Researching an investment can feel daunting. It’s tempting to seek out opinions from friends and family and on social media, and take advertising and information from providers at face value. But it’s important to look a little deeper to make sure your money is invested exactly where you want it to be.
You can either do this research yourself (DIY), or enlist the help of a licensed financial advice provider. Read more below about these two approaches.
Taking a DIY approach
Ethical investments may (or may not) have additional risks or costs. See more below.
Enlist the help of a licensed financial advice provider
Some investors use financial advisers who focus on ESG and are able to offer investment options that match their clients' investing goals and ethical concerns.
Financial advice can help you identify what you need, what’s right for you, and make sure you’re aware of the risks of certain investments.
There are financial advice providers who are qualified experts that can:
- Advise you on investment products like KiwiSaver and managed funds that match your values;
- Draw up a savings and investment plan for you to reach your goals in life
- Help you with other financial matters, like mortgages and insurance.
Financial advice can also be provided digitally at a lower cost. Digital or 'robo-advice' is automated advice generated by a computer program using algorithms, based on the information you provide.
Finding, choosing and using a financial adviser