Advice needed on lump sum investment

Hey
I have a lump sum (approx €60k) that I want to invest. I am looking for something that will guarantee my capital with best return possible. I have looked at some of the deposit accounts in the banks. I'm just wondering what other options are available. I know nothing about investment and admittedly get easily confused by it. The idea is that this money will go towards my retirement so this is why I wish for it to be secure. I'm not a big risk taker and realise that better rates come with higher risk so I know that anything that keeps my capital safe will have a low return, I'm just looking for what the best options in this area are.

I currently have a credit union account, notice deposit account and online savings account. I am considering prize bonds and state savings. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks!

Hi Stretch

Have a look at www.irishdeposits.ie for the best interest rates around, they update the rates on a regular basis. The State Savings are still good value despite lowering their rates due to lobbying by the banks. No DIRT on their returns.

I wouldn't touch Prize Bonds. You only make a return if you win the raffle.

A word of advice, don't touch tracker or structured bonds. The banks especially will try to flog these to you. Capital guarantee with stock market upsides. You can't access your money for 6 years and you are wholly reliant on how the markets do at a particular time. A lot of guesswork is involved.


Steven
www.bluewaterfp.ie

Hi Steven
Thanks for the reply. What is your opinion of the State Solidarity Bonds? Also, if you don't mind advising....how much should I break up my investment. I know its best not to put in all in one place but I'm not sure how to break it up or what quantities to break it up into.
Thanks again!