How much risk does the investment have?

All investments have risk, but some investments are riskier than others. The First Mortgage PIE Trust has a risk rating of 1 out of 7 - the lowest possible rating for a managed fund in New Zealand. This means that there should be a relatively low volatility in returns from the Fund, but it does not mean there is no risk. The Fund invests into loans secured by NZ first registered mortgages, not shares or cryptocurrency. It's not a bank deposit, so it isn't government-guaranteed, but it carries the lowest risk rating available for this type of investment. Returns are not guaranteed and can change.

Can we put our company reserves in FMT?

FMT PIE Trust is designed for SME cash reserves - the float above your daily operating expenses. It is not suitable for businesses with strict treasury mandates requiring deposits with A-rated NZ registered banks (as FMT does not qualify as a bank deposit). If your business has formal treasury requirements, check with your CFO or financial adviser before investing.

What is the minimum investment?

$500. There's no maximum. You can add more to your Fund balance at any time inside the Emerge app.

Emerge is not registered bank - your money's held safely in trust with a licensed New Zealand bank. We're a registered financial services provider, and we hold your money in a secure trust account with a licensed New Zealand bank. You get all the protection of a big bank, with none of the big-bank vibes.

How fast can I open an account?

About the same time it takes to order a coffee. Just download the app, verify your ID, and you're good to go. No branch visits, no paperwork.

Is my business cash locked up?

The Fund has a suggested investment horizon of 2 years, because that generally aligns with the lending terms for the Fund's underlying mortgage investments. However, your investment isn't locked up and you can normally request a withdrawal at any time.

What does PIE tax treatment mean for my business?

PIE stands for Portfolio Investment Entity. It means your returns are taxed at your Prescribed Investor Rate (PIR) rather than your company's income tax rate (typically 28%). For many NZ SMEs, this results in a more favourable tax position. Your PIR depends on your circumstances - confirm it with your accountant or use the IRD calculator at ird.govt.nz.

Is this the same as Kiwisaver?

No. KiwiSaver is a long-term retirement savings scheme with restrictions on when you can withdraw. The First Mortgage PIE Trust is a managed investment fund with a suggested minimum investment timeframe of two years, but withdrawals are not restricted like they are in a KiwiSaver scheme.

Does it cost anything to join?

Nope. It's free to open your account, free to get your first card, free to send money to mates. A replacement card will cost you $10, that's it.

Control where it counts.

Emerge helps trusts manage money, oversight and access in one modern platform.

Cleaner governance. Better visibility. Less admin friction.

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Built for smoother administration

Trusts need clear records, the right people involved, and day-to-day admin that doesn’t create unnecessary friction.

Emerge brings payments, access and oversight into one place, helping trustees stay organised and in control.

Oversight form day one

Practical tools that help trustees stay organised, informed and in control.

Keep money organised

Create and manage separate accounts, each with their own balance and transaction history.

Shared visibility

Add trustees or authorised users with the right level of visibility and control.

Controlled spending

Issue instant cards with customisable rules and spend limits for approved trust expenses where needed.

Reduce key person risk

It’s common for one trustee to become the main holder of logins, records, payment knowledge and day to day administration.

When they’re away or trustees change, unnecessary delays and disruption can follow.

Emerge helps create shared visibility, smoother handovers and less reliance on any one person.

Better controls

Practical safeguards that help trusts stay organised, accountable and running smoothly.

Payment approvals

Use multi-authorisation for larger or sensitive payments before funds move.

Receipt capture

Snap a photo in app and attach receipts to transactions as you go.

Clear visibility

Get spend notifications and see account activity as it happens.

Built for different structures

Whether managing family assets, property or long term obligations, Emerge supports a range of trust structures with modern tools and practical controls.

Frequently asked questions

Whether you’re a startup, growing team or planning global domination, Emerge works to make your business finances more efficient at every stage of your journey.

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