Preservation of capital can help ensure the safety and security of your investments over time. This investment strategy protects the initial value of an investment — aiming to avoid or minimize losses rather than attain maximum profits.

Many investors adopt this strategy during market uncertainty or turmoil, when the potential for losses is high. By avoiding risky investments and focusing on stable ones instead, investors can minimize their losses and help keep their money safe.

Here are five facts about preserving capital.

1. Retirees Can Benefit From Preservation of Capital

Capital preservation holds particular advantages for retirees and people close to retirement. Because retirees no longer work, they don't have the same earning potential as when they were younger. That makes preserving capital more important than ever in order to make sure their nest egg lasts as long as possible. Preserving capital can also be worthwhile for those close to retirement. Soon, they will be in the same position as current retirees.

Both of these groups of people share one key trait: They're more risk averse than other investors. Rather than take on a lot of risk in order to try to earn higher returns, most aim to protect their money and preserve their capital so they can successfully retire.

2. There Are Several Common Methods of Preserving Capital

There are many different ways to protect your investments, and each individual will have their own unique approach based on their personal financial situation. Some of the most common methods of preserving capital include cash equivalents, defensive stocks and annuities.

Cash equivalents include savings accounts, money market accounts and government bonds. These investments are safe and stable, but they don't offer a lot of growth potential.

Defensive stocks can also act as a good investment for preserving capital. These are stocks of companies that provide essential goods or services that people need regardless of the state of the economy, such as food, health care and utility companies.

Annuities are another conservative option. Annuities are a type of insurance product that can provide a stream of income in retirement. There are several different types of annuities, but they all share one key feature: They're designed to provide income for life. This can make them a good option for people who are looking to preserve their capital and generate income in retirement.

The most important thing to remember about the preservation of capital is that it's focused on minimizing risk. Cash equivalents, defensive stocks and annuities are usually helpful options even though they may not offer the highest returns, because they're much less likely to lose value.

3. Preservation of Capital Is an Ongoing Process

Preservation of capital is not a one-time event but rather an ongoing process that requires diligence and commitment. A number of factors can erode your wealth, such as inflation, market volatility and poor investment choices. By being aware of these risks and taking steps to protect your assets, you can help ensure that your wealth lasts for generations to come.

A proactive approach to portfolio management helps guard your capital's future. As such, monitor your portfolio regularly and make adjustments over time as needed. This may include selling off certain investments and reinvesting the proceeds in more stable assets.

4. You Can Still Take Calculated Risks While Preserving Capital

Many people think that the preservation of capital means never taking any risks. However, you can still take calculated risks and make investments that have the potential to grow your wealth. The key is to focus on the preservation of capital first and the growth of that capital second.

This means that you should only invest when you understand the landscape and have noted a low risk of loss. For example, you might invest in a well-established company with a history of paying dividends or purchase a property in an up-and-coming neighborhood. Taking smart risks allows you to preserve your capital while also growing your wealth over time.

5. Capital Preservation Does Have Some Drawbacks

Capital preservation can be a key investment strategy, but it does have potential drawbacks. Chief among them is the opportunity cost of not investing in other potential growth opportunities. For example, if you choose to preserve capital by keeping your money in a savings account, you may forgo the chance to earn higher returns by investing in the stock market.

In addition, capital preservation can also lead to missed opportunities for diversification. By focusing on preserving your original investment, you may inadvertently increase your exposure to a specific asset class or market sector.

Ultimately, no investment is truly free of risk. Although capital preservation strategies may help reduce overall portfolio volatility, they cannot completely eliminate the risk of loss.

The Bottom Line

Preserving your capital is about making strategic choices with your money to protect it from unnecessary losses. Investing in a diverse mix of assets can better position your portfolio for stability and growth over time.

Another smart choice is to avoid unnecessary risks, such as gambling or investing in risky ventures. This cautious approach to finances can help you ensure that your capital lasts for years to come.