The Complete Guide to Investing: How to Grow Your Wealth with Confidence

Asset classes:

  • Equities (Shares/Stocks) – Ownership in companies. Higher risk, higher potential return.

  • Bonds – Loans to governments or companies. Lower risk, steady income.

  • Property – Investment in real estate for income or capital growth.

  • Commodities – Physical goods like gold, oil, or agricultural products.

  • Cash and Deposits – Low risk, minimal return.

  • Funds – Pooled investments like mutual funds or ETFs that invest in a mix of the above.

No asset is best — some work better for certain outcomes. Generally, a structured combination of assets works better over the longer term. This is known as diversification, which spreads risk and helps smooth out returns.

understanding risk and return

The relationship between risk and return is central to investing. Generally, higher potential returns come with higher risk. Your goal should be to find a balance that aligns with your financial goals, time horizon, and personal comfort with risk.

risk profile

Understanding your risk profile is essential. It includes:

  • Your financial capacity to withstand losses

  • Your emotional tolerance for volatility

  • Your investment goals and timeline

The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) ranks investments according to their risk or volatility, ranging from 1 to 7:

  • 1: Very low risk and growth

  • 7: High risk and potential return

For most investors, a rating between 3 and 5 is optimal, but every individual’s circumstances are different.

3. Investment Strategies

active vs passive investing

  • Active: Portfolio managers aim to beat the market through strategic buying/selling

  • Passive: Track the market via low-cost index funds or ETFs

lump sum vs regular investing

  • Lump Sum: Invest all at once. More exposure to market movements upfront.

  • Regular Contributions: Invest monthly. Helps smooth out price fluctuations (known as euro cost averaging).

eSG investing

ESG stands for Environmental, Social, and Governance. It refers to investments that prioritise sustainable and ethical practices alongside financial performance.

  • Environmental: How companies impact nature

  • Social: Their relationships with employees, communities, and society

  • Governance: Leadership, board structure, and shareholder rights

While environmental preservation is a top priority, focusing solely on ESG-focused investment can limit your investment universe. Hopefully, in the future, the options will expand.

tax and investments

Tax plays a major role in your investment returns.

capital gains tax (CGT)

  • Charged at 33% on profits when you sell an asset for more than you paid

  • There is an annual exemption of €1,270 per person

dividend Withholding tax (DWT)

  • 25% is withheld at source when you receive dividends from Irish companies

  • The balance is liable to income tax, PRSI, and USC depending on your marginal rate

exit tax

  • Applies to Irish life assurance and investment funds

  • Taxed at 41% on gains

  • Includes a “deemed disposal” – you’re taxed every 8 years even if you haven’t sold

Tax rules may change, and your individual situation will determine what applies. We recommend personalised advice to maximise tax efficiency.

how to start investing

  • Define your goals – Are you saving for retirement, a house, or long-term growth?

  • Understand your risk profile – Use online tools or speak to a professional

  • Choose your investment platform – Direct with providers, via brokers, or through pension/investment accounts

  • Select your strategy – Based on your time horizon and risk profile

  • Monitor and review – Rebalance your portfolio as your circumstances or the market changes

8. Final Thoughts

Investing is one of the most effective ways to build long-term wealth, but it’s important to make informed decisions based on your individual goals and risk profile.

Diversification, understanding the role of tax, choosing suitable asset classes, and reviewing your portfolio regularly are all key to long-term success.

David Murphy