To celebrate its 50th anniversary, Money Management magazine is running a series of interviews with people in the industry. We were all asked the same questions each of which refers to the number 50. I decided to have a bit of fun with the answers and not take it too seriously.
What was your first ever investment? £100 shares in Arena Leisure. I got a tip off from a friend. I’ve still got the share certificate and have been paid between 60p and £2.20 in dividends for the past 10 years. I’ve no idea how much they are worth now.
What’s the most significant non-financial event in the past 50 years? Live Aid. It brought together all sorts of people, it didn’t matter what country, religion or political party you belonged to, everyone got so excited by the music. It transcended divisions and prejudices.
Where were you when Lehman’s collapsed? Probably in an airport departure lounge.
If you were the governor of the Bank of England for a day, what would you do? Introduce advertising and sponsorship opportunities onto the back of bank notes.
If I had one piece of advice for the industry 50 years ago it would be… Ride the crest of the wave of technological advancement – don’t try swimming desperately behind it.
How much do you think a house will cost in 50 years? £100,000 for a single room cube with holographic walls.
If I was not in financial services I would be… A writer, Yoga teacher and blogger.
I predict interest rates will move on… 6 September 2013.
If I could put £50,000 into an investment now and only take it out in 50 years, I would put it… Hydrogen fuel engines. One day oil will run out and we need to think about the alternatives.
My worst investment was… Sending a huge Valentine’s bunch of flowers to a girl at school only to find she was emigrating to New Zealand at the end of that week.
If money were no object, I would celebrate Money Management’s 50th by… Holding a posh slap up do anywhere OTHER than The Grosvenor House Hotel, Park Lane.
What’s the best thing about the industry? Despite fierce competition – there is a camaraderie.
Who has had the most impact on the industry over the past 50 years? No one person deserves credit for all the successes and no one person deserves the wrap for its mistakes.
Published on FT Adviser
Over to you: Do you agree with me about Live Aid? Which one question would you have answered differently? Please leave a comment and let me know.
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