cautious (defensive) managed pension funds.

Managed funds spread your money across shares, bonds, cash and sometimes property, with the mix chosen by the fund manager. Cautious or defensive managed funds keep less than 35% in shares, aiming for a steadier ride with smaller ups and downs, at the cost of lower expected growth.

funds

45

providers

9

typical risk

2–4/7

middle 5-yr return

+2.4% a year

Of the 33 cautious (defensive) managed pension funds with a five-year record, the highest average yearly return was +8.0% (Irish Life Amundi Global Ecology ESG, Irish Life) and the lowest −0.4% (Irish Life Amundi Global Aggregate Bond Gross, Irish Life). 12 funds are under five years old and listed after, by 3-year return.