Let Your Investments Work While You Relax: Smart Summer/August Vacation Planning with RF Merchant Bank and Trust (RF)

With the August vacation period fast approaching, Barbadians are looking forward to much needed getaways, staycations and quality family time. However, in a climate of rising costs and competing financial priorities, many are also weighing the best ways to balance their immediate needs with long-term financial goals.

At RF, expert Business Development Manager, Dionne Best reminded how smart financial tools, such as mutual funds and margin loans, can offer the flexibility needed to navigate these challenges rather than sacrificing future wealth for present-day expenses. Through this, Barbadians can leverage their investments to fund today’s needs while keeping their financial goals intact.

The RF Premium Income Fund is one example of an investment that works even while you’re on vacation. The fund, which delivered a 12-month return of 5.99% as of April 2025, is designed to reinvest earnings and allow principal to grow steadily over time. This ensures that while investors enjoy a break, their money is still at work in the background compounding for future benefit.

Best further explained that “with reinvested income, your principal continues to grow, but if you need access to funds, you don’t have to sell off your investments — that’s where a margin loan comes in.  It is important that individuals understand that investments aren’t just for the distant future. With the right strategy, your portfolio can support your lifestyle today — whether that means taking a family trip or covering seasonal costs — while still building wealth for tomorrow.”

Life’s seasonal expenses such as travel costs, family vacations or back-to-school preparations often require quick access to cash but the Margin Loan Facility offers another solution, which allows investors to borrow against their existing investment portfolio without interrupting long-term growth. This means investors can borrow up to 45% of their portfolio value held at RF, with fast approval often within 48 hours and no required repayment schedule as long as loan conditions are maintained. This feature provides much-needed liquidity while ensuring that investments remain intact and continue to grow.

RF also offers a suite of mutual funds tailored to different investor profiles:

• RF Premium Income Fund – For those seeking stable long-term, above average income and capital stability with a low level of investment risk.
• RF Balanced Fund – A blend of income and capital appreciation for medium-risk investors.
• RF Strategic Growth Fund – Designed and targets higher-risk investors seeking long-term capital appreciation.

With the economy continuing to recover and consumer confidence on the rise, the upcoming summer period provides an opportunity for investors to stay the course and enjoy the present without losing sight of the future. These tools offer flexibility and ensures that investments work in the background even when cash is needed in the present, which allows for strategic investment and access to margin loans to balance short term expenses with long-term financial goals.

For more information on mutual fund options and how to access margin lending, visit www.rfgroup.com or come in and speak with an advisor.

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