Indeed, what started as a $100 gift has steadily grown – with regular contributions and capital gains – into a portfolio worth over $1500.
“I’m going to keep putting in as much as I can, and hope it evolves over time.”
Zac says he decides what to invest in by “taking a good look at shares” online, with a current focus on stocks that are “most affected by COVID-19.”
“Occasionally you read stories about certain companies thar aren’t doing so well right now, but I figure that has to be short term, even if it takes them a few years to recover.”
He says he limits his risk of loses by building a “very diverse profile – that way you don't put your eggs in one basket.”
“I love having a mix of ones that slowly go up, and ones that absolutely rocket up, even if they go down and jump around.”
“It’s amazing to be correct and to actually get something for being correct!”
That said, one of Zac’s guiding principles is this: “If you lose it all, you still gain more experience than any money can buy.”
“It’s good to gain this knowledge while my investments aren’t worth much. I hope one day to invest in much bigger things.”
He says the best investing advice he’s got to date, from his dad, is “never to wait for the exact lowest point” before you buy or sell.
And Zac’s own advice for other young Kiwis who are interested in investing?
“Go for it!”
*The views and opinions expressed above are those of the interviewee and do not necessarily reflect the views or official position of the FMA.
Useful links
FMA investor resources:
Mary Holm’s ‘Hits and Myths’ guide to investing
‘Funds for everyone’ guide to managed funds
Read about online investing platforms
Other investor profiles:
Carla Fasher
Sev Ozan
Jane Wrightson
Riki Manarangi
Cathy Elloso
Lachlan Wallace
Bradie Claydon
David Chadwick
Sarah Kelsey
Sonya Gupthan
Jeanette Miller
Carren Stuart
Rory Lynch
Eseta Leau
Dillon Balasingham
Mikayla Pakinga-Lawson
Reverend Scott Malcolm
Imogen O’Neill
Te Kahukura Boynton
