Can anyone predict how shares will fare in the stock market?

World stock markets have been in turmoil in recent weeks.

Yet the last four years of growth have underlined the widely held view that the stock market is the best place to invest your money if you're looking for a good return.

We asked for your comments, a selection of which are below. This debate is now closed.

This programme was excellent, meeting the right people who gave their measured, honest and qualified views to the absolute novice. I would recommend it to anyone interested in the subject but nervous or inexperienced. I have been investing through unit trusts for about 15 years now and thoroughly enjoyed the programme. Thank you.
Steve, Plymouth

Putting all your eggs in one basket does not allow you to sleep well at night Glad Minzie, Manchester

You could invest in shares via a multi-share fund, which spreads your money across various companies/industries. Make use of your �7,000 ISA allowance. Try putting some money - perhaps �10-�15,000 - in a high interest savings account. Putting �40,000 into one company share is not a good move and I am surprised with all the turmoil in the markets it would be recommended. Putting all your eggs in one basket does not allow you to sleep well at night.
Glad Minzie, Manchester

Has the stock market really out-performed bank interest rates? From my experience, no. As a long term bet you're far better off putting your money in the bank at 5% interest and zero risk.
Paul Burlison, Bingley

'Investment Advisor': man who advises you to invest your money until it's all gone.
Joe Soap, Crewe

If the risk level worries you then consider safer alternatives Alan Harle, Norwich

To Ferial Evans from Woodbridge. It remains your money and if you are not completely satisfied with the investment then you must change it. It seems an extreme investment for any individual to make and you need to consider whether the advice was in your best interests. If the risk level worries you then consider safer alternatives such as NS&I or even a yearly bond from any well-established bank or building society.
Alan Harle, Norwich

I recently had a legacy of �50,000. Of this, I was advised to put �40,000 into one company's shares. Now I am really worried that I am going to lose a lot of it. Although this amount might not seem much to some, it (plus the �10,000) is the total value of my assets. I have nothing else. I just do not know what to do.
Ferial Evans, Woodbridge

The comments we publish are not necessarily the views of the BBC but will reflect the balance of views we have received. It is helpful if contributors state if they work for any organisation relevant to an issue discussed. Readers should form their own views on whether messages published represent undeclared interests, or views prompted by a common source.