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How to choose a fund.

Your choice of fund could have a big impact on how your investment grows. Here we share our top five tips to consider when choosing a fund.

Tips for choosing an investment fund.

1

How long until you need your money?

Our funds have been carefully designed to work for different timeframes. Knowing how long you plan to invest for will help you narrow down your options and make the most of your investment. For example, if you have a long-term investment goal, a fund with more growth assets (like shares and listed property) could mean you end up with more money in the long term. On the other hand, funds with more incomes assets (like cash and bonds) might be better suited if you have a short-term investment goal and need your money soon.
2

How comfortable are you seeing your balance go up and down?

Our funds invest in the same assets, just in different ratios. This means each fund will have a different level of risk and potential return. Think about whether you’re comfortable seeing your balance go up and down if it potentially means higher returns in the long term. Generally, a fund with more growth assets and a higher risk rating offers the potential for higher returns over the long term. If you don't like seeing big ups and downs in your balance and are comfortable with slower, steady returns over time, a fund with more income assets and a lower risk rating might be better.
3

Are the fees fair?

You'll pay a fee when you invest in a managed fund. But how much you pay is important as higher fees will eat into your investment returns over time. Also consider the fund's performance compared to its fee. A fund with slightly higher fees might still be worthwhile if it consistently outperforms other similar funds.
4

How does the fund perform?

While past performance is not a guarantee of future performance, reviewing a fund’s historical performance (1 year, 3 years, 5 years etc.) might give you an idea of what can happen to your balance when the markets go up and down.
5

Does the fund match your values?

Knowing what the fund invests in may help you decide if the fund matches your values. For example, when we make a decision to invest, we’re guided by our sustainable investment policy’s four key pillars - exclusions, Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) integration, stewardship, and sustainable themes. We believe that not only can we create financial value but also social and environmental value as well.

Next steps.

Compare our managed funds

Compare our Westpac Active Series investment funds and find the best one for you.

Compare our managed funds

Compare our KiwiSaver funds

Compare our Westpac KiwiSaver Scheme investment funds and find the best one for you.

Compare our funds

Talk to our specialists

Contact our dedicated team of specialists with general investment questions.

Call us on 0508 972 254

Our sustainable investment policy

As one of New Zealand’s largest fund managers we strive to deliver sustainable value. Learn more about how we do this.

Read our sustainable investment policy

Things you should know.

BT Funds Management (NZ) Limited is the scheme provider and issuer, and Westpac New Zealand Limited is a distributor, of the Westpac KiwiSaver Scheme and the Westpac Active Series.

The information above is subject to changes in government policy and law, and changes to the Westpac KiwiSaver Scheme, from time to time.

The material on this webpage is provided for general purposes only and is not a recommendation or opinion in relation to the Westpac KiwiSaver Scheme or Westpac Active Series. You should not rely solely on the information on this webpage.

Investments made in the Westpac KiwiSaver Scheme and Westpac Active Series do not represent bank deposits or other liabilities of Westpac Banking Corporation ABN 33 007 457 141, Westpac New Zealand Limited or other members of the Westpac Group of companies. They are subject to investment and other risks, including possible delays in payment of withdrawal amounts in some circumstances, and loss of investment value, including principal invested.

None of BT Funds Management (NZ) Limited (as manager), any member of the Westpac Group of companies, The New Zealand Guardian Trust Company Limited (as supervisor), or any director or nominee of any of those entities, or any other person guarantees the Westpac KiwiSaver Scheme’s and Westpac Active Series' performance, returns or repayment of capital.

You can get a copy of the Westpac KiwiSaver Scheme Product Disclosure Statement or the Westpac Active Series Product Disclosure Statement or by contacting any Westpac branch or call 0508 972 254 or from overseas +64 9 375 9978 (international toll charges apply).