How to Invest For Income

When it comes to personal finance and building your wealth for investment income, you need to invest your money wisely. Investment income refers to money earned from your investments. This income can come in several forms such as:

• Interest
• Capital gains
• Dividends
• Passive income (e.g. rental income)

It is the financial return on the funds you have invested across different assets – for example, stocks, bonds, real estate or art. The main goal of investing for income is to generate a consistent cash flow, often on a monthly or quarterly basis which can be used to cover living expenses, save for future goals, or even fund your retirement.

But what do you need to consider when investing for income? That’s what we’ll be exploring in this blog post. Read on for some of the main options for generating investment income, and the main things to consider when investing for income.

The Different Types of Income-generating Investments

First of all, consider the different investment opportunities available. There is a wide range of options available if you’re seeking a steady income from a collection of investments. Here are some potential avenues to explore:

Dividend Stocks

The stock market can be a great way to invest for income. One of the main options is dividend stocks. Dividend stocks are shares of companies that distribute a portion of their profits to shareholders in the form of dividends. These payments can provide a steady source of income while allowing you to benefit from potential stock price appreciation.

You can currently earn up to £500 on dividends without paying tax through the dividend allowance. In terms of yields, the current yield for the FTSE 100 is 3.89% - but individual companies may offer higher yields. HSBC, for example, has a 12-month dividend yield of 8.23%.

Pros:

• Periodic cash payments (usually every quarter)
• Income through both dividends and capital appreciation
• Usually protected against inflation

• Dividend stocks aren’t risk-free
• Focusing on dividends alone will not offer diversification
• Dividends are typically taxed as typical income (qualified dividends could be taxed at lower rates, though!)

Bonds

Another type of income-generating investment is corporate bonds. When you invest in bonds, you essentially become a lender – and you’ll receive periodic interest payments. These can vary depending on the current interest rate. A key benefit of investing in bonds is that they’re a stable investment – making them a dependable source of income.

However, keep in mind that the returns may be lower compared to stocks, but bonds can be a key part of a diversified investment portfolio, balancing risk and reward. Premium bond prizes are tax-free - you can win up to £1 million every month. You can, however, only invest £50,000 in premium bonds. NS&I Income Bonds, however, allow investments up to £1 million.

Pros:

• Bonds offer a predictable income - fixed interest payments regularly
• Bonds are considered less risky - especially Government bonds
• Some bonds offer tax benefits
• Bonds can be a great way to preserve capital while earning interest

• The fixed income from bonds might not be enough to keep up with inflation
• Corporate bonds can be risky - the issuer could default on payment
• Some bonds could be repaid by the issuer before the maturity date (usually if the interest rates decline)
• Interest from most bonds is taxed as income

Real Estate

• Buy-to-let - when you invest in property and let it out to tenants for monthly income
• Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) - Investing through a company without directly owning the property
• Property development - when you invest in property to renovate (or new builds) to sell for profit

However, there are many additional factors to consider when investing in real estate – for example, finding tenants and maintenance costs.

Pros:

• Potential for income to increase over time if mortgage payments decrease and the value of the property rises
• Offer a hedge against inflation
• Can be a great way to diversify your portfolio
• An alternative investment you can enjoy

• You generally need significant capital to get started
• There are additional costs to consider such as repair and maintenance costs
• Real estate is not liquid, so not ideal for quick gains
• The real estate market can fluctuate

Income Funds

Income funds are mutual funds or exchange-traded funds (ETFs) specifically designed to provide investors with a consistent stream of income. These funds typically hold a mix of assets like bonds, dividend stocks, and real estate investment trusts (REITs).

If you don’t need instant income, and you have a more long-term outlook, why not choose accumulation units to benefit from compounding? However, if you need regular income as soon as possible, why not opt for income units?

Pros:

• Income funds are considered low-risk compared to equity funds
• They include a variety of asset classes which can diversify your portfolio
• Index funds are easy to manage
• This is a more accessible investment opportunity

• You have less control over the securities in the fund
• They typically offer lower returns compared to other options
• Income from income funds is usually taxed as ordinary income

Index Funds

Index funds are a type of mutual fund or ETF that tracks a specific market index, such as the FTSE 100 in the UK. Investing in index funds can allow you to passively invest in the overall performance of the market, which can result in long-term growth and income.

Pros:

• The expense ratio can be as low as 0.015%
• Offers immediate diversification
• Easy to manage and understand
• A great option if you’re a long-term investor looking for consistent returns

• Index funds don’t offer much flexibility
• You have a lack of control over your holdings
• Index funds are typically long-term investments so not ideal if you’re looking for quick returns

Art Investments

Art investments are becoming increasingly popular, with 81% of ultra-high-net-worth individuals investing in art. As a tangible asset class, art is something you can enjoy.

It’s something you can hang in your home and admire as it appreciates in value. Although art is typically a long-term investment, holding onto it for a long period of time can be a great way of generating future income.

Ultimately, art investment can help you to become financially independent. With Grove Gallery, you can generate returns of up to 12% per year from art investment.

Pros:

• Art investment can diversify your portfolio - they have a low correlation with traditional markets
• You could potentially generate income from renting out your art to museums, galleries or even private collectors
• Art can significantly increase in value over time, giving you a lump sum when you sell

• Art investment isn’t a great choice if you’re looking for quick profit - art is a more long-term investment (it can sometimes take decades to appreciate)
• The art market can be tough to navigate without professional support, such as from an art advisor
• Art prices can fluctuate based on factors outside your control, such as market trends and economic conditions

Consider Your Risk Tolerance

One of the main things to consider when investing for income is your risk tolerance. Different investments or asset classes will come with different levels of risk. For example, stocks and real estate can offer higher potential returns but also involve more significant price fluctuations.

On the other hand, bonds and income funds typically come with lower risk but may offer lower returns. Understanding your risk tolerance is crucial in creating a balanced and diversified income-focused portfolio.

Art is generally a stable, safe investment – it can withstand economic shocks and uncertainty, and act as a hedge against inflation. If you’re looking for a safe investment, explore art investment as an option.

Many investors will opt for insurance – this can help to protect your financial well-being. Quality insurance coverage – whether it be life, health or disability – can protect you from unexpected expenses. This can make you more prepared for the future.

Consider Diversifying Your Portfolio

Whilst we’re on the topic of risk, you should consider diversifying your portfolio. This is a fundamental aspect of investment planning. Spreading your investments across a range of asset classes is an effective way to reduce risk levels and increase the chance of investment success.

This could involve investing in a combination of stocks, bonds, real estate and alternative investments such as art. Some asset classes to diversify your portfolio include:

• Bonds
• Cash
• Commodities
• Equities
• Property
• Art

You can also diversify your portfolio by investing in different countries - this can help to reduce the impact of local economic fluctuations. Many investors find that a 60/40 split between equities and bonds is the best way to balance risk and return.

Consider Tax Implications

Taxation can have a huge impact on your investment income. In the UK, it could be worth considering tax-efficient investment accounts such as ISAs (Individual Savings Accounts).

These can help to minimise the impact taxes can have on your income. Before investing, it’s important to consider the tax implications on different types of income – for example, on dividends or interest. This is essential for effective tax planning.

Consider Any Additional Fees

Always consider the fees associated with the investment. For example, the costs of using certain types of software, or the cost of working with a professional financial adviser.

Fees can eat into your returns if not managed correctly. Be sure to understand the additional costs associated with your investments and how they could impact your overall investment income.

Consider Liaising With a Professional

Understanding the world of investments can be difficult, which is why many seek the help of an expert. Financial advisers can provide effective advice and guidance on income investing.

They can help you to determine the most suitable investment strategy based on your unique financial situation and goals. When searching for a financial adviser, ensure they have expertise in income-focused investments and a solid track record.

If you’re considering investing in an alternative asset class, seek professional support. For example, if you are considering investing in art, you could benefit from liaising with an art advisor. An art advisor can guide you through the process, and help you maximise your investment.

Whether you’re a seasoned art investor or you’re looking to invest in your first piece of art, you can benefit from a professional opinion. Invest in art today with Grove Gallery, and utilise the support of our expert art advisors.