How can we help more people to invest?

This episode of the AJ Bell Money & Markets Podcast explores the UK government's new campaign to encourage more people to invest, addressing common fears around complexity, risk, and lack of capital. Hosts Charlene Young and Dan Coatsworth discuss how simple, automated investing—such as through ISAs or workplace pensions—can be a powerful first step, even for those who feel overwhelmed. They emphasize that many people are already investing without realizing it, particularly through default pension funds. The episode also covers major financial developments, including Primark’s planned spin-off from Associated British Foods, Apple’s leadership transition with Tim Cook becoming Executive Chairman, and the launch of a TikTok-Visa debit card for content creators. Market impacts from the Middle East crisis, particularly on jet fuel prices and airline profitability, are examined through an interview with Bloomberg Intelligence’s Conroy Gaynor, who highlights risks of fuel shortages and the importance of hedging. Finally, James Flintoff from AJ Bell discusses fund performance in a turbulent first quarter, noting strong rebounds in energy, utilities, and emerging markets, driven by AI-related capex and inflation resilience in bond portfolios. The overarching message is that long-term investing, despite short-term volatility, remains a vital tool for wealth-building and economic participation.