Simplicity KiwiSaver Balanced Fund
Where a company has multiple ethical concerns, the total concerns percentage counts this investment once.
The average total concerns of all funds of the same risk profile is weighted by the funds' investment values.
The average total concerns of all KiwiSaver balanced funds is 5.99%.
Where companies, through their products or operations, are involved in environmental degradation e.g., pollution, chemical spills.
Collectively the Coca-Cola related entities produce the most plastic rubbish in our oceans at 3 million tons of plastic packaging annually, which has devastating impacts on our oceans, wreaking havoc on wildlife and sending plastic particles into the food chain. Coca-Cola has also been subject to several lawsuits relating to marketing claims about the sustainability of its products.
Where companies, through their products or operations, are involved in environmental degradation e.g., pollution, chemical spills.
The world’s second largest source of plastic garbage in the world’s oceans, which has devastating impacts on our oceans, wreaking havoc on wildlife and sending plastic particles into the food chain. Alongside other large companies who use plastics, PepsiCo appeared to lobby against some improvements propopsed by the Global Plastics Treaty.
Where companies are involved in testing products on animals for cosmetic, personal care, household product, chemical and other uses. We do not include companies which conduct animal testing for pharmaceutical products, medical devices, biotechnology, human food, or pet food.
Where companies, through their products or operations, are involved in environmental degradation e.g., pollution, chemical spills.
Diversified personal-care, homecare, and packaged food company. The company states that its products are sold in countries where animal testing of cosmetic products is required by law. Also, the third largest producer of plastics in the world’s oceans and is the biggest corporate seller of plastic sachets, which are significantly destructive, particularly in the Global South. Has pushed back its plastic reduction targets from 2025 to 2034.
Where companies, through their products or operations, are involved in environmental degradation e.g., pollution, chemical spills.
Where companies are involved in the production of fossil fuels (oil, natural gas, coal, shale oil) including exploration, production (including core services), storage, transport (except by rail) and refining.
One of the world's largest mining companies, headquartered in Australia with operations globally. In 2015 Samarco (a BHP joint venture with Vale SA) caused the Mariana dam disaster releasing huge quantities of heavy metal waste into the Doce River basin. This is the largest pollution incident ever recorded and devastated communities and the ecosystem. BHP also mines thermal coal. While it sold some coal mines, it will continue to operate the Mt Arthur mine in New South Wales until 2030.
Where companies, through their products or operations, are involved in environmental degradation e.g., pollution, chemical spills.
The fifth largest producer worldwide of plastics in our oceans. It is seen by some investors as having unambitious recycling goals which it is also not meeting. Mondelez has also been linked to deforestation and child labour due to its operations.
Where companies, through their products or operations, are involved in environmental degradation e.g., pollution, chemical spills.
The fourth largest producer of plastic pollution in our oceans globally. Annually, it uses 750,000 tonnes of plastic to package its products. The company has been subject to civil lawsuits by NGOs regarding its sustainability claims.
Where companies, through their products or operations, are involved in environmental degradation e.g., pollution, chemical spills.
Owns the Grasberg mine in Indonesia where tailings are disposed directly into a river. Note, this type of disposal is banned in most countries. The pollution causes significant negative impact to the health of indigenous communities and wildlife in a biodiversity hotspot.
Where companies are involved in testing products on animals for cosmetic, personal care, household product, chemical and other uses. We do not include companies which conduct animal testing for pharmaceutical products, medical devices, biotechnology, human food, or pet food.
Where companies are involved in the production or distribution of chemicals which are highly hazardous to human or environmental health including herbicides, pesticides and PFAS.
Where companies are involved in testing products on animals for cosmetic, personal care, household product, chemical and other uses. We do not include companies which conduct animal testing for pharmaceutical products, medical devices, biotechnology, human food, or pet food.
Where companies are involved in the development or release of GMO plants and seeds.
Where companies are involved in the production or distribution of chemicals which are highly hazardous to human or environmental health including herbicides, pesticides and PFAS.
Where companies, through their products or operations, are involved in environmental degradation e.g., pollution, chemical spills.
Manufacture and bottle Coca-Cola beverages under licence. Collectively the Coca-Cola related entities produce the most plastic rubbish in our oceans at 3 million tons of plastic packaging annually, which has devastating impacts on our oceans, wreaking havoc on wildlife and sending plastic particles into the food chain.
Where companies are involved in testing products on animals for cosmetic, personal care, household product, chemical and other uses. We do not include companies which conduct animal testing for pharmaceutical products, medical devices, biotechnology, human food, or pet food.
Where companies are involved in the production or distribution of chemicals which are highly hazardous to human or environmental health including herbicides, pesticides and PFAS.
Where companies source their power generation from fossil fuels (oil, natural gas, coal) to generate electricity.
One of Aotearoa New Zealand’s largest electric utilities companies. Operates three thermal power stations that employ gas and diesel. In FY2024, 81% of the energy Contact generated came from renewable energy (lower than in 2023 due to a dry winter). However, at the end of 2024 Contact opened a major new geothermal renewable facility - the Tauhara plant. It is considered to be on a climate change pathway aligned with 1.5°C of global temperature rise.
Where companies, through their products or operations, are involved in environmental degradation e.g., pollution, chemical spills.
Where companies are involved in the production of fossil fuels (oil, natural gas, coal, shale oil) including exploration, production (including core services), storage, transport (except by rail) and refining.
One of the world's largest mining companies, headquartered in Australia with operations globally. In 2015 Samarco (a BHP joint venture with Vale SA) caused the Mariana dam disaster releasing huge quantities of heavy metal waste into the Doce River basin. This is the largest pollution incident ever recorded and devastated communities and the ecosystem. BHP also mines thermal coal. While it sold some coal mines, it will continue to operate the Mt Arthur mine in New South Wales until 2030.
Where companies are involved in testing products on animals for cosmetic, personal care, household product, chemical and other uses. We do not include companies which conduct animal testing for pharmaceutical products, medical devices, biotechnology, human food, or pet food.
Procter & Gamble Co. is a consumer products company involved in home goods, cosmetics and healthcare products. The company says they are committed to being cruelty free and ending animal testing, but are still involved in animal testing their cosmetic products, particularly on ingredients for cosmetics.
Where companies are involved in testing products on animals for cosmetic, personal care, household product, chemical and other uses. We do not include companies which conduct animal testing for pharmaceutical products, medical devices, biotechnology, human food, or pet food.
Where companies, through their products or operations, are involved in environmental degradation e.g., pollution, chemical spills.
Diversified personal-care, homecare, and packaged food company. The company states that its products are sold in countries where animal testing of cosmetic products is required by law. Also, the third largest producer of plastics in the world’s oceans and is the biggest corporate seller of plastic sachets, which are significantly destructive, particularly in the Global South. Has pushed back its plastic reduction targets from 2025 to 2034.
Where companies are involved in testing products on animals for cosmetic, personal care, household product, chemical and other uses. We do not include companies which conduct animal testing for pharmaceutical products, medical devices, biotechnology, human food, or pet food.
L'Oréal is a personal care company and cosmetics company concentrating on hair colour, skin care, sun protection, make-up, perfume, and hair care. The company states that its products are sold in countries where animal testing of cosmetic products is required by law.
Where companies, through their products or operations, cause harm to animals e.g., animal entertainment (such as marine parks and rodeos), livestock exports, whale meat etc.
Where companies are involved in the production or retail of fur & speciality leather products (where animals are raised purely for skins).
Where companies are involved in testing products on animals for cosmetic, personal care, household product, chemical and other uses. We do not include companies which conduct animal testing for pharmaceutical products, medical devices, biotechnology, human food, or pet food.
Where companies are involved in the production or distribution of chemicals which are highly hazardous to human or environmental health including herbicides, pesticides and PFAS.
Where companies are involved in testing products on animals for cosmetic, personal care, household product, chemical and other uses. We do not include companies which conduct animal testing for pharmaceutical products, medical devices, biotechnology, human food, or pet food.
Where companies are involved in the development or release of GMO plants and seeds.
Where companies are involved in the production or distribution of chemicals which are highly hazardous to human or environmental health including herbicides, pesticides and PFAS.
Where companies, through their products or operations, cause harm to animals e.g., animal entertainment (such as marine parks and rodeos), livestock exports, whale meat etc.
Where companies are involved in the production or retail of fur & speciality leather products (where animals are raised purely for skins).
Where companies are involved in testing products on animals for cosmetic, personal care, household product, chemical and other uses. We do not include companies which conduct animal testing for pharmaceutical products, medical devices, biotechnology, human food, or pet food.
Where companies are involved in the production or distribution of chemicals which are highly hazardous to human or environmental health including herbicides, pesticides and PFAS.
Where companies are involved in testing products on animals for cosmetic, personal care, household product, chemical and other uses. We do not include companies which conduct animal testing for pharmaceutical products, medical devices, biotechnology, human food, or pet food.
Estee Lauder is a multinational cosmetics company, a manufacturer and marketer of makeup, skincare, fragrance, and hair care products. The company states that its products are sold in countries where animal testing of cosmetic products is required by law.
Where low standards of ethics create harm because of poor culture and inappropriate incentives, inadequate governance and oversight, and incidents of bribery and corruption.
Tesla has been involved in violations across human rights categories including business ethics due to CEO leadership style, limiting of shareholder rights and poor governance. There have also been big safety and human rights concerns with Tesla’s supply chain and production line.
Where companies are involved in significant harm to individuals or communities, through the unsafe nature of their products or delivery of services and inadequate response to evidence of harm.
Johnson & Johnson is the world's largest and most diverse healthcare firm. Repeated incidents related to the quality and safety of several of its products across drugs, devices, and consumer products. Exceptioanlly high number of liability claims relating to talc based products and links to cancers.
Where the actions of companies have violated global standards on human rights and freedoms including customary rights of indigenous people.
Where a company is complicit in its products or services enabling violations of the Geneva Convention and infringement of the rights of individuals in war or conflict situations.
Has developed AI-based predictive policing systems. These are sold to Israeli security forces and used in surveillance of Palestinian in occupied Palestinian territories. The systems were originally designed for US immigration authorities and are used in the US to target immigrants and manage raids.
Where low standards of ethics create harm because of poor culture and inappropriate incentives, inadequate governance and oversight, and incidents of bribery and corruption.
Wells Fargo is a multinational financial services company which serves millions of customers in 35 countries. They have been involved in significant business ethics scandals for false inflation, cross selling and misleading customers over a period of 2002 to 2016.
Where a company is complicit in its products or services enabling violations of the Geneva Convention and infringement of the rights of individuals in war or conflict situations.
Develops and operates Israel’s Population Registry System which holds information on residents of Occupied Palestinian Territories. The registry enables control of work and travel permits for Palestinians. This supports severe violations of human rights including freedom of movement and data privacy rights.
Where the actions of companies have violated global standards on human rights and freedoms including customary rights of indigenous people.
Nestle manufactures and sells food and beverages. The company has been criticised for exploiting local water resources for its bottled water production, which has forced underprivileged communities to pay a premium for their groundwater while alternatives have been exhausted. They are also the third largest source of plastic trash found in oceans. There have also been several allegations of labour conflicts and human rights violations in Nestle’s palm oil, coffee, fruits and seafood supply chains.
Where the actions of companies have violated global standards on labour rights and freedoms; including poor treatment of workers, child and forced labour, and modern slavery.
A ride and food delivery service provider. As Uber considers its drivers to be contractors, this limits their employee rights to the minimum wage, and providing the same benefits and rights as traditional taxi companies.
Where the actions of companies have violated global standards on human rights and freedoms including customary rights of indigenous people.
Thermo Fisher Scientific sells scientific instruments and laboratory equipment, diagnostics consumables, and life science reagents. Thermo Fisher DNA testing kits have been linked to surveillance and discriminatory purposes by the legal authorities in Xinjiang (a region of China) for monitoring and tracking the Muslim Uyghur ethnic group and other minorities. Evidence that DNA sequencing products continue to be distributed in China, despite the company announcing it would halt sales to the region.
Where a company is complicit in its products or services enabling violations of the Geneva Convention and infringement of the rights of individuals in war or conflict situations.
Online travel platforms, are complicit in the severe human rights violations to Palestinians from illegal settlement in Occupied Palestinian Territories. Promotion of tourism to these settlements normalises annexation and provides income supporting settlement. Under UN Principles, companies have obligations to prevent Human Rights breaches from services in situations of conflict.
Where low standards of ethics create harm because of poor culture and inappropriate incentives, inadequate governance and oversight, and incidents of bribery and corruption.
Acquired Credit Suisse in 2023, a bank with very poor governance which aided clients with tax evasion and money laundering. As a result, UBS has inherited ongoing regulatory fines and lawsuits relating to these failures. UBS has also been subject to lawsuits relating to its own manipulation of foreign exchange and interbank rates. It holds a provision of USD $4bn for claims (which may not be sufficient).
Where a company is complicit in its products or services enabling violations of the Geneva Convention and infringement of the rights of individuals in war or conflict situations.
Motorola is an American provider of communication products, video equipment, telecommunications equipment, software, systems, and services. Motorola Solutions and its subsidiary, Motorola Israel, have been accused of complicity in human rights violations due to its sale of communication products to the Israeli Ministry of Defence in the occupied Palestinian territories. Israeli settlements in occupied Palestinian territories are deemed illegal under international law.
Where a company is complicit in its products or services enabling violations of the Geneva Convention and infringement of the rights of individuals in war or conflict situations.
Online travel platforms, are complicit in the severe human rights violations to Palestinians from illegal settlement in Occupied Palestinian Territories. Promotion of tourism to these settlements normalises annexation and provides income supporting settlement. Under UN Principles, companies have obligations to prevent Human Rights breaches from services in situations of conflict.
Where a company is complicit in its products or services enabling violations of the Geneva Convention and infringement of the rights of individuals in war or conflict situations.
Volvo’s bulldozers have used in ways that seriously the human rights of Palestinians in Occupied Territories e.g. demolition of property. Under UN Principles, companies have obligations to prevent Human Rights breaches from product use in situations of conflict. Note Volvo cars is a separate entity not involved in this harm.
Where a company is complicit in its products or services enabling violations of the Geneva Convention and infringement of the rights of individuals in war or conflict situations.
Online travel platforms, are complicit in the severe human rights violations to Palestinians from illegal settlement in Occupied Palestinian Territories. Promotion of tourism to these settlements normalises annexation and provides income supporting settlement. Under UN Principles, companies have obligations to prevent Human Rights breaches from services in situations of conflict.
Where a company is complicit in its products or services enabling violations of the Geneva Convention and infringement of the rights of individuals in war or conflict situations.
Has a subsidiary Hanson Israel which operates a quarry and asphalt / concrete factories in the on Palestinian land which were confiscated and allocated for the quarry in occupied West Bank. Material from the quarry has been used in construction of illegal settlements.
The Balanced Fund provides investors with an exposure to a mix of growth and income assets.
Simplicity is a nonprofit fund manager, owned by the Simplicity Foundation. 15% of our fee goes to the Simplicity Foundation. We invest with a conscience. As a not-for-profit, we only charge what it costs, nothing more. And 100% online means no costly branches or commissions.
| Value | $777M NZD |
| Period of data report | 30th Sept. 2025 |
| Members | 14,169 |
| Fund started | 1st Sept. 2016 |
| Total annual fund fees | 0.25% |
| Total performance based fees | 0.0% |
| Manager's basic fee | 0.25% |
| Other management and administration charges | 0.0% |
| Total other charges | 0.0 |
| Total other charges currency | NZD |
|
Sam Stubbs |
Currently: Managing Director, Simplicity (9 years, 6 months)
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Rob Everett |
Currently: Director, Simplicity (0 years, 3 months)
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Andrew Lance |
Currently: Chief Investment Officer, Simplicity (1 years, 7 months)
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Matthew Houtman |
Currently: Head of Private Capital, Simplicity (4 years, 10 months)
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Shamubeel Eaqub |
Currently: Chief Economist, Simplicity (1 years, 0 months)
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This information has been sourced from the quarterly data that each KiwiSaver fund has filed with Disclose register to 30th Sept. 2025.
Past annual returns for this fund are after fees and taxes. Please note that higher past returns do not always mean higher future returns.
| Year | Market Average | Fund Annual Return |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 4.34% | 4.88% |
| 2024 | 10.86% | 12.2% |
| 2023 | -2.79% | -3.66% |
| 2022 | 1.34% | 1.24% |
| 2021 | 17.98% | 19.4% |
| 2020 | -1.40% | -0.48% |
| 2019 | 5.81% | 6.71% |
| 2018 | 5.28% | 5.89% |
The market average is the average return for funds of the same risk category, sourced from the Commission for Financial Capability's Sorted website. The fund information has been sourced from the quarterly data that each KiwiSaver fund has filed with Disclose register to 30th Sept. 2025.
Cash At Bank
New Zealand Cash and Equivalents AA-
Simplicity Living Ltd Ordinary Shares
New Zealand Unlisted Property
Nvidia Corp
United States International Equities
Microsoft Corporation
United States International Equities
Apple Inc
United States International Equities
Fisher & Paykel Healthcare Ltd
New Zealand Australasian Equities
Amazon.Com Inc
United States International Equities
Auckland International Airport Ltd
New Zealand Australasian Equities
Infratil Ltd
New Zealand Australasian Equities
Broadcom Inc
United States International Equities
| Type | Target | Actual |
|---|---|---|
| Cash and Cash Equivalents | 10.0% | 14.79% |
| New Zealand Fixed Interest | 16.5% | 12.45% |
| International Fixed Interest | 14.5% | 14.09% |
| Australasian Equities | 10.0% | 12.31% |
| International Equities | 42.75% | 42.63% |
| Listed Properties | 0.0% | 0.0% |
| Unlisted Properties | 6.25% | 3.73% |
| Other | 0.0% | 0.0% |
| Commodities | 0.0% | 0.0% |
How the money in this fund is invested by asset type.
This information has been sourced from the quarterly data that each KiwiSaver fund has filed with Disclose register to 30th Sept. 2025.
This data is compiled by Mindful Money from the fund information and portfolios
that each
KiwiSaver
fund has
filed with the Disclose register to 30th Sept. 2025 and Mindful Money
analysis of funds within those portfolios. The list of companies of concern has
been drawn from ratings agencies and public sources, including the Norwegian
Sovereign Fund, NZ Super Fund, Sustainalytics and research organisations.
Please note that companies may breach more than one of these areas of
concern.
The listing of companies of concern is based on definitions used in Mindful Money's
methodology. These definitions may
be different from the exclusions policy and definitions applied by the fund provider.
Mindful Money uses the term Mindful Funds as our standard
for ethical investment and responsible investment. This does not imply that
other funds are unethical or that the fund providers that do not meet these
standards are unethical providers.
Where companies, through their products or operations, are involved in environmental degradation e.g., pollution, chemical spills.
Collectively the Coca-Cola related entities produce the most plastic rubbish in our oceans at 3 million tons of plastic packaging annually, which has devastating impacts on our oceans, wreaking havoc on wildlife and sending plastic particles into the food chain. Coca-Cola has also been subject to several lawsuits relating to marketing claims about the sustainability of its products.
Where companies, through their products or operations, are involved in environmental degradation e.g., pollution, chemical spills.
The world’s second largest source of plastic garbage in the world’s oceans, which has devastating impacts on our oceans, wreaking havoc on wildlife and sending plastic particles into the food chain. Alongside other large companies who use plastics, PepsiCo appeared to lobby against some improvements propopsed by the Global Plastics Treaty.
Where companies are involved in testing products on animals for cosmetic, personal care, household product, chemical and other uses. We do not include companies which conduct animal testing for pharmaceutical products, medical devices, biotechnology, human food, or pet food.
Where companies, through their products or operations, are involved in environmental degradation e.g., pollution, chemical spills.
Diversified personal-care, homecare, and packaged food company. The company states that its products are sold in countries where animal testing of cosmetic products is required by law. Also, the third largest producer of plastics in the world’s oceans and is the biggest corporate seller of plastic sachets, which are significantly destructive, particularly in the Global South. Has pushed back its plastic reduction targets from 2025 to 2034.
Where companies, through their products or operations, are involved in environmental degradation e.g., pollution, chemical spills.
Where companies are involved in the production of fossil fuels (oil, natural gas, coal, shale oil) including exploration, production (including core services), storage, transport (except by rail) and refining.
One of the world's largest mining companies, headquartered in Australia with operations globally. In 2015 Samarco (a BHP joint venture with Vale SA) caused the Mariana dam disaster releasing huge quantities of heavy metal waste into the Doce River basin. This is the largest pollution incident ever recorded and devastated communities and the ecosystem. BHP also mines thermal coal. While it sold some coal mines, it will continue to operate the Mt Arthur mine in New South Wales until 2030.
Where companies, through their products or operations, are involved in environmental degradation e.g., pollution, chemical spills.
The fifth largest producer worldwide of plastics in our oceans. It is seen by some investors as having unambitious recycling goals which it is also not meeting. Mondelez has also been linked to deforestation and child labour due to its operations.
Where companies, through their products or operations, are involved in environmental degradation e.g., pollution, chemical spills.
The fourth largest producer of plastic pollution in our oceans globally. Annually, it uses 750,000 tonnes of plastic to package its products. The company has been subject to civil lawsuits by NGOs regarding its sustainability claims.
Where companies, through their products or operations, are involved in environmental degradation e.g., pollution, chemical spills.
Owns the Grasberg mine in Indonesia where tailings are disposed directly into a river. Note, this type of disposal is banned in most countries. The pollution causes significant negative impact to the health of indigenous communities and wildlife in a biodiversity hotspot.
Where companies are involved in testing products on animals for cosmetic, personal care, household product, chemical and other uses. We do not include companies which conduct animal testing for pharmaceutical products, medical devices, biotechnology, human food, or pet food.
Where companies are involved in the production or distribution of chemicals which are highly hazardous to human or environmental health including herbicides, pesticides and PFAS.
Where companies are involved in testing products on animals for cosmetic, personal care, household product, chemical and other uses. We do not include companies which conduct animal testing for pharmaceutical products, medical devices, biotechnology, human food, or pet food.
Where companies are involved in the development or release of GMO plants and seeds.
Where companies are involved in the production or distribution of chemicals which are highly hazardous to human or environmental health including herbicides, pesticides and PFAS.
Where companies, through their products or operations, are involved in environmental degradation e.g., pollution, chemical spills.
Manufacture and bottle Coca-Cola beverages under licence. Collectively the Coca-Cola related entities produce the most plastic rubbish in our oceans at 3 million tons of plastic packaging annually, which has devastating impacts on our oceans, wreaking havoc on wildlife and sending plastic particles into the food chain.
Where companies are involved in testing products on animals for cosmetic, personal care, household product, chemical and other uses. We do not include companies which conduct animal testing for pharmaceutical products, medical devices, biotechnology, human food, or pet food.
Where companies are involved in the production or distribution of chemicals which are highly hazardous to human or environmental health including herbicides, pesticides and PFAS.
Where companies source their power generation from fossil fuels (oil, natural gas, coal) to generate electricity.
One of Aotearoa New Zealand’s largest electric utilities companies. Operates three thermal power stations that employ gas and diesel. In FY2024, 81% of the energy Contact generated came from renewable energy (lower than in 2023 due to a dry winter). However, at the end of 2024 Contact opened a major new geothermal renewable facility - the Tauhara plant. It is considered to be on a climate change pathway aligned with 1.5°C of global temperature rise.
Where companies, through their products or operations, are involved in environmental degradation e.g., pollution, chemical spills.
Where companies are involved in the production of fossil fuels (oil, natural gas, coal, shale oil) including exploration, production (including core services), storage, transport (except by rail) and refining.
One of the world's largest mining companies, headquartered in Australia with operations globally. In 2015 Samarco (a BHP joint venture with Vale SA) caused the Mariana dam disaster releasing huge quantities of heavy metal waste into the Doce River basin. This is the largest pollution incident ever recorded and devastated communities and the ecosystem. BHP also mines thermal coal. While it sold some coal mines, it will continue to operate the Mt Arthur mine in New South Wales until 2030.
Where companies are involved in testing products on animals for cosmetic, personal care, household product, chemical and other uses. We do not include companies which conduct animal testing for pharmaceutical products, medical devices, biotechnology, human food, or pet food.
Procter & Gamble Co. is a consumer products company involved in home goods, cosmetics and healthcare products. The company says they are committed to being cruelty free and ending animal testing, but are still involved in animal testing their cosmetic products, particularly on ingredients for cosmetics.
Where companies are involved in testing products on animals for cosmetic, personal care, household product, chemical and other uses. We do not include companies which conduct animal testing for pharmaceutical products, medical devices, biotechnology, human food, or pet food.
Where companies, through their products or operations, are involved in environmental degradation e.g., pollution, chemical spills.
Diversified personal-care, homecare, and packaged food company. The company states that its products are sold in countries where animal testing of cosmetic products is required by law. Also, the third largest producer of plastics in the world’s oceans and is the biggest corporate seller of plastic sachets, which are significantly destructive, particularly in the Global South. Has pushed back its plastic reduction targets from 2025 to 2034.
Where companies are involved in testing products on animals for cosmetic, personal care, household product, chemical and other uses. We do not include companies which conduct animal testing for pharmaceutical products, medical devices, biotechnology, human food, or pet food.
L'Oréal is a personal care company and cosmetics company concentrating on hair colour, skin care, sun protection, make-up, perfume, and hair care. The company states that its products are sold in countries where animal testing of cosmetic products is required by law.
Where companies, through their products or operations, cause harm to animals e.g., animal entertainment (such as marine parks and rodeos), livestock exports, whale meat etc.
Where companies are involved in the production or retail of fur & speciality leather products (where animals are raised purely for skins).
Where companies are involved in testing products on animals for cosmetic, personal care, household product, chemical and other uses. We do not include companies which conduct animal testing for pharmaceutical products, medical devices, biotechnology, human food, or pet food.
Where companies are involved in the production or distribution of chemicals which are highly hazardous to human or environmental health including herbicides, pesticides and PFAS.
Where companies are involved in testing products on animals for cosmetic, personal care, household product, chemical and other uses. We do not include companies which conduct animal testing for pharmaceutical products, medical devices, biotechnology, human food, or pet food.
Where companies are involved in the development or release of GMO plants and seeds.
Where companies are involved in the production or distribution of chemicals which are highly hazardous to human or environmental health including herbicides, pesticides and PFAS.
Where companies, through their products or operations, cause harm to animals e.g., animal entertainment (such as marine parks and rodeos), livestock exports, whale meat etc.
Where companies are involved in the production or retail of fur & speciality leather products (where animals are raised purely for skins).
Where companies are involved in testing products on animals for cosmetic, personal care, household product, chemical and other uses. We do not include companies which conduct animal testing for pharmaceutical products, medical devices, biotechnology, human food, or pet food.
Where companies are involved in the production or distribution of chemicals which are highly hazardous to human or environmental health including herbicides, pesticides and PFAS.
Where companies are involved in testing products on animals for cosmetic, personal care, household product, chemical and other uses. We do not include companies which conduct animal testing for pharmaceutical products, medical devices, biotechnology, human food, or pet food.
Estee Lauder is a multinational cosmetics company, a manufacturer and marketer of makeup, skincare, fragrance, and hair care products. The company states that its products are sold in countries where animal testing of cosmetic products is required by law.
Where low standards of ethics create harm because of poor culture and inappropriate incentives, inadequate governance and oversight, and incidents of bribery and corruption.
Tesla has been involved in violations across human rights categories including business ethics due to CEO leadership style, limiting of shareholder rights and poor governance. There have also been big safety and human rights concerns with Tesla’s supply chain and production line.
Where companies are involved in significant harm to individuals or communities, through the unsafe nature of their products or delivery of services and inadequate response to evidence of harm.
Johnson & Johnson is the world's largest and most diverse healthcare firm. Repeated incidents related to the quality and safety of several of its products across drugs, devices, and consumer products. Exceptioanlly high number of liability claims relating to talc based products and links to cancers.
Where the actions of companies have violated global standards on human rights and freedoms including customary rights of indigenous people.
Where a company is complicit in its products or services enabling violations of the Geneva Convention and infringement of the rights of individuals in war or conflict situations.
Has developed AI-based predictive policing systems. These are sold to Israeli security forces and used in surveillance of Palestinian in occupied Palestinian territories. The systems were originally designed for US immigration authorities and are used in the US to target immigrants and manage raids.
Where low standards of ethics create harm because of poor culture and inappropriate incentives, inadequate governance and oversight, and incidents of bribery and corruption.
Wells Fargo is a multinational financial services company which serves millions of customers in 35 countries. They have been involved in significant business ethics scandals for false inflation, cross selling and misleading customers over a period of 2002 to 2016.
Where a company is complicit in its products or services enabling violations of the Geneva Convention and infringement of the rights of individuals in war or conflict situations.
Develops and operates Israel’s Population Registry System which holds information on residents of Occupied Palestinian Territories. The registry enables control of work and travel permits for Palestinians. This supports severe violations of human rights including freedom of movement and data privacy rights.
Where the actions of companies have violated global standards on human rights and freedoms including customary rights of indigenous people.
Nestle manufactures and sells food and beverages. The company has been criticised for exploiting local water resources for its bottled water production, which has forced underprivileged communities to pay a premium for their groundwater while alternatives have been exhausted. They are also the third largest source of plastic trash found in oceans. There have also been several allegations of labour conflicts and human rights violations in Nestle’s palm oil, coffee, fruits and seafood supply chains.
Where the actions of companies have violated global standards on labour rights and freedoms; including poor treatment of workers, child and forced labour, and modern slavery.
A ride and food delivery service provider. As Uber considers its drivers to be contractors, this limits their employee rights to the minimum wage, and providing the same benefits and rights as traditional taxi companies.
Where the actions of companies have violated global standards on human rights and freedoms including customary rights of indigenous people.
Thermo Fisher Scientific sells scientific instruments and laboratory equipment, diagnostics consumables, and life science reagents. Thermo Fisher DNA testing kits have been linked to surveillance and discriminatory purposes by the legal authorities in Xinjiang (a region of China) for monitoring and tracking the Muslim Uyghur ethnic group and other minorities. Evidence that DNA sequencing products continue to be distributed in China, despite the company announcing it would halt sales to the region.
Where a company is complicit in its products or services enabling violations of the Geneva Convention and infringement of the rights of individuals in war or conflict situations.
Online travel platforms, are complicit in the severe human rights violations to Palestinians from illegal settlement in Occupied Palestinian Territories. Promotion of tourism to these settlements normalises annexation and provides income supporting settlement. Under UN Principles, companies have obligations to prevent Human Rights breaches from services in situations of conflict.
Where low standards of ethics create harm because of poor culture and inappropriate incentives, inadequate governance and oversight, and incidents of bribery and corruption.
Acquired Credit Suisse in 2023, a bank with very poor governance which aided clients with tax evasion and money laundering. As a result, UBS has inherited ongoing regulatory fines and lawsuits relating to these failures. UBS has also been subject to lawsuits relating to its own manipulation of foreign exchange and interbank rates. It holds a provision of USD $4bn for claims (which may not be sufficient).
Where a company is complicit in its products or services enabling violations of the Geneva Convention and infringement of the rights of individuals in war or conflict situations.
Motorola is an American provider of communication products, video equipment, telecommunications equipment, software, systems, and services. Motorola Solutions and its subsidiary, Motorola Israel, have been accused of complicity in human rights violations due to its sale of communication products to the Israeli Ministry of Defence in the occupied Palestinian territories. Israeli settlements in occupied Palestinian territories are deemed illegal under international law.
Where a company is complicit in its products or services enabling violations of the Geneva Convention and infringement of the rights of individuals in war or conflict situations.
Online travel platforms, are complicit in the severe human rights violations to Palestinians from illegal settlement in Occupied Palestinian Territories. Promotion of tourism to these settlements normalises annexation and provides income supporting settlement. Under UN Principles, companies have obligations to prevent Human Rights breaches from services in situations of conflict.
Where a company is complicit in its products or services enabling violations of the Geneva Convention and infringement of the rights of individuals in war or conflict situations.
Volvo’s bulldozers have used in ways that seriously the human rights of Palestinians in Occupied Territories e.g. demolition of property. Under UN Principles, companies have obligations to prevent Human Rights breaches from product use in situations of conflict. Note Volvo cars is a separate entity not involved in this harm.
Where a company is complicit in its products or services enabling violations of the Geneva Convention and infringement of the rights of individuals in war or conflict situations.
Online travel platforms, are complicit in the severe human rights violations to Palestinians from illegal settlement in Occupied Palestinian Territories. Promotion of tourism to these settlements normalises annexation and provides income supporting settlement. Under UN Principles, companies have obligations to prevent Human Rights breaches from services in situations of conflict.
Where a company is complicit in its products or services enabling violations of the Geneva Convention and infringement of the rights of individuals in war or conflict situations.
Has a subsidiary Hanson Israel which operates a quarry and asphalt / concrete factories in the on Palestinian land which were confiscated and allocated for the quarry in occupied West Bank. Material from the quarry has been used in construction of illegal settlements.
The Balanced Fund provides investors with an exposure to a mix of growth and income assets.
Simplicity is a nonprofit fund manager, owned by the Simplicity Foundation. 15% of our fee goes to the Simplicity Foundation. We invest with a conscience. As a not-for-profit, we only charge what it costs, nothing more. And 100% online means no costly branches or commissions.
| Value | $777M NZD |
| Period of data report | 30th Sept. 2025 |
| Members | 14,169 |
| Fund started | 1st Sept. 2016 |
| Total annual fund fees | 0.25% |
| Total performance based fees | 0.0% |
| Manager's basic fee | 0.25% |
| Other management and administration charges | 0.0% |
| Total other charges | 0.0 |
| Total other charges currency | NZD |
|
Sam Stubbs |
Currently: Managing Director, Simplicity (9 years, 6 months)
|
|
Rob Everett |
Currently: Director, Simplicity (0 years, 3 months)
|
|
Andrew Lance |
Currently: Chief Investment Officer, Simplicity (1 years, 7 months)
|
|
Matthew Houtman |
Currently: Head of Private Capital, Simplicity (4 years, 10 months)
|
|
Shamubeel Eaqub |
Currently: Chief Economist, Simplicity (1 years, 0 months)
|
This information has been sourced from the quarterly data that each KiwiSaver fund has filed with Disclose register to 30th Sept. 2025.
Past annual returns for this fund are after fees and taxes. Please note that higher past returns do not always mean higher future returns.
| Year | Market Average | Fund Annual Return |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 4.34% | 4.88% |
| 2024 | 10.86% | 12.2% |
| 2023 | -2.79% | -3.66% |
| 2022 | 1.34% | 1.24% |
| 2021 | 17.98% | 19.4% |
| 2020 | -1.40% | -0.48% |
| 2019 | 5.81% | 6.71% |
| 2018 | 5.28% | 5.89% |
The market average is the average return for funds of the same risk category, sourced from the Commission for Financial Capability's Sorted website. The fund information has been sourced from the quarterly data that each KiwiSaver fund has filed with Disclose register to 30th Sept. 2025.
Cash At Bank
New Zealand Cash and Equivalents AA-
Simplicity Living Ltd Ordinary Shares
New Zealand Unlisted Property
Nvidia Corp
United States International Equities
Microsoft Corporation
United States International Equities
Apple Inc
United States International Equities
Fisher & Paykel Healthcare Ltd
New Zealand Australasian Equities
Amazon.Com Inc
United States International Equities
Auckland International Airport Ltd
New Zealand Australasian Equities
Infratil Ltd
New Zealand Australasian Equities
Broadcom Inc
United States International Equities
| Type | Target | Actual |
|---|---|---|
| Cash and Cash Equivalents | 10.0% | 14.79% |
| New Zealand Fixed Interest | 16.5% | 12.45% |
| International Fixed Interest | 14.5% | 14.09% |
| Australasian Equities | 10.0% | 12.31% |
| International Equities | 42.75% | 42.63% |
| Listed Properties | 0.0% | 0.0% |
| Unlisted Properties | 6.25% | 3.73% |
| Other | 0.0% | 0.0% |
| Commodities | 0.0% | 0.0% |
How the money in this fund is invested by asset type.
This information has been sourced from the quarterly data that each KiwiSaver fund has filed with Disclose register to 30th Sept. 2025.
This data is compiled by Mindful Money from the fund information and portfolios
that each
KiwiSaver
fund has
filed with the Disclose register to 30th Sept. 2025 and Mindful Money
analysis of funds within those portfolios. The list of companies of concern has
been drawn from ratings agencies and public sources, including the Norwegian
Sovereign Fund, NZ Super Fund, Sustainalytics and research organisations.
Please note that companies may breach more than one of these areas of
concern.
The listing of companies of concern is based on definitions used in Mindful Money's
methodology. These definitions may
be different from the exclusions policy and definitions applied by the fund provider.
Mindful Money uses the term Mindful Funds as our standard
for ethical investment and responsible investment. This does not imply that
other funds are unethical or that the fund providers that do not meet these
standards are unethical providers.
