Discover the 25 most important companies in the world in the new issue of Shares. The list is split into companies we use in daily lives, enduring brands, disruptive businesses and future stars, plus the article explains the different ways in which you can invest in them.

Ever wondered which was better: overpaying your mortgage or investing spare cash? Shares does the maths.

Also this week: Learn why the oil price is at a four-year high, and find out how Shares’ annual stop picks portfolio is performing.

Read about alternatives to Fundsmith’s new Smithson investment trust, plus find out about troubles in the airline sector and Royal Mail’s dividend problem.