consideration to be cautious about purchasing contempo-rary watches
lsquoWatch price depreciation is the cost of ownership just as it is with a luxury carrsquo he says lsquoIf the value goes up then
58 March 2014 | inspired
1880The first water- resistant watch incorpo-rating a screwed case is produced by Genevan watchmaker Franccedilois Borgel
1889The first known patent for a wristwatch is filed in Bern Switzerland
1890Dialmaker A Beyeler invents a transfer press for applying numerals and letters to dials
1892Auguste Verneuil in France produces the first synthetic jewels to be used in watchmaking
1904Wens Wilsdorf launches large-scale production of a womenrsquos wristwatch
1924John Harwood files the
first Swiss patent for a self-winding wristwatch with a central oscillating weight
1925The first known wrist-watch with a perpetual calendar is manufactured using a pendant watch movement
1926Rolex creates the Oyster wristwatch with a water-resistant case and crown
1966The first quartz wrist-watch prototype is produced
1969The first quartz watch
with an LED display appears
1978Quartz watches overtake mechanical watches in popularity
2005Creation of the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie Seiko launches the spring drive Kinetic the first self-winding mechanical watch with an electro-magnetic escapement
A Patek Philippe pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon recently sold for pound807000
inspired | March 2014 59
online retailers from the comfort of your homeSince 2006 DM London has quietly estab-
lished a powerful presence for itself in the UK retail watch market with the acquisition of The Watch Hut and The Watch Gallery DM London chairman David Coleridge says the company has capitalised on the increasing willingness of buy-ers to purchase online
lsquoHaving decided that they would like to buy a watch for themselves or someone elsersquo he says lsquopeople start to do their research More often than not this starts online nowadays where they com-pare brands performance and functions
lsquoAs trust in the online marketplace has devel-oped many want to buy online because it is convenient and saves time Shopping online becomes a habit established sites build trust and awareness with customers which gives custom-ers the confidence to buy more expensive itemsrsquo
He adds lsquoOur challenge is to make the online environment as attractive informative and enjoy-able as a high street store Then customers will decide to spend onlinersquo
Coleridge believes a multi-channel approach is the way forward for retailers He says lsquoWithout doubt the future is multi-channel selling ndash a combination of direct selling on the internet and various forms of click and collect ndash combined with beautiful stores on the high street
Over the past few years demand for luxury watches (particularly contemporary models) has spiked sharply in Asia and according to some specialists emerging affluence in the
of course thatrsquos an added benefit However he adds lsquoPrice appreciation is still quite rare with modern watches There is some poten-tial for appreciation but probably only with ultra-limited editions A purchase has to be
seen as a medium- to long-term invest-ment One should buy a timepiece first out of love for the brand or [the watchrsquos] complicationrsquo
The watch brands that offer the greatest assurance of appreci-
ation include Cartier Patek Philippe Rolex Audemars
Piguet A Lange amp Sohne Breguet and Vacheron Constantin All enjoy views from the top of
the watchmaking hierarchy thanks to their longstand-ing histories and well-established brand identities
Relative new-comers to the industry such as Richard Mille and Roger Dubuis have carved out a niche for
themselves with their revolutionary designs and
space-age technologies but it remains to be seen just how well the values of their timepieces will stand up on the secondary market
According to Nathaniel Borgelt a specialist at auction house Sothebyrsquos
some modern watches have already achieved good prices at auction but these (like the Patek Philippe Sky Moon Tourbillon) were highly exclusive models when new
lsquoSome limited edition pieces currently fetch incredible prices at auctionrsquo he says lsquoAnd there is a select group of modern mod-els that could compete with a certain sector of the vintage market based on their brand innovative features such as materials or com-plications and avant-garde designs
Buying these has now become a whole lot easier The luxury watch retailing land-scape is changing and the traditional pattern of physically walking into a luxury salon to buy a watch is gradually being replaced by a trend towards visiting the websites of the big
LUXURY WATCHES
A Lange amp Sohne (above) is a long-standing high-end watchmaker Comparative new-comer Roger Dubuis (right) is forging a strong reputation
inspired | March 2014 PB60 March 2014 | inspired
helpthewatchgallerycom
Hublot ClassiC FusiontHe WatCH Gallery exClusive
The Watch Gallery and Hublot have joined forces to create two very special limited edition watches Both are limited to just 15 pieces worldwide and have been specifically designed to feature The Watch Gallery blue brand colour on the hands and tinted open case back
SelfridgeS OxfOrd StreetWeStfield lOndOnMancheSter exchange Square
wwwthewatchgallerycomhublot-watches
Far East has kept global values strong while other markets around the world continue to recover from recession
Despite the market boost from growing prosperity in Asia there are signs that the market is becoming saturated and that globally the new watch market isnrsquot as robust as some commentators suggest
It may still be a good time to buy but its important to know what you want and what yoursquore buying Modern watchmakers such as Richard Mille Roger Dubuis and Greubel Forsey are producing beautiful timepieces but because of their limited foothold in the market itrsquos difficult to predict their long-term success and desirability They donrsquot yet have the brand power that might ensure the value of their
watches in the secondhand market remains highSuch producers might one day stand eye to
eye with the most desirable brands such as Patek Philippe and Rolex but achieving that kind of parity wonrsquot be easy Collectors looking to invest in timepieces are advised to keep an open mind about modern producers uncertainty is the one aspect of modern luxury watch market most experts tend to agree on
That said the buoyancy in the watch market suggests that plenty of buyers are unconcerned about future values For them itrsquos all about the appreciation of the watch itself People buy watches because they bring them pleasure ndash and say some-thing about who they are
LUXURY WATCHES
Contemporary watches such as those made by Hublot (left) have yet to show they will have the lasting appeal of watches such as Cartierrsquos Rotonde de Cartier Astrocalendaire (right)
inspired | March 2014 63
- inspirep01
- inspirep02
- inspirep03
- inspirep04
- inspirep05
- inspirep06
- inspirep07
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- inspirep09
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-
Pictured slightly larger than actual size
Big Pilotrsquos Watch Ref 5009
Your wrist never felt this big before The
case of the top model in the IWC Pilotrsquos
Watch range is a gigantic 462 mm in diashy
meter And the technology inside it is
even more impressive the largest IWCshy
manufactured automatic movement with
its Pellaton winding system is protected
against strong magnetic fields by a softshy
iron inner case And needless to say enshy
vious glances iwc engineered for men
Mechanical IWCshymanufactured movement Pellaton
automatic winding system 7shyday power reserve
with display (figure) Date display Softshyiron inner
case for protection against magnetic fields
Antireflective sapphire glass Watershyresistant 6 bar
Stainless steel
IWC Schaffhausen Switzerland iwccom The worldrsquos finest timepieces are exclusively available from selected watch specialists
For an illustrated catalogue or list of nationwide concessionaires please contact IWC UK Tel 0845 337 1868 Eshymail infoshyukiwccom
CARS
MunichLegend
50 March 2014 | inspired
BMW fanatics can open their eyes ndash the M4 has arrived
Most BMW aficionados are proba-bly pretty sad to see production of the M3 coupe ndash quite possibly the companyrsquos most noteworthy and celebrated model ndash end after almost 30 years Ever since the first wide-body E30 M3 saw the
light of day in 1985 drivers have loved the sporty coupe for its incredible balance intoxicating power and of course solid build quality
The model never got stale in all that time and always remained the poster child for the M division so itrsquos a lit-tle weird that BMW has apparently decided to axe it In truth though they havenrsquot really dropped the M3 The M3 sedan will continue to be produced in 2014 so all
is not lost Moreover BMW seems to be adopting a pat-tern of giving its sedans odd-numbered titles only and its coupes even-numbered titles only so the 4-Series and especially the M4 concept that debuted at Pebble Beach Monterey California will fill the gap left by the M3 Many people have been awaiting the new super coupe with great expectancy but can it fill in for the M3
The journalists who swarmed over the M4 concept at Pebble Beach were obviously much more interested in it than the somewhat predictable 428i that was also there Finished in an eye-catching colour called Aurum Dust (which actually looks a lot like the old M3rsquos Phoenix Yellow colour) the car presented in California may be a concept but typically BMW M cars donrsquot change much before they finally hit the showroom
MunichLegend
inspired | March 2014 51
CARS
52 March 2014 | inspired
From front to back the bodywork is manifestly differ-ent and much more aggressive looking than a standard 4-Series car It really looks to pretty much pick up where the E92E93 M3 coupe left off especially with its undeniably cool domed hood Wide wheel arches big wheels wrapped in low-profile tyres more than enough M badges and a well-executed double-bubble roof make the already underwhelming existing 4-Series coupe look even more pedestrian
Power for the new M4 is likely to come from a three-litre twin-turbo straight-six engine While the horsepower probably wonrsquot differ much from the M3rsquos old 4-litre V-8 it will generate more than 100lbft more in torque almost 400 in total With the M4 being a lighter 3300lb in weight the M4 promises to be an excit-ing worthy car A proper six-speed manual may be in the mix alongside the now obligatory dual clutch and paddles option
The best way to look at the M4 however it ends up is not as a new car but as a new and improved M3 thatrsquos just getting a new name The decision to rename the coupe is a strange one but thankfully BMW apparently felt the 3-Series coupe had made such an identity for itself that a new model was needed albeit in a slightly different incarnation
With BMW embarking on some new-ageish ideas such as its 1-Series ActiveE and the soon-to-arrive lsquoirsquo range of cars itrsquos nice to see the company also stick to classics such as the heart-stopping sports coupe even if the latest model does come with a new name
Seductive curves and racier performance make the BMW M4 a more than acceptable replacement for the M3 super coupe
SparklingForm Coloured diamonds are making their mark
One of the main factors that deter-mines the value of what we ordinarily think of as diamonds is their purity the degree to which col-our is absent in the gem However with coloured diamonds the extent to which they are saturated with
colour is a principal determinant of their valueColoured diamonds come in 12 basic colours more
than 90 secondary hues and nine intensity levels The depth of their colour is what really differentiates these diamonds from their colourless counterparts
Natural coloured diamonds are 10000 times rarer than typical colourless diamonds one of several rea-sons why they are treasured by the rich and famous yet remain unknown to most other people ndash despite hav-ing been around for centuries
Of course some colours are rarer than others Red violet and purple stones are as rare as the proverbial hensrsquo teeth while green and blue are also rare The most popular colours are pink and yellow (or canary) They also come in white grey orange black and lsquochame-leonrsquo form
A pinkie ring encrusted with a large coloured dia-mond has become a status symbol for men in Asia That little stone is an unregistered asset that could quickly be sold for millions of dollars should the need arise
Coloured diamonds are durable and never lose their sparkle or lustre so they are assets that can be enjoyed every day unlike stocks or bonds And they have proved to be fantastic investments having steadily appreciated in price with relatively little volatility for more than a decade They even held their own during the most recent financial crisis
Coloured diamonds are auctioned by reputable
auction houses such a Sothebyrsquos and Christiersquos where prices for large unique pink red blue or yellow stones can reach in excess of $2 million (pound12 million) a carat and other stones regularly sell for $1 million a carat
They are often bought by high-net-worth individu-als as an insurance policy Instead of stashing cash in undeclared bank accounts and potentially incurring the wrath of the authorities the wealthy can purchase some loose yellow diamonds to secure their future
Clearly coloured diamonds are much more than a magnificent indulgence
GEMS
inspired | March 2014 53PB March 2014 | inspired
WINE
Make the most of the deeply
satisfying Malbec wines emerging from Argentina
and perhaps even enjoy a return on a shrewd
investment says Ewan Lacey
Finding a red wine to enjoy in spring is a delicate balancing act The shock of seeing sunlight after a dark winter fosters in us a desire to drink some-thing refreshing while the still-cool temperatures demand something with comforting depth
Increasingly Malbec wines particularly those from Argentina provide a perfect solution to this quandary And while there are plenty of delicious wines for infor-mal occasions what is most interesting is the emergence of finer Malbec wines Some are so good they may well have ageing potential raising the intriguing possibility that the wine may one day become collectable
Malbec is the most popular wine among those aged 25-34 and is now becoming a fixture on most restaurant wine lists There are several reasons for its success the word Malbec is easy to pronounce the wine goes well with red meat the Malbec grape can be turned into wines that are both relatively easy to drink and packed with flavour and decent wines are available at reason-able prices Malbec is deep fruity and charming and it delivers instant pleasure ndash claret on a motorbike
The Malbec grape originated in France and it remains one of the permitted varieties used to make Bordeaux However it has gained prominence through the work of the post-junta Argentine wine industry
I recently had the pleasure of tasting some very fine Malbecs with Laura Catena managing director at the Catena Zapata winery and president of the International Wine and Spirit Competition She opened my
Mendoza Marvels
inspired | March 2014 55
WINE
eyes to the potential of this grape variety when handled with care
Laurarsquos family business makes a range of wines but the wine that truly astonished me was the Nicasia Vineyard Malbec 2006 The wine is perfumed with floral and fruit notes and it is smooth and soft at first Like all great wines it has many layers of flavour warm bursts of cherry and black-currant cede centre stage to deeper darker caramel and mocha notes and a touch of spice Therersquos an amazing depth of flavour and the finish is long and lingering Whatrsquos more at nearly eight years old it still has a slight purple tinge and tastes extremely fresh There is every indication that it will age beautifully for at least another decade
The winersquos character is heavily influenced by the alti-tude the grapes used to make it are grown at (1180m
above sea level) At this elevation the grapes ripen in bright sun but lsquorelaxrsquo during the cool evenings The fact that the wine is made in tiny quantities (eight barrels only) means every care can be taken during the winemak-ing process to ensure the wine is allowed to show its grown-up side The cost per bot-tle of pound70 is not insubstantial but neither is the wine
We cannot know whether these wines will ever become investments in the way the wines of Bordeaux have Whatrsquos cer-tain is that Malbec wines have a very rare quality a balance of finesse and power that
can delight wine lovers and linger in their memories
Ewan Lacey is a leading wine expert and general manager of the International Wine and Spirit Competition He has appeared on BBC television and radio as well as Channel 4 and written for the national press
Laura Catena is managing director at the Catena Zapata winery (above)
THE INTERNATIONAL WINE AND SPIRIT COMPETITIONThe International Wine and Spirit Competition has been the premier drinks competition in the world for 45 years Each year it receives and reviews thousands of wines and spirits and presents qual-ity awards to producers
More than anything the IWSC exists to help
people make better deci-sions particularly when buying wines and spirits An IWSC award on a bot-tle of wine is a guarantee
of quality backed not only by a rigorous and strin-gent judging process but also by the skill of the judges who are drawn from the ranks of masters of wine master distill-ers industry leaders and commentators
Each year the IWSC honours a leading figure
in the drinks industry with the presidency of the competition The current president is Laura Catena who succeeds a nota-ble line of predecessors including Prince Robert of Luxembourg winemakers Piero Antinori and Warren Winiarski and Baroness Philippine de Rothschild
56 March 2014 | inspired
LUXURY WATCHES
Time is preciousA
t a recent watch auc-tion in Geneva at Antiquorum ndash the worldrsquos premiere auc-tion house for modern and vintage time pieces ndash a Patek Philippe
pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon watch emerged as the auctionrsquos top lot and sold for 12 million Swiss francs (pound807000)
Unlike most of the timepieces sold at auctions outside Asia this particular Patek watch ndash the most complicated wristwatch the Swiss watchmaker has ever produced ndash was not a vintage model
That Geneva auction raised intriguing
1284Clocks with weights gears and regulators start to appear mostly with no dial to strike the important moments of daily life
Around 1410The mainspring is devel-oped Combined with the fusee this innovation makes possible the truly portable domestic clock
1492The mechanical watch appears simultaneously in Italy Germany and France
1675Christian Huygens invents the spiral balance spring
for watches significantly improving their accuracy
1704The first watch with jew-els is produced by French watchmaker de Beaufreacute
1714The British parliament offers pound20000 to who-ever can a find a method to determine longitude
1766Parliament publishes the rating results for John Harrisonrsquos H4 marine timekeeper Harrisonrsquos highly accurate marine clock solution to the problem of determining logitude wins him part of the pound20000 prize
1787Pierre-Freacutedeacuteric Ingold is born an important pio-neer in mechanised timepiece production and the use of interchangea-ble parts
1790Jacquet-Droz and Leschot manufactures a watch attached to a strap
1839Vacheron amp Constantin developes a full set of machine tools for manu-facturing its watches
1875Calcium sulphate is the first luminescent sub-stance to be used for numerals and hands
TIMEKEEPING MILESTONES
questions Are modern luxury timepieces every bit as appealing as the vintage watches that typically command top prices at auc-tion And does that Geneva auction tell us anything about the contemporary watch market as a whole
Julien Schaerer Antiquorumrsquos managing director in Geneva says top-quality vintage watches often appreciate in value over the long term But he urges buyers for whom appreciation is an important consideration to be cautious about purchasing contempo-rary watches
lsquoWatch price depreciation is the cost of ownership just as it is with a luxury carrsquo he says lsquoIf the value goes up then
58 March 2014 | inspired
1880The first water- resistant watch incorpo-rating a screwed case is produced by Genevan watchmaker Franccedilois Borgel
1889The first known patent for a wristwatch is filed in Bern Switzerland
1890Dialmaker A Beyeler invents a transfer press for applying numerals and letters to dials
1892Auguste Verneuil in France produces the first synthetic jewels to be used in watchmaking
1904Wens Wilsdorf launches large-scale production of a womenrsquos wristwatch
1924John Harwood files the
first Swiss patent for a self-winding wristwatch with a central oscillating weight
1925The first known wrist-watch with a perpetual calendar is manufactured using a pendant watch movement
1926Rolex creates the Oyster wristwatch with a water-resistant case and crown
1966The first quartz wrist-watch prototype is produced
1969The first quartz watch
with an LED display appears
1978Quartz watches overtake mechanical watches in popularity
2005Creation of the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie Seiko launches the spring drive Kinetic the first self-winding mechanical watch with an electro-magnetic escapement
A Patek Philippe pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon recently sold for pound807000
inspired | March 2014 59
online retailers from the comfort of your homeSince 2006 DM London has quietly estab-
lished a powerful presence for itself in the UK retail watch market with the acquisition of The Watch Hut and The Watch Gallery DM London chairman David Coleridge says the company has capitalised on the increasing willingness of buy-ers to purchase online
lsquoHaving decided that they would like to buy a watch for themselves or someone elsersquo he says lsquopeople start to do their research More often than not this starts online nowadays where they com-pare brands performance and functions
lsquoAs trust in the online marketplace has devel-oped many want to buy online because it is convenient and saves time Shopping online becomes a habit established sites build trust and awareness with customers which gives custom-ers the confidence to buy more expensive itemsrsquo
He adds lsquoOur challenge is to make the online environment as attractive informative and enjoy-able as a high street store Then customers will decide to spend onlinersquo
Coleridge believes a multi-channel approach is the way forward for retailers He says lsquoWithout doubt the future is multi-channel selling ndash a combination of direct selling on the internet and various forms of click and collect ndash combined with beautiful stores on the high street
Over the past few years demand for luxury watches (particularly contemporary models) has spiked sharply in Asia and according to some specialists emerging affluence in the
of course thatrsquos an added benefit However he adds lsquoPrice appreciation is still quite rare with modern watches There is some poten-tial for appreciation but probably only with ultra-limited editions A purchase has to be
seen as a medium- to long-term invest-ment One should buy a timepiece first out of love for the brand or [the watchrsquos] complicationrsquo
The watch brands that offer the greatest assurance of appreci-
ation include Cartier Patek Philippe Rolex Audemars
Piguet A Lange amp Sohne Breguet and Vacheron Constantin All enjoy views from the top of
the watchmaking hierarchy thanks to their longstand-ing histories and well-established brand identities
Relative new-comers to the industry such as Richard Mille and Roger Dubuis have carved out a niche for
themselves with their revolutionary designs and
space-age technologies but it remains to be seen just how well the values of their timepieces will stand up on the secondary market
According to Nathaniel Borgelt a specialist at auction house Sothebyrsquos
some modern watches have already achieved good prices at auction but these (like the Patek Philippe Sky Moon Tourbillon) were highly exclusive models when new
lsquoSome limited edition pieces currently fetch incredible prices at auctionrsquo he says lsquoAnd there is a select group of modern mod-els that could compete with a certain sector of the vintage market based on their brand innovative features such as materials or com-plications and avant-garde designs
Buying these has now become a whole lot easier The luxury watch retailing land-scape is changing and the traditional pattern of physically walking into a luxury salon to buy a watch is gradually being replaced by a trend towards visiting the websites of the big
LUXURY WATCHES
A Lange amp Sohne (above) is a long-standing high-end watchmaker Comparative new-comer Roger Dubuis (right) is forging a strong reputation
inspired | March 2014 PB60 March 2014 | inspired
helpthewatchgallerycom
Hublot ClassiC FusiontHe WatCH Gallery exClusive
The Watch Gallery and Hublot have joined forces to create two very special limited edition watches Both are limited to just 15 pieces worldwide and have been specifically designed to feature The Watch Gallery blue brand colour on the hands and tinted open case back
SelfridgeS OxfOrd StreetWeStfield lOndOnMancheSter exchange Square
wwwthewatchgallerycomhublot-watches
Far East has kept global values strong while other markets around the world continue to recover from recession
Despite the market boost from growing prosperity in Asia there are signs that the market is becoming saturated and that globally the new watch market isnrsquot as robust as some commentators suggest
It may still be a good time to buy but its important to know what you want and what yoursquore buying Modern watchmakers such as Richard Mille Roger Dubuis and Greubel Forsey are producing beautiful timepieces but because of their limited foothold in the market itrsquos difficult to predict their long-term success and desirability They donrsquot yet have the brand power that might ensure the value of their
watches in the secondhand market remains highSuch producers might one day stand eye to
eye with the most desirable brands such as Patek Philippe and Rolex but achieving that kind of parity wonrsquot be easy Collectors looking to invest in timepieces are advised to keep an open mind about modern producers uncertainty is the one aspect of modern luxury watch market most experts tend to agree on
That said the buoyancy in the watch market suggests that plenty of buyers are unconcerned about future values For them itrsquos all about the appreciation of the watch itself People buy watches because they bring them pleasure ndash and say some-thing about who they are
LUXURY WATCHES
Contemporary watches such as those made by Hublot (left) have yet to show they will have the lasting appeal of watches such as Cartierrsquos Rotonde de Cartier Astrocalendaire (right)
inspired | March 2014 63
- inspirep01
- inspirep02
- inspirep03
- inspirep04
- inspirep05
- inspirep06
- inspirep07
- inspirep08
- inspirep09
- inspirep10
- inspirep11
- inspirep12
- inspirep13
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-
CARS
MunichLegend
50 March 2014 | inspired
BMW fanatics can open their eyes ndash the M4 has arrived
Most BMW aficionados are proba-bly pretty sad to see production of the M3 coupe ndash quite possibly the companyrsquos most noteworthy and celebrated model ndash end after almost 30 years Ever since the first wide-body E30 M3 saw the
light of day in 1985 drivers have loved the sporty coupe for its incredible balance intoxicating power and of course solid build quality
The model never got stale in all that time and always remained the poster child for the M division so itrsquos a lit-tle weird that BMW has apparently decided to axe it In truth though they havenrsquot really dropped the M3 The M3 sedan will continue to be produced in 2014 so all
is not lost Moreover BMW seems to be adopting a pat-tern of giving its sedans odd-numbered titles only and its coupes even-numbered titles only so the 4-Series and especially the M4 concept that debuted at Pebble Beach Monterey California will fill the gap left by the M3 Many people have been awaiting the new super coupe with great expectancy but can it fill in for the M3
The journalists who swarmed over the M4 concept at Pebble Beach were obviously much more interested in it than the somewhat predictable 428i that was also there Finished in an eye-catching colour called Aurum Dust (which actually looks a lot like the old M3rsquos Phoenix Yellow colour) the car presented in California may be a concept but typically BMW M cars donrsquot change much before they finally hit the showroom
MunichLegend
inspired | March 2014 51
CARS
52 March 2014 | inspired
From front to back the bodywork is manifestly differ-ent and much more aggressive looking than a standard 4-Series car It really looks to pretty much pick up where the E92E93 M3 coupe left off especially with its undeniably cool domed hood Wide wheel arches big wheels wrapped in low-profile tyres more than enough M badges and a well-executed double-bubble roof make the already underwhelming existing 4-Series coupe look even more pedestrian
Power for the new M4 is likely to come from a three-litre twin-turbo straight-six engine While the horsepower probably wonrsquot differ much from the M3rsquos old 4-litre V-8 it will generate more than 100lbft more in torque almost 400 in total With the M4 being a lighter 3300lb in weight the M4 promises to be an excit-ing worthy car A proper six-speed manual may be in the mix alongside the now obligatory dual clutch and paddles option
The best way to look at the M4 however it ends up is not as a new car but as a new and improved M3 thatrsquos just getting a new name The decision to rename the coupe is a strange one but thankfully BMW apparently felt the 3-Series coupe had made such an identity for itself that a new model was needed albeit in a slightly different incarnation
With BMW embarking on some new-ageish ideas such as its 1-Series ActiveE and the soon-to-arrive lsquoirsquo range of cars itrsquos nice to see the company also stick to classics such as the heart-stopping sports coupe even if the latest model does come with a new name
Seductive curves and racier performance make the BMW M4 a more than acceptable replacement for the M3 super coupe
SparklingForm Coloured diamonds are making their mark
One of the main factors that deter-mines the value of what we ordinarily think of as diamonds is their purity the degree to which col-our is absent in the gem However with coloured diamonds the extent to which they are saturated with
colour is a principal determinant of their valueColoured diamonds come in 12 basic colours more
than 90 secondary hues and nine intensity levels The depth of their colour is what really differentiates these diamonds from their colourless counterparts
Natural coloured diamonds are 10000 times rarer than typical colourless diamonds one of several rea-sons why they are treasured by the rich and famous yet remain unknown to most other people ndash despite hav-ing been around for centuries
Of course some colours are rarer than others Red violet and purple stones are as rare as the proverbial hensrsquo teeth while green and blue are also rare The most popular colours are pink and yellow (or canary) They also come in white grey orange black and lsquochame-leonrsquo form
A pinkie ring encrusted with a large coloured dia-mond has become a status symbol for men in Asia That little stone is an unregistered asset that could quickly be sold for millions of dollars should the need arise
Coloured diamonds are durable and never lose their sparkle or lustre so they are assets that can be enjoyed every day unlike stocks or bonds And they have proved to be fantastic investments having steadily appreciated in price with relatively little volatility for more than a decade They even held their own during the most recent financial crisis
Coloured diamonds are auctioned by reputable
auction houses such a Sothebyrsquos and Christiersquos where prices for large unique pink red blue or yellow stones can reach in excess of $2 million (pound12 million) a carat and other stones regularly sell for $1 million a carat
They are often bought by high-net-worth individu-als as an insurance policy Instead of stashing cash in undeclared bank accounts and potentially incurring the wrath of the authorities the wealthy can purchase some loose yellow diamonds to secure their future
Clearly coloured diamonds are much more than a magnificent indulgence
GEMS
inspired | March 2014 53PB March 2014 | inspired
WINE
Make the most of the deeply
satisfying Malbec wines emerging from Argentina
and perhaps even enjoy a return on a shrewd
investment says Ewan Lacey
Finding a red wine to enjoy in spring is a delicate balancing act The shock of seeing sunlight after a dark winter fosters in us a desire to drink some-thing refreshing while the still-cool temperatures demand something with comforting depth
Increasingly Malbec wines particularly those from Argentina provide a perfect solution to this quandary And while there are plenty of delicious wines for infor-mal occasions what is most interesting is the emergence of finer Malbec wines Some are so good they may well have ageing potential raising the intriguing possibility that the wine may one day become collectable
Malbec is the most popular wine among those aged 25-34 and is now becoming a fixture on most restaurant wine lists There are several reasons for its success the word Malbec is easy to pronounce the wine goes well with red meat the Malbec grape can be turned into wines that are both relatively easy to drink and packed with flavour and decent wines are available at reason-able prices Malbec is deep fruity and charming and it delivers instant pleasure ndash claret on a motorbike
The Malbec grape originated in France and it remains one of the permitted varieties used to make Bordeaux However it has gained prominence through the work of the post-junta Argentine wine industry
I recently had the pleasure of tasting some very fine Malbecs with Laura Catena managing director at the Catena Zapata winery and president of the International Wine and Spirit Competition She opened my
Mendoza Marvels
inspired | March 2014 55
WINE
eyes to the potential of this grape variety when handled with care
Laurarsquos family business makes a range of wines but the wine that truly astonished me was the Nicasia Vineyard Malbec 2006 The wine is perfumed with floral and fruit notes and it is smooth and soft at first Like all great wines it has many layers of flavour warm bursts of cherry and black-currant cede centre stage to deeper darker caramel and mocha notes and a touch of spice Therersquos an amazing depth of flavour and the finish is long and lingering Whatrsquos more at nearly eight years old it still has a slight purple tinge and tastes extremely fresh There is every indication that it will age beautifully for at least another decade
The winersquos character is heavily influenced by the alti-tude the grapes used to make it are grown at (1180m
above sea level) At this elevation the grapes ripen in bright sun but lsquorelaxrsquo during the cool evenings The fact that the wine is made in tiny quantities (eight barrels only) means every care can be taken during the winemak-ing process to ensure the wine is allowed to show its grown-up side The cost per bot-tle of pound70 is not insubstantial but neither is the wine
We cannot know whether these wines will ever become investments in the way the wines of Bordeaux have Whatrsquos cer-tain is that Malbec wines have a very rare quality a balance of finesse and power that
can delight wine lovers and linger in their memories
Ewan Lacey is a leading wine expert and general manager of the International Wine and Spirit Competition He has appeared on BBC television and radio as well as Channel 4 and written for the national press
Laura Catena is managing director at the Catena Zapata winery (above)
THE INTERNATIONAL WINE AND SPIRIT COMPETITIONThe International Wine and Spirit Competition has been the premier drinks competition in the world for 45 years Each year it receives and reviews thousands of wines and spirits and presents qual-ity awards to producers
More than anything the IWSC exists to help
people make better deci-sions particularly when buying wines and spirits An IWSC award on a bot-tle of wine is a guarantee
of quality backed not only by a rigorous and strin-gent judging process but also by the skill of the judges who are drawn from the ranks of masters of wine master distill-ers industry leaders and commentators
Each year the IWSC honours a leading figure
in the drinks industry with the presidency of the competition The current president is Laura Catena who succeeds a nota-ble line of predecessors including Prince Robert of Luxembourg winemakers Piero Antinori and Warren Winiarski and Baroness Philippine de Rothschild
56 March 2014 | inspired
LUXURY WATCHES
Time is preciousA
t a recent watch auc-tion in Geneva at Antiquorum ndash the worldrsquos premiere auc-tion house for modern and vintage time pieces ndash a Patek Philippe
pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon watch emerged as the auctionrsquos top lot and sold for 12 million Swiss francs (pound807000)
Unlike most of the timepieces sold at auctions outside Asia this particular Patek watch ndash the most complicated wristwatch the Swiss watchmaker has ever produced ndash was not a vintage model
That Geneva auction raised intriguing
1284Clocks with weights gears and regulators start to appear mostly with no dial to strike the important moments of daily life
Around 1410The mainspring is devel-oped Combined with the fusee this innovation makes possible the truly portable domestic clock
1492The mechanical watch appears simultaneously in Italy Germany and France
1675Christian Huygens invents the spiral balance spring
for watches significantly improving their accuracy
1704The first watch with jew-els is produced by French watchmaker de Beaufreacute
1714The British parliament offers pound20000 to who-ever can a find a method to determine longitude
1766Parliament publishes the rating results for John Harrisonrsquos H4 marine timekeeper Harrisonrsquos highly accurate marine clock solution to the problem of determining logitude wins him part of the pound20000 prize
1787Pierre-Freacutedeacuteric Ingold is born an important pio-neer in mechanised timepiece production and the use of interchangea-ble parts
1790Jacquet-Droz and Leschot manufactures a watch attached to a strap
1839Vacheron amp Constantin developes a full set of machine tools for manu-facturing its watches
1875Calcium sulphate is the first luminescent sub-stance to be used for numerals and hands
TIMEKEEPING MILESTONES
questions Are modern luxury timepieces every bit as appealing as the vintage watches that typically command top prices at auc-tion And does that Geneva auction tell us anything about the contemporary watch market as a whole
Julien Schaerer Antiquorumrsquos managing director in Geneva says top-quality vintage watches often appreciate in value over the long term But he urges buyers for whom appreciation is an important consideration to be cautious about purchasing contempo-rary watches
lsquoWatch price depreciation is the cost of ownership just as it is with a luxury carrsquo he says lsquoIf the value goes up then
58 March 2014 | inspired
1880The first water- resistant watch incorpo-rating a screwed case is produced by Genevan watchmaker Franccedilois Borgel
1889The first known patent for a wristwatch is filed in Bern Switzerland
1890Dialmaker A Beyeler invents a transfer press for applying numerals and letters to dials
1892Auguste Verneuil in France produces the first synthetic jewels to be used in watchmaking
1904Wens Wilsdorf launches large-scale production of a womenrsquos wristwatch
1924John Harwood files the
first Swiss patent for a self-winding wristwatch with a central oscillating weight
1925The first known wrist-watch with a perpetual calendar is manufactured using a pendant watch movement
1926Rolex creates the Oyster wristwatch with a water-resistant case and crown
1966The first quartz wrist-watch prototype is produced
1969The first quartz watch
with an LED display appears
1978Quartz watches overtake mechanical watches in popularity
2005Creation of the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie Seiko launches the spring drive Kinetic the first self-winding mechanical watch with an electro-magnetic escapement
A Patek Philippe pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon recently sold for pound807000
inspired | March 2014 59
online retailers from the comfort of your homeSince 2006 DM London has quietly estab-
lished a powerful presence for itself in the UK retail watch market with the acquisition of The Watch Hut and The Watch Gallery DM London chairman David Coleridge says the company has capitalised on the increasing willingness of buy-ers to purchase online
lsquoHaving decided that they would like to buy a watch for themselves or someone elsersquo he says lsquopeople start to do their research More often than not this starts online nowadays where they com-pare brands performance and functions
lsquoAs trust in the online marketplace has devel-oped many want to buy online because it is convenient and saves time Shopping online becomes a habit established sites build trust and awareness with customers which gives custom-ers the confidence to buy more expensive itemsrsquo
He adds lsquoOur challenge is to make the online environment as attractive informative and enjoy-able as a high street store Then customers will decide to spend onlinersquo
Coleridge believes a multi-channel approach is the way forward for retailers He says lsquoWithout doubt the future is multi-channel selling ndash a combination of direct selling on the internet and various forms of click and collect ndash combined with beautiful stores on the high street
Over the past few years demand for luxury watches (particularly contemporary models) has spiked sharply in Asia and according to some specialists emerging affluence in the
of course thatrsquos an added benefit However he adds lsquoPrice appreciation is still quite rare with modern watches There is some poten-tial for appreciation but probably only with ultra-limited editions A purchase has to be
seen as a medium- to long-term invest-ment One should buy a timepiece first out of love for the brand or [the watchrsquos] complicationrsquo
The watch brands that offer the greatest assurance of appreci-
ation include Cartier Patek Philippe Rolex Audemars
Piguet A Lange amp Sohne Breguet and Vacheron Constantin All enjoy views from the top of
the watchmaking hierarchy thanks to their longstand-ing histories and well-established brand identities
Relative new-comers to the industry such as Richard Mille and Roger Dubuis have carved out a niche for
themselves with their revolutionary designs and
space-age technologies but it remains to be seen just how well the values of their timepieces will stand up on the secondary market
According to Nathaniel Borgelt a specialist at auction house Sothebyrsquos
some modern watches have already achieved good prices at auction but these (like the Patek Philippe Sky Moon Tourbillon) were highly exclusive models when new
lsquoSome limited edition pieces currently fetch incredible prices at auctionrsquo he says lsquoAnd there is a select group of modern mod-els that could compete with a certain sector of the vintage market based on their brand innovative features such as materials or com-plications and avant-garde designs
Buying these has now become a whole lot easier The luxury watch retailing land-scape is changing and the traditional pattern of physically walking into a luxury salon to buy a watch is gradually being replaced by a trend towards visiting the websites of the big
LUXURY WATCHES
A Lange amp Sohne (above) is a long-standing high-end watchmaker Comparative new-comer Roger Dubuis (right) is forging a strong reputation
inspired | March 2014 PB60 March 2014 | inspired
helpthewatchgallerycom
Hublot ClassiC FusiontHe WatCH Gallery exClusive
The Watch Gallery and Hublot have joined forces to create two very special limited edition watches Both are limited to just 15 pieces worldwide and have been specifically designed to feature The Watch Gallery blue brand colour on the hands and tinted open case back
SelfridgeS OxfOrd StreetWeStfield lOndOnMancheSter exchange Square
wwwthewatchgallerycomhublot-watches
Far East has kept global values strong while other markets around the world continue to recover from recession
Despite the market boost from growing prosperity in Asia there are signs that the market is becoming saturated and that globally the new watch market isnrsquot as robust as some commentators suggest
It may still be a good time to buy but its important to know what you want and what yoursquore buying Modern watchmakers such as Richard Mille Roger Dubuis and Greubel Forsey are producing beautiful timepieces but because of their limited foothold in the market itrsquos difficult to predict their long-term success and desirability They donrsquot yet have the brand power that might ensure the value of their
watches in the secondhand market remains highSuch producers might one day stand eye to
eye with the most desirable brands such as Patek Philippe and Rolex but achieving that kind of parity wonrsquot be easy Collectors looking to invest in timepieces are advised to keep an open mind about modern producers uncertainty is the one aspect of modern luxury watch market most experts tend to agree on
That said the buoyancy in the watch market suggests that plenty of buyers are unconcerned about future values For them itrsquos all about the appreciation of the watch itself People buy watches because they bring them pleasure ndash and say some-thing about who they are
LUXURY WATCHES
Contemporary watches such as those made by Hublot (left) have yet to show they will have the lasting appeal of watches such as Cartierrsquos Rotonde de Cartier Astrocalendaire (right)
inspired | March 2014 63
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- inspirep02
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- inspirep10
- inspirep11
- inspirep12
- inspirep13
- inspirep14
- inspirep15
- inspirep16
- inspirep17
- inspirep18
- inspirep19
- inspirep20
- inspirep21
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- inspirep25
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- inspirep30
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- inspirep34
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- inspirep36
- inspirep37
- inspirep38
- inspirep39
- inspirep40
- inspirep41
- inspirep42
- inspirep43
- inspirep44
- inspirep45
- inspirep46
- inspirep47
- inspirep48
- inspirep49
- inspirep50
- inspirep51
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- inspirep53
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- inspirep55
- inspirep56
- inspirep57
- inspirep58
- inspirep59
- inspirep60
- inspirep61
- inspirep62
- inspirep63
-
Most BMW aficionados are proba-bly pretty sad to see production of the M3 coupe ndash quite possibly the companyrsquos most noteworthy and celebrated model ndash end after almost 30 years Ever since the first wide-body E30 M3 saw the
light of day in 1985 drivers have loved the sporty coupe for its incredible balance intoxicating power and of course solid build quality
The model never got stale in all that time and always remained the poster child for the M division so itrsquos a lit-tle weird that BMW has apparently decided to axe it In truth though they havenrsquot really dropped the M3 The M3 sedan will continue to be produced in 2014 so all
is not lost Moreover BMW seems to be adopting a pat-tern of giving its sedans odd-numbered titles only and its coupes even-numbered titles only so the 4-Series and especially the M4 concept that debuted at Pebble Beach Monterey California will fill the gap left by the M3 Many people have been awaiting the new super coupe with great expectancy but can it fill in for the M3
The journalists who swarmed over the M4 concept at Pebble Beach were obviously much more interested in it than the somewhat predictable 428i that was also there Finished in an eye-catching colour called Aurum Dust (which actually looks a lot like the old M3rsquos Phoenix Yellow colour) the car presented in California may be a concept but typically BMW M cars donrsquot change much before they finally hit the showroom
MunichLegend
inspired | March 2014 51
CARS
52 March 2014 | inspired
From front to back the bodywork is manifestly differ-ent and much more aggressive looking than a standard 4-Series car It really looks to pretty much pick up where the E92E93 M3 coupe left off especially with its undeniably cool domed hood Wide wheel arches big wheels wrapped in low-profile tyres more than enough M badges and a well-executed double-bubble roof make the already underwhelming existing 4-Series coupe look even more pedestrian
Power for the new M4 is likely to come from a three-litre twin-turbo straight-six engine While the horsepower probably wonrsquot differ much from the M3rsquos old 4-litre V-8 it will generate more than 100lbft more in torque almost 400 in total With the M4 being a lighter 3300lb in weight the M4 promises to be an excit-ing worthy car A proper six-speed manual may be in the mix alongside the now obligatory dual clutch and paddles option
The best way to look at the M4 however it ends up is not as a new car but as a new and improved M3 thatrsquos just getting a new name The decision to rename the coupe is a strange one but thankfully BMW apparently felt the 3-Series coupe had made such an identity for itself that a new model was needed albeit in a slightly different incarnation
With BMW embarking on some new-ageish ideas such as its 1-Series ActiveE and the soon-to-arrive lsquoirsquo range of cars itrsquos nice to see the company also stick to classics such as the heart-stopping sports coupe even if the latest model does come with a new name
Seductive curves and racier performance make the BMW M4 a more than acceptable replacement for the M3 super coupe
SparklingForm Coloured diamonds are making their mark
One of the main factors that deter-mines the value of what we ordinarily think of as diamonds is their purity the degree to which col-our is absent in the gem However with coloured diamonds the extent to which they are saturated with
colour is a principal determinant of their valueColoured diamonds come in 12 basic colours more
than 90 secondary hues and nine intensity levels The depth of their colour is what really differentiates these diamonds from their colourless counterparts
Natural coloured diamonds are 10000 times rarer than typical colourless diamonds one of several rea-sons why they are treasured by the rich and famous yet remain unknown to most other people ndash despite hav-ing been around for centuries
Of course some colours are rarer than others Red violet and purple stones are as rare as the proverbial hensrsquo teeth while green and blue are also rare The most popular colours are pink and yellow (or canary) They also come in white grey orange black and lsquochame-leonrsquo form
A pinkie ring encrusted with a large coloured dia-mond has become a status symbol for men in Asia That little stone is an unregistered asset that could quickly be sold for millions of dollars should the need arise
Coloured diamonds are durable and never lose their sparkle or lustre so they are assets that can be enjoyed every day unlike stocks or bonds And they have proved to be fantastic investments having steadily appreciated in price with relatively little volatility for more than a decade They even held their own during the most recent financial crisis
Coloured diamonds are auctioned by reputable
auction houses such a Sothebyrsquos and Christiersquos where prices for large unique pink red blue or yellow stones can reach in excess of $2 million (pound12 million) a carat and other stones regularly sell for $1 million a carat
They are often bought by high-net-worth individu-als as an insurance policy Instead of stashing cash in undeclared bank accounts and potentially incurring the wrath of the authorities the wealthy can purchase some loose yellow diamonds to secure their future
Clearly coloured diamonds are much more than a magnificent indulgence
GEMS
inspired | March 2014 53PB March 2014 | inspired
WINE
Make the most of the deeply
satisfying Malbec wines emerging from Argentina
and perhaps even enjoy a return on a shrewd
investment says Ewan Lacey
Finding a red wine to enjoy in spring is a delicate balancing act The shock of seeing sunlight after a dark winter fosters in us a desire to drink some-thing refreshing while the still-cool temperatures demand something with comforting depth
Increasingly Malbec wines particularly those from Argentina provide a perfect solution to this quandary And while there are plenty of delicious wines for infor-mal occasions what is most interesting is the emergence of finer Malbec wines Some are so good they may well have ageing potential raising the intriguing possibility that the wine may one day become collectable
Malbec is the most popular wine among those aged 25-34 and is now becoming a fixture on most restaurant wine lists There are several reasons for its success the word Malbec is easy to pronounce the wine goes well with red meat the Malbec grape can be turned into wines that are both relatively easy to drink and packed with flavour and decent wines are available at reason-able prices Malbec is deep fruity and charming and it delivers instant pleasure ndash claret on a motorbike
The Malbec grape originated in France and it remains one of the permitted varieties used to make Bordeaux However it has gained prominence through the work of the post-junta Argentine wine industry
I recently had the pleasure of tasting some very fine Malbecs with Laura Catena managing director at the Catena Zapata winery and president of the International Wine and Spirit Competition She opened my
Mendoza Marvels
inspired | March 2014 55
WINE
eyes to the potential of this grape variety when handled with care
Laurarsquos family business makes a range of wines but the wine that truly astonished me was the Nicasia Vineyard Malbec 2006 The wine is perfumed with floral and fruit notes and it is smooth and soft at first Like all great wines it has many layers of flavour warm bursts of cherry and black-currant cede centre stage to deeper darker caramel and mocha notes and a touch of spice Therersquos an amazing depth of flavour and the finish is long and lingering Whatrsquos more at nearly eight years old it still has a slight purple tinge and tastes extremely fresh There is every indication that it will age beautifully for at least another decade
The winersquos character is heavily influenced by the alti-tude the grapes used to make it are grown at (1180m
above sea level) At this elevation the grapes ripen in bright sun but lsquorelaxrsquo during the cool evenings The fact that the wine is made in tiny quantities (eight barrels only) means every care can be taken during the winemak-ing process to ensure the wine is allowed to show its grown-up side The cost per bot-tle of pound70 is not insubstantial but neither is the wine
We cannot know whether these wines will ever become investments in the way the wines of Bordeaux have Whatrsquos cer-tain is that Malbec wines have a very rare quality a balance of finesse and power that
can delight wine lovers and linger in their memories
Ewan Lacey is a leading wine expert and general manager of the International Wine and Spirit Competition He has appeared on BBC television and radio as well as Channel 4 and written for the national press
Laura Catena is managing director at the Catena Zapata winery (above)
THE INTERNATIONAL WINE AND SPIRIT COMPETITIONThe International Wine and Spirit Competition has been the premier drinks competition in the world for 45 years Each year it receives and reviews thousands of wines and spirits and presents qual-ity awards to producers
More than anything the IWSC exists to help
people make better deci-sions particularly when buying wines and spirits An IWSC award on a bot-tle of wine is a guarantee
of quality backed not only by a rigorous and strin-gent judging process but also by the skill of the judges who are drawn from the ranks of masters of wine master distill-ers industry leaders and commentators
Each year the IWSC honours a leading figure
in the drinks industry with the presidency of the competition The current president is Laura Catena who succeeds a nota-ble line of predecessors including Prince Robert of Luxembourg winemakers Piero Antinori and Warren Winiarski and Baroness Philippine de Rothschild
56 March 2014 | inspired
LUXURY WATCHES
Time is preciousA
t a recent watch auc-tion in Geneva at Antiquorum ndash the worldrsquos premiere auc-tion house for modern and vintage time pieces ndash a Patek Philippe
pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon watch emerged as the auctionrsquos top lot and sold for 12 million Swiss francs (pound807000)
Unlike most of the timepieces sold at auctions outside Asia this particular Patek watch ndash the most complicated wristwatch the Swiss watchmaker has ever produced ndash was not a vintage model
That Geneva auction raised intriguing
1284Clocks with weights gears and regulators start to appear mostly with no dial to strike the important moments of daily life
Around 1410The mainspring is devel-oped Combined with the fusee this innovation makes possible the truly portable domestic clock
1492The mechanical watch appears simultaneously in Italy Germany and France
1675Christian Huygens invents the spiral balance spring
for watches significantly improving their accuracy
1704The first watch with jew-els is produced by French watchmaker de Beaufreacute
1714The British parliament offers pound20000 to who-ever can a find a method to determine longitude
1766Parliament publishes the rating results for John Harrisonrsquos H4 marine timekeeper Harrisonrsquos highly accurate marine clock solution to the problem of determining logitude wins him part of the pound20000 prize
1787Pierre-Freacutedeacuteric Ingold is born an important pio-neer in mechanised timepiece production and the use of interchangea-ble parts
1790Jacquet-Droz and Leschot manufactures a watch attached to a strap
1839Vacheron amp Constantin developes a full set of machine tools for manu-facturing its watches
1875Calcium sulphate is the first luminescent sub-stance to be used for numerals and hands
TIMEKEEPING MILESTONES
questions Are modern luxury timepieces every bit as appealing as the vintage watches that typically command top prices at auc-tion And does that Geneva auction tell us anything about the contemporary watch market as a whole
Julien Schaerer Antiquorumrsquos managing director in Geneva says top-quality vintage watches often appreciate in value over the long term But he urges buyers for whom appreciation is an important consideration to be cautious about purchasing contempo-rary watches
lsquoWatch price depreciation is the cost of ownership just as it is with a luxury carrsquo he says lsquoIf the value goes up then
58 March 2014 | inspired
1880The first water- resistant watch incorpo-rating a screwed case is produced by Genevan watchmaker Franccedilois Borgel
1889The first known patent for a wristwatch is filed in Bern Switzerland
1890Dialmaker A Beyeler invents a transfer press for applying numerals and letters to dials
1892Auguste Verneuil in France produces the first synthetic jewels to be used in watchmaking
1904Wens Wilsdorf launches large-scale production of a womenrsquos wristwatch
1924John Harwood files the
first Swiss patent for a self-winding wristwatch with a central oscillating weight
1925The first known wrist-watch with a perpetual calendar is manufactured using a pendant watch movement
1926Rolex creates the Oyster wristwatch with a water-resistant case and crown
1966The first quartz wrist-watch prototype is produced
1969The first quartz watch
with an LED display appears
1978Quartz watches overtake mechanical watches in popularity
2005Creation of the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie Seiko launches the spring drive Kinetic the first self-winding mechanical watch with an electro-magnetic escapement
A Patek Philippe pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon recently sold for pound807000
inspired | March 2014 59
online retailers from the comfort of your homeSince 2006 DM London has quietly estab-
lished a powerful presence for itself in the UK retail watch market with the acquisition of The Watch Hut and The Watch Gallery DM London chairman David Coleridge says the company has capitalised on the increasing willingness of buy-ers to purchase online
lsquoHaving decided that they would like to buy a watch for themselves or someone elsersquo he says lsquopeople start to do their research More often than not this starts online nowadays where they com-pare brands performance and functions
lsquoAs trust in the online marketplace has devel-oped many want to buy online because it is convenient and saves time Shopping online becomes a habit established sites build trust and awareness with customers which gives custom-ers the confidence to buy more expensive itemsrsquo
He adds lsquoOur challenge is to make the online environment as attractive informative and enjoy-able as a high street store Then customers will decide to spend onlinersquo
Coleridge believes a multi-channel approach is the way forward for retailers He says lsquoWithout doubt the future is multi-channel selling ndash a combination of direct selling on the internet and various forms of click and collect ndash combined with beautiful stores on the high street
Over the past few years demand for luxury watches (particularly contemporary models) has spiked sharply in Asia and according to some specialists emerging affluence in the
of course thatrsquos an added benefit However he adds lsquoPrice appreciation is still quite rare with modern watches There is some poten-tial for appreciation but probably only with ultra-limited editions A purchase has to be
seen as a medium- to long-term invest-ment One should buy a timepiece first out of love for the brand or [the watchrsquos] complicationrsquo
The watch brands that offer the greatest assurance of appreci-
ation include Cartier Patek Philippe Rolex Audemars
Piguet A Lange amp Sohne Breguet and Vacheron Constantin All enjoy views from the top of
the watchmaking hierarchy thanks to their longstand-ing histories and well-established brand identities
Relative new-comers to the industry such as Richard Mille and Roger Dubuis have carved out a niche for
themselves with their revolutionary designs and
space-age technologies but it remains to be seen just how well the values of their timepieces will stand up on the secondary market
According to Nathaniel Borgelt a specialist at auction house Sothebyrsquos
some modern watches have already achieved good prices at auction but these (like the Patek Philippe Sky Moon Tourbillon) were highly exclusive models when new
lsquoSome limited edition pieces currently fetch incredible prices at auctionrsquo he says lsquoAnd there is a select group of modern mod-els that could compete with a certain sector of the vintage market based on their brand innovative features such as materials or com-plications and avant-garde designs
Buying these has now become a whole lot easier The luxury watch retailing land-scape is changing and the traditional pattern of physically walking into a luxury salon to buy a watch is gradually being replaced by a trend towards visiting the websites of the big
LUXURY WATCHES
A Lange amp Sohne (above) is a long-standing high-end watchmaker Comparative new-comer Roger Dubuis (right) is forging a strong reputation
inspired | March 2014 PB60 March 2014 | inspired
helpthewatchgallerycom
Hublot ClassiC FusiontHe WatCH Gallery exClusive
The Watch Gallery and Hublot have joined forces to create two very special limited edition watches Both are limited to just 15 pieces worldwide and have been specifically designed to feature The Watch Gallery blue brand colour on the hands and tinted open case back
SelfridgeS OxfOrd StreetWeStfield lOndOnMancheSter exchange Square
wwwthewatchgallerycomhublot-watches
Far East has kept global values strong while other markets around the world continue to recover from recession
Despite the market boost from growing prosperity in Asia there are signs that the market is becoming saturated and that globally the new watch market isnrsquot as robust as some commentators suggest
It may still be a good time to buy but its important to know what you want and what yoursquore buying Modern watchmakers such as Richard Mille Roger Dubuis and Greubel Forsey are producing beautiful timepieces but because of their limited foothold in the market itrsquos difficult to predict their long-term success and desirability They donrsquot yet have the brand power that might ensure the value of their
watches in the secondhand market remains highSuch producers might one day stand eye to
eye with the most desirable brands such as Patek Philippe and Rolex but achieving that kind of parity wonrsquot be easy Collectors looking to invest in timepieces are advised to keep an open mind about modern producers uncertainty is the one aspect of modern luxury watch market most experts tend to agree on
That said the buoyancy in the watch market suggests that plenty of buyers are unconcerned about future values For them itrsquos all about the appreciation of the watch itself People buy watches because they bring them pleasure ndash and say some-thing about who they are
LUXURY WATCHES
Contemporary watches such as those made by Hublot (left) have yet to show they will have the lasting appeal of watches such as Cartierrsquos Rotonde de Cartier Astrocalendaire (right)
inspired | March 2014 63
- inspirep01
- inspirep02
- inspirep03
- inspirep04
- inspirep05
- inspirep06
- inspirep07
- inspirep08
- inspirep09
- inspirep10
- inspirep11
- inspirep12
- inspirep13
- inspirep14
- inspirep15
- inspirep16
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- inspirep19
- inspirep20
- inspirep21
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- inspirep25
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- inspirep28
- inspirep29
- inspirep30
- inspirep31
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- inspirep33
- inspirep34
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- inspirep39
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- inspirep63
-
CARS
52 March 2014 | inspired
From front to back the bodywork is manifestly differ-ent and much more aggressive looking than a standard 4-Series car It really looks to pretty much pick up where the E92E93 M3 coupe left off especially with its undeniably cool domed hood Wide wheel arches big wheels wrapped in low-profile tyres more than enough M badges and a well-executed double-bubble roof make the already underwhelming existing 4-Series coupe look even more pedestrian
Power for the new M4 is likely to come from a three-litre twin-turbo straight-six engine While the horsepower probably wonrsquot differ much from the M3rsquos old 4-litre V-8 it will generate more than 100lbft more in torque almost 400 in total With the M4 being a lighter 3300lb in weight the M4 promises to be an excit-ing worthy car A proper six-speed manual may be in the mix alongside the now obligatory dual clutch and paddles option
The best way to look at the M4 however it ends up is not as a new car but as a new and improved M3 thatrsquos just getting a new name The decision to rename the coupe is a strange one but thankfully BMW apparently felt the 3-Series coupe had made such an identity for itself that a new model was needed albeit in a slightly different incarnation
With BMW embarking on some new-ageish ideas such as its 1-Series ActiveE and the soon-to-arrive lsquoirsquo range of cars itrsquos nice to see the company also stick to classics such as the heart-stopping sports coupe even if the latest model does come with a new name
Seductive curves and racier performance make the BMW M4 a more than acceptable replacement for the M3 super coupe
SparklingForm Coloured diamonds are making their mark
One of the main factors that deter-mines the value of what we ordinarily think of as diamonds is their purity the degree to which col-our is absent in the gem However with coloured diamonds the extent to which they are saturated with
colour is a principal determinant of their valueColoured diamonds come in 12 basic colours more
than 90 secondary hues and nine intensity levels The depth of their colour is what really differentiates these diamonds from their colourless counterparts
Natural coloured diamonds are 10000 times rarer than typical colourless diamonds one of several rea-sons why they are treasured by the rich and famous yet remain unknown to most other people ndash despite hav-ing been around for centuries
Of course some colours are rarer than others Red violet and purple stones are as rare as the proverbial hensrsquo teeth while green and blue are also rare The most popular colours are pink and yellow (or canary) They also come in white grey orange black and lsquochame-leonrsquo form
A pinkie ring encrusted with a large coloured dia-mond has become a status symbol for men in Asia That little stone is an unregistered asset that could quickly be sold for millions of dollars should the need arise
Coloured diamonds are durable and never lose their sparkle or lustre so they are assets that can be enjoyed every day unlike stocks or bonds And they have proved to be fantastic investments having steadily appreciated in price with relatively little volatility for more than a decade They even held their own during the most recent financial crisis
Coloured diamonds are auctioned by reputable
auction houses such a Sothebyrsquos and Christiersquos where prices for large unique pink red blue or yellow stones can reach in excess of $2 million (pound12 million) a carat and other stones regularly sell for $1 million a carat
They are often bought by high-net-worth individu-als as an insurance policy Instead of stashing cash in undeclared bank accounts and potentially incurring the wrath of the authorities the wealthy can purchase some loose yellow diamonds to secure their future
Clearly coloured diamonds are much more than a magnificent indulgence
GEMS
inspired | March 2014 53PB March 2014 | inspired
WINE
Make the most of the deeply
satisfying Malbec wines emerging from Argentina
and perhaps even enjoy a return on a shrewd
investment says Ewan Lacey
Finding a red wine to enjoy in spring is a delicate balancing act The shock of seeing sunlight after a dark winter fosters in us a desire to drink some-thing refreshing while the still-cool temperatures demand something with comforting depth
Increasingly Malbec wines particularly those from Argentina provide a perfect solution to this quandary And while there are plenty of delicious wines for infor-mal occasions what is most interesting is the emergence of finer Malbec wines Some are so good they may well have ageing potential raising the intriguing possibility that the wine may one day become collectable
Malbec is the most popular wine among those aged 25-34 and is now becoming a fixture on most restaurant wine lists There are several reasons for its success the word Malbec is easy to pronounce the wine goes well with red meat the Malbec grape can be turned into wines that are both relatively easy to drink and packed with flavour and decent wines are available at reason-able prices Malbec is deep fruity and charming and it delivers instant pleasure ndash claret on a motorbike
The Malbec grape originated in France and it remains one of the permitted varieties used to make Bordeaux However it has gained prominence through the work of the post-junta Argentine wine industry
I recently had the pleasure of tasting some very fine Malbecs with Laura Catena managing director at the Catena Zapata winery and president of the International Wine and Spirit Competition She opened my
Mendoza Marvels
inspired | March 2014 55
WINE
eyes to the potential of this grape variety when handled with care
Laurarsquos family business makes a range of wines but the wine that truly astonished me was the Nicasia Vineyard Malbec 2006 The wine is perfumed with floral and fruit notes and it is smooth and soft at first Like all great wines it has many layers of flavour warm bursts of cherry and black-currant cede centre stage to deeper darker caramel and mocha notes and a touch of spice Therersquos an amazing depth of flavour and the finish is long and lingering Whatrsquos more at nearly eight years old it still has a slight purple tinge and tastes extremely fresh There is every indication that it will age beautifully for at least another decade
The winersquos character is heavily influenced by the alti-tude the grapes used to make it are grown at (1180m
above sea level) At this elevation the grapes ripen in bright sun but lsquorelaxrsquo during the cool evenings The fact that the wine is made in tiny quantities (eight barrels only) means every care can be taken during the winemak-ing process to ensure the wine is allowed to show its grown-up side The cost per bot-tle of pound70 is not insubstantial but neither is the wine
We cannot know whether these wines will ever become investments in the way the wines of Bordeaux have Whatrsquos cer-tain is that Malbec wines have a very rare quality a balance of finesse and power that
can delight wine lovers and linger in their memories
Ewan Lacey is a leading wine expert and general manager of the International Wine and Spirit Competition He has appeared on BBC television and radio as well as Channel 4 and written for the national press
Laura Catena is managing director at the Catena Zapata winery (above)
THE INTERNATIONAL WINE AND SPIRIT COMPETITIONThe International Wine and Spirit Competition has been the premier drinks competition in the world for 45 years Each year it receives and reviews thousands of wines and spirits and presents qual-ity awards to producers
More than anything the IWSC exists to help
people make better deci-sions particularly when buying wines and spirits An IWSC award on a bot-tle of wine is a guarantee
of quality backed not only by a rigorous and strin-gent judging process but also by the skill of the judges who are drawn from the ranks of masters of wine master distill-ers industry leaders and commentators
Each year the IWSC honours a leading figure
in the drinks industry with the presidency of the competition The current president is Laura Catena who succeeds a nota-ble line of predecessors including Prince Robert of Luxembourg winemakers Piero Antinori and Warren Winiarski and Baroness Philippine de Rothschild
56 March 2014 | inspired
LUXURY WATCHES
Time is preciousA
t a recent watch auc-tion in Geneva at Antiquorum ndash the worldrsquos premiere auc-tion house for modern and vintage time pieces ndash a Patek Philippe
pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon watch emerged as the auctionrsquos top lot and sold for 12 million Swiss francs (pound807000)
Unlike most of the timepieces sold at auctions outside Asia this particular Patek watch ndash the most complicated wristwatch the Swiss watchmaker has ever produced ndash was not a vintage model
That Geneva auction raised intriguing
1284Clocks with weights gears and regulators start to appear mostly with no dial to strike the important moments of daily life
Around 1410The mainspring is devel-oped Combined with the fusee this innovation makes possible the truly portable domestic clock
1492The mechanical watch appears simultaneously in Italy Germany and France
1675Christian Huygens invents the spiral balance spring
for watches significantly improving their accuracy
1704The first watch with jew-els is produced by French watchmaker de Beaufreacute
1714The British parliament offers pound20000 to who-ever can a find a method to determine longitude
1766Parliament publishes the rating results for John Harrisonrsquos H4 marine timekeeper Harrisonrsquos highly accurate marine clock solution to the problem of determining logitude wins him part of the pound20000 prize
1787Pierre-Freacutedeacuteric Ingold is born an important pio-neer in mechanised timepiece production and the use of interchangea-ble parts
1790Jacquet-Droz and Leschot manufactures a watch attached to a strap
1839Vacheron amp Constantin developes a full set of machine tools for manu-facturing its watches
1875Calcium sulphate is the first luminescent sub-stance to be used for numerals and hands
TIMEKEEPING MILESTONES
questions Are modern luxury timepieces every bit as appealing as the vintage watches that typically command top prices at auc-tion And does that Geneva auction tell us anything about the contemporary watch market as a whole
Julien Schaerer Antiquorumrsquos managing director in Geneva says top-quality vintage watches often appreciate in value over the long term But he urges buyers for whom appreciation is an important consideration to be cautious about purchasing contempo-rary watches
lsquoWatch price depreciation is the cost of ownership just as it is with a luxury carrsquo he says lsquoIf the value goes up then
58 March 2014 | inspired
1880The first water- resistant watch incorpo-rating a screwed case is produced by Genevan watchmaker Franccedilois Borgel
1889The first known patent for a wristwatch is filed in Bern Switzerland
1890Dialmaker A Beyeler invents a transfer press for applying numerals and letters to dials
1892Auguste Verneuil in France produces the first synthetic jewels to be used in watchmaking
1904Wens Wilsdorf launches large-scale production of a womenrsquos wristwatch
1924John Harwood files the
first Swiss patent for a self-winding wristwatch with a central oscillating weight
1925The first known wrist-watch with a perpetual calendar is manufactured using a pendant watch movement
1926Rolex creates the Oyster wristwatch with a water-resistant case and crown
1966The first quartz wrist-watch prototype is produced
1969The first quartz watch
with an LED display appears
1978Quartz watches overtake mechanical watches in popularity
2005Creation of the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie Seiko launches the spring drive Kinetic the first self-winding mechanical watch with an electro-magnetic escapement
A Patek Philippe pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon recently sold for pound807000
inspired | March 2014 59
online retailers from the comfort of your homeSince 2006 DM London has quietly estab-
lished a powerful presence for itself in the UK retail watch market with the acquisition of The Watch Hut and The Watch Gallery DM London chairman David Coleridge says the company has capitalised on the increasing willingness of buy-ers to purchase online
lsquoHaving decided that they would like to buy a watch for themselves or someone elsersquo he says lsquopeople start to do their research More often than not this starts online nowadays where they com-pare brands performance and functions
lsquoAs trust in the online marketplace has devel-oped many want to buy online because it is convenient and saves time Shopping online becomes a habit established sites build trust and awareness with customers which gives custom-ers the confidence to buy more expensive itemsrsquo
He adds lsquoOur challenge is to make the online environment as attractive informative and enjoy-able as a high street store Then customers will decide to spend onlinersquo
Coleridge believes a multi-channel approach is the way forward for retailers He says lsquoWithout doubt the future is multi-channel selling ndash a combination of direct selling on the internet and various forms of click and collect ndash combined with beautiful stores on the high street
Over the past few years demand for luxury watches (particularly contemporary models) has spiked sharply in Asia and according to some specialists emerging affluence in the
of course thatrsquos an added benefit However he adds lsquoPrice appreciation is still quite rare with modern watches There is some poten-tial for appreciation but probably only with ultra-limited editions A purchase has to be
seen as a medium- to long-term invest-ment One should buy a timepiece first out of love for the brand or [the watchrsquos] complicationrsquo
The watch brands that offer the greatest assurance of appreci-
ation include Cartier Patek Philippe Rolex Audemars
Piguet A Lange amp Sohne Breguet and Vacheron Constantin All enjoy views from the top of
the watchmaking hierarchy thanks to their longstand-ing histories and well-established brand identities
Relative new-comers to the industry such as Richard Mille and Roger Dubuis have carved out a niche for
themselves with their revolutionary designs and
space-age technologies but it remains to be seen just how well the values of their timepieces will stand up on the secondary market
According to Nathaniel Borgelt a specialist at auction house Sothebyrsquos
some modern watches have already achieved good prices at auction but these (like the Patek Philippe Sky Moon Tourbillon) were highly exclusive models when new
lsquoSome limited edition pieces currently fetch incredible prices at auctionrsquo he says lsquoAnd there is a select group of modern mod-els that could compete with a certain sector of the vintage market based on their brand innovative features such as materials or com-plications and avant-garde designs
Buying these has now become a whole lot easier The luxury watch retailing land-scape is changing and the traditional pattern of physically walking into a luxury salon to buy a watch is gradually being replaced by a trend towards visiting the websites of the big
LUXURY WATCHES
A Lange amp Sohne (above) is a long-standing high-end watchmaker Comparative new-comer Roger Dubuis (right) is forging a strong reputation
inspired | March 2014 PB60 March 2014 | inspired
helpthewatchgallerycom
Hublot ClassiC FusiontHe WatCH Gallery exClusive
The Watch Gallery and Hublot have joined forces to create two very special limited edition watches Both are limited to just 15 pieces worldwide and have been specifically designed to feature The Watch Gallery blue brand colour on the hands and tinted open case back
SelfridgeS OxfOrd StreetWeStfield lOndOnMancheSter exchange Square
wwwthewatchgallerycomhublot-watches
Far East has kept global values strong while other markets around the world continue to recover from recession
Despite the market boost from growing prosperity in Asia there are signs that the market is becoming saturated and that globally the new watch market isnrsquot as robust as some commentators suggest
It may still be a good time to buy but its important to know what you want and what yoursquore buying Modern watchmakers such as Richard Mille Roger Dubuis and Greubel Forsey are producing beautiful timepieces but because of their limited foothold in the market itrsquos difficult to predict their long-term success and desirability They donrsquot yet have the brand power that might ensure the value of their
watches in the secondhand market remains highSuch producers might one day stand eye to
eye with the most desirable brands such as Patek Philippe and Rolex but achieving that kind of parity wonrsquot be easy Collectors looking to invest in timepieces are advised to keep an open mind about modern producers uncertainty is the one aspect of modern luxury watch market most experts tend to agree on
That said the buoyancy in the watch market suggests that plenty of buyers are unconcerned about future values For them itrsquos all about the appreciation of the watch itself People buy watches because they bring them pleasure ndash and say some-thing about who they are
LUXURY WATCHES
Contemporary watches such as those made by Hublot (left) have yet to show they will have the lasting appeal of watches such as Cartierrsquos Rotonde de Cartier Astrocalendaire (right)
inspired | March 2014 63
- inspirep01
- inspirep02
- inspirep03
- inspirep04
- inspirep05
- inspirep06
- inspirep07
- inspirep08
- inspirep09
- inspirep10
- inspirep11
- inspirep12
- inspirep13
- inspirep14
- inspirep15
- inspirep16
- inspirep17
- inspirep18
- inspirep19
- inspirep20
- inspirep21
- inspirep22
- inspirep23
- inspirep24
- inspirep25
- inspirep26
- inspirep27
- inspirep28
- inspirep29
- inspirep30
- inspirep31
- inspirep32
- inspirep33
- inspirep34
- inspirep35
- inspirep36
- inspirep37
- inspirep38
- inspirep39
- inspirep40
- inspirep41
- inspirep42
- inspirep43
- inspirep44
- inspirep45
- inspirep46
- inspirep47
- inspirep48
- inspirep49
- inspirep50
- inspirep51
- inspirep52
- inspirep53
- inspirep54
- inspirep55
- inspirep56
- inspirep57
- inspirep58
- inspirep59
- inspirep60
- inspirep61
- inspirep62
- inspirep63
-
SparklingForm Coloured diamonds are making their mark
One of the main factors that deter-mines the value of what we ordinarily think of as diamonds is their purity the degree to which col-our is absent in the gem However with coloured diamonds the extent to which they are saturated with
colour is a principal determinant of their valueColoured diamonds come in 12 basic colours more
than 90 secondary hues and nine intensity levels The depth of their colour is what really differentiates these diamonds from their colourless counterparts
Natural coloured diamonds are 10000 times rarer than typical colourless diamonds one of several rea-sons why they are treasured by the rich and famous yet remain unknown to most other people ndash despite hav-ing been around for centuries
Of course some colours are rarer than others Red violet and purple stones are as rare as the proverbial hensrsquo teeth while green and blue are also rare The most popular colours are pink and yellow (or canary) They also come in white grey orange black and lsquochame-leonrsquo form
A pinkie ring encrusted with a large coloured dia-mond has become a status symbol for men in Asia That little stone is an unregistered asset that could quickly be sold for millions of dollars should the need arise
Coloured diamonds are durable and never lose their sparkle or lustre so they are assets that can be enjoyed every day unlike stocks or bonds And they have proved to be fantastic investments having steadily appreciated in price with relatively little volatility for more than a decade They even held their own during the most recent financial crisis
Coloured diamonds are auctioned by reputable
auction houses such a Sothebyrsquos and Christiersquos where prices for large unique pink red blue or yellow stones can reach in excess of $2 million (pound12 million) a carat and other stones regularly sell for $1 million a carat
They are often bought by high-net-worth individu-als as an insurance policy Instead of stashing cash in undeclared bank accounts and potentially incurring the wrath of the authorities the wealthy can purchase some loose yellow diamonds to secure their future
Clearly coloured diamonds are much more than a magnificent indulgence
GEMS
inspired | March 2014 53PB March 2014 | inspired
WINE
Make the most of the deeply
satisfying Malbec wines emerging from Argentina
and perhaps even enjoy a return on a shrewd
investment says Ewan Lacey
Finding a red wine to enjoy in spring is a delicate balancing act The shock of seeing sunlight after a dark winter fosters in us a desire to drink some-thing refreshing while the still-cool temperatures demand something with comforting depth
Increasingly Malbec wines particularly those from Argentina provide a perfect solution to this quandary And while there are plenty of delicious wines for infor-mal occasions what is most interesting is the emergence of finer Malbec wines Some are so good they may well have ageing potential raising the intriguing possibility that the wine may one day become collectable
Malbec is the most popular wine among those aged 25-34 and is now becoming a fixture on most restaurant wine lists There are several reasons for its success the word Malbec is easy to pronounce the wine goes well with red meat the Malbec grape can be turned into wines that are both relatively easy to drink and packed with flavour and decent wines are available at reason-able prices Malbec is deep fruity and charming and it delivers instant pleasure ndash claret on a motorbike
The Malbec grape originated in France and it remains one of the permitted varieties used to make Bordeaux However it has gained prominence through the work of the post-junta Argentine wine industry
I recently had the pleasure of tasting some very fine Malbecs with Laura Catena managing director at the Catena Zapata winery and president of the International Wine and Spirit Competition She opened my
Mendoza Marvels
inspired | March 2014 55
WINE
eyes to the potential of this grape variety when handled with care
Laurarsquos family business makes a range of wines but the wine that truly astonished me was the Nicasia Vineyard Malbec 2006 The wine is perfumed with floral and fruit notes and it is smooth and soft at first Like all great wines it has many layers of flavour warm bursts of cherry and black-currant cede centre stage to deeper darker caramel and mocha notes and a touch of spice Therersquos an amazing depth of flavour and the finish is long and lingering Whatrsquos more at nearly eight years old it still has a slight purple tinge and tastes extremely fresh There is every indication that it will age beautifully for at least another decade
The winersquos character is heavily influenced by the alti-tude the grapes used to make it are grown at (1180m
above sea level) At this elevation the grapes ripen in bright sun but lsquorelaxrsquo during the cool evenings The fact that the wine is made in tiny quantities (eight barrels only) means every care can be taken during the winemak-ing process to ensure the wine is allowed to show its grown-up side The cost per bot-tle of pound70 is not insubstantial but neither is the wine
We cannot know whether these wines will ever become investments in the way the wines of Bordeaux have Whatrsquos cer-tain is that Malbec wines have a very rare quality a balance of finesse and power that
can delight wine lovers and linger in their memories
Ewan Lacey is a leading wine expert and general manager of the International Wine and Spirit Competition He has appeared on BBC television and radio as well as Channel 4 and written for the national press
Laura Catena is managing director at the Catena Zapata winery (above)
THE INTERNATIONAL WINE AND SPIRIT COMPETITIONThe International Wine and Spirit Competition has been the premier drinks competition in the world for 45 years Each year it receives and reviews thousands of wines and spirits and presents qual-ity awards to producers
More than anything the IWSC exists to help
people make better deci-sions particularly when buying wines and spirits An IWSC award on a bot-tle of wine is a guarantee
of quality backed not only by a rigorous and strin-gent judging process but also by the skill of the judges who are drawn from the ranks of masters of wine master distill-ers industry leaders and commentators
Each year the IWSC honours a leading figure
in the drinks industry with the presidency of the competition The current president is Laura Catena who succeeds a nota-ble line of predecessors including Prince Robert of Luxembourg winemakers Piero Antinori and Warren Winiarski and Baroness Philippine de Rothschild
56 March 2014 | inspired
LUXURY WATCHES
Time is preciousA
t a recent watch auc-tion in Geneva at Antiquorum ndash the worldrsquos premiere auc-tion house for modern and vintage time pieces ndash a Patek Philippe
pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon watch emerged as the auctionrsquos top lot and sold for 12 million Swiss francs (pound807000)
Unlike most of the timepieces sold at auctions outside Asia this particular Patek watch ndash the most complicated wristwatch the Swiss watchmaker has ever produced ndash was not a vintage model
That Geneva auction raised intriguing
1284Clocks with weights gears and regulators start to appear mostly with no dial to strike the important moments of daily life
Around 1410The mainspring is devel-oped Combined with the fusee this innovation makes possible the truly portable domestic clock
1492The mechanical watch appears simultaneously in Italy Germany and France
1675Christian Huygens invents the spiral balance spring
for watches significantly improving their accuracy
1704The first watch with jew-els is produced by French watchmaker de Beaufreacute
1714The British parliament offers pound20000 to who-ever can a find a method to determine longitude
1766Parliament publishes the rating results for John Harrisonrsquos H4 marine timekeeper Harrisonrsquos highly accurate marine clock solution to the problem of determining logitude wins him part of the pound20000 prize
1787Pierre-Freacutedeacuteric Ingold is born an important pio-neer in mechanised timepiece production and the use of interchangea-ble parts
1790Jacquet-Droz and Leschot manufactures a watch attached to a strap
1839Vacheron amp Constantin developes a full set of machine tools for manu-facturing its watches
1875Calcium sulphate is the first luminescent sub-stance to be used for numerals and hands
TIMEKEEPING MILESTONES
questions Are modern luxury timepieces every bit as appealing as the vintage watches that typically command top prices at auc-tion And does that Geneva auction tell us anything about the contemporary watch market as a whole
Julien Schaerer Antiquorumrsquos managing director in Geneva says top-quality vintage watches often appreciate in value over the long term But he urges buyers for whom appreciation is an important consideration to be cautious about purchasing contempo-rary watches
lsquoWatch price depreciation is the cost of ownership just as it is with a luxury carrsquo he says lsquoIf the value goes up then
58 March 2014 | inspired
1880The first water- resistant watch incorpo-rating a screwed case is produced by Genevan watchmaker Franccedilois Borgel
1889The first known patent for a wristwatch is filed in Bern Switzerland
1890Dialmaker A Beyeler invents a transfer press for applying numerals and letters to dials
1892Auguste Verneuil in France produces the first synthetic jewels to be used in watchmaking
1904Wens Wilsdorf launches large-scale production of a womenrsquos wristwatch
1924John Harwood files the
first Swiss patent for a self-winding wristwatch with a central oscillating weight
1925The first known wrist-watch with a perpetual calendar is manufactured using a pendant watch movement
1926Rolex creates the Oyster wristwatch with a water-resistant case and crown
1966The first quartz wrist-watch prototype is produced
1969The first quartz watch
with an LED display appears
1978Quartz watches overtake mechanical watches in popularity
2005Creation of the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie Seiko launches the spring drive Kinetic the first self-winding mechanical watch with an electro-magnetic escapement
A Patek Philippe pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon recently sold for pound807000
inspired | March 2014 59
online retailers from the comfort of your homeSince 2006 DM London has quietly estab-
lished a powerful presence for itself in the UK retail watch market with the acquisition of The Watch Hut and The Watch Gallery DM London chairman David Coleridge says the company has capitalised on the increasing willingness of buy-ers to purchase online
lsquoHaving decided that they would like to buy a watch for themselves or someone elsersquo he says lsquopeople start to do their research More often than not this starts online nowadays where they com-pare brands performance and functions
lsquoAs trust in the online marketplace has devel-oped many want to buy online because it is convenient and saves time Shopping online becomes a habit established sites build trust and awareness with customers which gives custom-ers the confidence to buy more expensive itemsrsquo
He adds lsquoOur challenge is to make the online environment as attractive informative and enjoy-able as a high street store Then customers will decide to spend onlinersquo
Coleridge believes a multi-channel approach is the way forward for retailers He says lsquoWithout doubt the future is multi-channel selling ndash a combination of direct selling on the internet and various forms of click and collect ndash combined with beautiful stores on the high street
Over the past few years demand for luxury watches (particularly contemporary models) has spiked sharply in Asia and according to some specialists emerging affluence in the
of course thatrsquos an added benefit However he adds lsquoPrice appreciation is still quite rare with modern watches There is some poten-tial for appreciation but probably only with ultra-limited editions A purchase has to be
seen as a medium- to long-term invest-ment One should buy a timepiece first out of love for the brand or [the watchrsquos] complicationrsquo
The watch brands that offer the greatest assurance of appreci-
ation include Cartier Patek Philippe Rolex Audemars
Piguet A Lange amp Sohne Breguet and Vacheron Constantin All enjoy views from the top of
the watchmaking hierarchy thanks to their longstand-ing histories and well-established brand identities
Relative new-comers to the industry such as Richard Mille and Roger Dubuis have carved out a niche for
themselves with their revolutionary designs and
space-age technologies but it remains to be seen just how well the values of their timepieces will stand up on the secondary market
According to Nathaniel Borgelt a specialist at auction house Sothebyrsquos
some modern watches have already achieved good prices at auction but these (like the Patek Philippe Sky Moon Tourbillon) were highly exclusive models when new
lsquoSome limited edition pieces currently fetch incredible prices at auctionrsquo he says lsquoAnd there is a select group of modern mod-els that could compete with a certain sector of the vintage market based on their brand innovative features such as materials or com-plications and avant-garde designs
Buying these has now become a whole lot easier The luxury watch retailing land-scape is changing and the traditional pattern of physically walking into a luxury salon to buy a watch is gradually being replaced by a trend towards visiting the websites of the big
LUXURY WATCHES
A Lange amp Sohne (above) is a long-standing high-end watchmaker Comparative new-comer Roger Dubuis (right) is forging a strong reputation
inspired | March 2014 PB60 March 2014 | inspired
helpthewatchgallerycom
Hublot ClassiC FusiontHe WatCH Gallery exClusive
The Watch Gallery and Hublot have joined forces to create two very special limited edition watches Both are limited to just 15 pieces worldwide and have been specifically designed to feature The Watch Gallery blue brand colour on the hands and tinted open case back
SelfridgeS OxfOrd StreetWeStfield lOndOnMancheSter exchange Square
wwwthewatchgallerycomhublot-watches
Far East has kept global values strong while other markets around the world continue to recover from recession
Despite the market boost from growing prosperity in Asia there are signs that the market is becoming saturated and that globally the new watch market isnrsquot as robust as some commentators suggest
It may still be a good time to buy but its important to know what you want and what yoursquore buying Modern watchmakers such as Richard Mille Roger Dubuis and Greubel Forsey are producing beautiful timepieces but because of their limited foothold in the market itrsquos difficult to predict their long-term success and desirability They donrsquot yet have the brand power that might ensure the value of their
watches in the secondhand market remains highSuch producers might one day stand eye to
eye with the most desirable brands such as Patek Philippe and Rolex but achieving that kind of parity wonrsquot be easy Collectors looking to invest in timepieces are advised to keep an open mind about modern producers uncertainty is the one aspect of modern luxury watch market most experts tend to agree on
That said the buoyancy in the watch market suggests that plenty of buyers are unconcerned about future values For them itrsquos all about the appreciation of the watch itself People buy watches because they bring them pleasure ndash and say some-thing about who they are
LUXURY WATCHES
Contemporary watches such as those made by Hublot (left) have yet to show they will have the lasting appeal of watches such as Cartierrsquos Rotonde de Cartier Astrocalendaire (right)
inspired | March 2014 63
- inspirep01
- inspirep02
- inspirep03
- inspirep04
- inspirep05
- inspirep06
- inspirep07
- inspirep08
- inspirep09
- inspirep10
- inspirep11
- inspirep12
- inspirep13
- inspirep14
- inspirep15
- inspirep16
- inspirep17
- inspirep18
- inspirep19
- inspirep20
- inspirep21
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- inspirep25
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- inspirep30
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-
WINE
Make the most of the deeply
satisfying Malbec wines emerging from Argentina
and perhaps even enjoy a return on a shrewd
investment says Ewan Lacey
Finding a red wine to enjoy in spring is a delicate balancing act The shock of seeing sunlight after a dark winter fosters in us a desire to drink some-thing refreshing while the still-cool temperatures demand something with comforting depth
Increasingly Malbec wines particularly those from Argentina provide a perfect solution to this quandary And while there are plenty of delicious wines for infor-mal occasions what is most interesting is the emergence of finer Malbec wines Some are so good they may well have ageing potential raising the intriguing possibility that the wine may one day become collectable
Malbec is the most popular wine among those aged 25-34 and is now becoming a fixture on most restaurant wine lists There are several reasons for its success the word Malbec is easy to pronounce the wine goes well with red meat the Malbec grape can be turned into wines that are both relatively easy to drink and packed with flavour and decent wines are available at reason-able prices Malbec is deep fruity and charming and it delivers instant pleasure ndash claret on a motorbike
The Malbec grape originated in France and it remains one of the permitted varieties used to make Bordeaux However it has gained prominence through the work of the post-junta Argentine wine industry
I recently had the pleasure of tasting some very fine Malbecs with Laura Catena managing director at the Catena Zapata winery and president of the International Wine and Spirit Competition She opened my
Mendoza Marvels
inspired | March 2014 55
WINE
eyes to the potential of this grape variety when handled with care
Laurarsquos family business makes a range of wines but the wine that truly astonished me was the Nicasia Vineyard Malbec 2006 The wine is perfumed with floral and fruit notes and it is smooth and soft at first Like all great wines it has many layers of flavour warm bursts of cherry and black-currant cede centre stage to deeper darker caramel and mocha notes and a touch of spice Therersquos an amazing depth of flavour and the finish is long and lingering Whatrsquos more at nearly eight years old it still has a slight purple tinge and tastes extremely fresh There is every indication that it will age beautifully for at least another decade
The winersquos character is heavily influenced by the alti-tude the grapes used to make it are grown at (1180m
above sea level) At this elevation the grapes ripen in bright sun but lsquorelaxrsquo during the cool evenings The fact that the wine is made in tiny quantities (eight barrels only) means every care can be taken during the winemak-ing process to ensure the wine is allowed to show its grown-up side The cost per bot-tle of pound70 is not insubstantial but neither is the wine
We cannot know whether these wines will ever become investments in the way the wines of Bordeaux have Whatrsquos cer-tain is that Malbec wines have a very rare quality a balance of finesse and power that
can delight wine lovers and linger in their memories
Ewan Lacey is a leading wine expert and general manager of the International Wine and Spirit Competition He has appeared on BBC television and radio as well as Channel 4 and written for the national press
Laura Catena is managing director at the Catena Zapata winery (above)
THE INTERNATIONAL WINE AND SPIRIT COMPETITIONThe International Wine and Spirit Competition has been the premier drinks competition in the world for 45 years Each year it receives and reviews thousands of wines and spirits and presents qual-ity awards to producers
More than anything the IWSC exists to help
people make better deci-sions particularly when buying wines and spirits An IWSC award on a bot-tle of wine is a guarantee
of quality backed not only by a rigorous and strin-gent judging process but also by the skill of the judges who are drawn from the ranks of masters of wine master distill-ers industry leaders and commentators
Each year the IWSC honours a leading figure
in the drinks industry with the presidency of the competition The current president is Laura Catena who succeeds a nota-ble line of predecessors including Prince Robert of Luxembourg winemakers Piero Antinori and Warren Winiarski and Baroness Philippine de Rothschild
56 March 2014 | inspired
LUXURY WATCHES
Time is preciousA
t a recent watch auc-tion in Geneva at Antiquorum ndash the worldrsquos premiere auc-tion house for modern and vintage time pieces ndash a Patek Philippe
pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon watch emerged as the auctionrsquos top lot and sold for 12 million Swiss francs (pound807000)
Unlike most of the timepieces sold at auctions outside Asia this particular Patek watch ndash the most complicated wristwatch the Swiss watchmaker has ever produced ndash was not a vintage model
That Geneva auction raised intriguing
1284Clocks with weights gears and regulators start to appear mostly with no dial to strike the important moments of daily life
Around 1410The mainspring is devel-oped Combined with the fusee this innovation makes possible the truly portable domestic clock
1492The mechanical watch appears simultaneously in Italy Germany and France
1675Christian Huygens invents the spiral balance spring
for watches significantly improving their accuracy
1704The first watch with jew-els is produced by French watchmaker de Beaufreacute
1714The British parliament offers pound20000 to who-ever can a find a method to determine longitude
1766Parliament publishes the rating results for John Harrisonrsquos H4 marine timekeeper Harrisonrsquos highly accurate marine clock solution to the problem of determining logitude wins him part of the pound20000 prize
1787Pierre-Freacutedeacuteric Ingold is born an important pio-neer in mechanised timepiece production and the use of interchangea-ble parts
1790Jacquet-Droz and Leschot manufactures a watch attached to a strap
1839Vacheron amp Constantin developes a full set of machine tools for manu-facturing its watches
1875Calcium sulphate is the first luminescent sub-stance to be used for numerals and hands
TIMEKEEPING MILESTONES
questions Are modern luxury timepieces every bit as appealing as the vintage watches that typically command top prices at auc-tion And does that Geneva auction tell us anything about the contemporary watch market as a whole
Julien Schaerer Antiquorumrsquos managing director in Geneva says top-quality vintage watches often appreciate in value over the long term But he urges buyers for whom appreciation is an important consideration to be cautious about purchasing contempo-rary watches
lsquoWatch price depreciation is the cost of ownership just as it is with a luxury carrsquo he says lsquoIf the value goes up then
58 March 2014 | inspired
1880The first water- resistant watch incorpo-rating a screwed case is produced by Genevan watchmaker Franccedilois Borgel
1889The first known patent for a wristwatch is filed in Bern Switzerland
1890Dialmaker A Beyeler invents a transfer press for applying numerals and letters to dials
1892Auguste Verneuil in France produces the first synthetic jewels to be used in watchmaking
1904Wens Wilsdorf launches large-scale production of a womenrsquos wristwatch
1924John Harwood files the
first Swiss patent for a self-winding wristwatch with a central oscillating weight
1925The first known wrist-watch with a perpetual calendar is manufactured using a pendant watch movement
1926Rolex creates the Oyster wristwatch with a water-resistant case and crown
1966The first quartz wrist-watch prototype is produced
1969The first quartz watch
with an LED display appears
1978Quartz watches overtake mechanical watches in popularity
2005Creation of the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie Seiko launches the spring drive Kinetic the first self-winding mechanical watch with an electro-magnetic escapement
A Patek Philippe pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon recently sold for pound807000
inspired | March 2014 59
online retailers from the comfort of your homeSince 2006 DM London has quietly estab-
lished a powerful presence for itself in the UK retail watch market with the acquisition of The Watch Hut and The Watch Gallery DM London chairman David Coleridge says the company has capitalised on the increasing willingness of buy-ers to purchase online
lsquoHaving decided that they would like to buy a watch for themselves or someone elsersquo he says lsquopeople start to do their research More often than not this starts online nowadays where they com-pare brands performance and functions
lsquoAs trust in the online marketplace has devel-oped many want to buy online because it is convenient and saves time Shopping online becomes a habit established sites build trust and awareness with customers which gives custom-ers the confidence to buy more expensive itemsrsquo
He adds lsquoOur challenge is to make the online environment as attractive informative and enjoy-able as a high street store Then customers will decide to spend onlinersquo
Coleridge believes a multi-channel approach is the way forward for retailers He says lsquoWithout doubt the future is multi-channel selling ndash a combination of direct selling on the internet and various forms of click and collect ndash combined with beautiful stores on the high street
Over the past few years demand for luxury watches (particularly contemporary models) has spiked sharply in Asia and according to some specialists emerging affluence in the
of course thatrsquos an added benefit However he adds lsquoPrice appreciation is still quite rare with modern watches There is some poten-tial for appreciation but probably only with ultra-limited editions A purchase has to be
seen as a medium- to long-term invest-ment One should buy a timepiece first out of love for the brand or [the watchrsquos] complicationrsquo
The watch brands that offer the greatest assurance of appreci-
ation include Cartier Patek Philippe Rolex Audemars
Piguet A Lange amp Sohne Breguet and Vacheron Constantin All enjoy views from the top of
the watchmaking hierarchy thanks to their longstand-ing histories and well-established brand identities
Relative new-comers to the industry such as Richard Mille and Roger Dubuis have carved out a niche for
themselves with their revolutionary designs and
space-age technologies but it remains to be seen just how well the values of their timepieces will stand up on the secondary market
According to Nathaniel Borgelt a specialist at auction house Sothebyrsquos
some modern watches have already achieved good prices at auction but these (like the Patek Philippe Sky Moon Tourbillon) were highly exclusive models when new
lsquoSome limited edition pieces currently fetch incredible prices at auctionrsquo he says lsquoAnd there is a select group of modern mod-els that could compete with a certain sector of the vintage market based on their brand innovative features such as materials or com-plications and avant-garde designs
Buying these has now become a whole lot easier The luxury watch retailing land-scape is changing and the traditional pattern of physically walking into a luxury salon to buy a watch is gradually being replaced by a trend towards visiting the websites of the big
LUXURY WATCHES
A Lange amp Sohne (above) is a long-standing high-end watchmaker Comparative new-comer Roger Dubuis (right) is forging a strong reputation
inspired | March 2014 PB60 March 2014 | inspired
helpthewatchgallerycom
Hublot ClassiC FusiontHe WatCH Gallery exClusive
The Watch Gallery and Hublot have joined forces to create two very special limited edition watches Both are limited to just 15 pieces worldwide and have been specifically designed to feature The Watch Gallery blue brand colour on the hands and tinted open case back
SelfridgeS OxfOrd StreetWeStfield lOndOnMancheSter exchange Square
wwwthewatchgallerycomhublot-watches
Far East has kept global values strong while other markets around the world continue to recover from recession
Despite the market boost from growing prosperity in Asia there are signs that the market is becoming saturated and that globally the new watch market isnrsquot as robust as some commentators suggest
It may still be a good time to buy but its important to know what you want and what yoursquore buying Modern watchmakers such as Richard Mille Roger Dubuis and Greubel Forsey are producing beautiful timepieces but because of their limited foothold in the market itrsquos difficult to predict their long-term success and desirability They donrsquot yet have the brand power that might ensure the value of their
watches in the secondhand market remains highSuch producers might one day stand eye to
eye with the most desirable brands such as Patek Philippe and Rolex but achieving that kind of parity wonrsquot be easy Collectors looking to invest in timepieces are advised to keep an open mind about modern producers uncertainty is the one aspect of modern luxury watch market most experts tend to agree on
That said the buoyancy in the watch market suggests that plenty of buyers are unconcerned about future values For them itrsquos all about the appreciation of the watch itself People buy watches because they bring them pleasure ndash and say some-thing about who they are
LUXURY WATCHES
Contemporary watches such as those made by Hublot (left) have yet to show they will have the lasting appeal of watches such as Cartierrsquos Rotonde de Cartier Astrocalendaire (right)
inspired | March 2014 63
- inspirep01
- inspirep02
- inspirep03
- inspirep04
- inspirep05
- inspirep06
- inspirep07
- inspirep08
- inspirep09
- inspirep10
- inspirep11
- inspirep12
- inspirep13
- inspirep14
- inspirep15
- inspirep16
- inspirep17
- inspirep18
- inspirep19
- inspirep20
- inspirep21
- inspirep22
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- inspirep38
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- inspirep40
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- inspirep61
- inspirep62
- inspirep63
-
Make the most of the deeply
satisfying Malbec wines emerging from Argentina
and perhaps even enjoy a return on a shrewd
investment says Ewan Lacey
Finding a red wine to enjoy in spring is a delicate balancing act The shock of seeing sunlight after a dark winter fosters in us a desire to drink some-thing refreshing while the still-cool temperatures demand something with comforting depth
Increasingly Malbec wines particularly those from Argentina provide a perfect solution to this quandary And while there are plenty of delicious wines for infor-mal occasions what is most interesting is the emergence of finer Malbec wines Some are so good they may well have ageing potential raising the intriguing possibility that the wine may one day become collectable
Malbec is the most popular wine among those aged 25-34 and is now becoming a fixture on most restaurant wine lists There are several reasons for its success the word Malbec is easy to pronounce the wine goes well with red meat the Malbec grape can be turned into wines that are both relatively easy to drink and packed with flavour and decent wines are available at reason-able prices Malbec is deep fruity and charming and it delivers instant pleasure ndash claret on a motorbike
The Malbec grape originated in France and it remains one of the permitted varieties used to make Bordeaux However it has gained prominence through the work of the post-junta Argentine wine industry
I recently had the pleasure of tasting some very fine Malbecs with Laura Catena managing director at the Catena Zapata winery and president of the International Wine and Spirit Competition She opened my
Mendoza Marvels
inspired | March 2014 55
WINE
eyes to the potential of this grape variety when handled with care
Laurarsquos family business makes a range of wines but the wine that truly astonished me was the Nicasia Vineyard Malbec 2006 The wine is perfumed with floral and fruit notes and it is smooth and soft at first Like all great wines it has many layers of flavour warm bursts of cherry and black-currant cede centre stage to deeper darker caramel and mocha notes and a touch of spice Therersquos an amazing depth of flavour and the finish is long and lingering Whatrsquos more at nearly eight years old it still has a slight purple tinge and tastes extremely fresh There is every indication that it will age beautifully for at least another decade
The winersquos character is heavily influenced by the alti-tude the grapes used to make it are grown at (1180m
above sea level) At this elevation the grapes ripen in bright sun but lsquorelaxrsquo during the cool evenings The fact that the wine is made in tiny quantities (eight barrels only) means every care can be taken during the winemak-ing process to ensure the wine is allowed to show its grown-up side The cost per bot-tle of pound70 is not insubstantial but neither is the wine
We cannot know whether these wines will ever become investments in the way the wines of Bordeaux have Whatrsquos cer-tain is that Malbec wines have a very rare quality a balance of finesse and power that
can delight wine lovers and linger in their memories
Ewan Lacey is a leading wine expert and general manager of the International Wine and Spirit Competition He has appeared on BBC television and radio as well as Channel 4 and written for the national press
Laura Catena is managing director at the Catena Zapata winery (above)
THE INTERNATIONAL WINE AND SPIRIT COMPETITIONThe International Wine and Spirit Competition has been the premier drinks competition in the world for 45 years Each year it receives and reviews thousands of wines and spirits and presents qual-ity awards to producers
More than anything the IWSC exists to help
people make better deci-sions particularly when buying wines and spirits An IWSC award on a bot-tle of wine is a guarantee
of quality backed not only by a rigorous and strin-gent judging process but also by the skill of the judges who are drawn from the ranks of masters of wine master distill-ers industry leaders and commentators
Each year the IWSC honours a leading figure
in the drinks industry with the presidency of the competition The current president is Laura Catena who succeeds a nota-ble line of predecessors including Prince Robert of Luxembourg winemakers Piero Antinori and Warren Winiarski and Baroness Philippine de Rothschild
56 March 2014 | inspired
LUXURY WATCHES
Time is preciousA
t a recent watch auc-tion in Geneva at Antiquorum ndash the worldrsquos premiere auc-tion house for modern and vintage time pieces ndash a Patek Philippe
pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon watch emerged as the auctionrsquos top lot and sold for 12 million Swiss francs (pound807000)
Unlike most of the timepieces sold at auctions outside Asia this particular Patek watch ndash the most complicated wristwatch the Swiss watchmaker has ever produced ndash was not a vintage model
That Geneva auction raised intriguing
1284Clocks with weights gears and regulators start to appear mostly with no dial to strike the important moments of daily life
Around 1410The mainspring is devel-oped Combined with the fusee this innovation makes possible the truly portable domestic clock
1492The mechanical watch appears simultaneously in Italy Germany and France
1675Christian Huygens invents the spiral balance spring
for watches significantly improving their accuracy
1704The first watch with jew-els is produced by French watchmaker de Beaufreacute
1714The British parliament offers pound20000 to who-ever can a find a method to determine longitude
1766Parliament publishes the rating results for John Harrisonrsquos H4 marine timekeeper Harrisonrsquos highly accurate marine clock solution to the problem of determining logitude wins him part of the pound20000 prize
1787Pierre-Freacutedeacuteric Ingold is born an important pio-neer in mechanised timepiece production and the use of interchangea-ble parts
1790Jacquet-Droz and Leschot manufactures a watch attached to a strap
1839Vacheron amp Constantin developes a full set of machine tools for manu-facturing its watches
1875Calcium sulphate is the first luminescent sub-stance to be used for numerals and hands
TIMEKEEPING MILESTONES
questions Are modern luxury timepieces every bit as appealing as the vintage watches that typically command top prices at auc-tion And does that Geneva auction tell us anything about the contemporary watch market as a whole
Julien Schaerer Antiquorumrsquos managing director in Geneva says top-quality vintage watches often appreciate in value over the long term But he urges buyers for whom appreciation is an important consideration to be cautious about purchasing contempo-rary watches
lsquoWatch price depreciation is the cost of ownership just as it is with a luxury carrsquo he says lsquoIf the value goes up then
58 March 2014 | inspired
1880The first water- resistant watch incorpo-rating a screwed case is produced by Genevan watchmaker Franccedilois Borgel
1889The first known patent for a wristwatch is filed in Bern Switzerland
1890Dialmaker A Beyeler invents a transfer press for applying numerals and letters to dials
1892Auguste Verneuil in France produces the first synthetic jewels to be used in watchmaking
1904Wens Wilsdorf launches large-scale production of a womenrsquos wristwatch
1924John Harwood files the
first Swiss patent for a self-winding wristwatch with a central oscillating weight
1925The first known wrist-watch with a perpetual calendar is manufactured using a pendant watch movement
1926Rolex creates the Oyster wristwatch with a water-resistant case and crown
1966The first quartz wrist-watch prototype is produced
1969The first quartz watch
with an LED display appears
1978Quartz watches overtake mechanical watches in popularity
2005Creation of the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie Seiko launches the spring drive Kinetic the first self-winding mechanical watch with an electro-magnetic escapement
A Patek Philippe pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon recently sold for pound807000
inspired | March 2014 59
online retailers from the comfort of your homeSince 2006 DM London has quietly estab-
lished a powerful presence for itself in the UK retail watch market with the acquisition of The Watch Hut and The Watch Gallery DM London chairman David Coleridge says the company has capitalised on the increasing willingness of buy-ers to purchase online
lsquoHaving decided that they would like to buy a watch for themselves or someone elsersquo he says lsquopeople start to do their research More often than not this starts online nowadays where they com-pare brands performance and functions
lsquoAs trust in the online marketplace has devel-oped many want to buy online because it is convenient and saves time Shopping online becomes a habit established sites build trust and awareness with customers which gives custom-ers the confidence to buy more expensive itemsrsquo
He adds lsquoOur challenge is to make the online environment as attractive informative and enjoy-able as a high street store Then customers will decide to spend onlinersquo
Coleridge believes a multi-channel approach is the way forward for retailers He says lsquoWithout doubt the future is multi-channel selling ndash a combination of direct selling on the internet and various forms of click and collect ndash combined with beautiful stores on the high street
Over the past few years demand for luxury watches (particularly contemporary models) has spiked sharply in Asia and according to some specialists emerging affluence in the
of course thatrsquos an added benefit However he adds lsquoPrice appreciation is still quite rare with modern watches There is some poten-tial for appreciation but probably only with ultra-limited editions A purchase has to be
seen as a medium- to long-term invest-ment One should buy a timepiece first out of love for the brand or [the watchrsquos] complicationrsquo
The watch brands that offer the greatest assurance of appreci-
ation include Cartier Patek Philippe Rolex Audemars
Piguet A Lange amp Sohne Breguet and Vacheron Constantin All enjoy views from the top of
the watchmaking hierarchy thanks to their longstand-ing histories and well-established brand identities
Relative new-comers to the industry such as Richard Mille and Roger Dubuis have carved out a niche for
themselves with their revolutionary designs and
space-age technologies but it remains to be seen just how well the values of their timepieces will stand up on the secondary market
According to Nathaniel Borgelt a specialist at auction house Sothebyrsquos
some modern watches have already achieved good prices at auction but these (like the Patek Philippe Sky Moon Tourbillon) were highly exclusive models when new
lsquoSome limited edition pieces currently fetch incredible prices at auctionrsquo he says lsquoAnd there is a select group of modern mod-els that could compete with a certain sector of the vintage market based on their brand innovative features such as materials or com-plications and avant-garde designs
Buying these has now become a whole lot easier The luxury watch retailing land-scape is changing and the traditional pattern of physically walking into a luxury salon to buy a watch is gradually being replaced by a trend towards visiting the websites of the big
LUXURY WATCHES
A Lange amp Sohne (above) is a long-standing high-end watchmaker Comparative new-comer Roger Dubuis (right) is forging a strong reputation
inspired | March 2014 PB60 March 2014 | inspired
helpthewatchgallerycom
Hublot ClassiC FusiontHe WatCH Gallery exClusive
The Watch Gallery and Hublot have joined forces to create two very special limited edition watches Both are limited to just 15 pieces worldwide and have been specifically designed to feature The Watch Gallery blue brand colour on the hands and tinted open case back
SelfridgeS OxfOrd StreetWeStfield lOndOnMancheSter exchange Square
wwwthewatchgallerycomhublot-watches
Far East has kept global values strong while other markets around the world continue to recover from recession
Despite the market boost from growing prosperity in Asia there are signs that the market is becoming saturated and that globally the new watch market isnrsquot as robust as some commentators suggest
It may still be a good time to buy but its important to know what you want and what yoursquore buying Modern watchmakers such as Richard Mille Roger Dubuis and Greubel Forsey are producing beautiful timepieces but because of their limited foothold in the market itrsquos difficult to predict their long-term success and desirability They donrsquot yet have the brand power that might ensure the value of their
watches in the secondhand market remains highSuch producers might one day stand eye to
eye with the most desirable brands such as Patek Philippe and Rolex but achieving that kind of parity wonrsquot be easy Collectors looking to invest in timepieces are advised to keep an open mind about modern producers uncertainty is the one aspect of modern luxury watch market most experts tend to agree on
That said the buoyancy in the watch market suggests that plenty of buyers are unconcerned about future values For them itrsquos all about the appreciation of the watch itself People buy watches because they bring them pleasure ndash and say some-thing about who they are
LUXURY WATCHES
Contemporary watches such as those made by Hublot (left) have yet to show they will have the lasting appeal of watches such as Cartierrsquos Rotonde de Cartier Astrocalendaire (right)
inspired | March 2014 63
- inspirep01
- inspirep02
- inspirep03
- inspirep04
- inspirep05
- inspirep06
- inspirep07
- inspirep08
- inspirep09
- inspirep10
- inspirep11
- inspirep12
- inspirep13
- inspirep14
- inspirep15
- inspirep16
- inspirep17
- inspirep18
- inspirep19
- inspirep20
- inspirep21
- inspirep22
- inspirep23
- inspirep24
- inspirep25
- inspirep26
- inspirep27
- inspirep28
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-
WINE
eyes to the potential of this grape variety when handled with care
Laurarsquos family business makes a range of wines but the wine that truly astonished me was the Nicasia Vineyard Malbec 2006 The wine is perfumed with floral and fruit notes and it is smooth and soft at first Like all great wines it has many layers of flavour warm bursts of cherry and black-currant cede centre stage to deeper darker caramel and mocha notes and a touch of spice Therersquos an amazing depth of flavour and the finish is long and lingering Whatrsquos more at nearly eight years old it still has a slight purple tinge and tastes extremely fresh There is every indication that it will age beautifully for at least another decade
The winersquos character is heavily influenced by the alti-tude the grapes used to make it are grown at (1180m
above sea level) At this elevation the grapes ripen in bright sun but lsquorelaxrsquo during the cool evenings The fact that the wine is made in tiny quantities (eight barrels only) means every care can be taken during the winemak-ing process to ensure the wine is allowed to show its grown-up side The cost per bot-tle of pound70 is not insubstantial but neither is the wine
We cannot know whether these wines will ever become investments in the way the wines of Bordeaux have Whatrsquos cer-tain is that Malbec wines have a very rare quality a balance of finesse and power that
can delight wine lovers and linger in their memories
Ewan Lacey is a leading wine expert and general manager of the International Wine and Spirit Competition He has appeared on BBC television and radio as well as Channel 4 and written for the national press
Laura Catena is managing director at the Catena Zapata winery (above)
THE INTERNATIONAL WINE AND SPIRIT COMPETITIONThe International Wine and Spirit Competition has been the premier drinks competition in the world for 45 years Each year it receives and reviews thousands of wines and spirits and presents qual-ity awards to producers
More than anything the IWSC exists to help
people make better deci-sions particularly when buying wines and spirits An IWSC award on a bot-tle of wine is a guarantee
of quality backed not only by a rigorous and strin-gent judging process but also by the skill of the judges who are drawn from the ranks of masters of wine master distill-ers industry leaders and commentators
Each year the IWSC honours a leading figure
in the drinks industry with the presidency of the competition The current president is Laura Catena who succeeds a nota-ble line of predecessors including Prince Robert of Luxembourg winemakers Piero Antinori and Warren Winiarski and Baroness Philippine de Rothschild
56 March 2014 | inspired
LUXURY WATCHES
Time is preciousA
t a recent watch auc-tion in Geneva at Antiquorum ndash the worldrsquos premiere auc-tion house for modern and vintage time pieces ndash a Patek Philippe
pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon watch emerged as the auctionrsquos top lot and sold for 12 million Swiss francs (pound807000)
Unlike most of the timepieces sold at auctions outside Asia this particular Patek watch ndash the most complicated wristwatch the Swiss watchmaker has ever produced ndash was not a vintage model
That Geneva auction raised intriguing
1284Clocks with weights gears and regulators start to appear mostly with no dial to strike the important moments of daily life
Around 1410The mainspring is devel-oped Combined with the fusee this innovation makes possible the truly portable domestic clock
1492The mechanical watch appears simultaneously in Italy Germany and France
1675Christian Huygens invents the spiral balance spring
for watches significantly improving their accuracy
1704The first watch with jew-els is produced by French watchmaker de Beaufreacute
1714The British parliament offers pound20000 to who-ever can a find a method to determine longitude
1766Parliament publishes the rating results for John Harrisonrsquos H4 marine timekeeper Harrisonrsquos highly accurate marine clock solution to the problem of determining logitude wins him part of the pound20000 prize
1787Pierre-Freacutedeacuteric Ingold is born an important pio-neer in mechanised timepiece production and the use of interchangea-ble parts
1790Jacquet-Droz and Leschot manufactures a watch attached to a strap
1839Vacheron amp Constantin developes a full set of machine tools for manu-facturing its watches
1875Calcium sulphate is the first luminescent sub-stance to be used for numerals and hands
TIMEKEEPING MILESTONES
questions Are modern luxury timepieces every bit as appealing as the vintage watches that typically command top prices at auc-tion And does that Geneva auction tell us anything about the contemporary watch market as a whole
Julien Schaerer Antiquorumrsquos managing director in Geneva says top-quality vintage watches often appreciate in value over the long term But he urges buyers for whom appreciation is an important consideration to be cautious about purchasing contempo-rary watches
lsquoWatch price depreciation is the cost of ownership just as it is with a luxury carrsquo he says lsquoIf the value goes up then
58 March 2014 | inspired
1880The first water- resistant watch incorpo-rating a screwed case is produced by Genevan watchmaker Franccedilois Borgel
1889The first known patent for a wristwatch is filed in Bern Switzerland
1890Dialmaker A Beyeler invents a transfer press for applying numerals and letters to dials
1892Auguste Verneuil in France produces the first synthetic jewels to be used in watchmaking
1904Wens Wilsdorf launches large-scale production of a womenrsquos wristwatch
1924John Harwood files the
first Swiss patent for a self-winding wristwatch with a central oscillating weight
1925The first known wrist-watch with a perpetual calendar is manufactured using a pendant watch movement
1926Rolex creates the Oyster wristwatch with a water-resistant case and crown
1966The first quartz wrist-watch prototype is produced
1969The first quartz watch
with an LED display appears
1978Quartz watches overtake mechanical watches in popularity
2005Creation of the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie Seiko launches the spring drive Kinetic the first self-winding mechanical watch with an electro-magnetic escapement
A Patek Philippe pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon recently sold for pound807000
inspired | March 2014 59
online retailers from the comfort of your homeSince 2006 DM London has quietly estab-
lished a powerful presence for itself in the UK retail watch market with the acquisition of The Watch Hut and The Watch Gallery DM London chairman David Coleridge says the company has capitalised on the increasing willingness of buy-ers to purchase online
lsquoHaving decided that they would like to buy a watch for themselves or someone elsersquo he says lsquopeople start to do their research More often than not this starts online nowadays where they com-pare brands performance and functions
lsquoAs trust in the online marketplace has devel-oped many want to buy online because it is convenient and saves time Shopping online becomes a habit established sites build trust and awareness with customers which gives custom-ers the confidence to buy more expensive itemsrsquo
He adds lsquoOur challenge is to make the online environment as attractive informative and enjoy-able as a high street store Then customers will decide to spend onlinersquo
Coleridge believes a multi-channel approach is the way forward for retailers He says lsquoWithout doubt the future is multi-channel selling ndash a combination of direct selling on the internet and various forms of click and collect ndash combined with beautiful stores on the high street
Over the past few years demand for luxury watches (particularly contemporary models) has spiked sharply in Asia and according to some specialists emerging affluence in the
of course thatrsquos an added benefit However he adds lsquoPrice appreciation is still quite rare with modern watches There is some poten-tial for appreciation but probably only with ultra-limited editions A purchase has to be
seen as a medium- to long-term invest-ment One should buy a timepiece first out of love for the brand or [the watchrsquos] complicationrsquo
The watch brands that offer the greatest assurance of appreci-
ation include Cartier Patek Philippe Rolex Audemars
Piguet A Lange amp Sohne Breguet and Vacheron Constantin All enjoy views from the top of
the watchmaking hierarchy thanks to their longstand-ing histories and well-established brand identities
Relative new-comers to the industry such as Richard Mille and Roger Dubuis have carved out a niche for
themselves with their revolutionary designs and
space-age technologies but it remains to be seen just how well the values of their timepieces will stand up on the secondary market
According to Nathaniel Borgelt a specialist at auction house Sothebyrsquos
some modern watches have already achieved good prices at auction but these (like the Patek Philippe Sky Moon Tourbillon) were highly exclusive models when new
lsquoSome limited edition pieces currently fetch incredible prices at auctionrsquo he says lsquoAnd there is a select group of modern mod-els that could compete with a certain sector of the vintage market based on their brand innovative features such as materials or com-plications and avant-garde designs
Buying these has now become a whole lot easier The luxury watch retailing land-scape is changing and the traditional pattern of physically walking into a luxury salon to buy a watch is gradually being replaced by a trend towards visiting the websites of the big
LUXURY WATCHES
A Lange amp Sohne (above) is a long-standing high-end watchmaker Comparative new-comer Roger Dubuis (right) is forging a strong reputation
inspired | March 2014 PB60 March 2014 | inspired
helpthewatchgallerycom
Hublot ClassiC FusiontHe WatCH Gallery exClusive
The Watch Gallery and Hublot have joined forces to create two very special limited edition watches Both are limited to just 15 pieces worldwide and have been specifically designed to feature The Watch Gallery blue brand colour on the hands and tinted open case back
SelfridgeS OxfOrd StreetWeStfield lOndOnMancheSter exchange Square
wwwthewatchgallerycomhublot-watches
Far East has kept global values strong while other markets around the world continue to recover from recession
Despite the market boost from growing prosperity in Asia there are signs that the market is becoming saturated and that globally the new watch market isnrsquot as robust as some commentators suggest
It may still be a good time to buy but its important to know what you want and what yoursquore buying Modern watchmakers such as Richard Mille Roger Dubuis and Greubel Forsey are producing beautiful timepieces but because of their limited foothold in the market itrsquos difficult to predict their long-term success and desirability They donrsquot yet have the brand power that might ensure the value of their
watches in the secondhand market remains highSuch producers might one day stand eye to
eye with the most desirable brands such as Patek Philippe and Rolex but achieving that kind of parity wonrsquot be easy Collectors looking to invest in timepieces are advised to keep an open mind about modern producers uncertainty is the one aspect of modern luxury watch market most experts tend to agree on
That said the buoyancy in the watch market suggests that plenty of buyers are unconcerned about future values For them itrsquos all about the appreciation of the watch itself People buy watches because they bring them pleasure ndash and say some-thing about who they are
LUXURY WATCHES
Contemporary watches such as those made by Hublot (left) have yet to show they will have the lasting appeal of watches such as Cartierrsquos Rotonde de Cartier Astrocalendaire (right)
inspired | March 2014 63
- inspirep01
- inspirep02
- inspirep03
- inspirep04
- inspirep05
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- inspirep62
- inspirep63
-
LUXURY WATCHES
Time is preciousA
t a recent watch auc-tion in Geneva at Antiquorum ndash the worldrsquos premiere auc-tion house for modern and vintage time pieces ndash a Patek Philippe
pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon watch emerged as the auctionrsquos top lot and sold for 12 million Swiss francs (pound807000)
Unlike most of the timepieces sold at auctions outside Asia this particular Patek watch ndash the most complicated wristwatch the Swiss watchmaker has ever produced ndash was not a vintage model
That Geneva auction raised intriguing
1284Clocks with weights gears and regulators start to appear mostly with no dial to strike the important moments of daily life
Around 1410The mainspring is devel-oped Combined with the fusee this innovation makes possible the truly portable domestic clock
1492The mechanical watch appears simultaneously in Italy Germany and France
1675Christian Huygens invents the spiral balance spring
for watches significantly improving their accuracy
1704The first watch with jew-els is produced by French watchmaker de Beaufreacute
1714The British parliament offers pound20000 to who-ever can a find a method to determine longitude
1766Parliament publishes the rating results for John Harrisonrsquos H4 marine timekeeper Harrisonrsquos highly accurate marine clock solution to the problem of determining logitude wins him part of the pound20000 prize
1787Pierre-Freacutedeacuteric Ingold is born an important pio-neer in mechanised timepiece production and the use of interchangea-ble parts
1790Jacquet-Droz and Leschot manufactures a watch attached to a strap
1839Vacheron amp Constantin developes a full set of machine tools for manu-facturing its watches
1875Calcium sulphate is the first luminescent sub-stance to be used for numerals and hands
TIMEKEEPING MILESTONES
questions Are modern luxury timepieces every bit as appealing as the vintage watches that typically command top prices at auc-tion And does that Geneva auction tell us anything about the contemporary watch market as a whole
Julien Schaerer Antiquorumrsquos managing director in Geneva says top-quality vintage watches often appreciate in value over the long term But he urges buyers for whom appreciation is an important consideration to be cautious about purchasing contempo-rary watches
lsquoWatch price depreciation is the cost of ownership just as it is with a luxury carrsquo he says lsquoIf the value goes up then
58 March 2014 | inspired
1880The first water- resistant watch incorpo-rating a screwed case is produced by Genevan watchmaker Franccedilois Borgel
1889The first known patent for a wristwatch is filed in Bern Switzerland
1890Dialmaker A Beyeler invents a transfer press for applying numerals and letters to dials
1892Auguste Verneuil in France produces the first synthetic jewels to be used in watchmaking
1904Wens Wilsdorf launches large-scale production of a womenrsquos wristwatch
1924John Harwood files the
first Swiss patent for a self-winding wristwatch with a central oscillating weight
1925The first known wrist-watch with a perpetual calendar is manufactured using a pendant watch movement
1926Rolex creates the Oyster wristwatch with a water-resistant case and crown
1966The first quartz wrist-watch prototype is produced
1969The first quartz watch
with an LED display appears
1978Quartz watches overtake mechanical watches in popularity
2005Creation of the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie Seiko launches the spring drive Kinetic the first self-winding mechanical watch with an electro-magnetic escapement
A Patek Philippe pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon recently sold for pound807000
inspired | March 2014 59
online retailers from the comfort of your homeSince 2006 DM London has quietly estab-
lished a powerful presence for itself in the UK retail watch market with the acquisition of The Watch Hut and The Watch Gallery DM London chairman David Coleridge says the company has capitalised on the increasing willingness of buy-ers to purchase online
lsquoHaving decided that they would like to buy a watch for themselves or someone elsersquo he says lsquopeople start to do their research More often than not this starts online nowadays where they com-pare brands performance and functions
lsquoAs trust in the online marketplace has devel-oped many want to buy online because it is convenient and saves time Shopping online becomes a habit established sites build trust and awareness with customers which gives custom-ers the confidence to buy more expensive itemsrsquo
He adds lsquoOur challenge is to make the online environment as attractive informative and enjoy-able as a high street store Then customers will decide to spend onlinersquo
Coleridge believes a multi-channel approach is the way forward for retailers He says lsquoWithout doubt the future is multi-channel selling ndash a combination of direct selling on the internet and various forms of click and collect ndash combined with beautiful stores on the high street
Over the past few years demand for luxury watches (particularly contemporary models) has spiked sharply in Asia and according to some specialists emerging affluence in the
of course thatrsquos an added benefit However he adds lsquoPrice appreciation is still quite rare with modern watches There is some poten-tial for appreciation but probably only with ultra-limited editions A purchase has to be
seen as a medium- to long-term invest-ment One should buy a timepiece first out of love for the brand or [the watchrsquos] complicationrsquo
The watch brands that offer the greatest assurance of appreci-
ation include Cartier Patek Philippe Rolex Audemars
Piguet A Lange amp Sohne Breguet and Vacheron Constantin All enjoy views from the top of
the watchmaking hierarchy thanks to their longstand-ing histories and well-established brand identities
Relative new-comers to the industry such as Richard Mille and Roger Dubuis have carved out a niche for
themselves with their revolutionary designs and
space-age technologies but it remains to be seen just how well the values of their timepieces will stand up on the secondary market
According to Nathaniel Borgelt a specialist at auction house Sothebyrsquos
some modern watches have already achieved good prices at auction but these (like the Patek Philippe Sky Moon Tourbillon) were highly exclusive models when new
lsquoSome limited edition pieces currently fetch incredible prices at auctionrsquo he says lsquoAnd there is a select group of modern mod-els that could compete with a certain sector of the vintage market based on their brand innovative features such as materials or com-plications and avant-garde designs
Buying these has now become a whole lot easier The luxury watch retailing land-scape is changing and the traditional pattern of physically walking into a luxury salon to buy a watch is gradually being replaced by a trend towards visiting the websites of the big
LUXURY WATCHES
A Lange amp Sohne (above) is a long-standing high-end watchmaker Comparative new-comer Roger Dubuis (right) is forging a strong reputation
inspired | March 2014 PB60 March 2014 | inspired
helpthewatchgallerycom
Hublot ClassiC FusiontHe WatCH Gallery exClusive
The Watch Gallery and Hublot have joined forces to create two very special limited edition watches Both are limited to just 15 pieces worldwide and have been specifically designed to feature The Watch Gallery blue brand colour on the hands and tinted open case back
SelfridgeS OxfOrd StreetWeStfield lOndOnMancheSter exchange Square
wwwthewatchgallerycomhublot-watches
Far East has kept global values strong while other markets around the world continue to recover from recession
Despite the market boost from growing prosperity in Asia there are signs that the market is becoming saturated and that globally the new watch market isnrsquot as robust as some commentators suggest
It may still be a good time to buy but its important to know what you want and what yoursquore buying Modern watchmakers such as Richard Mille Roger Dubuis and Greubel Forsey are producing beautiful timepieces but because of their limited foothold in the market itrsquos difficult to predict their long-term success and desirability They donrsquot yet have the brand power that might ensure the value of their
watches in the secondhand market remains highSuch producers might one day stand eye to
eye with the most desirable brands such as Patek Philippe and Rolex but achieving that kind of parity wonrsquot be easy Collectors looking to invest in timepieces are advised to keep an open mind about modern producers uncertainty is the one aspect of modern luxury watch market most experts tend to agree on
That said the buoyancy in the watch market suggests that plenty of buyers are unconcerned about future values For them itrsquos all about the appreciation of the watch itself People buy watches because they bring them pleasure ndash and say some-thing about who they are
LUXURY WATCHES
Contemporary watches such as those made by Hublot (left) have yet to show they will have the lasting appeal of watches such as Cartierrsquos Rotonde de Cartier Astrocalendaire (right)
inspired | March 2014 63
- inspirep01
- inspirep02
- inspirep03
- inspirep04
- inspirep05
- inspirep06
- inspirep07
- inspirep08
- inspirep09
- inspirep10
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- inspirep61
- inspirep62
- inspirep63
-
1880The first water- resistant watch incorpo-rating a screwed case is produced by Genevan watchmaker Franccedilois Borgel
1889The first known patent for a wristwatch is filed in Bern Switzerland
1890Dialmaker A Beyeler invents a transfer press for applying numerals and letters to dials
1892Auguste Verneuil in France produces the first synthetic jewels to be used in watchmaking
1904Wens Wilsdorf launches large-scale production of a womenrsquos wristwatch
1924John Harwood files the
first Swiss patent for a self-winding wristwatch with a central oscillating weight
1925The first known wrist-watch with a perpetual calendar is manufactured using a pendant watch movement
1926Rolex creates the Oyster wristwatch with a water-resistant case and crown
1966The first quartz wrist-watch prototype is produced
1969The first quartz watch
with an LED display appears
1978Quartz watches overtake mechanical watches in popularity
2005Creation of the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie Seiko launches the spring drive Kinetic the first self-winding mechanical watch with an electro-magnetic escapement
A Patek Philippe pink-gold Sky Moon Tourbillon recently sold for pound807000
inspired | March 2014 59
online retailers from the comfort of your homeSince 2006 DM London has quietly estab-
lished a powerful presence for itself in the UK retail watch market with the acquisition of The Watch Hut and The Watch Gallery DM London chairman David Coleridge says the company has capitalised on the increasing willingness of buy-ers to purchase online
lsquoHaving decided that they would like to buy a watch for themselves or someone elsersquo he says lsquopeople start to do their research More often than not this starts online nowadays where they com-pare brands performance and functions
lsquoAs trust in the online marketplace has devel-oped many want to buy online because it is convenient and saves time Shopping online becomes a habit established sites build trust and awareness with customers which gives custom-ers the confidence to buy more expensive itemsrsquo
He adds lsquoOur challenge is to make the online environment as attractive informative and enjoy-able as a high street store Then customers will decide to spend onlinersquo
Coleridge believes a multi-channel approach is the way forward for retailers He says lsquoWithout doubt the future is multi-channel selling ndash a combination of direct selling on the internet and various forms of click and collect ndash combined with beautiful stores on the high street
Over the past few years demand for luxury watches (particularly contemporary models) has spiked sharply in Asia and according to some specialists emerging affluence in the
of course thatrsquos an added benefit However he adds lsquoPrice appreciation is still quite rare with modern watches There is some poten-tial for appreciation but probably only with ultra-limited editions A purchase has to be
seen as a medium- to long-term invest-ment One should buy a timepiece first out of love for the brand or [the watchrsquos] complicationrsquo
The watch brands that offer the greatest assurance of appreci-
ation include Cartier Patek Philippe Rolex Audemars
Piguet A Lange amp Sohne Breguet and Vacheron Constantin All enjoy views from the top of
the watchmaking hierarchy thanks to their longstand-ing histories and well-established brand identities
Relative new-comers to the industry such as Richard Mille and Roger Dubuis have carved out a niche for
themselves with their revolutionary designs and
space-age technologies but it remains to be seen just how well the values of their timepieces will stand up on the secondary market
According to Nathaniel Borgelt a specialist at auction house Sothebyrsquos
some modern watches have already achieved good prices at auction but these (like the Patek Philippe Sky Moon Tourbillon) were highly exclusive models when new
lsquoSome limited edition pieces currently fetch incredible prices at auctionrsquo he says lsquoAnd there is a select group of modern mod-els that could compete with a certain sector of the vintage market based on their brand innovative features such as materials or com-plications and avant-garde designs
Buying these has now become a whole lot easier The luxury watch retailing land-scape is changing and the traditional pattern of physically walking into a luxury salon to buy a watch is gradually being replaced by a trend towards visiting the websites of the big
LUXURY WATCHES
A Lange amp Sohne (above) is a long-standing high-end watchmaker Comparative new-comer Roger Dubuis (right) is forging a strong reputation
inspired | March 2014 PB60 March 2014 | inspired
helpthewatchgallerycom
Hublot ClassiC FusiontHe WatCH Gallery exClusive
The Watch Gallery and Hublot have joined forces to create two very special limited edition watches Both are limited to just 15 pieces worldwide and have been specifically designed to feature The Watch Gallery blue brand colour on the hands and tinted open case back
SelfridgeS OxfOrd StreetWeStfield lOndOnMancheSter exchange Square
wwwthewatchgallerycomhublot-watches
Far East has kept global values strong while other markets around the world continue to recover from recession
Despite the market boost from growing prosperity in Asia there are signs that the market is becoming saturated and that globally the new watch market isnrsquot as robust as some commentators suggest
It may still be a good time to buy but its important to know what you want and what yoursquore buying Modern watchmakers such as Richard Mille Roger Dubuis and Greubel Forsey are producing beautiful timepieces but because of their limited foothold in the market itrsquos difficult to predict their long-term success and desirability They donrsquot yet have the brand power that might ensure the value of their
watches in the secondhand market remains highSuch producers might one day stand eye to
eye with the most desirable brands such as Patek Philippe and Rolex but achieving that kind of parity wonrsquot be easy Collectors looking to invest in timepieces are advised to keep an open mind about modern producers uncertainty is the one aspect of modern luxury watch market most experts tend to agree on
That said the buoyancy in the watch market suggests that plenty of buyers are unconcerned about future values For them itrsquos all about the appreciation of the watch itself People buy watches because they bring them pleasure ndash and say some-thing about who they are
LUXURY WATCHES
Contemporary watches such as those made by Hublot (left) have yet to show they will have the lasting appeal of watches such as Cartierrsquos Rotonde de Cartier Astrocalendaire (right)
inspired | March 2014 63
- inspirep01
- inspirep02
- inspirep03
- inspirep04
- inspirep05
- inspirep06
- inspirep07
- inspirep08
- inspirep09
- inspirep10
- inspirep11
- inspirep12
- inspirep13
- inspirep14
- inspirep15
- inspirep16
- inspirep17
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- inspirep30
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- inspirep35
- inspirep36
- inspirep37
- inspirep38
- inspirep39
- inspirep40
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- inspirep43
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- inspirep46
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- inspirep56
- inspirep57
- inspirep58
- inspirep59
- inspirep60
- inspirep61
- inspirep62
- inspirep63
-
online retailers from the comfort of your homeSince 2006 DM London has quietly estab-
lished a powerful presence for itself in the UK retail watch market with the acquisition of The Watch Hut and The Watch Gallery DM London chairman David Coleridge says the company has capitalised on the increasing willingness of buy-ers to purchase online
lsquoHaving decided that they would like to buy a watch for themselves or someone elsersquo he says lsquopeople start to do their research More often than not this starts online nowadays where they com-pare brands performance and functions
lsquoAs trust in the online marketplace has devel-oped many want to buy online because it is convenient and saves time Shopping online becomes a habit established sites build trust and awareness with customers which gives custom-ers the confidence to buy more expensive itemsrsquo
He adds lsquoOur challenge is to make the online environment as attractive informative and enjoy-able as a high street store Then customers will decide to spend onlinersquo
Coleridge believes a multi-channel approach is the way forward for retailers He says lsquoWithout doubt the future is multi-channel selling ndash a combination of direct selling on the internet and various forms of click and collect ndash combined with beautiful stores on the high street
Over the past few years demand for luxury watches (particularly contemporary models) has spiked sharply in Asia and according to some specialists emerging affluence in the
of course thatrsquos an added benefit However he adds lsquoPrice appreciation is still quite rare with modern watches There is some poten-tial for appreciation but probably only with ultra-limited editions A purchase has to be
seen as a medium- to long-term invest-ment One should buy a timepiece first out of love for the brand or [the watchrsquos] complicationrsquo
The watch brands that offer the greatest assurance of appreci-
ation include Cartier Patek Philippe Rolex Audemars
Piguet A Lange amp Sohne Breguet and Vacheron Constantin All enjoy views from the top of
the watchmaking hierarchy thanks to their longstand-ing histories and well-established brand identities
Relative new-comers to the industry such as Richard Mille and Roger Dubuis have carved out a niche for
themselves with their revolutionary designs and
space-age technologies but it remains to be seen just how well the values of their timepieces will stand up on the secondary market
According to Nathaniel Borgelt a specialist at auction house Sothebyrsquos
some modern watches have already achieved good prices at auction but these (like the Patek Philippe Sky Moon Tourbillon) were highly exclusive models when new
lsquoSome limited edition pieces currently fetch incredible prices at auctionrsquo he says lsquoAnd there is a select group of modern mod-els that could compete with a certain sector of the vintage market based on their brand innovative features such as materials or com-plications and avant-garde designs
Buying these has now become a whole lot easier The luxury watch retailing land-scape is changing and the traditional pattern of physically walking into a luxury salon to buy a watch is gradually being replaced by a trend towards visiting the websites of the big
LUXURY WATCHES
A Lange amp Sohne (above) is a long-standing high-end watchmaker Comparative new-comer Roger Dubuis (right) is forging a strong reputation
inspired | March 2014 PB60 March 2014 | inspired
helpthewatchgallerycom
Hublot ClassiC FusiontHe WatCH Gallery exClusive
The Watch Gallery and Hublot have joined forces to create two very special limited edition watches Both are limited to just 15 pieces worldwide and have been specifically designed to feature The Watch Gallery blue brand colour on the hands and tinted open case back
SelfridgeS OxfOrd StreetWeStfield lOndOnMancheSter exchange Square
wwwthewatchgallerycomhublot-watches
Far East has kept global values strong while other markets around the world continue to recover from recession
Despite the market boost from growing prosperity in Asia there are signs that the market is becoming saturated and that globally the new watch market isnrsquot as robust as some commentators suggest
It may still be a good time to buy but its important to know what you want and what yoursquore buying Modern watchmakers such as Richard Mille Roger Dubuis and Greubel Forsey are producing beautiful timepieces but because of their limited foothold in the market itrsquos difficult to predict their long-term success and desirability They donrsquot yet have the brand power that might ensure the value of their
watches in the secondhand market remains highSuch producers might one day stand eye to
eye with the most desirable brands such as Patek Philippe and Rolex but achieving that kind of parity wonrsquot be easy Collectors looking to invest in timepieces are advised to keep an open mind about modern producers uncertainty is the one aspect of modern luxury watch market most experts tend to agree on
That said the buoyancy in the watch market suggests that plenty of buyers are unconcerned about future values For them itrsquos all about the appreciation of the watch itself People buy watches because they bring them pleasure ndash and say some-thing about who they are
LUXURY WATCHES
Contemporary watches such as those made by Hublot (left) have yet to show they will have the lasting appeal of watches such as Cartierrsquos Rotonde de Cartier Astrocalendaire (right)
inspired | March 2014 63
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-
helpthewatchgallerycom
Hublot ClassiC FusiontHe WatCH Gallery exClusive
The Watch Gallery and Hublot have joined forces to create two very special limited edition watches Both are limited to just 15 pieces worldwide and have been specifically designed to feature The Watch Gallery blue brand colour on the hands and tinted open case back
SelfridgeS OxfOrd StreetWeStfield lOndOnMancheSter exchange Square
wwwthewatchgallerycomhublot-watches
Far East has kept global values strong while other markets around the world continue to recover from recession
Despite the market boost from growing prosperity in Asia there are signs that the market is becoming saturated and that globally the new watch market isnrsquot as robust as some commentators suggest
It may still be a good time to buy but its important to know what you want and what yoursquore buying Modern watchmakers such as Richard Mille Roger Dubuis and Greubel Forsey are producing beautiful timepieces but because of their limited foothold in the market itrsquos difficult to predict their long-term success and desirability They donrsquot yet have the brand power that might ensure the value of their
watches in the secondhand market remains highSuch producers might one day stand eye to
eye with the most desirable brands such as Patek Philippe and Rolex but achieving that kind of parity wonrsquot be easy Collectors looking to invest in timepieces are advised to keep an open mind about modern producers uncertainty is the one aspect of modern luxury watch market most experts tend to agree on
That said the buoyancy in the watch market suggests that plenty of buyers are unconcerned about future values For them itrsquos all about the appreciation of the watch itself People buy watches because they bring them pleasure ndash and say some-thing about who they are
LUXURY WATCHES
Contemporary watches such as those made by Hublot (left) have yet to show they will have the lasting appeal of watches such as Cartierrsquos Rotonde de Cartier Astrocalendaire (right)
inspired | March 2014 63
- inspirep01
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- inspirep63
-
Far East has kept global values strong while other markets around the world continue to recover from recession
Despite the market boost from growing prosperity in Asia there are signs that the market is becoming saturated and that globally the new watch market isnrsquot as robust as some commentators suggest
It may still be a good time to buy but its important to know what you want and what yoursquore buying Modern watchmakers such as Richard Mille Roger Dubuis and Greubel Forsey are producing beautiful timepieces but because of their limited foothold in the market itrsquos difficult to predict their long-term success and desirability They donrsquot yet have the brand power that might ensure the value of their
watches in the secondhand market remains highSuch producers might one day stand eye to
eye with the most desirable brands such as Patek Philippe and Rolex but achieving that kind of parity wonrsquot be easy Collectors looking to invest in timepieces are advised to keep an open mind about modern producers uncertainty is the one aspect of modern luxury watch market most experts tend to agree on
That said the buoyancy in the watch market suggests that plenty of buyers are unconcerned about future values For them itrsquos all about the appreciation of the watch itself People buy watches because they bring them pleasure ndash and say some-thing about who they are
LUXURY WATCHES
Contemporary watches such as those made by Hublot (left) have yet to show they will have the lasting appeal of watches such as Cartierrsquos Rotonde de Cartier Astrocalendaire (right)
inspired | March 2014 63
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-
Contemporary watches such as those made by Hublot (left) have yet to show they will have the lasting appeal of watches such as Cartierrsquos Rotonde de Cartier Astrocalendaire (right)
inspired | March 2014 63
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