A financial plan isn’t just a monthly budget. It’s a roadmap to financial freedom, confidence and security.

From how to choose a financial advisor to understanding common financial terms, our financial planning blog will help you move towards your financial goals.

Please remember that this blog is not financial advice. To receive advice using Moneycube, click here to contact us.

Buy the market: investing in Vanguard funds in Ireland

If you have a lump sum to invest and simply want to gain exposure to the whole stock market, Vanguard’s index funds could be the answer.  Their funds are simple, well-run, and great value. For Irish investors with a lump sum of around €20,000 or more, they’re very competitive.  You can base a general investment, … Continued

5 money mistakes to avoid in your 30s

The average age in Ireland is 37.4, and it’s a time of life when money matters start to get serious.  Here’s our top 5 money mistakes to avoid in your 30s. 1. Searching for perfection Too often we burn up time in search of the perfect solution… and end up doing nothing.  With money matters, … Continued

Some types of investment risk… and what you can do about them

Whether your money is invested in funds, on deposit at the bank, or squirreled away under the mattress, you’re faced with investment risk. Here, we outline four main kinds of risk your money faces, and what you can do about it. What is investment risk? As we’ve heard many times, investing involves risk: your investment … Continued

Question of the month: should I buy Ryanair shares?

I’m thinking of investing €10,000 in Ryanair shares.  Is that too little to invest – and is there a better alternative? – Margaret, Dublin Update 30 March 2020: this article was written before the major market moves of recent weeks – but its perspective rings even more true now.  If you’re interested in Moneycube’s view … Continued

Investing for children: how Moneycube can help

Investing for children has moved on from Henry the Hippo.  Whether it’s planning for the cost of education, or a headstart in adult life, many parents see the advantages of putting money away now for their kids’ future. Trouble is, it’s not obvious how.  So too many parents end up putting their cash into poor-paying … Continued

Are KBC investment funds any good?

Update 12 November 2021: KBC Bank is leaving Ireland. Interested in alternatives?  Click the links below.  Alternatives to KBC investments Alternatives to KBC pensions KBC Bank has made a great effort to explain investing in Ireland, offering investments from just €125. So should you invest in KBC’s funds? We’ve reviewed their offering to help you decide. Read … Continued

Affected by a credit union savings cap? Here are some alternatives

Credit unions are one Ireland’s quiet financial services success stories.  Usually based on local or employment connection, they have helped millions of members boost their savings and manage their money. As people’s savings and earnings have recovered over recent years, more and more money is flowing into credit union savings. A sign of success – … Continued

Tax-free €3,000

Tax is complicated and expensive, so Moneycube loves simple ways to save on it.  Here’s one of our favourites – the small gift exemption. This tax break lets anyone give another person up to a €3,000 per year gift without triggering a tax charge for the giver or the receiver.  We find it a great … Continued

Standard Life GARS fund: time to head for the exit?

Is your money in Standard Life’s GARS fund?  If the answer is yes, it’s time to review your investment strategy – and the advice you’re getting. The Global Absolute Return Strategies fund has been a favourite for Irish financial advisers and brokers in recent years.  We’re wondering why. Got money stuck in GARS and wondering … Continued