Unit trusts as a road to FIRE

By Elsie Kambala

A new generation of savers and investors all have the dream of attaining financial independence and early retirement, generally referred to as the FIRE movement, standing for Financial Independence, Retire Early. The idea of financial freedom bounces rather loudly now, as shifting economic tides and hikes in the cost of living grows demands for greater financial foresight in Namibia.

Yet, many people believe building wealth requires substantial capital or risky strategies. The truth is, unit trusts actually offer a realistic and accessible route to FIRE, without having to take high-stake gambles on finance. Benjamin Graham once said that “The best way to measure your investing success is not by whether you’re beating the market, but by whether you’ve put in place a financial plan and a behavioural discipline that are likely to get you where you want to go”.

Unit trusts democratise investing by allowing individuals to pull resources into professionally managed funds, lowering the barriers that keep people out of the investment world. It’s not just possible to start small; it’s a smart strategy. Consistently invested even in modest investment amounts grow with the power of compounding over time. By reinvesting returns and consistently depositing more money, the investor causes a snowball effect: returns make more returns, accelerating financial independence.

In Namibia, the requirement for flexibility and adaptability is increasing, enabling people to make choices about the building of their wealth – unit trusts balance accessibility with diversification. Unlike other, more complicated investment channels that require deep knowledge and day-to-day monitoring, unit trusts offer peace of mind. The experienced fund managers take charge of a diversified portfolio, spreading the risk across various assets to create stability, even in volatile markets. This allows investors to focus on their financial goals without the pressure of making daily market decisions.

Another great feature of unit trusts and an excellent natural fit for those seeking a FIRE lifestyle in Namibia is their liquidity: they let a person have cash on demand-though not particularly attractive from a financial returns’ standpoint, still support disciplined savings towards a defined goal. That’s what would best align with the FIRE philosophy to design a life of maximum freedom, with one finger always on your finances.

The path to early retirement is also about aligning investments with personal values. Whether choosing funds focused on sustainable development or sectors that drive economic progress in Namibia, unit trust investors can craft portfolios that reflect their ethical priorities while building wealth. Investment becomes a personal journey, with a statement of intent for long-term prosperity to society.

To the dreamer who envisions a life where work is optional and freedom is paramount, unit trusts provide a well-paved road to financial independence. Small beginnings, professional management, liquidity, and ethical flexibility combine to make unit trusts a cornerstone for achieving both security and autonomy. Namibia’s future-ready investors have the tools they need today to unlock a tomorrow filled with possibility. Early retirement is just not an impossible dream anymore; it starts with choosing investments correctly.

Elsie Kambala is the Chief Operating Officer and Head of Unit Trusts, Old Mutual Investment Group, Old Mutual Namibia

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