{
  "id": 13658468,
  "title": "New investment account: greater returns or greater risks?",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/11/new-investment-account-greater-returns-or-greater-risks",
  "topic": "finance",
  "section": "Finance & Markets",
  "published": "2026-10-11T05:59:27.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "RTE News",
    "slug": "rte-news",
    "url": "https://www.rte.ie/news/business/2026/1011/1594708-investment-account-explainer/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "The State has launched a new investment account aimed at encouraging Irish savers to venture into the world of investments. However, the account comes with its own set of risks and complexities. Irish households have historically been among the best savers in Europe, but they are lagging in actively investing their money, according to Central Bank data. Currently, only about 2.3% of Irish households' financial assets are directly invested in listed shares and debt securities, compared to an EU average of 7.5%.\n\nThe new account, set to open on July 1st, offers no minimum contribution, allowing savers to start with as little as possible. There is an annual limit of €12,000, above which a 1% tax is applied to excess value (not just returns). Money in the account is tax-free up to €50,000. Investors can choose to invest in shares, bonds, ETFs, but complex products like derivatives and crypto assets are excluded.\n\nThe main objective of the account is to make investing more accessible and less intimidating for Irish consumers. It will run on a technical forum between regulators, account providers, and software companies. The account's launch hinges on legislation and providers have until October 16th to apply.\n\nMinister Harris highlighted that the lack of deemed disposal tax and the €12,000 annual limit means it's unlikely any tax will be due in the first few years. However, analysts warn that despite the promise of higher returns, shares can fall in value and investors can lose money. The provider will handle tax reporting and payment for consumers.\n\nWhile the scheme could potentially help boost retirement savings or fund a child's education, experts caution against putting all one's life savings into it. It's just one piece of a larger financial puzzle.",
  "summary": "The new State-backed investment account has been hailed as the first serious attempt to make investment more appealing to the Irish public. But it carries risks and a steep learning curve.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}