Euro funds and unit accounts performance

The average performance of euro funds and unit accounts was respectively 2.6% and 4.7% in 2025, according to the Observatory of Financial Savings Products (OPEF). These figures reflect the returns of investments in life insurance products, with euro funds typically offering more stability and unit accounts providing more exposure to market fluctuations.

REITs show increased distribution rates

In 2025, the average distribution rate of Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) increased by 4.91%, and the net collection reached 4.6 billion euros. This growth indicates a rise in income generated by real estate investment vehicles, which are designed to invest in property and distribute profits to investors.

Dated bond funds outperform euro funds

The average return of dated bond funds reached 2.80% in 2025 and 5.12% over three years, according to Good Value for Money. These funds, which invest in government bonds with fixed returns, showed better performance compared to euro funds, which are typically linked to a benchmark interest rate.

Life insurance euro funds remain stable

In 2025, the average performance of life insurance euro funds (net of management fees, gross of social contributions and including any potential bonuses) reached 2.6%, the same as in 2024 and 2023. Unit accounts, on the other hand, benefited from a return of 4.7%, net of contract fees, according to the OPEF.

Equities offer high returns but with risk

Equity unit accounts recorded an average performance of 8.05% last year, according to the OPEF. Henri Réau, director of development at placement-direct.fr, warns that while equities offer the highest potential returns, they also carry the highest risk. He suggests that investors should consider spreading their investments and holding onto them for at least five years to reduce risk.

Investing in new REITs is more favorable

New REITs, which do not charge entry fees and have performed well in recent years, are attracting more investment compared to older, traditional REITs. Henri Réau highlights several new REITs, such as Iroko, Remake, and Mistral Selection, that have delivered good returns and are gaining popularity among investors.

Long-term investment in equities is advised

Henri Réau advises investors to keep their money invested in equities for at least eight years to navigate the natural cycles of market fluctuations. He emphasizes that a gradual approach, investing at different points in time, can help reduce the impact of market volatility on savings.

Dated bond funds benefit from rising interest rates

Since this summer, the yield of French debt through OATs (treasury bonds) has increased significantly, reaching over 4.5% in some months. This rise in interest rates benefits dated bond funds, which are largely invested in such debt instruments and have shown improved performance compared to euro funds.

Life insurance contracts and asset allocation

The latest life insurance barometer from Good Value for Money advises savers to review the composition of their life insurance contracts. The average return of dated bond funds reached 2.80% in 2025, compared to 2.6% for euro funds, highlighting the importance of understanding the actual proportion of investments in equities and other assets.

Risk-averse investors can choose euro funds

For savers and investors who prefer to avoid risk, the majority of life insurance contracts allow for 100% investment in the euro fund, which offers guaranteed capital support. This option provides a safer alternative for those who prioritize capital preservation over higher returns.