Capital Growth: What It Is, How It Works, and Investment Types

What is capital growth?

Capital growth, or capital appreciation, is an increase in the value of an asset or investment over time. It’s measured by the difference between the current market value of an investment and its purchase price. This increase in value represents a key financial metric for investors, indicating the success and profitability of their investments.

Understanding capital growth

The extent of capital growth that’s favorable depends on the investor involved and their investment objectives. These objectives vary based on the investor’s risk tolerance, which is a fundamental factor in shaping their investment strategy. Those with low risk tolerance often seek stable income, while high-risk tolerance investors typically aim for capital growth.

Investors can categorize their capital growth objectives into two main types:

Moderate capital growth

Investors pursuing moderate capital growth may choose to invest in assets like equities from stable companies, such as blue-chip stocks. These stocks typically offer a balance between growth potential and stability.

High capital growth

Investors aiming for high capital growth may opt for more speculative investments, often found in growth stocks. These stocks are associated with companies that might not have a long track record of profit but show significant potential for future growth.

Equities and real estate

Two of the most common avenues for achieving capital growth are equities and real estate. Although these asset classes can generate income, investors primarily seeking capital growth are focused on the appreciation of their investments’ market value.

Diversification

A common strategy for investors pursuing capital growth is diversification. Diversifying a portfolio involves spreading investments across various asset classes, such as stocks and bonds. Factors like investment objectives, risk tolerance, and the investment horizon guide the asset allocation.

For instance, younger investors with a longer time horizon may allocate a greater portion of their portfolio to equities or growth companies, aiming for high capital growth. Conversely, investors closer to retirement might favor bonds over equities, prioritizing growth with less risk.

The allocation between moderate and high capital growth investments depends on the investor’s goals and risk preferences. Each portfolio is unique and tailored to an individual’s perception of risk.

Types of capital growth investments

Various investments can be used to pursue a capital growth strategy. Some common options include:

Funds

Exchange-traded funds (ETFs) and mutual funds offer diversification by holding a basket of securities, whether stocks or bonds. These funds help investors manage risk and target specific sectors.

Equities

High-growth stocks, such as technology and biotechnology companies, often hold the potential for significant appreciation. These stocks come with higher risk, as some may not be profitable. Not all technology stocks are considered growth stocks; some well-established companies offer stability and consistent returns.

Companies that focus on capital growth typically do not pay dividends. Dividends are payments to shareholders from a company’s accumulated profits, which is a characteristic of well-established, consistently profitable corporations. Companies opting not to pay dividends reinvest their profits in research, development, and expansion.

Bonds

Bonds, like U.S. Treasuries issued by the Treasury Department, are considered low-risk investments. However, they typically offer lower capital growth compared to equities and are often used for generating income through fixed interest payments.

REITs

Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) allow investors to be part of the real estate industry without owning physical properties. REITs hold portfolios of commercial real estate, offering rental income distributions to investors.

Real-world example

Let’s consider an investor who seeks an aggressive capital growth strategy and is willing to take on higher risk for potentially higher returns. This hypothetical investor has a long time horizon of 20 years or more.

Here’s an example of how they might allocate their investments:

40% Small-Cap Stocks

The Vanguard Small-Cap ETF (VB), which tracks the CRSP U.S. Small Cap Index, focuses on smaller and riskier stocks with substantial growth potential. This fund typically includes technology and industrial stocks.

20% Emerging Markets

The Vanguard FTSE Emerging Markets ETF (VWO) invests in companies located in emerging markets, offering a higher risk-reward potential. These markets include countries like Brazil, Taiwan, South Africa, and China.

20% Large Company Stocks

The Vanguard Large-Cap ETF (VV) invests in established, large companies such as Apple Inc., Johnson & Johnson, Exxon Mobil Corporation, and Visa Inc. This fund provides access to a diverse group of large U.S. corporations.

10% Bonds

The Vanguard Total Bond Market ETF (BND) includes various investment-grade bonds in the U.S. While it offers steady income, it provides lower capital growth through share price appreciation. However, it contributes stability to the portfolio, particularly in turbulent markets.

It’s important to note that this portfolio is just an example, and individual investors can tailor their capital growth strategies to match their unique needs and risk tolerance. Investors close to retirement, for example, may choose a higher bond allocation and a smaller allocation to emerging market funds.

As with any investment strategy, it’s crucial to consider tax implications and consult a tax advisor for personalized financial guidance.

Frequently asked questions

What is capital growth?

Capital growth, also known as capital appreciation, refers to the increase in the value of an asset or investment over time. It’s the difference between the current market value and the purchase price of an investment.

How do I determine my capital growth objectives?

Capital growth objectives depend on your risk tolerance and investment goals. Moderate growth seeks stability, while high growth aims for maximum returns with higher risk.

What are some common investments for capital growth?

Common investments for capital growth include funds (ETFs and mutual funds), high-growth equities, bonds, and Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs).