What are your options?

Having decided to invest, what are the options? What you choose will depend on how much you want to be in the driver's seat. Experienced investors may look for ways to exercise more control. New investors may prefer to invest through managed funds or brokers.

There's plenty to choose from... but seek advice first!

Option	Benefits	Considerations
Managed funds	Expert management Pooled resources Ability to diversify Low start-up costs Learn more about managed funds in our ‘Managed Funds’ section.	Ongoing fees
Share investment through brokers	Broker management and advice High degree of control Fees payable on trades	Requires reasonable funds to be able to diversify
DIY shares	Self-management Save on fees More control Read about Westpac's online investing services on the Westpac website. BT is the investment management arm of Westpac Banking Group.	Requires research and market knowledge to make the most and reduce risk Requires reasonable funds to be able to diversify Difficult to access some opportunities such as overseas shares
Borrowing to invest (margin lending)	Borrowing to invest provides additional funds for investing Increases the amount you can invest Increases your ability to diversify May be tax-effective Flexible interest rates Check out our 'Margin Lending' section.	Suitable for more experienced investors You may increase your potential investment returns - or losses
Wrap accounts	'Wraps up' different investments, such as shares, managed funds, margin loans and others into a single account Ease of access You can view your entire portfolio Ease of administration Wholesale rates on managed funds Diversification Check out our 'Wrap' section.	Suit confident investors with reasonable market knowledge Self-management Requires reasonable sums of money to start

Know your risk profile

The options you choose will depend on how much risk you feel comfortable with.

To find out your risk profile, use BT's handy Risk Profile tool.

Adviser referral

The right financial adviser can help you to set your financial goals, choose investments that suit your needs and make informed decisions.

Use BT's Adviser Referral Program to find a list of financial advisers near you.

Find out more about investment

Download a copy of Investing Truths (PDF, 279 KB)(opens a new window).
Find a financial adviser using BT's Adviser Referral Program.
Learn about BT's Investment funds.