Part A:

Many college students don't consider retirement plans or investment opportunities because they don't like to think that far into the future.

Prepare a 5-10 page research report by answering the following questions:

1. When is the ideal time to start thinking and accumulating funds for retirement?

2. Why is the topic of retirement planning becoming so important in this era?

3. Investment options that one can choose to accumulate wealth for retirement.

4. Various types of risks that one can face when planning for retirement.

Part B:

Suppose you have $10,000 that you can use for retirement planning investment. Create a diversified portfolio so you are able to invest the funds in the most optimal way. Assume that currently, you are 30 years of age.

Required:

1. Clearly state the amount that you will be investing in each of the assets.

2. Estimate the future value of your portfolio when you turn 55, the retirement age.

For (2):

- If you are investing in a savings account or a term deposit, select any Financial Institution of your choice and use their rates for necessary calculations.

- If you are investing in a property trust fund, you can assume a rate of return.

- If you are investing in the share market, select up to 3 best companies to invest in and use their dividend, share price and growth information for necessary calculations.

PLEASE IF YOU PROVIDE SOME BRIEF POINTS FOR THE QUESTIONS IN PART A & B.