Pause, Verify, Protect: Our Security Promise to You

by Chris | 31 Oct, 2025 | Financial Planning, General, Membership

For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also – Matt 6:21

What do you treasure most in life? For many of us, it’s the people we love, the values we live by, the careers we’ve built, and looking after the homes we’ve worked hard to own. As Christians, we might think about seeking first the Kingdom of God, and ordering the things we treasure in response to our relationship to God. But have we also thought about where our personal identity data and savings fit into that list?

We’re quick to insure our homes, cars, health, and even our pets, yet the very foundation of our financial well-being is often left exposed. In today’s digital world, protecting your identity data and savings is just as essential as locking your front door.

Cybercrime is no longer rare or remote. It’s a daily threat. Scammers are clever, persistent, and increasingly convincing. And while we all intend to take precautions, change passwords, and enable security features, it’s easy to delay. But when identity theft strikes, the emotional and financial fallout can be devastating.

At AFC, we take these risks seriously. Protecting what’s been entrusted to us is part of our commitment to serve with integrity and care, principles grounded in our Christian values. We’ve put in place several safeguards to protect you, even if they sometimes feel like extra steps. Here’s what we do to keep your identity data and savings secure:

We always confirm your identity when you contact us, asking questions to ensure we’re speaking with the rightful owner.
If you request to withdraw $10,000 or more, we’ll call you directly to verify the transaction.
We require proof when you change your bank account details, to prevent unauthorised fund transfers.
We are working on adding multi-factor authentication into the member portal in our new website, adding an extra layer of security to your online access.
We keep your identity documentation up to date, such as passports or driver’s licenses, to help prevent fraud and money laundering.
We will never ask for your logon and password in our communications. If you receive an email or text message from us that does, don’t respond to it. Instead, go to our website, and call us from the contact details on our website.
If your email has been hacked, please call us immediately, so we can take precautions to protect your money.

These measures serve as a “pause button” to stop potential criminals in their tracks, prioritising your protection. We know the precautions can cause some inconvenience sometimes, but if it helps even one person protect their hard-earned savings, it’s worth it.

But security isn’t just on us, it’s a shared responsibility. Here are five simple steps you can take to help safeguard your identity data and finances:

Use Strong, Unique Passwords
Never reuse passwords across different accounts. A password manager can help you create and manage secure, complex passwords.
Enable Multi-Factor Authentication
Whenever possible, turn on multi-factor authentication to add an extra verification step beyond just a password.
Be Cautious with Emails
Don’t click on suspicious links or download attachments from unknown senders. Verify unexpected requests, especially those asking for money or personal info.
Monitor Your Accounts Frequently
Check your credit card, bank, and investment accounts regularly. Set up alerts for large transactions or changes to your details.
Shred Personal Documents
Dispose of hard-copy documents containing sensitive information by shredding them instead of recycling them or throwing them away intact.

By working together, with our safeguards and your vigilance, we can keep your identity data and savings safe, letting you focus on what truly matters.

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://christiankiwisaver.nz/documents/ (Christian KiwiSaver Scheme).

Investment Knowhow – September Quarter 2025 in Review

by Chris | 31 Oct, 2025 | General, Investment, KiwiSaver

Welcome to our quarterly investment wrap-up. In this edition we discuss what went well in the markets over the last quarter, 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 the September quarter?

Interest rates came down – Over the quarter, the Reserve Bank cut the Official Cash Rate to 2.5 %, easing pressure on mortgage holders and lowering borrowing costs for households and businesses.
Global inflation cooled – Global inflation eased in September 2025, boosting investor confidence and encouraging growth through lower energy and food costs.
Exports stayed solid – Demand for our dairy, meat, and timber products remained strong overseas, supporting the wider New Zealand economy.
Share markets lifted – Local and global share markets rose through the quarter, boosted by lower interest rates and improved investor confidence.
Housing confidence returned – With borrowing costs easing, more buyers returned to the market, helping to stabilise house prices.

What captured our attention?

Living costs rose – Inflation rose to 3% in the September quarter, the highest since June 2024, when it was at 3.3%, keeping pressure on household living costs.
Wage growth lagged inflation – Despite a tight labour market, average wages didn’t keep pace with rising living costs.
Tech shares looking stretched – After big gains, investors watched to see if tech company earnings could justify high prices.
Households still under debt pressure – Heavily-mortgaged households were still affected by small rate movements or job changes.
Recent U.S. tariff shifts eased slightly – Ongoing trade uncertainty continued to weigh on global supply chains and export-driven economies like New Zealand, but to a lesser extent than in previous quarters.

Market Commentary

The September quarter was a mix of steady improvement and quiet caution. The Reserve Bank’s rate cut to 2.5% gave borrowers some breathing space and signalled that monetary policy is shifting to support growth. Share markets responded positively, while bond markets benefited from expectations of further easing.

Globally, technology and infrastructure companies continued to perform well, and international share funds carried that strength through to local KiwiSaver results. Conservative and balanced funds also recovered modestly as bond prices stabilised.

Closer to home, inflation continues to ease but remains a focus, and the economy is still soft. For KiwiSaver members, the main takeaway is that diversification pays off. Staying invested through changing conditions allows portfolios to capture upswings when they come. This quarter was a good example of that.

Tip for members:
If you haven’t checked your fund type lately, this is a good time to do it. Make sure your investment choice for your Christian KiwiSaver Scheme or Retire Fund account still matches your goals and timeframe.

Changes to your portfolio

In the September quarter, our investment team made a meaningful change to the portfolios by including the LGT Crown Impact Fund to our list of private equity investments. This fund:

Invests into companies that are not publicly listed on a stock exchange.

Targets businesses making a measurable positive impact on the world in areas such as healthcare, climate change (carbon emissions, renewable energy), better public education, and inclusive growth (businesses that promote job creation in underserved communities and financial inclusion).

Aligns with our ethical investment policy.

Offers broad global exposure and invests either directly in companies or through other investment funds, providing strong diversification.

This addition allows us to expand our private equity holdings while deepening our commitment to impact investing, supporting our dual goals of delivering returns to members and contributing to positive change in the world.

What is impact investing?

Impact investing is an approach that seeks both financial returns for investors, and measurable positive outcomes for society or the environment. These investments support companies working to solve global challenges, such as climate change, poverty or inequality, healthcare and education, sustainable agriculture and clean energy.

Because many of these companies are privately held, it can be difficult for everyday investors to participate in the good they are doing. Funds like the LGT Impact Fund give us a way to participate in their growth while staying true to our ethical investment principles.

The fund also enhances diversification by adding exposure to emerging sectors that may behave differently to other sectors when markets shift.

As fund managers, impact investing allows us to use capital as a force for good, amplifying our values while delivering gains to our members.

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://christiankiwisaver.nz/documents/ (Christian KiwiSaver Scheme).

Spring clean your finances

by Stephen Williams | 13 Oct, 2025 | Financial Planning, General, Investment, KiwiSaver

Spring is the season of renewal. Just as we open the windows, clear out clutter, and give our homes a fresh start, it’s also the perfect time to review your financial life. A simple “spring clean” can help you spot small changes that add up to a healthier financial future.

Here are some areas to consider:

Dust off your budget

Take a fresh look at where your money is going. Start by reviewing the last few months of bank statements to see patterns in your spending. Are there services, memberships, or subscriptions you no longer use? Could you change service providers for your internet or insurance to free up a little extra? Add up how much you really spend on café and takeaway food and drink—you might be surprised. Even small adjustments can release money you could direct toward savings or debt repayment. A budget isn’t about restriction — it’s about clarity and choice.

Review your KiwiSaver

Your KiwiSaver account is one of the most important tools for your financial future, whether that’s buying a first home or preparing for retirement. Take time this spring to check:

Are you still in a default scheme and not contributing? You could be missing out on growth opportunities and employer contributions.
Are your contribution settings right? Increasing from 3% to 4% or 6% could add up to thousands more over time, especially with employer and government contributions.
Is your fund the right fit? Consider whether your fund type aligns with your stage of life, financial goals, and appetite for risk. For example, younger members may prefer a more growth orientated fund, while those nearing retirement may prefer to take a more conservative approach.

Build or boost your emergency fund

An emergency fund provides breathing space when life throws unexpected expenses your way, including car repairs, medical bills, or appliance breakdowns. If you don’t already have one, start small: saving up $500 over time can make a big difference. If you already do have an emergency fund, consider topping it up toward the common target of three to six months’ expenses. Try:

Rounding up purchases into savings if your bank offers the feature.
Adding an extra $10 to your power or rates payments to build a buffer.
Automating a weekly transfer into a separate account labelled “emergency fund” so it’s less tempting to dip into.

“The wise store up choice food and olive oil, but fools gulp theirs down.” (Proverbs 21:20)

Refresh your goals

Financial goals work best when they’re clear and specific. Instead of “I want to save more,” try “I will save $2000 by Christmas” or “I will increase my KiwiSaver contributions by 1% this year.”

Writing them down and checking progress regularly keeps motivation high. Goals can also shift with life seasons – perhaps you’re focusing on debt repayment now, but will shift to first-home savings or retirement planning in future.

Tidy up paperwork and passwords

A financial spring clean isn’t just about dollars and cents. It’s also about organisation. Gather important documents such as insurance policies, wills, and superannuation statements into one safe place (physical or digital).

Update your account passwords and ensure a trusted family member knows how to access key information in an emergency. This step may feel small, but it creates peace of mind for you and your loved ones.

Fresh habits for a brighter future

Small, intentional steps can bring clarity and momentum to your financial life. This spring, take time to pause, review, and reset. You might be surprised at how much lighter and more in control you feel when your finances are in order.

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://christiankiwisaver.nz/documents/ (Christian KiwiSaver Scheme).

5 simple money tips to teach kids

by Stephen Williams | 16 Sep, 2025 | Financial Planning, General, Investment, KiwiSaver

Teaching children about money is just as important as teaching them to read or ride a bike. Financial wisdom is a life skill that will set them up for the future. As parents, grandparents, or mentors, we have the opportunity to give the next generation a head start. By weaving in Christian principles like stewardship and generosity, we can help kids develop not only good money habits but also important values.

Here are five practical tips to teach the young ones in your life about money:

1. Start a saving habit early

Encourage kids to save first before they spend. Younger children can still use a clear jar or piggy bank to see their progress, but you could also try a savings app designed for kids. Apps like SquareOne (New Zealand-based) let children set goals, track savings digitally, and learn in a way that feels natural in today’s world.

Help them set a goal – like saving for a toy or outing – and celebrate when they reach it. This shows that small, steady steps add up over time.

“Little by little, the bird builds its nest” French proverb.

The key is to make saving feel rewarding, not restrictive.

2. Teach the difference between needs and wants

Kids often think they “need” the latest gadget. Use that moment to talk about the difference between what’s necessary, like food or school supplies, and what’s optional.

A simple way is to list items under “Needs” and “Wants.”

For teens, this can lead to conversations about budgeting: making sure essentials are covered before spending on extras. These lessons guide children to make thoughtful choices and appreciate what they have.

3. Pocket money and budgets

Link pocket money to effort, such as helping with chores or small jobs. This teaches that money is earned, not just handed out.

Once kids have money of their own, introduce a simple budget method – like three accounts for Saving, Spending, and Giving. For example, a child might put $5 in savings, $4 in spending, and $1 in giving from a $10 allowance. Tithing (giving one tenth of our earnings to church and charity) can be a guide to measure our generosity against.

“Every tithe of the land … is the Lord’s” Leviticus 27:30

This system builds planning skills and helps children experience the value of saving and sharing, while still enjoying some treats along the way.

4. Encourage generosity and gratitude

One of the most important lessons is that money can be used to help others. Encourage your child to set aside a small portion of their pocket money for church, a charity, or a cause they care about.

Talk about why we give: because God has given so much to us. Model generosity yourself and involve them where you can – whether it’s contributing to your church, or supporting a local appeal. These moments remind children that money is not just for ourselves but a tool to bless others.

5. Open a KiwiSaver account

Children can join KiwiSaver, and starting early gives their savings decades to grow. Even small contributions can turn into something significant thanks to the power of compounding.

Christian KiwiSaver Scheme is designed with families in mind – there are no fees for members under 18. That means every dollar invested works for your child’s future. It’s also an opportunity to talk about investing with values, since Christian KiwiSaver Scheme is managed according to Christian principles.

Opening a KiwiSaver account for a child is simple and can be one of the most meaningful gifts you give them – teaching stewardship and providing a head start for their adult years.

Growing wise stewards

Teaching kids about money doesn’t require big lessons or perfect timing. Everyday life offers plenty of opportunities – whether it’s pocket money, a shopping trip, or saving for something special.

Keep it positive and practical, and remember that children often learn most by watching us.

By passing on simple money skills and framing them with faith, we equip the next generation to become wise, generous, and responsible stewards of the resources God has entrusted to them.

Christian KiwiSaver Scheme, The Retire Fund, and the New Zealand Anglican Church Pension Fund 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.

Investment Knowhow – August 2025 in Review

by Chris | 1 Sep, 2025 | General, Investment, KiwiSaver

Welcome to our monthly investment catch up. In this edition we discuss what went 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 August?

Interest rate cut boosted optimism – The Reserve Bank reduced the Official Cash Rate to 3.00% in August, helping with mortgages, loans, and overall confidence in the economy.
NZ share market showed modest gains – The NZX 50 rose 0.8% for the month, reflecting cautious optimism among KiwiSaver members.
Currency exchange rates showed some stability – The New Zealand dollar held relatively steady against major currencies, reducing uncertainty for imports, exports, and offshore investments.
Global trade showed tentative recovery – Demand in Asia improved, but global trade remains fragile due to tariff tensions.
Global share markets rose – Gains in Europe and Japan helped investors grow their overseas investments, despite mixed performance in the US.

What captured our attention?

China’s economy slowed – Weaker growth in China reduced demand for New Zealand exports like dairy, meat, and logs.
Fuel and food costs stayed high – Elevated oil and gas prices, along with persistently costly groceries, kept pressure on inflation and household budgets.
US–China trade tensions – Ongoing disputes between the two largest economies unsettled global markets and affected NZ exporters.
Australian economy cooled – As New Zealand’s largest trading partner, slower growth in Australia raised concerns about the potential spillover effects on our own economy.
Longer term bond yields stayed high – Rising yields have reduced the value of existing bonds, which can lower returns for conservative funds.

Market Commentary.

August was a month of mixed results for investors. Global share markets mostly held firm, with US tech and AI companies continued to outperform. However, higher bond yields caused some ups and downs, so not all parts of the market moved in the same direction.

Emerging markets were uneven. Slower growth in China and ongoing trade tensions with the US made it harder for global markets and New Zealand exporters. Some parts of Asia’s technology sector performed well, providing bright spots. Here in New Zealand, the NZX 50 rose modestly, supported by solid local company results and improving investor confidence.

Bond yields stayed high, which lowered the value of existing bonds and affected more conservative KiwiSaver funds. Commodity prices were mixed: energy costs spiked at times, increasing costs for households and businesses, while dairy and other exports were slightly softer due to lower global demand.

Investors are staying cautious but engaged. Many are watching developments in China, Australia, and the US, alongside inflation trends and company earnings. The Reserve Bank’s recent rate cut has given a boost to confidence, but uncertainties remain, particularly around energy costs and global trade.

Looking ahead, August’s mixed results show why it’s important to understand the mix of assets in your KiwiSaver fund, so you know how your investments may react to global and local developments.

What this means for your portfolio.

This month, our investment team sold selected New Zealand shares that had performed well but now appeared overvalued relative to our assessment of their true worth. This was a positive move for clients, as it allowed us to lock in past gains and reduce the potential risk of future price declines in those shares.

One of the key strengths of active management is flexibility. Rather than holding a fixed equities portfolio, we actively monitor market trends, company performance, and broader economic conditions. When we think a share is overpriced or the risk is too high, we act to adjust our holdings. This helps us adapt to changing circumstances and move capital toward opportunities that better support our long-term goals for members.

During the month, we held our quarterly Investment Committee meeting. Our Investment Committee helps ensure our decisions are well-informed, balanced, and aligned with the long-term goals of each fund. It brings together a separate set of experienced voices to review our approach, assess risks, and guide strategy. For investors, this means greater confidence that their money is being managed thoughtfully, with oversight and accountability. The Committee also helps maintain consistency and values-based decision-making, especially when navigating complex or changing economic conditions.

Overall, these actions reflect our commitment to actively managing your portfolio with care, discipline, and a long-term focus.

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://christiankiwisaver.nz/documents/ (Christian KiwiSaver Scheme).

Giving Our Young People a Strong Financial Start – Without Sacrificing Our Own Security

by Chris | 1 Sep, 2025 | Financial Planning, General, KiwiSaver

We all want the best for our children, nieces, nephews, and young people we care about. Watching them grow from toddlers to teens to independent adults is one of life’s greatest joys, but it’s no secret that the journey can be expensive. While we wouldn’t trade the experience for anything, there’s a fine balance between giving them a great start and protecting our own financial wellbeing.

So how do we support their future without putting undue pressure on our own finances? Depending on the age of your young ones, we have a simple strategy across the ages. These small steps don’t require deep pockets, and they’ll ease the financial pressure on you later on too.

👶 Under 5s
We can all get caught up buying endless toys, which are fun for a while, but then break or get passed on. Instead, consider starting a “parent and grandparent fund.”

Open a savings account and invite loved ones to contribute a small monthly amount. Over time, this can grow into a meaningful fund for school costs, a laptop, or even university fees. If you’re able, set up a KiwiSaver account for them and put in some money each month, for a powerful head start towards their first home.

🧒 Ages 10–14
Kids at this age crave independence. Channel that energy by encouraging small chores for pocket money. Let them help set the rates, to teach negotiation, build a good savings habit, and understand the value of effort. They’ll begin to understand that money doesn’t just “appear,” and that their time and skills have worth. In the years ahead, they’ll be grateful they began early and had the freedom to make thoughtful spending choices.

👦 Ages 14–16
Now’s the time to support their first job. Maybe dishwashing at a café or helping a neighbour with gardening. These experiences build confidence, teach workplace etiquette, and help them understand employment basics like contracts and pay. Early work experience also boosts their chances of landing jobs after school or uni. The’ll also love the ‘pay rise’ from their previous pocket money!

🧑 Over 16s
Before they leave school, help them master the basics of money management. Help them set up two bank accounts for themselves: one for spending, one for saving. Encourage goals like keeping a few hundred dollars in the spending account as a buffer, and to transfer a small amount to savings each month. Teach them to compare interest rates and understand compound growth. If they want a credit card, and you believe they are ready for one, start with a low limit and stress the importance of paying it off monthly.

💡 The Long View
These small steps may seem modest now, but they compound over time. By the time your young person is ready to leave home, they’ll be equipped with financial confidence, discipline, and a sense of independence, all without compromising your own financial future.

Let’s raise financially savvy young adults, together.

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://christiankiwisaver.nz/documents/ (Christian KiwiSaver Scheme).