Why?

Well actually I would say why not? Why not invest in equities? Yes, in hindsight the best place you could have kept your money over the last year is in the bank, and the volatility of the markets combined with the media reports of the worst financial crisis ever make you feel intimidated, fearful. You want to wait until "everything is stabilised." That is sheer foolishness. There is one certainty that has stood the test of time. By leaving all your money in cash assets you will never reach your financial goals.

One simple way to get started without causing too much angst is to buy into unit trusts on a monthly basis. If you use a good wrap account you can even split your monthly investments. I recommend Europe, Asia and Emerging Markets.

I suggest you take a deep breath and jump in, contact an advisor.