Category: Financial plan

I pay €600 into my pension each month. But money is getting tighter – and on top of that, my pension’s performance has been woeful this year. Should I stop paying in until things settle? – Anon With inflation above 9 per cent, cutting costs is sensible. It’s tempting to reduce your monthly pension commitment: … Continued

Two banks are departing the Irish market in 2022.  That means somewhere around 10 million direct debits will need to be changed! If you bank with KBC or Ulster Bank, it’s well worth acting now before the rush to update the direct debit for your regular payment. If you’re changing bank and have a regular … Continued

One of the most popular fund ranges, from one of the most popular investment managers, just got easier to access in Ireland.  Vanguard LifeStrategy became readily available to Ireland-based investors in late 2021. Vanguard’s LifeStrategy funds have in fact been available in Ireland for some years… but only in sterling funds, with high minimum investments, … Continued

My pension is invested in three funds with one of the big pension companies in Ireland.  Its performance seems very poor.  I know that investments can go down as well as up – but can I do better?  And when is enough enough? – MQ, Co Cork When markets go down – as they have … Continued

There have been some dramatic changes in financial markets – and the world in general – over the last six months.  As we approach the half-year market, it’s time to look at what has happened, how things are likely to unfold in the second half of 2022, and what it means for your investments and … Continued

The small benefit exemption is a concession which lets employers in Ireland give staff a voucher – but not cash – free of tax. In Budget 2023, the value of the small benefit exemption was doubled from €500 to €1,000 per year, effective from 2022. From an employer’s perspective, no employer PRSI applies to the … Continued

I’m investing a lump sum over the next few months, and want to keep things fairly simple.  At the same time, I’m aware there’s a need to avoid putting all my eggs in one basket, and to spread my risk instead.  Is one investment fund enough?  Or how many investment funds should I hold? – TM, … Continued

Pensions in Ireland can get complicated, but truth be told, many of us have the same questions.  Moneycube is here to help with our Pensions FAQ! From why you should start one, to cashing it in, and everything in between, here’s Moneycube’s rundown of everything you ever wanted to know about starting a pension in … Continued

Traditionally seen as a safer bet, bonds have been a loss-maker for Irish investors so far in 2022. Stock markets might grab the headlines. But the bond market is bigger, and has been experiencing tough times of its own. One major bond index, the Bloomberg Global Aggregate, is down nearly 9% for Euro investors over … Continued