An affordable alternative investment idea: ART

Art and other forms of alternative investment have soared in popularity in recent years.

Dismal savings rates have prompted many investors to consider diversifying their portfolios by adding more esoteric ways of generating returns, such as contemporary art, wine and antiques.

Several schemes exist to make these investments more affordable, so they are accessible to those on relatively modest incomes.

Nearly £24m worth of contemporary art and crafts has been bought over the past nine years through Own Art, a government-backed initiative that offers interest-free loans to fund purchases.

Assets such as art and antiques are liable to capital gains tax (CGT) when sold only if valued at more than £6,000.

Note of caution:  These assets are unregulated, illiquid and can be expensive, with potentially volatile performance, and they may produce no income.

Contemporary Art

Own Art enables buyers to spread the cost of their purchases over 10 months interest-free. The cost of the loan is subsidised by the scheme’s funders — Arts Council England, Creative Scotland and the Arts Council of Northern Ireland.

The minimum loan is £100 and the maximum is £2,000. If the item costs more, an Own Art loan can be used as a part-payment. To find participating galleries go to ownart.org.uk

The Affordable Art Fair takes place in Battersea Park from October 24 to 27 affordableartfair.co.uk 

Wishing you a creative and successful week! 

The Agile Non-Exec

https://twitter.com/AgileNonExec

Should you pay interns?

This has been in the news again recently, so I thought it would be worthy to comment on. Let's start with the legal position.

If you are exclusively providing training only, and not asking your intern to work on company business, there is no obligation to pay a salary (although covering travel expenses is a nice touch).

However, if any of their work is put to use, whether sold to client, or for the general benefit of your business - then you have an obligation to pay a salary. This is the question I recommend you ask yourself, on appointing an intern or work experience placement.

If you have established a salary is due, and you are based in a city, say London. I would recommend you consider a 'living wage' rather than a 'minimum wage'. The difference is small, but makes a significant statement. You could include this in your marketing, or in conversation.

Most creatives understand it's really hard to get started, so this approach really makes a statement, it also encourages social mobility. You would not wish to exclude fantastic talent, if their family could not afford a placement with you?

 Have a great week folks. @AgileNonExec (Twitter)

A useful link from the other side of the fence: http://www.internaware.org/

So you have a great idea - time for a SWOT analysis!

SWOT - stands for: Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats! How to approach each section: Some suggestions. 1. What are my Strengths What can I do better than anyone else? What resources do I have? What's my unique selling point? 2. Weaknesses What should I avoid? Where do I lack skills? What might hinder my sucess? 3. Opportunities Does my idea tap into any trends? Are there any emerging technologies that could help my idea? Has there been anything in the news related to my idea? 4. Threats Who's my competition? Does changing technology affect my idea? Good luck - and would love to hear your feedback on your business plans!! The Agile Non-Exec