The risks of these investments

It’s important to understand that the potential benefits of VCT, EIS and BPR investments come with risks.

The value of an investment, and any income from it, can fall as well as rise, and investors may not get back the full amount they invest. The shares of unquoted companies and VCTs could fall or rise in value more than shares listed on the main market of the London Stock Exchange. They may also be harder to sell.

Tax treatment depends on individual circumstances and tax rules could change in the future. Tax relief depends on portfolio companies or the VCT maintaining their qualifying status.

Growing your business

Considering tax-efficient investments can lead to advising on new assets. A survey we commissioned suggests 40% of advisers have found recommending these investments has led to advising on client assets they hadn’t previously.

It also helps with client retention – 39% of advisers feel that recommending specialist tax-efficient investments has ensured they haven’t lost clients to other wealth managers.

In some cases, these investments can lead to conversations with the next generation, paving the way for a client’s beneficiaries to become future clients.

Gaining the right knowledge will help you recommend effective tax planning strategies and grow your business. Octopus can help you do this.

Sign up to the Octopus Online Show, airing on 21 September at 11:00 AM to learn more about tax-efficient investing and key planning opportunities that might exist in your client bank. Visit https://octopusinvestments.com/resources/webinars/tax-planning-show/

These investments are not suitable for everyone. Any recommendation should be based on a holistic review of your client's financial situation, objectives and needs. Issued by Octopus Investments Limited, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Registered office: 33 Holborn, London, EC1N 2HT. Registered in England and Wales No. 03942880. Issued: July 2021. CAM011169