4 Target-Date Funds to Invest In For Your Retirement Fund

Target-date funds (TDFs) are investments that grow with you. You pick a fund that matches your retirement year — say 2050 — and it automatically adjusts its mix over time. At the start, it invests more in stocks for growth. As you get closer to retirement, it gradually moves into safer assets like bonds, so you don’t have to rebalance it yourself.

Let’s explore how they work, why they might suit your lifestyle, and where you can find some of the best target-date-style options available to Singapore-based investors.

What is a target-date fund?

A target-date fund (TDF) is a professionally managed portfolio that automatically adjusts its asset allocation based on your retirement year or another major financial goal.

Early on, the fund focuses on growth with more equities (stocks). As your target year approaches, it shifts towards stability, increasing exposure to bonds and cash. These funds are designed to reduce risk as you near your goal, which makes them ideal for retirement planning.

In Singapore, you can’t buy TDFs through CPF, but you can invest using your Supplementary Retirement Scheme (SRS) or cash via platforms like POEMS, Endowus, FSMOne, or Interactive Brokers.

Popular target-date funds with low costs

Here are some popular TDFs suitable for investors of all skill levels, from all walks of life.

How do target-date funds work?

TDFs follow a glide path. This means the fund changes how your money is invested over time. When you're younger, the fund invests mostly in stocks to help your money grow. As you get closer to retirement, it shifts gradually into safer investments like bonds and cash.

This helps lower the risk of big losses just when you’re about to retire. Best of all, this adjustment happens automatically — no rebalancing needed on your part.In Singapore, it’s best to check if the fund is SGD-hedged and available via SRS for maximum tax benefit.

Why you should invest in target-date funds

Here are a couple of factors why people invest in TDFs: 

• Set-it-and-forget-it: Great for busy Singaporeans who don’t want to actively manage portfolios.

• Diversification: Built-in mix of equities, bonds, and sometimes REITs.

• Glide path strategy: Reduces your risk exposure over time.

• Aligned to goals: Especially useful for retirement, a child’s education, or early financial independence.

• Emotional discipline: Removes the urge to time the market.

• SRS-friendly options: Great for tax-deferred growth using platforms like POEMS or Endowus.

» Learn more : What you should know about retirement investing in Singapore

Setting up your target-date fund

Choose your target year

Pick a fund that aligns with your retirement age or major financial milestone. For example, if you’re 30 now and plan to retire at 65, go for a 2060 or 2065 fund.

Pick a platform

Use regulated brokers like POEMS, Endowus, FSMOne, or Citibank Wealth Management. Some robo-advisors like Syfe and StashAway also offer goal-based portfolios.

Compare funds

Look at:

• Expense ratios (fees)

• Glide path strategy

• Underlying holdings

• SGD-hedged options

• SRS compatibility

Some popular fund families include:

• Vanguard Target Retirement Funds

• BlackRock LifePath Index Funds

• Fidelity Freedom Index Funds

Set up your investment

Open an account, fund it, and get started. Many platforms support Regular Savings Plans (RSPs) for automated monthly investing.

» More : Best short & long term endowment plans in Singapore

Here are a couple other things to keep in mind when it comes to TDFs: 

Take all costs into account

TDFs typically charge a fund-level expense ratio ranging from 0.10% to 0.75%.

Singapore-based investors should also consider:

• Platform/account fees (e.g., advisory fees from Endowus or POEMS)

• Currency conversion charges (especially for USD-denominated funds)

• Dividend withholding tax from US-listed funds (up to 30%)

Know what’s included

• TDFs are usually funds-of-funds, which means they invest in multiple underlying funds.

• These can include global equity funds, bond funds, REITs, or even cash-equivalent assets.

Before investing, take time to:

• Review asset class allocation

• Check if the fund includes ESG-focused investments or emerging markets

• See if SGD-hedged share classes are available

• Make sure the fund’s asset mix fits your personal values and risk tolerance

» More : How much do you really need for retirement in Singapore?

Don’t just ignore it

TDFs may be low-maintenance but they aren’t "no maintenance."

You should still:

• Review your fund’s performance annually or during major life changes

• Make sure the glide path still matches your retirement or financial goals

• Consider adjusting your savings rate or adding other investments as you get closer to your target year — especially if your TDF lacks SGD exposure

By choosing the right target-date fund, you can take a big step toward a worry-free retirement — and give yourself more headspace to focus on what matters today. 

Whether you’re investing with your SRS, building a long-term nest egg, or just starting out, a TDF might be the smart, simple tool you’ve been looking for.