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

With millions of Brits tuning in to watch shows like ‘Supersize Vs Super Skinny’, the UK’s fascination with diet and health has resulted in dietetics and nutritionists becoming some of the fastest growing professions in the UK. Yet as more nutritionists and dieticians’ decide to set up on their own, many face a barrage of fines and litigation if their advice proves to be negligent, and impacts negatively on the physical well being of a client.

The new year traditionally brings with it a determination to take care of our health. While this is a lucrative opportunity for practicing dieticians and nutritionists, online small business insurer Insurantz.com is warning that many are still unaware of the risks facing their livelihood without professional indemnity cover .

Typically, they can earn up to £38,000, but the rich pickings may be short lived if advice given is not protected or in line with current legislation.

James Pickering, managing director of Insurantz.com, said: “Dieticians will have cover if they are members of the British Dietic Association however there is no obligation for nutritionists to take on cover.  In most cases, nutritionists provide a valuable service which enables people to make better lifestyle choices and radically transform their quality of life. However, in the worst case scenario, negligent advice can be given which could cause the client to become ill and even take time off work. Without professional indemnity cover, this could not only ruin their reputation but they may have to fork out for thousands of pounds on a client’s claim for bodily injury or loss of earnings.”

There are over six thousand registered dietitians in the UK,* with this number set to rise as the credit crunch spurs on practitioners to set up from home. Training to become a dietitian usually consists of completing a degree in Nutrition or Dietetics providing eligibility for registration with the Health Professions Council, which is essential to work as a dietitian in the UK.

* 6,000 dietitians registered with the British Dietic Association