Facing the investment forecast

With a number of worrying developments carrying over from 2007 into the beginning of 2008, investors may be understandably apprehensive about what is on the horizon - but there is also plenty to smile about

Last year was a mixed year for the investment company sector, with some spectacular triumphs coinciding with a general shift in mood as concerns about the credit crunch, the wider economy and share prices crept into the psyche of the markets. We begin 2008 facing a much more uncertain economic outlook than 2007. While history suggests that periods of uncertainty are not necessarily a bad time to invest (quite the contrary), the old cliche about trying to catch a falling knife is perhaps worth bearing in mind. Time then to take another look at those regular savings plans - it would certain...