ASK NOEL

I could retire this year when I turn 65 and will have $390,000 in super. Once I've cleared the mortgage and debts, there should be $370,000 remaining. My wife, 59, wants to continue working part time for a couple more years. Given the poor performance of super funds and the fact I could get 7.25 per cent for a three-year term deposit, it seems I'd be better off taking a lump sum and investing in a term deposit rather than super, which, if history repeats, will only just keep up with inflation.