This week's buys went through InvestEngine. I use different platforms for different parts of my portfolio — partly for FSCS protection diversification, partly because I like seeing how each platform works. This week it was InvestEngine's turn.
The main event: £200 into the Vanguard FTSE All-World UCITS ETF (VWRP). This is my 'own the world' holding — it covers developed and emerging markets across the globe in a single fund. Over 3,500 companies across 40+ countries. If you could only own one ETF (which I'm not recommending anyone do), this is the kind of fund people talk about.
The fee is 0.22% which is reasonable for global exposure. I use the accumulation version so dividends get reinvested automatically. I've held this for years and it's been a solid performer — but again, past performance means nothing for future returns.
The smaller buy: £100 into the iShares Core MSCI Europe UCITS ETF (IMEU). This is a tactical addition — I noticed my portfolio was very US-heavy (the S&P 500 ETFs dominate) and wanted to add a bit more European exposure. This ETF covers large and mid-cap companies across developed Europe.
Am I predicting Europe will outperform? Absolutely not. I have no idea what any market will do. This is about diversification, not forecasting. If the US continues to dominate, my S&P 500 holdings will carry the portfolio. If Europe has a good run, I'll benefit from having some exposure. I'm not trying to be clever — I'm spreading my bets across different regions. That's just what made sense for my portfolio, not a suggestion for anyone else.
The Europe ETF fee is 0.12% which is very reasonable. I'll probably add to this position gradually over the coming months rather than trying to build it up all at once.
Total for the week: £300 into two ETFs. One broad global tracker, one European top-up. Same approach I always take: buy, hold, and let time do the work. Whether that approach suits anyone else is entirely their call.
As always: this is what I did. Not what you should do. All investing carries risk. Do your own research.