This is what Phillip F. Hagedorn, president and chief executive officer of the Mutual Fund Management Company of the Philippines (MFMCP), wants young students to keep in mind as they prepare and work towards a brighter future by investing their resources as early as today.

In a talk organized by the Ateneo Economics Association at the Ateneo de Manila University, Hagedorn’s brief lecture entitled "Let’s Talk Today About Your Tomorrow" emphasized the importance of securing one’s financial future.

"Why you would want to invest now is the same reason and motivation why you want to succeed in life and after college," Hagedorn says.

Whether it’s saving for your dream car, travel and adventure, marriage, the education of your future children, or for a luxurious sailboat by the time of your retirement, Hagedorn stresses that it is never too early to start preparing for you and your family’s future.

"Save at least 10 percent to 20 percent of your income or earnings and start having passive income through investments. It’s money that works for you," adds the CEO of the Fund Manager.

As small investors, Hagedorn states that "you don’t have to be rich to get rich". By devoting a portion of their money in mutual funds, small investors, through the help and advice of the fund manager, are given the opportunity to pool their resources together for a set investment objective, enjoy the benefits of investing in the stock market, and maximize returns of their savings.

Managed by the MFMCP, The Kabuhayan Mutual Fund (KMF) has been the largest and best-performing balanced fund in the country for over a three-year period banking on MFMCP’s superior stock selection, updated and well-devised investment strategy, and active management style.

As a balanced fund, KMF invests 50 percent in stock market listed companies and 50 percent in fixed income instruments, giving the fund lower risk as compared to equity funds which invest up to 90 percent in the market.

KMF provides a good starting ground for firsttime investors because of its low entry cost. For as low as P5,000, investors can buy shares in the company and make additional investments for as little as P1,000. Aside from this, the Fund boasts of a welldiversified portfolio and an easy monitoring process which can be done through the website www.mutualfund.com.ph anytime.

With its painless investment process, the Kabuhayan Mutual Fund easily fits young investors who want to "think smart" and get a headstart in their financial future.