Making Your Money to Work

Which Type of Investor Are You? 4 Ways to Put Your Money to Work

Not everyone should invest their money the same way.

The investment that works for someone seeking regular income may not be suitable for someone pursuing long-term growth.

Before you invest, understand your financial goals and the options available to you.

Here are four types of investors and investment options to explore.

1. The Beginner: “I Want to Start Growing My Money.”

If you are new to investing, a Money Market Fund may be worth considering.

These funds invest in short-term financial instruments and are generally designed for investors seeking income with relatively low risk.

For example, Stanbic IBTC reported a yield of 16.65% on its Money Market Fund as of October 8, 2026.

However, yields can change, and returns are not guaranteed.

2. The Wealth Preserver: “I Want to Protect What I Have Built.”

If your priority is preserving your wealth while earning returns, consider researching fixed-income investments such as Treasury bills and bonds.

Stanbic IBTC also highlights Naira Bonds and OMO Bills as investment options.

Before investing, understand the interest rate, maturity period, liquidity and risks involved.

Remember, protecting your wealth requires more than choosing an investment with an attractive return. You must also consider when you will need your money.

3. The Growth Investor: “I Want My Money to Grow Over Time.”

If you have a longer investment horizon and can tolerate market fluctuations, equity funds may be worth exploring.

These funds invest in shares and offer the potential for capital appreciation.

Stanbic IBTC reported year-to-date returns of 57.87% for its Imaan Fund and 45.67% for its Equity Fund.

But don't rush into an investment simply because the returns look impressive.

Equity investments can lose value, and past performance does not guarantee future returns.

4. The Diversification Investor: “I Don't Want All My Investments Tied to the Naira.”

If you want exposure to foreign-currency assets, dollar-denominated investments may be worth researching.

Stanbic IBTC's Dollar Fund is one option to explore.

However, dollar investments are not automatically safer or more profitable. Understand the underlying assets, fees, risks and redemption terms before committing your money.

Before You Choose an Investment, Ask Yourself These Four Questions:

1. What am I investing for?
2. When will I need the money?
3. How much risk can I comfortably take?
4. Am I looking for regular income, capital preservation or long-term growth?

Your answers should guide your investment decisions.

You don't need to invest in everything at once. You need to understand what you are investing in and why it fits your financial goals.

The goal is not simply to make money. It is to build wealth strategically.

Now, let's talk! Which type of investor are you?

A — The Beginner
B — The Wealth Preserver
C — The Growth Investor
D — The Diversification Investor


Let's learn and grow together!
 
Back
Top