The real challenge when choosing stocks is having no idea which of the thousands of stocks available would bring the highest return. But here are some tips that could help guide you in making wise choices:

• Establish the main purpose of your portfolio.
The main focus of most investors includes capital appreciation requirements, capital preservation and income. You can always decide which category to focus on so that you can narrow down your search before going into more detailed analysis.
• Keep yourself updated.
Trends in the market are ever changing and you need to keep your eyes open at all times. With the internet at your disposal, you can always read online financial news, print magazines and blogs. An informed investor is more likely to make a better judgment when choosing a stock.
• Choose companies wisely.
With money involved, it is of utmost importance that you analyze all angles thoroughly before deciding which company to invest in. By knowing more about a company’s investment metrics, you will be well on your way

Insurance fraud costs have increased by an estimated £1.9 billion this year, according to a new report released today. The report shows that insurance fraud is costing an average household of £44 annually in higher insurance premiums.
According to insurers, around £5.2 million of fraudulent claims go undetected every day in the UK. This is 24% rise compared with just two years ago.

The report released by Association of British Insurers (ABI) also indicates that companies are detecting fraud on a more regular basis. Over £730 million was rejected from suspicious claims last year.

The ABI said it had seen an increase in the number of people who were caught lying or withholding relevant information in an attempt to get cheaper insurance premiums.

The YouGov survey also found that while insurers are able to detect bogus claims quicker, now people are far more likely to lie on their insurance forms in order to obtain cheaper cover.

Some of the most popular scams included withholding information about speeding convictions and listing an incorrect address for the main driver of a vehicle.

The ABI said it had also seen an increase in the number of fraudulent accidental damage claims made on home insurance policies, with people deliberately damaging furnishings or electrical goods so that their insurer would pay for new ones. It also reported a 35% increase in claims involving the damage or loss of high value watches, laptops and LCD televisions.

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