Other Investment Opportunities

A pension fund, whether personal (see Personal Pensions) or occupational (see Occupational Pension Schemes), is a valuable way to ensure financial security in retirement. However, if you are concerned about the risks to your pension security, or whether your retirement income will be sufficient to support the lifestyle for which you are aiming, you may wish to consider spreading your savings out over a range of investment options. The investments you choose will depend on how much money you are willing to commit, for how long you are prepared to commit and how much risk you are willing to take. Consider your options carefully and request assistance from an independent financial advisor before making any final decisions.

The different investment opportunities available include:

• Savings accounts
• Individual Savings Accounts
• National Savings and Investments
• Gilts
• Corporate Bonds
• Shares
• Property

There are a range of other investments available, including various funds such as a currency or hedge fund and trusts such as unit trusts. For detailed information on your myriad possibilities consult an independent financial advisor. The opportunities listed above are all popular and relatively simple to understand; specialised investments will require specialised, individual advice. It is important to consider the individual merit of each investment option, and decide whether the opportunities it presents are in line with your current financial situation and your desired aims. The different investments are considered in Savings Accounts, Individual Savings Accounts (ISAs), National Savings and Investments, Gilts, Corporate Bonds, Shares, Property; for information on following the success of your investment, see Monitoring your Investment. Spreading your savings over a range of investments is the best way to ensure financial security when you come to retire; there is minimal risk of you losing all your money, and the mix of secure and riskier investments will enable you to make optimum returns.