Want to start investing, but not sure where to begin?
While super is usually the backbone of any long-term investment strategy, it’s part of a much broader picture. Shares, property and even cryptocurrencies can help you create a diverse investment strategy designed to help you reach your financial goals. But each comes with its own potential risks and rewards, so let’s take a closer look at how these options can work alongside your super.
Savings Accounts
While not traditionally considered an ‘investment’, a savings account is somewhere you might choose to park your money and earn interest. Banks offer a range of savings accounts with varying interest rates. While in many cases the interest may not be substantial, it's typically a lower-risk option, and your money is easily accessible when you need it.
Term Deposits
Term deposits are another low-risk option. You deposit a fixed amount of money for a specified term, usually ranging from three months to several years, and earn a fixed interest rate. Term deposits typically offer more significant returns than regular savings accounts, making them a popular choice for conservative investors.
Shares
Investing in the stock market can be an exciting way to grow your wealth. Share prices can fluctuate, but historically, the stock market has provided strong returns over the long term. Diversifying your share portfolio can help spread risk.
Managed Funds
Managed funds pool money from multiple investors and invest in a diversified portfolio of assets, such as shares, bonds, and property. Investment decisions are made on your behalf by fund managers. This option is ideal for those who want a diversified portfolio without the hassle of managing individual investments.
Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs)
ETFs are similar to managed funds but are traded on the stock exchange like individual shares. They typically track a specific market index, commodity, or asset class. ETFs offer diversification and are known for their usually lower management fees compared to traditional managed funds.
Property
Property investments may provide rental income and capital appreciation over time. However, they require significant upfront capital and ongoing maintenance.
Bonds
Government and corporate bonds are fixed-income investments. When you buy a bond, you're effectively lending money to the issuer in exchange for recurring interest payments and the return of the cost you paid for the bond at a future date. Bonds are generally considered lower risk compared to shares but may offer lower returns.
Cryptocurrencies
The world of investments is evolving, and cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum have gained popularity. While they can offer significant returns, they are also highly volatile and speculative. Investing in cryptocurrencies should only be approached with caution and a thorough understanding of the market.
Superannuation
Super is a mandatory retirement savings system in Australia. Your employer contributes a percentage of your income into a super fund, and you can also make additional contributions. Superannuation can offer tax advantages and is a crucial component of retirement planning. You can learn more via our How Super Works page.
By its very nature, superannuation is a long-term investment, designed to grow over the course of your working life. A financial planner can help you understand how super can work alongside other investments, the potential opportunities this provides and issues to be aware of.
What’s right for you will depend on your financial goals, risk tolerance, and investment horizon. That’s why we offer our members a wide range of support and advice services, so you can access the support you need, exactly when you need it. Speak to one of our qualified planners about your goals, and start planning a brighter future today.
The initial appointment is obligation free and available at no additional cost to Equip Super members.
