For many years equities have been the main investment holding of pension funds. Equities have long been recognised as the primary source of real long-term growth – that is, growth above inflation. A SIPP will give you the opportunity to trade shares in your own account, buy collective investment funds or employ discretionary managers to manage your portfolio. You may choose any combination of the above or indeed avoid equities all together! Unlisted securities You can use a SIPP to invest in the shares of unlisted companies but the transaction must be completed on commercial terms. Any purchase or contribution using unlisted company shares could be viewed as contentious by trustees and HMRC alike. Therefore you need to take great care and seek advice with regard to issues such as: valuations, minority shareholdings, setting a precedent for future transactions, capital gains tax, etc. Although connected party transactions are permitted extreme care must be taken so that any connected company does not trigger a tax charge if taxable property is purchased. The obvious example is residential property but this also extends to: furniture, computers, stationery, etc. If you would like to engage us for our recommendations on equity funds, discretionary fund managers, unlisted shares or stockbrokers please complete our initial enquiry form.