What are the different asset classes available for my super?

The four asset classes include:

Shares

When you buy shares, also known as equities, you buy ownership of part of a company and share in its future. Shares are considered a growth asset, which means they offer potentially high asset class returns. But share prices can also experience dramatic highs and lows over the short term. You can invest in international and Australian shares.

Property

Like shares, property is considered a growth asset class, offering the potential for high asset class returns on both capital growth and income. But you don't have to buy a whole house to invest in property. You can invest in listed property investments that are managed property assets. By doing this, you can have a growth asset that is still relatively easy to buy and sell and gives you exposure to the property asset class.

Bonds

Bonds are also known as fixed-interest securities. They guarantee to pay a regular amount of money and repay your investment at a pre-set date in the future, known as the maturity date. Bonds can perform better at different times of the economic cycle, so they can help you diversify your portfolio.  Bonds are generally regarded as a lower-risk asset class investment than shares or property.

Cash

Cash investments are not limited to putting money in the bank. Cash management trusts are managed funds that invest in cash and  the short-term money market. They offer similar security and access as bank savings accounts but often at a better rate of interest. However, if you leave your investment in cash for too long, your gains may be eroded by inflation.

For more information

We recommend that you speak to a qualified financial adviser before making any decision in relation to your investment.