Thanks for your question.   Obviously you are quite concerned that your account balance has gone down in value which is understandable.   Unfortunately, I am not able to give
you are definitive answer as to whether you should stick with a high growth style of investment as my financial planning license will simply not allow me to do that (I need to collect heaps of information about you, including what you ate for breakfast - only joking on this one!).

However, I can give you general information, which is not specific to your needs.   You have heard it plenty of times before, superannuation is a long term investment and based on my experience, 42 year old’s usually keep working until at least 60 and probably longer.  Furthermore, you are not going to withdraw all your funds at retirement and will have to keep it invested in order to generate an income.   Basically, what I am saying is that the money will probably be invested for at least 35+ years.   This is your time
frame.  I have now been in this business for nearly 20 years and have seen so many ups and downs.  Historically it is also not unusual to see markets bounce back quick strongly after a fall.   Ultimately, you have decide what you are comfortable with.   For your
info, I have not been spooked by the volatility and  have not changed my asset allocation in my superannuation fund, which is shares, both Australian and international, with a little bit of property (sounds like high growth doesn’t it!).   I am estimating that my time in the market will also be more than 35 years.   Just wish I had a crystal ball, as I would be a very rich woman indeed if I could time the market.

I think it is great you are keeping a close eye on your super.  By doing your homework, the decision making process becomes a bit easier.

Have you had a look at Q Super’s website?   There are some great calculators and I would use them to check whether you are on track to reaching your retirement goal.   Even though you are only 42, it is a good idea to check as it will be hard to catch up when you are in your late 50’s.  If you are eligible, make sure you always take advantage of the superannuation co-contribution.

I wish you lots of good fortune for the future and happy money organisation.   Josie Kay

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