Category: Retirement planning

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

It’s never too late to start a pension.  And with generous tax relief, longer lifespans and lots of investment options, it’s almost always worth doing.  Moneycube explains why, and what you should do to start a pension today. Good reasons for starting late Many people worry they haven’t started saving for retirement early enough.  But … 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

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

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

Some funds just capture the imagination.  QQQ’s one of them.  Formed in 2002, this technology-focused fund has grown by over 1,300% (yes, one thousand three hundred per cent) since that time. And the good news is that there are several ways to access it depending on the size and shape of your investment. Of course, … Continued