Financial Pearls of Wisdom for Retirement Planning

By Dee Chan, Financial Advisor

As we approach retirement some people start to panic a little wondering if they are truly looking forward to the time of their life when they no longer have to work. All of a sudden something they have been pining for is becoming real!

Instead of worrying, have a read of the following tips and if necessary, act now. After all, it’s your future – and it could be here sooner than you think.

1: What do you want and how will you get it?

What are your goals and objectives for your retirement? Write out a plan that sees you enjoying the fruits of your labours. Then make sure your finances can achieve your goals. If not, do something about it now while you still have time. Be realistic and set achievable time-frames.

2: It’s not just about returns; remember the risks

Every investment has some degree of risk. Cash is considered the safest as there’s a good chance your money will still be in the bank when you need it. The downside is that it pays the lowest return; it isn’t tax effective, and doesn’t tend to keep pace with inflation. To achieve higher returns and make your money work harder, you need to take appropriate risk. Understand the differences between the various investment assets available and make your decisions wisely.

3: Share it around

To help reduce risk, share your investments across several asset classes – and within those asset classes as well. The right balance will depend on your financial objectives, the amount of time you have available to invest, and your risk tolerance.

4: Don’t forget super…

Superannuation will be your bank account when you are no longer working so you should be considering ways to boost your superannuation balance prior to retirement. But be aware the tax benefits are not always equal so make sure you have a balance of inside-super and outside-super investments.

5: …or tax

Tax is the trickiest area of all. Always make sure you get good advice on investing tax-effectively. A simple restructure of an underlying asset, investment vehicle or ownership structure can help you to minimise the amount of tax you pay and maximise your after-tax return.

6: Retirement can last another lifetime

With medical technology and improved lifestyles we are living much longer than previous generations. The older you get, the longer you’re likely to live. If you’ve managed to survive early risks, such as accidents or illnesses, your life expectancy actually increases. Being prepared for a longer retirement means that your money must last longer, so don’t be too conservative with your investments.

7: Stay cool

You are in this for the long term so when markets fluctuate and investments unexpectedly fall in value, don’t panic and sell. Sit down with your adviser, review your portfolio and stay focused on your long-term goals and objectives.

8: Keep learning

You are never too old to learn. Financial advisers have an important role in giving you tailored guidance, but you still need to make your own informed decisions about your financial plan. Make sure you understand your plan and if not, ask us questions or do some research. Contact us today to book an appointment to review your financial plan.

Dee (Dewi) Chan  is an authorised representative and credit representative of AMP Financial Planning. Blueprint Planning Pty Ltd (ABN 78 097 264 554), trading as Blueprint Wealth, is an Authorised Representative and Credit Representative of AMP Financial Planning Pty Limited, Australian Financial Services Licensee and Australian Credit Licensee 232 706.

This article contains information that is general in nature. It does not take into account the objectives, financial situation or needs of any particular person. You need to consider your financial situation and needs before making any decisions based on this information.