• What is the difference between a capital-at-risk product and a savings account?

When you put your money in a bank or building society savings account, its original value does not change and you also get interest. The return will be comparatively low, which reflects the fact that you haven't risked your capital. With capital-at-risk products you may get higher returns, but you are putting your capital at risk and may end up with less than you put in.

• How do I know which product to choose?

Consider your financial needs carefully: how much - if anything - can you afford to lose? How long can you afford to have your money tied up? You should check the details of products and not make your investment solely on the headline information. You should compare different products offered by different providers. Capital-at-risk products are not right for you if you cannot afford to lose money. But if you are willing to take risks to benefit from potentially higher rewards, there are many products to look at.

• What charges do I have to pay for these products?

The charges vary and there may or may not be any. If there are charges, make sure you understand how they affect the value of your capital and income. Some funds deduct them from your initial investment. They may also take charges yearly, usually as a percentage of the total value of your ongoing investment.

• How long will my money be tied up?

With most investments you should expect to tie up your money for some time. Some capital-at-risk products offer returns if you leave your capital with them for a fixed number of years. Other investments can continue indefinitely.

• Can I cash in my investment?

Yes, you can usually cash in your investment. But with some products you have to pay a penalty (known as a redemption penalty) if you cash in your investment before the maturity date. As a rule, never tie up money you may need in the short or medium term.

• If the investment period is fixed, what happens at the end of it?

At the end of a fixed period your investment will mature and you should get its maturity value. But the maturity value may be reduced by charges or a final adjustment if, for example, it depends on the value of the Index. Depending on the terms and conditions of the product, you could end up losing some or all of your capital. Also, any income or growth you have received may be subject to tax.

• Will I get the advertised rate of return?

This depends on the terms and conditions under which you have invested. Often the advertised rate merely illustrates what is possible, and is no more certain than that.