The Best $1 Investment Ideas in NZ

It was interesting to see New Zealand’s economy grow by 2% during the third financial quarter of 2022, with this confounding economists’ expectations and vindicating the central bank’s hawkish stance on inflation.

However, NZ is still tipped to enter a technical recession at some point this year, with this creating a significant challenge for households, businesses and investors alike.

From an investment perspective, there’s likely to be increased demand for risk-averse and secure assets and those that are relatively affordable in terms of trading capital. At the same time, risk-hungry investors may also want to leverage volatility by pursuing short and medium-term market opportunities, as discussed in this article about investment ideas.

But what are the best $1 or similarly affordable investment options in New Zealand? Here are some options to keep in mind!

#1. Penny Stocks

While the use of the term ‘penny’s stocks may appear to be indicative of equities that can be accessed for less than $1, they actually refer to small and independent business shares that may be traded for less than $5.

Regardless, this makes them one of the most accessible assets across the whole of the financial market, with most penny stocks traded through the OTC Bulletin Board (OTCBB) and occasionally the NYSE.

There may also be some crossover between penny and value stocks, the latter of which refer to shares in companies that are running at considerably lower prices. 

So, although penny stocks are usually available at a much lower price-per-share, value shares have considerably more growth potential and are expected to see their prices increases within a given timeframe.

Ultimately, these types of stock may unlock increased returns on investment over time, while they also enable new and novice traders to get started in the financial market with a minimal cash investment.

#2. Fractional Shares

On a similar note, it’s also possible to invest in much larger and more lucrative company stocks through the practice of targeting fractional shares.

A fractional share is effectively a ‘stock slice’, which enables you to buy into a company without having to buy a whole share. 

This is ideal when trading premium or blue-chip companies with inflated share prices, as you can invest based on a dollar amount and receive a proportionate stock holding based on your investment.

For example, let’s say that you wanted to invest in Warren Buffet’s iconic multinational conglomerate, in which each share is currently priced at around $420,000. This is likely to be beyond the means of most investors, but it is possible to buy a fractional stake in the company while investing in a level that’s both responsible and manageable.

Fractional share trading is certainly one of the most affordable investment options in 2023, and one that also enables you to effectively diversify your portfolio.

#3. $1 Minimum Deposit Casinos

If you’re a seasoned gambler who likes to make incremental profits through wagering, one of the best and most accessible ideas is to register at a $1 deposit casino in NZ.

There’s a growing number of the best online casinos in New Zealand, at which you can make a deposit of $1 while also accessing generous welcome offers that generate free and complimentary gameplay.

By minimising your initial deposit and cash commitment, you can make the most of your starting bankroll and maximise any subsequent returns. By also targeting games of skill and strategy such as blackjack, you gain a competitive edge over the house and further increase your chances of winning.

When accessing $1 minimum casinos as an investment opportunity, another key consideration is the return-to-player (RTP) rate.

This describes the amount you can expect to recoup for every $1 wagered through a particular game or vertical, and choosing titles with optimal RTP rates will increase your returns overall.

#4. High-Yield Savings Accounts

While not technically an investment asset, high-yield savings accounts do deliver steady and incremental returns in direct relation to the value of the cash that you hold.

While such returns are usually modest (especially in the current climate), high-yield accounts can deliver annualised returns of up to 6% on your cash holdings while also negating the risks typically associated with investing.

Most accounts of this type are normally government-insured up to $250,000 per account too, so you’ll be due relevant compensation even if the financial institution subsequently fails.

What’s more, you can often open and maintain your high-yield savings account with as little as $1, while the barriers to entry are minimal and the vehicle should be available to all!