December 2021

A Lifetime of Investing

As we move through life, our plans and goals will inevitably change. This also goes for our investment strategies, which need to flex and adapt as we move through the decades.

Your twenties and thirties

The financial decisions we make in early adulthood set the foundations for the rest of our lives. At this stage, one of your key goals should be to start saving. Retirement may seem a long way away but getting into good financial habits now could mean the difference between a comfortable retirement and having to work well into your later years.

Due to the timescales involved, now is the time to take on a little more risk – you’re more likely to recover any losses in the long term. So, it makes sense to put most of your savings into equity investments, which offer the highest potential for growth. Remember, you’ll also need some easily accessible savings for unexpected expenses, or to put down a property deposit.

Turning 40 and 50

Often considered the peak earning years, your forties and fifties should be dedicated to bolstering your pension and investment portfolio. It is also vital to have a sound, tax-efficient financial plan in place at this stage, with regular reviews to ensure you remain on track to meet your goals. As you approach retirement, a more conservative approach may be appropriate, with funds switching from equities to more stable asset categories.

Steady on in your sixties

With the State Pension Age continuing to rise, many people are now working and investing until well into their sixties. Your attention will now be shifting to income-generating products, and ensuring your income remains in line with your living expenses. You’ll also likely be considering the best and most tax-efficient ways to protect and transfer your wealth.