Should you swap your star fund manager for a cheap tracker?

Jan 16, 06:33 PM

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Life isn't what it once was for star fund managers. The investment industry once thrived on big names but these widely recognisable figures are few and far between nowadays.

Two that remain are Terry Smith and Nick Train but their Fundsmith and Finsbury Growth & Income investors have had their patience tested by five years of underperformance compared to just sticking money in a cheap market tracker fund.

Both managers defended their approach this week, while offering their investors an apology of sorts.

So, is it time to swap your star fund manager for a cheap index fund, or are the stock pickers likely to be proved right in the end?

On this podcast, Georgie Frost, Helen Crane and Simon Lambert discuss the cult of the fund manager and whether it's had its day.

Meanwhile, The Chancellor wants to get more of us investing but MPs have looked into her plans to cut the cash Isa limit and said it's unlikely to lead more people to the UK stock market. That's exactly what most investment experts told the Chancellor before the Budget, so is there any chance of change of heart?

Parts of the London property market have been having a quiet house price crash, Georgie, Helen and Simon discuss what's going on and what kind of properties are affected.

The team also ask if cashback is worth it - and look at the deals that could cost you money.

And finally, if you want a cheap electric car runaround, what are your best options and what would it cost you?