Understanding Investment Performance Info

[CathJ]

I've been looking around (and no, I haven't consulted a financial advisor yet!) and I think that what I'm looking for is something like the AG Balanced Fund. Now I have 2 questions:

1) If I wanted to invest in this, do I just get hold of AG and ask to see a consultant?

and 2) How do I interpret their performance table? They have data at http://www.allangray.co.za/unit_trusts/performance.aspx, for the various funds, but I can't really tell if they're doing well or not. I just want to know if the growth is exceeding the fees, and by a lot or a little.... over the last few years, because last year was pretty bad performance-wise.

 

[Waaib]

Yes. You just call the number and the call center staff will guide you through the investment process. Essentially you fill in a form and pay the money into the account then they allocate it. They will not give advice on which fund to choose though.

You can ask the call center staff how to read those figure too. If they can't help ask to speak to someone who can. They are very good at helping clients.

Edit:-

You don't have to actually invest to get help with the figures. If you call them saying you'd like to invest but need help they'll also help you.

Under correction the AG funds have been in the top 5 in terms of performance for the past 30 years. A 2 year view might look bad but they should be able to give you the 5, 10 and 15 year views. if you look on the site on the right hand site there is a things called "Fund fact Sheets" they give graphs on the various funds. On the site go to Individuals, Unit Trusts, Balanced Fund and Click. Then choose Fund fact Sheet on the right hand side.

How to guide: http://www.allangray.co.za/unit_trusts/how_to_invest.aspx

Hope it helps.

 

[CathJ]

Thanks waaib, that helps a lot. I just didn't know where to even begin the process!