Getting started with investing: Your questions answered

You might be wondering how to make your money work harder for you. The good news is you don’t need a large sum or specialist knowledge to begin. Small, consistent steps can make a meaningful difference over time.

In this Q&A, Marie Kirwan, Senior Financial Planner at Zurich, will answer your questions on saving and investing.

Q: I’m saving in my bank regularly so why should I consider investing instead?
A: That’s a great question. While bank, building society, or credit union accounts are reliable, the returns are often low, so your savings could grow slowly. Inflation can also reduce your money’s purchasing power over time. Investing aims to help your savings grow faster than typical deposit rates over the medium to long term. It’s important to remember, though, that investment values can go down as well as up.

Q: Do I need a large sum or specialist knowledge to get started with investing?
A: Not at all. You can start with a modest monthly amount and build from there. The most important thing is to begin, keep it simple and be consistent. Over time, the power of compounding (earning returns on your returns) can help your savings grow.

Q: How do I match my investment risk to my personal comfort level?
A: At Zurich, we offer a range of funds, from steadier low- and medium-risk options to those with greater long-term potential (and higher risk). Your Financial Planner or Broker will work with you to find the best fit for your needs and comfort level.

Q: What options are available if I want to start investing with Zurich?
A: You have several choices:

• Regular Savings Plan: Ideal for building a savings habit with regular monthly contributions, tailored to your risk appetite. Start saving from €100 per month.
• Investment Bond: Perfect for one-off lump sum investments, such as an inheritance or existing savings.
• Special Savings Plus: A flexible option that combines a lump sum with ongoing regular contributions.

With each option, you can select from Zurich’s range of funds, including risk-rated options like Prisma funds, and you can switch funds if your goals or risk profile change.

Q: Can I trust Zurich with my investments?
A: We understand how important trust is when you’re starting out with investing. Zurich’s investment capability in Ireland is consistently recognised by independent industry bodies, with awards such as:

• Investment Excellence Award, Brokers Ireland (2014–2025; no awards in 2020)
• Fund Management Company of the Year, Business & Finance Financial Services Awards (2023, 2024, 2025)
• Pensions and Life Assurance Company of the Year, InBUSINESS Recognition Awards (2025)

While awards aren’t a guarantee of future results, they do reflect the strength and consistency of our approach, delivered by our in-house investment team in Blackrock, Co. Dublin.

Q: How can I design my investment fund around my goals?
A: With Zurich, you can choose from steady, diversified options to higher-growth funds, depending on your savings objectives. You’ll be able to:

• Stay in control: Switch between funds, vary contributions, add lump sums, and access your money when you need to.
• Track your progress: Use Zurich’s online Client Centre to monitor your savings.
• Think long term: Investing is most effective over the medium to long term, ideally seven years or more.

Q: How much can I expect my savings to grow if I invest?
A: You can use Zurich’s Investment Growth Calculator to explore how regular contributions, or a lump sum could grow over time. It’s a great tool to compare different fund choices, from low to high risk. It is important to remember that funds can fall as well as rise.

Q: What if I’m not sure where to begin with investing?
A: You’re not alone, many people feel that way at the start. Begin by exploring our beginner’s guide to investing to understand your options and risk levels. We recommend also speaking with your own financial broker, advisor or a Zurich Financial Planner for personalised guidance.

Q: What’s my next step if I want to start investing with Zurich?
A: Decide on a comfortable monthly amount (for example, €100), or identify a lump sum (minimums apply, e.g., €5,000 for an Investment Bond). Pick a risk level that suits you. Then, set up your plan with help from your personal financial broker, advisor or a Zurich Financial Planner. This can all be done online, and once your plan is set up, you can monitor it through the Zurich Client Centre.

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The information contained herein is based on Zurich Life’s understanding of current Revenue practice as at December 2025 and may change in the future.

This publication has been prepared for general guidance on matters of interest only and does not constitute professional advice. You should not act upon the information contained in this publication without obtaining specific professional advice.

Sources: *Investment Excellence Award, Brokers Ireland, 2014 - 2025. No awards held in 2020. Pension Provider Excellence Award, Brokers Ireland, 2024, 2023, 2022. Fund Management Company of the Year 2025 Award, Business and Finance Financial Services Awards. Life Assurance and Pensions of the Year, InBUSINESS Recognition Awards, 2025.