Cash Investment: Explanation, Examples and Types (2024)

FAQs

What are cash type investments? ›

Cash investments are usually undertaken by investors who need a temporary place to keep their cash while researching other investment products. Money market accounts (MMAs) and certificates of deposit (CDs) are examples of cash investments.

A cash investment is, like the name suggests, invested in money. That means it's an easily accessible asset (also known as liquid) that has very little risk of loss. There are different cash options available in addition to cash itself – from saver accounts to term deposits and actively managed cash funds.

An investment can refer to any mechanism used for generating future income. This includes the purchase of bonds, stocks, or real estate property, among other examples. Additionally, purchasing a property that can be used to produce goods can be considered an investment.

Perhaps the most common are stocks, bonds, real estate, and ETFs/mutual funds. Other types of investments to consider are real estate, CDs, annuities, cryptocurrencies, commodities, collectibles, and precious metals.

There is no specific rule of thumb for those wondering what constitutes a good return rate. There seems to be a consensus amongst investors that a projected cash on cash return between 8 to 12 percent indicates a worthwhile investment. In contrast, others argue that even 5 to 7 percent is acceptable in some markets.

The benefits and risks of cash

Cash is available when you need it and, unlike stocks, there's little risk to principal, especially since most savings and checking accounts, CDs and money market deposit accounts (MMDAs) are FDIC-insured for up to $250,000 per depositor.

Low yields. Cash typically offers lower returns compared to other investment options, and inflation may erode its purchasing power over time. Tax implications. Dividends earned from cash holdings are taxable, potentially reducing the net returns on your investment.

The meaning of investment is putting your money into an asset that can grow in value or produce income or both. For example, you can buy equity stock of a listed company in the hopes of receiving regular dividends and capital appreciation in the form of the share price.

What are the 3 main investment categories? ›

There are various types of investments: stocks, bonds, mutual funds, index funds, exchange-traded funds (ETFs) and options. See which ones might work for you.

The U.S. stock market is considered to offer the highest investment returns over time. Higher returns, however, come with higher risk. Stock prices typically are more volatile than bond prices.

Certificates of Deposits.

CDs may be considered cash equivalent depending on the maturity date.

Unlike holding cash, investing in bonds offers the benefit of consistent investment income. Bonds are debt instruments issued by governments and corporations that guarantee a set amount of interest each year. Investing in bonds is tantamount to making a loan in the amount of the bond to the issuing entity.