50k to invest , State savings v IrishLife MAPS

I want to invest 50 for approx 5 years . I was looking at Irish Life Maps (maps4) and State savings (Saving certs)

The saving certs are offering a 7% return after 5 1/2 years (AER 1.24%)

I dont have any experience in investing but I feel its a bad time to go with the Irish Life option . The markets seem to be in freefall , probably down to the slowdown in China , Oil prices dropping etc

I have done some calculations and would appreciate if someone could correct me if I have it wrong.........

Savings Certs 50,000 invested

50,000 @ 7% = 3,500 tax free return



Irish Life Maps 50,000 invested

Gov Levy @ 1% = 500
Annual Maintenance on 49.5k @ 1.65% 5.5 years = 4488
Return needed to match 3.5k (inc dirt@41%) = 5932

Total = 10920

Growth needed over 5 years to match State savings return = 22 %

Have I got this correct ?

The figures are approx and the maintenance fees are based on the 49.5k. The maintenance fees @ 1.65% are variable and can change. Plus external managers may earn incentive fees if the fund increases above a certain percentage .No withdrawal charge after 5 years.

All comments welcome

For a 5 year investment horizon, I would stick with State Savings Certs.

I obviously can't predict future stock prices but, in my opinion, the risk/reward trade off, particularly after tax and investment costs, would not justify an investment in the Irish Life product over such a short term.