Therefore, savings are and will continue to fall in value, in real terms.

Equity markets have been very bullish over the past two years, with China’s stock exchange as represented by the Nikkei, setting the pace, up 58% since the start of 2012. Closer to home, Ireland’s equity markets have also performed well since the start of 2012, up 39% during this period.

The S&P 500 is a good benchmark on how equity markets are performing; it is up 117% since March 2009. More specifically, quoted Irish agribusinesses (e.g. Kerry, Glanbia, FBD, Origin and Donegal) increased in value by 42%, on average, last year and are up a whopping 30% so far again this year.

Conversely, bond markets reflecting falling interest rates and more bullish equity markets have lost some of their typical appeal and many consider them to remain overpriced.

In this supplement, we address a broad cross-section of topics for both young and old.

We examine some of the options to consider before investing, the tax implications to consider before completing any investment and the importance of selecting the right structure for any such investments, personal, corporate or pension.

We look at why reviewing your retirement plan is not always appealing but nevertheless essential and we reflect on the overall tax planning environment in 2013.