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FTSE / DOW YTD

Well I've lost my mojo today.

I've come to the conclusion (again) I don't make enough money day-trading stocks to make it worthwhile. The time and energy doesn't pay me the minimum wage !

It does seem I can make a little on the indices with far less effort so I'm going to run with that a bit more.

With regard to my investment portfolio that's going ok. Not great, but beating the market. Had a great year last year so let's see what things look like in a few months time.

Finally, the debacle around the AV. irredeemable preference shares has kind of done my head in. Sorry if you have any of these or indeed any of the others as they are getting battered too. I don't and I'm not happy about the situation as it seems unethical. There could be opportunities here but it feels a bit like gambling.

So, the search for yield is going to get even harder and that's what I've been struggling with for the last 12 months. Something nice and safe, paying around 5% with little to no risk. Bonds preferably. I can't find anything and since no new bonds are coming on to the market with any regularity it's difficult. Even if I drop the criteria to 4%, with trading costs it's still challenging looking at the expiry dates for the return.

I have enough equities. Too many really. Happy enough with the situation with FTSE at 7200 as I think I can get some capital growth too but would prefer less risk

I've held GACA since 2011 (106p) and have seen 7 years of capital gains disappear in an RNS!

I can't believe AV.'s actions Skinny. I find it absolutely inappropriate for a company of their stature to do this.

What they should have done is used the clause to compulsory purchase the prefs at say the price on the day before the results. Or just bought them back in the market.

It's a disgrace and someone like Sharesoc needs to make this as difficult for them as possible even if it makes no difference to the eventual outcome

I am trying to work out what to do with my AV. shares. I only have a few from 490 but right now if the price hits 530 or if we have a good day on FTSE I'm out. I think the legal stuff could run and run.

CC: IPE and HDIV both pay about 6% annually. (quarterly dividends). Constant yield.
Of course, there is risk in anything to do with the markets,
but I have held IPE for years and the income has been worth the ride.
Not much growth but have on occasion sold to take profits as well,
and bought back later. I follow HDIV, though don't hold, but have stuck
substantially with IPE.

It's left a bad taste - I still have AV shares from 2010 and am mulling over what to do - as you say, yield is becoming an elusive commodity.

I won't be renewing my Aviva car or travel insurance, as the costs are no more competitive than others.

Forgot to add that there is no stamp duty on these.

Thanks Midknight. I will take a look.

CC - also ave a look at RUSP -about 8% yield , paid quarterly, no stamp duty,
but the Pref bit might put you off, after your AV. experience.