2021 Grand National: Why horses for courses applies to the investment world

Four horses

clock • 5 min read

With Grand National weekend upon us, Darius McDermott uses the well-known racing metaphor 'horses for courses' to explore a few investment funds and what they might offer a portfolio

With a history dating back more than 180 years, the Grand National is undoubtedly one of the biggest sporting events in the world. Held at Aintree racecourse, the handicap steeplechase is over 4 miles long and the sight of more than 40 horses going over the first fence is one of the most famous in all British sport. Last run in 2019, it is estimated that 13 million people bet on the race with up to £250 million heading to the bookies. The average price of a horse winning the race is 20/1. The race itself is all about stamina. Horses have to jump 30 fences and less than half of them us...

To continue reading this article...

Join Professional Adviser for free

  • Unlimited access to real-time news, industry insights and market intelligence
  • Stay ahead of the curve with spotlights on emerging trends and technologies
  • Receive breaking news stories straight to your inbox in the daily newsletters
  • Make smart business decisions with the latest developments in regulation, investing retirement and protection
  • Members-only access to the editor’s weekly Friday commentary
  • Be the first to hear about our events and awards programmes

Join

 

Already a Professional Adviser member?

Login

More on Investment

Darius McDermott: Asia's broadening investment story

Darius McDermott: Asia's broadening investment story

Fund managers have a dilemma

Darius McDermott
clock 21 October 2026 • 5 min read
China's historic move away from coal shows why investors need to keep digging

China's historic move away from coal shows why investors need to keep digging

'A key challenge for investors is to identify the pockets of genuine innovation'

Xin-Yao Ng
clock 19 October 2026 • 4 min read
Investors yet to stuff ISA allowances as government plays down spectacle despite 'tough' Budget

Investors yet to stuff ISA allowances as government plays down spectacle despite 'tough' Budget

Platform activity stable

Jack Roach
clock 19 October 2026 • 4 min read