Bank term deposits might not earn much, but sometimes they’re the best option
They’re boring and they pay low interest. But bank term deposits are probably the best place to park money for a few months — or even a year or so. Anywhere else could be too risky…
Active vs passive management of KiwiSaver and other funds
Why I disagree with result of recent debate on this:
– A bias in who took part?
– Passive funds will always be average — that’s fine
– Will the rise in passive management ruin the way the market works?
Q&As:
– Should an 18-year-old get a credit card?
– Money questions for 20-somethings
– How can last week’s FIRE fan make it work?
– Beneficiaries should get more, and non-beneficiaries should quit KiwiSaver — reader
– DIY investing in Australia not difficult, says reader
Q&As:
– Reader plans to retire at 45
– Simplicity defends CEO’s colourful past
– Christmas grinch reports back on progress
– Scrap KiwiSaver and give the money to beneficiaries, says reader
– Hatch exec responds to Smartshares’ comments last week
Investors in shares — and most KiwiSaver investors — are doing “too well”
– Last year was exceptional
– Last decade was well above recent averages
– AND last decade was unusually “unvolatile”
– Don’t be lulled into thinking this will continue
– Shares are good investments, but…
Q&As:
– Wife needs to be convinced she can enjoy retirement
– Beneficiary — an extraordinary saver — can take part in KiwiSaver
– NZ-based funds not subject to international tax issues
– 2 Q&As on how supervisors and custodians look after KiwiSaver and other fund investors
Q&As:
– Reader: “We” are lucky to have KiwiSaver — I’m not part of that “we”
– 2 letters on why KiwiSaver should work for beneficiaries too
– Last week’s correspondent has found a way to spend more, but worries about teen son
It’s a great idea to get all the incentives in KiwiSaver
Employees usually receive their full employer and government contributions, unless they are on a savings suspension. But what about everyone else?
Recommended changes to KiwiSaver
The Commission for Financial Capability has made 19 suggestions on how to improve KiwiSaver. Mary and Jesse discuss four of them:
– Set up “Small Steps”, so people’s contributions rise gradually each year if they wish
– Add “sidecar savings” to KiwiSaver for short-term emergencies
– Exclude fixed fees from KiwiSaver accounts with balances under $5000
– Show members how much their fees are likely to total over the years in KiwiSaver, compared with average fees for that type of fund
Also: an unusual letter from a listener — grow marijuana or join KiwiSaver?
Q&As:
– Reader can’t bring herself to enjoy her wealth …
– … While another reader has splashed out on an Italian holiday home
– 65+ reader is loving being in KiwiSaver
– How come passive funds are trading shares daily?
– ‘Passive’ KiwiSaver funds are not
– Is it better to invest in US index funds, with their lower fees?