Investment options

There are many investment options available - investing directly in cash, shares and property or using a managed fund to invest in a combination of asset classes.

Finding the most effective way to structure your investments can often be challenging. An ANZ Investment Specialist can help to determine the right options for you.

Cash investments

Cash investments can contribute to a well balanced portfolio by reducing your overall risk and providing ready access to your money. They typically provide a low return over time and offer no scope for capital growth. Cash is suited to investors with a short time horizon.

Fixed interest

Fixed interest investments are generally regarded as a relatively low-risk investment and have historically provided lower returns than shares and property. They pay a regular interest income for the term of the investment, which can be appealing in times of uncertain market performance.

Suitable for

Fixed interest is best suited to investors with a short to medium time horizon, where the investor would not have an immediate requirement for the funds, but would need a stable interest income.

How it helps

Incorporating cash and fixed interest within your investment portfolio can help to reduce the impact of market fluctuations, whether you invest directly into these products or invest via a managed fund.

Examples of cash and fixed interest investments

  • Bank accounts
  • Bank bills
  • Cash funds.

Property investment can be profitable, however it is susceptible to fluctuations in market demand. Investors wishing to enter the property market can do so via property investment loans or by using the equity in their own homes.

Managed fund portfolio

Another way to enter the property market is by incorporating property trusts into a managed fund portfolio. Property trusts typically invest in commercial, retail and residential properties that would otherwise be out of reach for most individuals. Property is generally a moderate risk investment and is best suited to investors with a long-term investment timeframe.

Examples of property investments

  • Houses
  • Commercial property trusts
  • Property securities
  • Property funds.

 

New Zealand and international shares

Historically, shares (otherwise referred to as equities) have generated higher overall returns than all other asset classes.

Shares are easily traded, which makes them a flexible investment. However, with their potential for high returns comes a higher risk of market fluctuations.

Shares can also be used as part of a managed investment portfolio.

As the value of shares can fluctuate significantly, share investments are generally suited to longer-term investors with a higher risk tolerance.

Managed funds pool investment funds from many investors then invest the total amount across a range of asset classes, ranging from shares to listed property trusts, bonds and cash.

How it works

By using different mixes of these asset classes, a portfolio can be designed to meet your individual investment objectives. Managed funds can be used to invest a single lump sum or smaller, regular amounts as part of a regular investment plan to reach your short, medium and long-term goals.

Benefits

The benefits of investing in managed funds include:

  • usually only a small investment is needed to start
  • access to markets such as international shares and large-scale property developments that may not be achievable as a sole investor
  • diversification across a range of asset classes and fund managers
  • fund manager carries out day-to-day administration and investment research.

Retirement funds

Another way to invest in a managed fund is through superannuation. Find out more through your Private Wealth Adviser.

Compare investment options
Criteria Cash NZ fixed interest Inter-
national fixed interest
Property NZ shares Inter-
national shares
Volatility Low -medium Medium Medium Medium-high High High
Returns Low -medium Medium Medium Medium-high High High
Time frame One year plus Three to five years plus Three to five years plus Five years plus Five to seven years plus Five to seven years plus

More information

 

For more information or to arrange an appointment with an ANZ Investment Specialist:

Telephone icon
Call 0800 ANZ ADVICE (0800 269 238)

A copy of the Bank's General Disclosure Statement under the Reserve Bank of New Zealand Act 1989 is available on this website or on request from any ANZ branch, free of charge and any Investment Specialist Disclosure Statement is available from an ANZ Investment Specialist, free of charge.