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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January 19, 2026

Secrets. Is hiding bad news from investors a cloak for insider dealing?

Desert Island Discord is a new series of confrontational podcasts from The Desert Island Investor Mark Atkinson. In Mark's regular podcast he reviews his own stocks, but in these episodes he will be talking about some of the more negative aspects of the world of investing that really grinds his gears. In this episode 'Secrets' he exposes the reluctance of many PLCs to keep private investors promptly informed about issues that can negatively impact on their ROI. The topics discussed include the late issuance and irregular timing of RNS notices and the increased likelihood of insider dealing taking place when a privileged group of investors is closer to the business than anyone else.

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: 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.