True, low-risk investing won’t necessarily bring high returns, but it can deliver good returns along with security. Investors can get rewards from low-risk investments and even from those that are nearly risk free.

Selections include safe returns with government securities and insurance investments or low-risk returns on various stocks or bonds. Investors analyze their specific financial needs when taking the low risk option. These types of investments appeal to those who might be starting out or retirees.

Here are seven examples of low-risk investing with good returns:

1. Dividend-paying stocks — Dividends provide guaranteed income for investors. They are especially attractive for people in or near retirement, writes Jeff Rose in Forbes. High yields for dividends provide a safety net during fluctuations in the market as many investors buy stocks that pay dividends during a bear market.
2. Annuities — These are good investments if offered by an experienced financial advisor. Some annuities have high fees or don’t fit a particular investor’s needs, so consulting a financial planner is necessary. The investments are made through an insurance company and provide guaranteed returns at a certain rate.
3. Utility stocks — Stability is a main feature of these stocks. They also provide high dividends, according to Mark Cussen in Money Crashers. The stocks offer stable prices whether the economy is headed up or down. People always need utilities, such as gas and electricity, despite economic conditions.
4. Brokered CDs — These certificates of deposit are sold through brokerage firms that offer high yields on the investment. They are similar to bonds with a maturity date and insured through the FDIC. Conservative investors benefit without a risk of losing money.
5. Exchange-traded funds — ETFs include diversified investments in stocks, commodities, and bonds to act like an index fund, Investopedia notes. Unlike mutual funds, they can be bought and sold daily during market trading. They are usually less costly than mutual funds, providing investing with secure diversification and the ability to buy on margin or sell short.
6. Treasury securities — The returns on Treasury bonds, bills, or notes are not very high but offer consistency as well as low-risk investing, according to the Balance. They make wise investments for investors looking for low risk options and some gains.
7. Money market accounts — The low-risk investments often have a higher interest rate than the normal savings account. They are also a good way to invest for people who want security in their investment with a decent return.

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