Trustnet Magazine Issue 48 FEBRUARY 2019 | Page 6

Cover Story 6 / 7 is likely to prompt a recession: “The UK will be leaving the EU without a transition period and is likely to face significant trade tariffs in accordance with WTO rules, along with full customs checks, and a number of other important memberships/associations with EU institutions lapsing. Given the fragile UK economy, we would then forecast a recession over 2019.” A UBS report also downgraded UK economic prospects, saying: “We expect Brexit uncertainty will continue to weigh on the economy as each deadline comes and passes without resolution. The effects of this uncertainty are being felt primarily by businesses, who continue to hold “We expect that Brexit uncertainty will continue to weigh on the economy as each deadline comes and passes without resolution” back on much-needed investment.” Can people prepare? Not really. Their only defence is to ensure they are following basic good practice on their finances: paying down expensive debt, holding three months’ worth of expenses in cash and maxing out their pension and ISA contributions. That, or take that long-awaited sabbatical and come back when it is all over. Visionary entrepreneurs offer opportunities for great wealth creation. The Scottish Mortgage Investment Trust actively seeks them out. 2018 growth forecast UK in recession 3% Our portfolio consists of around 80 of what we believe are the most exciting companies in the world today. Our vision is long term and we invest with no limits on geographical or sector exposure. Our track record as long-term, supportive shareholders makes us attractive to a new breed of capital-light businesses. And our committed approach means we can enjoy a better quality of dialogue with management teams at transformational organisations. Over the last five years the Scottish Mortgage Investment Trust has delivered a total return of 136.5% compared to 74.9% for the sector*. And Scottish Mortgage is low-cost with an ongoing charges figure of just 0.37%**. 2% Standardised past performance to 31 December* 1% 0% -1% -2% 2019 growth forecast -3% -4% -5% 2009 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 Scottish Mortgage 21.4% 13.3% 16.5% 41.1% 4.6% AIC Global Sector Average 8.8% 10.9% 22.6% 24.1% -4.9% Past performance is not a guide to future returns. Please remember that changing stock market conditions and currency exchange rates will affect the value of the investment in the fund and any income from it. Investors may not get back the amount invested. For a farsighted approach call 0800 917 2112 or visit us at www.scottishmortgageit.com -4.2% ‘10 Source: The Bank of England, BBC FE TRUSTNET SCOTTISH MORTGAGE ENTERED THE FTSE 100 INDEX IN MARCH 2017. WANTED. DREAMERS, VISIONARIES AND REVOLUTIONARIES. GDP SINCE 2008 4% SCOTTISH MORTGAGE INVESTMENT TRUST ‘11 ‘12 ‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18 2019 A Key Information Document is available by contacting us. Long-term investment partners *Source: Morningstar, share price, total return as at 31.12.18. **Ongoing charges as at 31.03.18. Your call may be recorded for training or monitoring purposes. Issued and approved by Baillie Gifford & Co Limited, whose registered address is at Calton Square, 1 Greenside Row, Edinburgh, EH1 3AN, United Kingdom. Baillie Gifford & Co Limited is the authorised Alternative Investment Fund Manager and Company Secretary of the Company. Baillie Gifford & Co Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). The investment trusts managed by Baillie Gifford & Co Limited are listed UK companies and are not authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.