Rising property prices have led many people to look for ways to unlock the increased equity in their homes so they enjoy a comfortable lifestyle in their golden years. For most of us, our homes represent the biggest or most significant portion of our wealth. But it’s an asset that can’t necessarily be realised quickly. … Read more
When it comes to investing in shares, it’s often said that time is your friend. The data shows that investing small amounts consistently over time and riding out the ups and downs of the market by holding onto your investments for the long term, can produce a healthy return. Over the past two decades, the … Read more
Making time throughout the year to review and reassess the goals you set at the beginning of the year is just as important as setting the goals themselves. Now is the perfect time to reflect on what you’ve achieved to date and determine whether you’re still on track to achieving some or all of them … Read more
Moving into residential aged care can trigger a range of emotions, particularly if it involves the sale of the family home. What is often a major financial asset, is also one that many people believe should be either kept in the family or its value preserved for future generations. Whether or not the home has … Read more
“If you want something done right, you’ve got to do it yourself” Not necessarily! The appeal of doing it yourself is understandable. There is a great feeling that comes with doing something that challenges you and with being resourceful and learning a new skill. However, there can be pitfalls to DIY and there are benefits … Read more
Stay up to date with what’s happened in markets and the Australian economy over the past month. Despite some signs of a weakening economy with stalling growth and a softening labour market, persistently high inflation is acting as a roadblock to the RBA’s possible rate cuts. Markets have now priced in a risk that the … Read more
Gold fever is in the air and it’s not just the prospect of medals at the upcoming Paris Olympics. Gold prices have been climbing strongly in 2024 as investors, jittery about the effects of wars in the Middle East and Ukraine, buy up the asset because of its reputation as a safe haven. The spot … Read more
Managing your financial situation always involves tension between how you live your life now and preparing for your future – whatever that looks like. The worry about not getting the balance right and making unnecessary sacrifices now – or not having enough money for the things you want to do in the future is a … Read more
Loud budgeting is a trend that may have started as a joke but is being embraced by those who want to share their financial goals and priorities and in doing so, also improve their chances of achieving them. It was comedian and writer Lukas Battle who bought the term “loud budgeting” to the world in … Read more
With less than a month to go before the end of the financial year (EOFY) rolls around, some important tasks need to be completed for family trusts. Discretionary trusts (often called family trusts) are the most common trust used in Australia and are generally created to hold and protect family or business assets. Trustees of … Read more
With property remaining a high-priced asset, it’s more important than ever for investors to ensure their property investments are a financial success. The latest data demonstrates property’s popularity. One-in-five households (21%) owns a home in addition to their usual residence.i Maximising taxation benefits is one key element but the ATO recently found 9 out of … Read more
Investing success can mean different things to different people. Being clear on what success means for you is key to mapping out your plan. Although investing can seem perplexing and complex, success is largely within your control. Having a tailored investment strategy can go a long way to reducing the stress and noise associated with … Read more