Performance returns
Investment performance information is detailed in the document titled "Performance returns" on the right side of this webpage, and the figures are rounded to one decimal place. The calculation of performance returns is based on the movement of unit prices for the unit linked investment options over the period reported. The performance returns shown are calculated after the deduction of any tax, asset management charge and investment costs attributable to the investment option and before the deduction of any other fees and rebates that may be applicable to your policy. Performance returns are the annual returns for the investment option as a whole. For current investment performance information, click here and then select your product.
Asset allocations and benchmarks
Asset allocations for 31 March 2010 and 2009 for each of the investment options are shown in the document titled "Investment option profiles" on the right hand side of this webpage, and have been rounded to the nearest one decimal point. The actual allocations may vary from time to time due to market fluctuations and investment decisions. A limited portion of the investment portfolios may be held as cash for liquidity or other investment purposes from time to time. This cash holding is included in the asset class specified in the manager's mandate. For example, a specialist shares manager may hold some cash (within specified limits) and this would be classified as shares. For current or further information about asset allocation benchmarks and minimum and maximum ranges, please contact your financial adviser, call us on 1300 209 088 or click here and then select your product and the appropriate investment option.
Changes to the strategic asset allocation
The strategic asset allocation (SAA) is the asset allocation that TOWER has decided is most appropriate to meet each investment option's investment objective. As part of the ongoing monitoring and commitment to continually improve investment offerings, the asset allocation of each investment option has been reviewed. Any changes to the SAA will be detailed in the document titled "Investment option profiles" on the right hand side of this webpage.
Risk and return profile
Volatility can be simply defined as fluctuations in the returns of an investment and is the most common way to measure the risk associated with certain asset classes. An investment which is more volatile than another is said to be riskier. This is because the greater the volatility of an investment, the greater the chance that its return could be less than expected. It is widely accepted that over long periods of time, a relationship exists between the risk and return of each investment option. Generally, the investment options with the potential for earning higher returns carry a higher risk (i.e. have higher volatility of returns). If you would like details for each of the investment options available to you as a policyholder (including asset allocation benchmarks and ranges) call us on 1300 209 088 or click here and then select your product and the appropriate investment option.
Multi-manager investment style
TOWER's multi-manager investment options are managed by Russell Investment Management Ltd (Russell Investments), ABN 53 068 338 974. Russell Investments selects the underlying investment managers for its funds and regularly monitors the investment managers ensuring the investment options continue to meet investment objectives. Multi-manager investing involves selecting quality specialist investment managers from around the world to manage some assets in the investment options. Russell Investments conducts a wide range of research, and has access to superior market information and a broad skill base for investment decision making. TOWER's incumbent investment manager, Russell Investments, is a signatory to the United Nations Principles of Responsible Investment (UN PRI). As a signatory, Russell Investments believes that environmental, social and corporate governance issues can affect the performance of investment portfolios. They also recognise that applying the Principles to investment decisions may better align investors with the broader objectives of society.
Labour standards and environmental, social and ethical considerations
Labour standards, environmental, social, or ethical considerations are not taken into account for the purpose of selecting, retaining, or realising an investment. Underlying investment managers may or may not take these considerations into account.
Investment in derivatives
Derivatives such as futures, forwards, options and swaps (as applicable) may be used, within agreed limits, by the underlying investment managers in managing the various asset classes.TOWER's Derivative Risk Statement ((DRS) contains information about our approach to the use of derivatives. I you would like a copy, please contact us.