Finance
Saving for rainy days even on a tight budget
18 January
When you have a tight budget, it may seem impossible to save money. And with rising inflation, it’s not difficult to understand why the personal savings rate in Australia decreased last year. However, conserving money while you’re short on cash...[Read More]
Oliver’s insights Falling inflation – what does it mean for investors?
17 January
Key points – Inflation is in retreat thanks to improved supply and cooling demand. A further fall is likely this year. – Australian inflation remains relatively high – but this mainly reflects lags rather than a more inflation prone...[Read More]
What you need to know to successfully improve your home
11 January
Embarking on a home improvement can be an exciting and rewarding process. It can transform your living space and increase the value of your property. With so many informative videos and other great resources online, there’s a thriving culture...[Read More]
Oliver’s insights – 2023 saw the return of Goldilocks, but what’s in store for 2024 for investors?
10 January
Key points – 2023 turned out to be a strong year for investors with shares and bonds rallying on the back of falling inflation, the anticipation of interest rate cuts in 2024 and better than feared economic growth. There were bumps along the way,...[Read More]
Top 5 things to do as you plan for the year ahead
4 January
People typically associate the new year with hope — a time for fulfilling plans, whether those are financial, personal or professional. The past year is finally over and you can now look forward to what the new year has in store. While it’s also...[Read More]
What to consider when deciding if a self-managed super fund (SMSF) is right for you.
3 January
Your responsibilities If you set up an SMSF, you’re in charge – you make the investment decisions for the fund and you’re held responsible for complying with the super and tax laws. It’s a major financial decision and you need to have the...[Read More]
Top 5 financial New Year’s resolutions to achieve in the new year
28 December
The new year is a perfect time to reflect on your achievements from the ending year and to plan for the new year. While you can also make resolutions for other aspects of life, financial success should be at the top of your list. Check if you...[Read More]
SuperStream
27 December
Explains SuperStream – the way business must pay superannuation guarantee contributions to super funds. SuperStream is the way businesses must pay employee superannuation guarantee contributions to super funds. With SuperStream money and data are...[Read More]
Preparing for retirement in today’s world
14 December
To prepare for retirement, there’s forced savings in the form of social security, such as superannuation. Other options to arrange for a secure financial future are savings in the bank, investments and insurance. These days, preparing for...[Read More]
Oliver’s insights – 2023 saw the return of Goldilocks, but what’s in store for 2024 for investors?
13 December
Key points – The five key themes for 2023 were: better than feared growth; disinflation; peak interest rates (probably in Australia too); lots of geopolitical threats but not as bad as feared; and AI hit the big time. This boosted shares and...[Read More]
Oliver’s insights – The RBA leaves rates on hold – have we finally reached the top?
7 December
Key points – At its December meeting the RBA left rates on hold but retained a tightening bias with still relatively hawkish commentary. – Our concern remains that the RBA has tightened more than necessary with a high risk of recession next...[Read More]
Superannuation access for retirees goes under spotlight
6 December
Australians are being asked to have their say on the superannuation and retirement income system, as the federal government considers ways to reform the compulsory savings regime. Treasurer Jim Chalmers has released a discussion paper and is seeking...[Read More]
Why Financial Security is Paramount for a Satisfying Retirement
30 November
Retirement is often idealised as a carefree chapter in life, where one can indulge in long-postponed hobbies, travel, and quality time with loved ones. However, the idyllic vision of retirement is predicated on a foundation of financial stability....[Read More]
Oliver’s insights – Five reasons to expect the $A to rise – providing recession is avoided
29 November
Key points – Since its February 2021 high of nearly $US0.80 the $A has fallen on the back of worries about the global growth outlook, worries about China, the strong $US and relatively less aggressive monetary tightening by the RBA. – However,...[Read More]
Embracing the new chapter of caring for a loved one
23 November
Caring for an elderly family member is a journey that encompasses both the heart and the home. When the time comes for a loved one to move into an aged care facility, the dynamics of care and communication evolve, presenting new challenges and...[Read More]