The Desert Island Investor

Listen to the experiences and strategies of private investor, Mark Atkinson. Mark's long-term investments enabled him to become financially independent and to retire at the comparatively early age of 53. The stocks he reviews are from his actual portfolio, not a 'virtual' one, so these are genuine win-some, lose-some stories. We hope that you'll also enjoy regular feature 'Question in a Bottle' where Mark answers listeners' questions about investing.

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September 21, 2026

My gripes about investor relations. With guest IR manager Andrew Hanson

Although executives hold a controlling position, private investors are still part-owners of the businesses in which they have shares. As such it is reasonable to expect those companies to answer questions when a shareholder has some concerns. Mark's experience of getting answers to questions has been mixed at best, so in this episode he discusses the problems and calls out the worst offenders. To defend the honour of Investor Relations managers worldwide we are joined by special guest castaway Andrew Hanson who has over 20 years experience on the other side of the fence as an IR professional.   

Desert Island Discord is a series of podcasts where private investor Mark Atkinson talks about the aspects of investing that really grinds his gears. If your own investment journey has been tainted by some poor practice that you think Mark should drag through the mud in a future episode, use the form on our website at https://www.thedesertislandinvestor.co.uk to recommend a topic.

Desert Island Discord and The Desert Island Investor are generously hosted by London City based analysts Progressive Equity Research at https://www.progressive-research.com. You'll also find us on YouTube, Spotify, Amazon Music and all leading podcasting channels.

Created by Mark Atkinson | Produced by Paul Kerin | SFX from Freesound (CC-BY). Sword Fight SFX: FunWithSound. 

Desert Island Discord intro music by Paul Kerin and The Parrots of the Caribbean. (c) 2026

Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is provided for general information only and the opinions expressed by Mark, his guests and the producers of the podcast do not constitute financial advice. Before purchasing financial products it is advisable to seek the guidance of a professional financial advisor.

This communication is provided for information purposes only, and is not a solicitation or inducement to buy, sell, subscribe, or underwrite securities or units. Investors should seek advice from an Independent Financial Adviser or regulated stockbroker before making any investment decisions. Progressive Equity Research Ltd (“PERL”) does not make investment recommendations.

Opinions contained in this communication represent those of PERL and/or our affiliates at the time of publication and PERL does not undertake to provide updates to any opinions or views expressed. PERL does not hold any positions in the securities mentioned in this communication, however, PERL’s directors, officers, employees, contractors and affiliates may hold a position,  and/or may perform services or solicit business from, any of the companies or related securities mentioned.

Any prices quoted in our research are as at the previous day’s close.