Stocks and Shares ISA - quick query

Personwithaquestion

Can I open a stocks and shares ISA and then invest in new start-up private limited companies of my choosing? If so, how would it work? Thanks.

eskbanker

No, qualifying investments within S&S ISAs need to be listed:

Shares including shares in an investment trust, are qualifying investments if:

• they’re issued by a company that is incorporated anywhere in the world
• they’re:
  • either officially listed on a recognised stock exchange
  • or are admitted to trading on a recognised stock exchange in the UK or the EEA

https://www.gov.uk/guidance/stocks-and-shares-investments-for-isa-managers

masonic

There are other schemes, such as EIS, that would give you tax relief on investment into qualifying early stage companies.

Personwithaquestion

Thanks. Helpful comments.

In a similar way, could I open a self-invested personal pension and then invest in private companies of my choosing?

Albermarle

Personwithaquestion said:

Thanks. Helpful comments.

In a similar way, could I open a self-invested personal pension and then invest in private companies of my choosing?

For sure not with a mainstream provider. There are probably some niche providers who may facilitate it.

masonic

As above, it is a permitted investment for a SIPP, and the main private equity crowdfunding providers will support wrapping investments in a third party SIPP, but you'd need to find a scheme that would allow it (I am not aware of any).