From a traditional 401k plan through your employer to a basic savings account at your bank, the various options available to help you save for retirement can be overwhelming. However, understanding and investing properly is crucial to ensure you have the funds necessary when you reach retirement age. While surprising to learn, around half of Americans have not started planning for retirement. Fortunately, it is never too late to get started. Of course, you do not have to save in a traditional manner through a 401k or savings account only. Here are a few alternatives you may want to consider when investing.
Real Assets
One of the most surprising ways you can invest your money is through real assets that have value. Assets that you can hold and keep in your home or a safe deposit box may not seem valuable enough, but some are known to maintain a steady value or increase in value over time.
If you want to invest in a tangible asset that could benefit you when it is time to retire, focus on gold, silver, or other precious metals. Other tangible assets to consider include art, wine, jewelry, and rare coins.
Real estate is also considered a real asset, since it is most likely to appreciate in value over time. Large plots of land, small acreage, commercial buildings, homes, apartments and duplexes, or even mobile homes can all be smart investments.
Cryptocurrency
Another option for investing for your retirement is to buy cryptocurrency. These digital assets, such as bitcoin, Ethereum, and Litecoin, among others, is not regulated by the government, which makes it appealing to many investors.
Unfortunately, because it is not regulated, cryptocurrency investments can be a bit volatile. In 2011, a bitcoin cost about $100. Towards the end of 2017, the crypto bull run brought the value of bitcoin up to almost $20,000. Today, however, the price is much lower. However, many experts believe the next bull run is approaching quickly, so it is a good time to invest, especially since the prices are low right now.
When investing in cryptocurrency, make sure to only invest what you can actually afford to lose. This will protect you in case of a loss. Also, avoid panic selling if prices begin to dip. Cryptocurrency value is like a roller coaster, so you will see many lows and many highs. Remember that you only truly lose when you sell.
Private Placement Debt
Private placement bonds are not traded publicly, so fewer people and companies are able to invest in these bonds. This option is also much more flexible than traditional investments, since you can invest in a secured or unsecured manner.
Most private placement investments offer long-term maturities at fixed interest rates. They are also considered investments that are bought and held, so you will be able to develop a long-term relationship with the company you are investing in.
Because only a small group can invest in private placement debts, you will need to work with a specialty bank or private broker. Contact a company like Luxor Financial Group to learn more.
Start-Ups
Many companies that are just starting out ask for investments from everyday people and even big-time investors. It is important to choose which start-ups to invest in carefully, since many fail, which mean you could potentially lose a lot of money.
Focus on start-ups that have a great product/service/idea that you believe in and what to help succeed. Also, the start-up should be run by a person or group of people who have experience starting a successful business.
Traditional retirement accounts and cash seem to be the most effective way to save for your retirement, but they are not the only options. Remember that this is not actual financial investment, so it is important to discuss your options with a financial planner or investment broker.
Share6 December 2018
My name is Alison, and I recently found out that I should have been saving for retirement since I first began working. I have now discovered what it takes to have a successful retirement plan, and I felt secure in my ability to care for myself once I am done working. I may even be able to retire early! I'd like to help you get your retirement plans in order and make the most out of the time you will have when you are no longer working. Let me help you understand what you need in a retirement plan and how you can get started.