Equities investors have lots to weight up as they decide on the markets, sectors and companies well positioned for the months ahead, and there are both risks and opportunities it would be costly to miss.

Picking winning stocks, how much to allocate to alternatives and the ramifications of the forthcoming US elections are top of investors’ concerns this month, alongside proactive estate planning.

Joining this year’s rush of “goldbugs” might seem tempting if growth predictions are to be believed, but investors must look at their portfolio in the round first.

Emerging economies’ rising debt ratios, the online revolution in retail and the wisdom of watching and waiting are all brought to the fore by our investment experts this month.

Foreboding about an overhaul of the Capital Gains Tax regime has added to existing concerns on Inheritance Tax, all while investors struggle to make sense of the current investment environment.

Alternative asset classes call for particular expertise, and cryptocurrencies are among the most arcane out there – meaning that this guide should be just the start of your deliberations before investing.

Private education is a real investment into your children’s future and you should ensure you plan for it as such, taking a long-term view to maximise value and minimise stress.

Markets continue to rise, but pockets of value certainly still exist in certain equities, alongside a number of both corporate and government bonds.

Savers should ask themselves this set of pension questions to discover if there are amendments required to their retirement plans, as small actions can have big results.