Consider a $1,000 investment that returns six per cent annually. Without any further investment it will be worth just $3,207 after 20 years, but jumps to $10,286 after 40 years. Similarly, an annual investment of $5,000 at six per cent return is worth $194,964 after 20 years but skyrockets to $820,238 after 40 years1. Time and compound interest are an incredibly powerful combination.
But it’s not just compound interest that comes into play for those who begin retirement planning as soon as they enter the workforce. There are many other benefits that help ensure a comfortable lifestyle at the end of one’s career.
One is the fact that the longer the investment timeframe, the greater the chance of riding out the volatility in various markets along the way. Another has to do with the development of great investment habits early in one’s working life. Such habits are essential to the development of a desired retirement lifestyle – whether or not you have a high-salary job right now, what actually matters in the long run
is what is in your savings.
Planning early and visiting a financial adviser can help ensure the structure of your investment plan is suitable for your specific needs and wishes. It helps free up funds that can be used for other purposes throughout your life, whether it be other investments, travel, building a house or enjoying a hobby. Retirement will be looked after by the long-term plan, and therefore gives you greater flexibility with how you
use your other savings in the meantime – whether it’s confidently holding investments outside of the superannuation environment, or simply enjoying greater cashflow.
Many early adopters of a superannuation or retirement plan make regular visits to financial advisers throughout their lives, ensuring their financial knowledge remains up to date. The simple fact that they begin their financial education before most even start thinking about retirement means they are ahead of the game, as they will make fewer financial missteps along the way.
Finally, the more time people spend putting money into superannuation, the more they are able to take advantage of changing overnment policies, such as co-contribution schemes and low-income superannuation schemes.
If you know a young person who has recently entered the workforce, you can share your knowledge about the benefits of seeing a financial adviser and encourage them to get on the path for a healthy financial future sooner rather than later.
1 Calculations have not been adjusted for inflation and interest is compounded annually. These sample calculations are for general information and illustrative purposes only. They do not represent advice specific to any particular investor. Count Financial makes no warranty as to the accuracy, reliability or completeness of any information contained herein. Investments are subject to a number of risks and the repayment of capital or the investment performance of any financial product covered is not guaranteed. Investors should seek independent financial advice.
Compound interest calculator found here:
https://www.moneysmart.gov.au/toolsand-resources/calculators-and-tools/compound-interest-calculator
Retirement planning calculator found here:
https://www.moneysmart.gov.au/toolsand-resources/calculators-and-tools/retirement-planner
Important information
Andrew Gock of James Gock & Co(ABN 19 372
236 695) is an Authorised Representative of Count Financial Limited ABN 19 001 974 625, AFSL 227232, (Count) a wholly-owned, non-guaranteed subsidiary of Commonwealth Bank of Australia ABN 48 123 123 124.
This document has been prepared by Count Financial Limited ABN 19 001 974 625, AFSL 227232, (Count) a wholly-owned, non-guaranteed subsidiary of Commonwealth Bank of Australia ABN 48 123 123