What investment options are available within my superannuation fund?

This article dives into the various investment choices commonly available within super funds in Australia.

Understanding Asset Classes

Before exploring specific options, let’s break down the fundamental building blocks: asset classes. These represent different categories of investments, each with its own risk-return profile. Here are the main ones you’ll encounter:

• Shares (Equities): Ownership stakes in companies. They offer potentially high returns but carry higher risk due to market fluctuations.
• Fixed Interest: Loans to governments or companies, offering regular interest payments with lower risk than shares.
• Property: Direct or indirect ownership of real estate, providing rental income and potential capital growth, but with lower liquidity (ease of selling) compared to shares.
• Cash: Low-risk option held in bank accounts or similar, offering minimal returns but providing security and immediate access.

Pre-mixed options:

These are the most common choices, offering a pre-determined mix of asset classes based on your risk tolerance and investment horizon (timeframe until retirement). Common options include:

• Growth: High allocation to shares (around 70-80%) for potentially high long-term returns, but with higher risk of short-term volatility. Suitable for younger investors with a long investment horizon.
• Balanced: More balanced mix (typically 60-70% shares, 30-40% fixed interest and cash) aiming for moderate growth with some capital protection. Suitable for investors with a medium-term horizon.
• Conservative: Lower risk option with a higher allocation to fixed interest and cash (around 70-80%) for lower potential returns but greater stability. Suitable for investors closer to retirement.

Choice investment options:

For those seeking more control, some funds offer “choice” options. These allow you to select specific investments or create a personalized mix across asset classes. Here are some possibilities:

• Managed Funds: Professionally managed investment pools investing in various assets based on a chosen strategy (e.g., Australian shares, global infrastructure).
• Listed Investment Companies (LICs): Similar to managed funds but listed on the stock exchange, offering potential for capital gain alongside dividends.
• Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs): Track a particular market index (e.g., ASX 200) or asset class, offering diversified exposure at a lower cost than some managed funds.

Direct Investment options:

A limited number of funds offer the most control by allowing direct investment in specific assets like:

• Individual Shares: Purchase shares of specific companies, offering high growth potential but with concentrated risk.
• Direct Property: Invest directly in residential or commercial property, offering rental income and capital growth but requiring significant capital and ongoing management.

Choosing the Right Option

Selecting the best option depends on your individual circumstances. Here are key factors to consider:

• Risk Tolerance: How comfortable are you with potential losses? Younger investors can typically handle more risk for potentially higher returns.
• Investment Horizon: How long until you access your super? Longer horizons allow for riding out market fluctuations.
• Financial Goals: What retirement lifestyle do you envision? Consider your desired income level.

Additional Considerations

• Fees: Investment options within your super fund typically have associated fees. Compare fees across options before choosing.
• Performance: Research the past performance of different options, but remember past performance is not a guarantee of future results.
• Investment Philosophy: Do you prioritize environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors? Some options focus on sustainable investing.

Getting Help

Many super funds offer online tools and resources to help you choose the right investment option. Consider seeking financial advice from a qualified professional for personalized guidance.

Remember: Superannuation is a long-term investment. Regularly review your investment choices and adjust them as your circumstances and risk tolerance evolve. By understanding the options available and making informed decisions, you can maximize your super’s potential to provide a secure and comfortable retirement.