Category: Financial plan

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

A person who’s approaching retirement today, could spend as much time in retirement as they did while working. Planning for how you’ll fund it is vital. We’ve been speaking with comparison site Bonkers.ie on what it means for people in Ireland. Listen to the podcast, or read the transcript below – updated for 2022 conditions – … Continued

The metaverse entered the real world in a big way in late 2021. Facebook rebranded itself as Meta Platforms, and announced it was investing $10 billion a year there, effectively staking the future of its business on the metaverse. So what is it, and how do I invest in the metaverse? What’s the metaverse? Trying … Continued

In response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the wider world has shown notable unity and decisiveness in placing sanctions and asset freezes upon oligarchs close to the Russian regime, Russian companies, and restricting global payments systems. There’s been an immediate knock-on effect in the investment industry.  One major index provider has described Russian market … Continued