I realise that the answer you had in mind was probably something along the lines of: "Invest your pension into a preserver with XYZ management company, into their ABC stable fund, because I, in my infinite wisdom, think that they are a quality company and all their funds will do well into the future."

However, the truth is that all funds and managers go through performance cycles in much the same way as the ebb and flow of the tides. So, today?s top performer may be tomorrow?s bottom ranker and vice versa.

It is therefore better to pick a reputable firm with good, sensible investment principles, strong management and reasonable fees (no hidden costs).

Now for the second part of my answer?

I can understand your reluctance to consult with a financial planner and avoid any advice cost. However, there are many good reasons to seek the services of one.

A properly qualified financial planner will help you put a plan together based on your unique goals and circumstances. You mentioned that you plan to retire at 50 or 55. A financial planner will offer you the necessary guidance around this important decision. A planner will be able to help you to determine whether you?ve saved enough capital to be able to stop working and whether it will sustain you for the duration of your life.

He/she will also point out that the earliest regulatory recognised retirement age is 55. Therefore, if one retires before 55, it will be seen as a resignation (unless he/she is medically unfit to work) and not retirement. In this way, the tax implications of stopping work before age 55 are hugely different to after.

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