With Donna Picton

The best superannuation investment options will always be the ones that are tailored to the investor, whether they undertake this journey themselves or with the collaboration of a good financial adviser.

The best super options will always be the ones that are tailored to the investor, whether they undertake this journey themselves or with the collaboration of a good financial adviser.

IMG Donna Picton Hervey Bay Financial PlannerWe asked Elston Wide Bay Manager Donna Picton what the best superannuation investment options are in 2017 and why. Here are some of her answers to our questions.

The best superannuation investment options to choose from.

Dependant on your choice of superannuation fund type, there are currently multiple options available:

  • Direct or indirect Australian or International shares
  • Residential or commercial property
  • Cash and term deposits
  • Fixed income products
  • Exchange Traded Funds (ETF’s)
  • Physical Commodities
  • Collectables

The best superannuation options are the ones that are tailored to meet your individual goals, investment preferences, risk tolerances and return requirements.

When is a Self-Managed Super Fund the best superannuation investment option?

A Self-Managed Super Fund (SMSF) can open up the broadest choice of superannuation investment options, making this type of fund popular with those seeking more control and transparency with their direct investments and After Tax Management.

Is a Fund Manager the best option?

For those who feel they lack the confidence and expertise with constructing a portfolio and actively managing the investments, a Fund Manager might be a better option. A fund manager can also simplify reporting, compliance and administration.

What are Separately Managed Accounts (SMA)?

Separately Managed Accounts (SMA’s) have emerged as an option for those who are looking for a more customised platform of ownership of direct or indirect investments.

These types of accounts can offer greater transparency and control compared to the unitised offering within Industry and Retail managed funds.

What options are best for return on investment?

As investors, we must all be aware that investment returns will fluctuate every year.

Your return on investment is governed by your selection of underlying assets, often comprising a mix of growth assets (property and shares) and defensive assets (cash and fixed interest).

The role of a professional financial adviser is to understand your risk and return requirements, and provide you with a long term strategy around an appropriate mix of assets that will achieve the best long term return within your accepted level of risk.

What is the minimum to invest?

We believe there should always be a minimum of three years of cash reserves to cover income needs if the investor is in retirement phase or needing passive income. It is widely suggested that a minimum of $250,000 to $300,000 is ideally required to make a SMSF cost viable.

What’s the best option in a Financial Adviser?

Investors need to seek out an advisory relationship that they feel comfortable with and can trust. This is paramount to long-term success. Secondly, you need to feel comfortable that you understand the strategy advice, the fee structure and the investment approach and philosophy.

Elston has advisers in Ballina, Brisbane, Bundaberg, Canberra, Gold Coast, Hervey Bay, Tamworth and Sydney who can expertly help both private clients and professional advisers identify the current best superannuation investment options for your purposes.

If you would like more information please call 1300 ELSTON or email info@elston.com.au and an adviser will be in touch.