Cash is king when it’s used effectively
In the world of investing, few assets are as polarising as cash. On one hand, holding cash in an environment where interest rates lag inflation guarantees a loss of purchasing power. On the other hand, cash can be a powerful tactical tool for seizing opportunities, particularly in times of market distress.
This article was first published in The Australian on 24 April 2025.
When inflation outpaces the interest earned on cash holdings, however, the real value of money erodes. For instance, if inflation is running at 3 per cent annually while a savings account yields 1 per cent (or less if you make a withdrawal!), the purchasing power of that cash declines by 2 per cent annually. Do this for a decade, and in short order, you can only afford, at best, 20 per cent less than 10 years earlier.
Roger Montgomery is the Founder and Chairman of Montgomery Investment Management. Roger has over three decades of experience in funds management and related activities, including equities analysis, equity and derivatives strategy, trading and stockbroking. Prior to establishing Montgomery, Roger held positions at Ord Minnett Jardine Fleming, BT (Australia) Limited and Merrill Lynch.
He is also author of best-selling investment guide-book for the stock market, Value.able – how to value the best stocks and buy them for less than they are worth.
Roger appears regularly on television and radio, and in the press, including ABC radio and TV, The Australian and Ausbiz. View upcoming media appearances.
This post was contributed by a representative of Montgomery Investment Management Pty Limited (AFSL No. 354564). The principal purpose of this post is to provide factual information and not provide financial product advice. Additionally, the information provided is not intended to provide any recommendation or opinion about any financial product. Any commentary and statements of opinion however may contain general advice only that is prepared without taking into account your personal objectives, financial circumstances or needs. Because of this, before acting on any of the information provided, you should always consider its appropriateness in light of your personal objectives, financial circumstances and needs and should consider seeking independent advice from a financial advisor if necessary before making any decisions. This post specifically excludes personal advice.
