1) Open an interest bearing Australian Dollar account. Australian central bank interest rate is at about 3.75% so you should be able to get good interest - How do I open an Aussie $ account and where?
2) Look into Canadian or Australian government bonds - Where can I buy these?
3) Look into a country specific ETFs. There are hundreds of ETFs on the market, so I'm sure there will be something that focuses on Australia or Canada - Where can one buy these?
4) Don't just restrict yourself to one or two currencies, but do focus on countries with a track record of fiscal prudence, commodity producing and export oriented. - Would you recommend Rabo funds?[/QUOTE]
Slim
1) See Gervan's comment
2) & 3) get in touch with some stock/bond brokers, cost is the most important factor. Alternatively bonds can be bought directly from the RBA ([broken link removed]), I'm not sure if there are restrictions for foreign buyers.
4) I generally prefer ETFs to funds, as their built in costs and tax treatment are more attractive. For someone starting out small, and wanting to buy into a fund with small amounts, then I think Rabo offer a decent service.
4. I read here recently that with Rabo funds there is a 28% exit tax you have to account for yourself i.e make calculations and Irish income tax return. That would reduce any investment gain.
You are liable for 28% tax on all investment funds I believe. Rabo do not take care of this deduction, some other providers may do this.
one thing i didn't see mentioned here was silver.... that has also been make considerable gains and looks like a solid investment.
Yes silver has monetary properties as well, but it's main use is industrial, so it fluctuates more with economic conditions. For a lot of people silver is also easier to buy as bullion to store at home, as the price per ounce is lower when compared to gold.