Super is likely to be one of your most important investments. But do you know how your retirement savings are managed? NGS Super breaks down how super is invested and what you should consider when it comes to choosing your investment options.

Are you aged between 18-35?

If you’re between 18 and 35, you might not spend much time thinking about your super. You may have other priorities like paying rent, HECS, or saving for a home. Super can feel distant and abstract. But did you know that the small decisions you make today can make a big difference down the track? The great part is you still have time on your side. So, it’s a good idea to look at your super now so you have more options available to maximise your retirement savings.

Here’s another way to look at it.

A 25-year-old earning $70,000 a year with a super balance of $25,000 could accumulate a balance of $406,451 by the time they are 65.

But if they were to make extra contributions of $10 a week for 40 years, they could end up with $435,860 at age 65. That’s $8,609 in compound interest. As in, more money for you when you retire.*

^*Assumes continuous employment through to retirement at age 65 with employer contributions of 12% p.a., salary increases annually by 3.7%, long-term average returns of 5.5% p.a. (net of investment fees and tax). Actual performance will vary. All values are in today’s dollars (allowing for inflation of 2.5% p.a. and lifestyle improvements of 1.2% p.a.). For more information on the assumptions used, go to ngssuper.com.au/super-calculator

With superannuation, you can also choose how you invest your super savings – these are called investment options. NGS Super has many to choose from. If you’re in the early stages of your career, you may want to think about choosing options with more growth assets, like shares and property.

These options have greater potential for higher long-term returns but tend to be more volatile in the short term. Compare this to defensive assets, like cash or bonds, which are generally more stable but earn lower returns over time.

Are you aged between 35-55?

If you’re between 35 and 55, your super matters more than ever. You’re likely to have plenty on your plate. Maybe a mortgage, kids, or saving for that big European vacation. Retirement might still feel a while away, but the choices you make with your super now could make a big difference later. Considering your investment options is a good place to start!

If you’re working, your super balance is growing, and how you choose to invest your super can impact just how big your super grows. NGS Super offers a range of investment options to suit your goals and risk appetite. If you want to grow your balance and can tolerate some market ups and downs, options with a higher allocation to growth assets, like shares and property, might be a good fit. These offer the potential for higher long-term returns.

However, if you want to reduce your exposure to market volatility, selecting a more balanced or conservative option that includes defensive assets, like bonds or cash, might be worth considering.

Are you 55 or over?

If you’re approaching retirement, now’s the time to focus on your super. You’re likely thinking about how your super savings can help make your dreams a reality.

NGS Super’s investment options are designed to support different goals – whether you’re looking for growth, stability, or a blend of both. There are different ways you can invest your super to suit your needs. Perhaps you’re thinking about protecting what you’ve built. This might mean choosing a pre-mixed option with more defensive assets, such as the Balanced or Defensive options. In pre-mixed options, NGS Super actively manages the downside risks on your behalf.

Or you might want to design your own portfolio mix with some defensive single-sector options, such as Diversified Bonds and the Cash and Term Deposits option.

The good news is that when you get to retirement, you can keep your super invested using the NGS Income account, which pays you a regular income. The balance is invested and performing, all while being tax-free.

What you can do now

Here’s how to start:

• Check your current investment option – Log in to Member Online.
• Consider your investment option – considering your timeframe and goals.
• Get guidance – Book a chat with an NGS Super Specialist to walk you through your investment options.
• Track your balance – It’s easier than you think to stay across your super with Member Online.

Build confidence, not just savings

By getting your investment settings right now, you’re setting your future self up for choice, freedom, and financial confidence.

Would you like to discuss your super?

If you would like to discuss how any of the above changes may impact your super, why not chat to an NGS Super Specialist? Super Specialists are here to help. It’s complimentary, and they can answer your general questions about superannuation, investments, insurance or transition to retirement.

Financial planners can create strategies that aim to maximise your financial position to meet your objectives for the future. Financial advice can also involve protecting your lifestyle and assets through personal insurance, looking at what happens to your super when you die and the impact on your loved ones receiving your super. Seeking advice is a way to plan for your future, to mitigate risks and make the most of your saving opportunities. Education is integral to the planning process – it’s important that you feel confident and informed at all times.

This is general information only and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Before acting on this information, or making an investment decision, consider whether it is appropriate to you and read our Product Disclosure Statements and Target Market Determinations. You should also consider obtaining financial, taxation and/or legal advice tailored to your personal circumstances before making a decision. This information has been issued by NGS Super Pty Ltd ABN 46 003 491 487 as trustee of NGS Super ABN 73 549 180 515, RSE Licence L0000567 and AFSL 233 154.

Call NGS Super on 1300 133 177 if you would like to speak further, or you can discuss matters with an NGS Super Specialist or an NGS Financial Planner.

Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance. Please read our Product Disclosure Statements and Target Market Determinations before deciding if this product is right for you.