Chris | Christian Kiwisaver Scheme

Investment Knowhow – July in Review

by Chris | 11 Aug, 2025 | Investment, KiwiSaver

Welcome to our monthly investment catch up. In this edition we discuss what when well in the markets last month, what captured the attention of our investment team, and we share insights into some of the actions the investment team took in the portfolios.

What went well in July?

🇳🇿 NZ share market moved higher – The NZX 50 rose during July, with several large companies in healthcare and utilities helping to lift the index.
🎢 Economy performed better than expected – GDP growth came in stronger than forecast, lifting confidence in the outlook for jobs and spending.
🌍 Exports remained strong – Dairy, meat, kiwifruit and tourism earnings stayed healthy, supporting the wider economy.
US markets reached new highs – The S&P 500 and Nasdaq climbed to record levels, helped by strong technology earnings and optimism around AI. This boosted KiwiSaver funds with offshore shares.
Technology sector continued to perform – Global leaders like Microsoft, Meta and Nvidia delivered strong results, lifting global market sentiment.

What captured our attention?

⚖️ Reserve Bank’s next move – With inflation easing but still above the long term average, markets are watching closely to see if the RBNZ hints at any rate changes.
🌍 Impact of new U.S. tariffs – Any shifts in American trade policy could flow through to global markets, affecting NZ exporters and investment returns.
Strength of the U.S. dollar shifting — After earlier expectations of decline, the dollar is showing renewed strength. That matters for KiwiSaver investors with overseas exposure.
Oil price movements – Geopolitical tensions and OPEC supply changes could push fuel prices up, affecting inflation and consumer spending.
Investor sentiment – With markets at or near record highs in some regions, we’re watching whether confidence holds or starts to cool.

Market Commentary

Global share markets finished July on a positive note, with US indexes reaching new highs. This was mainly thanks to strong earnings from tech and AI companies, which lifted investor confidence. Early hopes for better trade relations helped too, although some late-month tariff announcements reminded everyone that risks remain.

Emerging markets also did well, supported by growth in Asian tech sectors. Here in New Zealand, the NZX 50 rose about 1.3%, following the global trend. The Reserve Bank held the Official Cash Rate steady at 3.25%, hinting that a future rate cut might be possible if inflation keeps easing.

Bond yields moved slightly lower, which helped fixed income returns. Commodity prices were mixed and energy stayed strong, but copper and some farm products fell due to softer demand forecasts.

Investors stayed optimistic overall but cautious. They’re watching company earnings closely and keeping an eye on any signals from central banks. Looking ahead, key things to watch are trade talks, economic data from the US and China, and any changes in interest rate policies.

With the economy showing both positives and uncertainties, we might see some market ups and downs in the coming weeks, but there are still good opportunities for investors willing to stay patient.

What this means for your portfolio?

This month, we increased protection on the portion of our portfolio invested in Australian dollar-denominated assets. Currency movements can have a meaningful impact on investment value, and the Australian dollar has faced increased volatility. By adding protection, such as currency hedging or reallocating risk, we aim to reduce the potential impact of unfavourable exchange rate changes. This helps preserve capital and provides clients with more stable and predictable investment outcomes.

Our current exposure to offshore assets, which are denominated in foreign currencies, remains well positioned. We’re comfortable with how these investments are performing and have made no changes to those allocations this month.

We also adjusted several holdings and allocated funds into term deposits, each chosen with specific maturity dates and interest rates to suit our strategy. These moves are based on ongoing analysis of interest rate trends and potential policy decisions, particularly from the Reserve Bank of New Zealand.

We regularly monitor our entire portfolio and remain flexible. When opportunities arise or risks shift, we’ll adjust the portfolio, whether that’s individual assets or the overall mix, to align with our clients’ goals.

The New Zealand Anglican Church Pension Board trading as Anglican Financial Care is the manager and issuer of Christian KiwiSaver Scheme, The Retire Fund, and the New Zealand Anglican Church Pension Fund. Product Disclosure Statements and Fund Updates are available on the Documents page of the AFC website (Pension Fund and The Retire Fund) and https://www.christiankiwisaver.nz/documents/ (Christian KiwiSaver Scheme).

Is Your Life Reflecting What Truly Matters?

by Chris | 11 Aug, 2025 | Financial Planning, General, Life after 65

At any point in life, it’s natural to pause and question the rhythm of your days—how you spend your time, where your money goes, and whether those choices reflect your values. It’s easy to slip into autopilot, checking off tasks and chasing goals without asking: Is this the life I want to be building?

When you slow down long enough to ask that question, money inevitably enters the conversation. How you earn, spend, save, or give often mirrors deeper values and unconscious patterns. Understanding where your beliefs about money come from can be surprisingly empowering.

Money behaviours don’t emerge in a vacuum. They’re shaped by early experiences. Perhaps you witnessed financial hardship and vowed never to feel that stress again. Or maybe money was always available, and you came to see it as something that would never run out. These imprints influence how you make decisions today.

Exploring your money mindset isn’t about judgement, it’s about clarity. By uncovering the roots of your financial beliefs, you can reshape your relationship with money to better serve your life’s purpose.

A powerful read on this topic is The Soul of Money by Lynne Twist. She challenges the idea that fulfilment comes from endless abundance and introduces the concept of sufficiency, the quiet confidence that what you have is enough. That shift in mindset moves you from scarcity to purpose, making your spending a reflection of your values.

Ask yourself: If you won the lottery tomorrow, how would your life change? Would you need millions to be happy, or would a simpler sum bring the same joy and peace? If your answer leans toward “life would mostly stay the same, just with more choices,” you’re already aligning your values with your financial reality.

This perspective is valuable at any age, from young adults forging their path to retirees downsizing with intention. When you shift focus from chasing more to choosing what matters, life begins to feel lighter. You stop reacting and start creating.

This isn’t just financial advice, it’s life advice. Because meaning isn’t found in income brackets. It’s found in the quiet assurance that your choices, both with time and money, reflect what you truly care about.

The article above is for educational purposes only and is not financial advice. Please seek advice from a qualified financial adviser when making decisions about your financial situation.

Budget 2025 and KiwiSaver: Commentary from Christian KiwiSaver Scheme

by Chris | 26 May, 2025 | KiwiSaver

The 2025 Budget announcements on changes to KiwiSaver invite us to reflect on how we prepare for the future.

Among the most significant shifts is the planned increase in the contribution rate from 3% to 3.5% initially, and to 4% by 2028. As the manager of Christian KiwiSaver Scheme, Anglican Financial Care supports this change. Even a small increase in regular savings can make a meaningful difference over time, especially when invested wisely. This is about fostering financial resilience.

At the same time, we know many families are feeling the pressure of rising living costs. For those doing it tough, it’s important to know that while the contribution rate is increasing, individuals are still able to choose to stay at the 3% contribution level. KiwiSaver remains flexible, and although making consistent contributions is best, you can choose to suspend them for 12 months (or more). Our helpful and friendly Christian KiwiSaver Scheme team can assist our members to make any of these changes.

Back to the good points with the Budget announcements, we’re especially encouraged by the decision to extend the KiwiSaver contribution rules to working 16 and 17 year-olds. Getting young people to start saving early will bear fruit across their lifetime, building a stronger foundation for their future. But again, for those struggling with their day to day needs, the same flexibility described above applies to these young workers.

There are also going to be adjustments to the Government’s KiwiSaver contribution, down from about $520 per year to $260 (and this will only be available to those earning less than $180,000). While we are sorry to see the Government contribution being reduced, it was always, frankly, a ‘gift’. The heart of KiwiSaver remains in each person’s ongoing effort to save, supported by employers and by the long-term investment strategies of scheme managers.

At Anglican Financial Care, we remain committed to supporting our members through whatever changes lie ahead.

Christian KiwiSaver Scheme is managed and issued by The New Zealand Anglican Church Pension Board (trading as Anglican Financial Care). The Product Disclosure Statement can be found here Documents | Christian KiwiSaver Scheme.

Making the most of your KiwiSaver savings after 65

by Chris | 21 Mar, 2025 | Financial Planning

Turning 65 is an important milestone, not just in life but also in your financial journey. For Christian KiwiSaver Scheme members, it marks the point where you can access your retirement savings. However, this doesn’t mean your KiwiSaver membership has to come to an end.

Many members choose to keep their accounts open beyond 65, continuing to manage their savings in a way that aligns with their long-term financial needs. At Anglican Financial Care, we know that planning for retirement is personal, which is why we send a letter to our Christian KiwiSaver Scheme members the month before they turn 65. This is an opportunity to start the conversation about your options, ensuring you have the information you need to make decisions that are right for you.

Here are the options available to you once you reach 65:

Keeping your account open

Reaching 65 does not mean you have to close your Christian KiwiSaver Scheme account. Many of our members choose to keep their funds invested beyond this age, giving them the flexibility to access their savings when needed while continuing to benefit from our faith-aligned investment approach.

Keeping your account open also allows you to continue adding to your savings, should you wish to do so. If you’re still working, you can continue your contributions to grow your balance further.

Making regular withdrawals

If you would like to supplement your retirement income while keeping your remaining savings invested, you can set up regular fortnightly or monthly withdrawals from your Christian KiwiSaver Scheme account. This option allows you to access your money gradually, while your remaining balance continues to work for you.

A $200 minimum applies to each regular withdrawal.
The minimum withdrawal amount may change in the future.

This approach can provide a steady stream of money while maintaining long-term investment potential.

Occasional one-off withdrawals

If you prefer more flexibility, you can make one-off withdrawals when needed. This option allows you to leave your savings invested while accessing funds at times when you need them – whether it’s for an unexpected expense, a special occasion, or a larger financial commitment.

A $1,000 minimum applies to each one-off withdrawal.

This option gives you the ability to manage your savings in a way that fits your lifestyle and financial needs.

Full withdrawal

If you decide to take out all of your savings, you can make a full withdrawal from your Christian KiwiSaver Scheme account. This means you will no longer be a member of KiwiSaver.

While some members choose this option, others prefer to leave their funds invested, ensuring they can access their savings gradually over time.

Making the right decision for you

Only you can decide how to manage your KiwiSaver savings after 65. Whether you continue investing, make partial withdrawals, or withdraw your full balance, it’s reassuring to know that Christian KiwiSaver Scheme gives you flexibility in managing your retirement funds.

As you approach this important milestone, we’re here to help. Our team at Anglican Financial Care is committed to supporting you in making informed decisions that align with your needs. If you have any questions about your options, don’t hesitate to get in touch.

Bishop Ana Fletcher: A Story of Faith, Resilience, and Doing Gooder

by Chris | 7 Mar, 2025 | Community Activity

This International Women’s Day (March 8th), we’re excited to celebrate a woman who inspires us every day—Assistant Bishop of Wellington, Rt Reverend Anashuya Fletcher, a client and a wonderful inspiration.

Bishop Ana’s journey is one of courage, resilience, and breaking barriers—making her an inspiring figure for women everywhere, especially on International Women’s Day. Her life story is a powerful reminder that no matter where you start, with faith, perseverance, and a heart for justice, you can achieve great things.

From Sri Lanka to New Zealand: Overcoming the Odds
Born in Sri Lanka, Bishop Ana’s early life was shaped by the turbulence of civil war. At just one year old, she and her family came to New Zealand and settled in Auckland, where Bishop Ana’s life as an immigrant began. Growing up in a new country came with its challenges, but the young Ana embraced her new home and worked hard to build a future. Her story is a testament to resilience—the ability to rise above adversity and create something meaningful from hardship.

A Passion for Justice
Bishop Ana’s determination to make a difference led her to pursue a law degree, and she became a solicitor with a strong passion for social justice. She didn’t stop there; lawyer Ana worked with the International Justice Mission, focusing on human rights advocacy. This experience deepened her commitment to fighting for the rights of marginalised people and defending the vulnerable. Her career has always been about more than just personal success—she’s used her skills to stand up for others, to fight for fairness, and to bring about positive change.

Breaking New Ground: Becoming Bishop
Bishop Ana’s journey took a transformative turn when she felt called to ministry. In 2018, she and her husband, Reverend Paul Fletcher, were ordained as priests at Wellington Cathedral and co-led St. Peter’s Anglican Church in Whanganui, New Zealand, building a strong, supportive community. As the second woman and the youngest ever consecrated as the Assistant Bishop of Wellington—Bishop Ana continued to inspire women to pursue their own paths to leadership.

Empowering People through Coffee
Then came the coffee! Bishop Ana and Rev’d Paul helped to found Common Good Coffee, a social enterprise aimed at addressing modern slavery and poverty, through fair-trade coffee. With the catchy tagline ‘Drink Gooder, Feel Gooder, Do Gooder,’ the goal is to raise money to help relieve extreme poverty and modern slavery in India and locally. This initiative shows how business can be a force for good, combining Bishop Ana’s faith, entrepreneurial spirit, and dedication to social change. You can learn more about Common Good Coffee and their impact at Common Good Coffee | Three Times As Good – Common Good Coffee

Inspiration for Women Everywhere
Bishop Ana Fletcher’s journey is an embodiment of what is possible when you combine faith, passion, and a commitment to justice. From overcoming the challenges of immigration to making a significant mark in both the Church and the community, she exemplifies women who lead, inspire, and create change.

When asked what advice she would give to young women today, Bishop Ana shared:

“I have found Frederich Buechner’s statement that the place that God calls you is where your deep gladness and the world’s hunger meet to be true. Over and over again, I’ve had the privilege to work with people and in places that I am passionate about; following God’s call has taken me on the most amazing joy-filled adventures.”

To be inspired by Bishop Ana and hear her first-hand account of how ‘Jesus changes everything’ click here.

This International Women’s Day, we celebrate all the Bishop Ana Fletchers of the world—trailblazers, women with a vision, and living examples of how you can break through barriers, lead with purpose, and shape the future with courage.

Finding Support with Christian KiwiSaver Scheme in Tough Times: How to Apply for Significant Financial Hardship

by Chris | 11 Feb, 2025 | Financial Planning

Sometimes, life throws unexpected challenges your way, and managing everything on your own can feel overwhelming. If you’re a member of Christian KiwiSaver Scheme and are facing Significant Financial Hardship (SFH), we want you to know that you’re not alone. Here’s a step-by-step guide to the process and the help available.

What Is Significant Financial Hardship?

Significant Financial Hardship means you’re struggling to meet essential living costs or are facing unexpected financial challenges. If this sounds like your situation, you may be able to apply to access some of your KiwiSaver funds to help you get back on track. Examples of expenses you might claim for include:

Mortgage or rent arrears that will result in losing your home
Overdue utility bills like power or phone
Medical and dental expenses for you or your family
Essential repairs to your car or home
Funeral costs for a loved one

While accessing SFH funds is meant to provide temporary relief, it’s important to note that it’s a last resort after exploring other financial assistance options.

How the SFH Process Works

We aim to make the application process as straightforward and supportive as possible. Here’s how it works:

Get in Touch
If you’d like to make an SFH application, contact us.
Working with Debtfix
We partner with Debtfix, a registered charity, to handle the application process. Debtfix specialises in supporting people during tough financial times and ensures the process is handled with care and confidentiality.
Complete the online form
Debtfix provides an online form for you to fill out. This helps them understand your financial situation and we also rely on this information to make the final decision on your application.
Support from Debtfix
Once you’ve completed the form, Debtfix will reach out to you. In addition to helping you complete the Significant Financial Hardship application process, they can provide helpful information about other community or government support you might be eligible for. They can also offer free budgeting advice to help you manage your finances.
Application Review
After you complete the process with Debtfix, they will send your application to us for review. We will then carefully consider your situation and make the final decision.
Our Response
We’ll contact you to let you know our decision on your application. If your application is approved, we’ll confirm the amount we’ve approved and when the payment will be made to you.

A Few Things to Keep in Mind

Applying for SFH can feel overwhelming, but remember, you’re not alone. This process is designed to provide support and guidance when you need it most. Accessing your KiwiSaver funds early should only be considered as a last resort, so we encourage you to explore other financial assistance options that are available to you. Debtfix can help point you in the right direction.

We’re Here to Help

At Christian KiwiSaver Scheme, we’re committed to supporting you in your retirement savings journey. Whether you’re facing financial challenges or saving for your future, we’re here to help you.

Please contact us if you have any questions about your KiwiSaver account.

Christian KiwiSaver Scheme is managed and issued by The New Zealand Anglican Church Pension Board (trading as Anglican Financial Care).

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