Santander, which operates branches in Birmingham, has sent an email to customers urging them to invest a £100 lump sum this July. The bank states it has "done the hard work for you" by presenting an investment opportunity designed to be straightforward.
Investment opportunity without the faff
In the email, Santander suggests that "investing in a ready-made fund through an Investment (Stocks and Shares) ISA could be for you." The bank highlights the "long-term growth potential for your money, held in a tax-efficient ISA," and adds that there are different risk levels, allowing customers to choose what suits them.
The correspondence also warns that "your money can go down as well as up" and advises that customers should only consider investing money they won't need for at least five years. It notes that fees apply and that the tax treatment depends on individual circumstances and may change in the future.
Alternative options and fraud warnings
For those who prefer not to use ready-made funds, Santander offers the option to "choose to invest from a wider range of other funds from across the market." The bank emphasizes that while customers can access their money, long-term commitment is advisable.
Santander also provides tips to help customers avoid fraud and scams: "Always take time to think before making a payment, especially if it's a lot of money. Speak to someone you trust first, like a friend or family member." The bank advises paying extra attention to warnings provided during payments and checking the genuineness of calls, emails, or texts by phoning back on a known number.
Customers are urged to complete extra checks, such as reading reviews and researching companies, and not to allow remote access to their devices. Santander concludes: "Anyone can be easily impersonated, and criminals can make the caller ID, email address or name look exactly like the genuine caller."
