Two steps forward, one step back For the second year running, the pandemic was the focus for policy makers, markets, businesses, and individuals alike. The year began with hopes that the rollout of vaccines would stem the spread of COVID-19 and allow economies to reopen. Instead, most countries were hit by wave after wave of […]
Superannuation, shares, property, cash, other investments; a dizzying number of options are available when it comes to living comfortably through retirement. Financial advisers often promote a diversified portfolio to reduce the risk of concentrating ‘all eggs in one basket’. Still, Aussies love their property, with more than 2.2 million of us opting for investing in […]
After a difficult year of COVID disruptions and uncertainty, the summer holidays can’t come quickly enough. It’s a chance to refresh and reflect on the year that was and hopefully set some goals for year ahead. Yet this year more than most, many of us may feel that our personal and financial priorities have shifted […]
Investors remained focused on rising inflation and the possibility of policy settings being tightened worldwide. Bond yields continued to rise – particularly in Australia – as investors brought forward their expectations for interest rate hikes. This hampered returns from fixed income markets. Equity markets performed much more strongly, aided by the release of pleasing corporate […]
Value is a funny thing. One person’s trash can be another person’s treasure, as the old saying goes. The value we place on something tends to be very individual, and is generally a product of many different factors ranging from cultural background and upbringing to personality type and even life stage. But as much as […]
New Year’s resolutions are such a drag, right? Whether it’s fitness, family or finances, the best laid plans rarely last beyond the first week of January. Life has a habit of getting in the way, especially these days with so many demands on your time. Instead of making ambitious resolutions you don’t have the time […]
Donating to a charity or cause that you care about is a win-win for both you and the charity. Charities rely on the generosity of donors to help them do their work, while you get the satisfaction of supporting a worthy cause. Even better, many donations are tax-deductible, meaning they reduce your assessable income. How […]
Everyone has financial goals. Maybe you want to pay off your mortgage early, stop relying on your credit cards, or go on an amazing overseas holiday (once we’re allowed to travel again). Or you might want to set up good money habits, like investing regularly or looking at ways to grow your super. Whatever you […]
Most of us have heard of the main asset classes: shares, property, fixed interest and cash, but alternative assets are less well known. However, these types of assets can provide further diversification and enhanced returns for your super. Alternative investments are those found outside the traditional asset classes. Typical ones include real estate, private equity, […]
Is your credit rating looking a little worse for wear? Here are our tips to help you get it back into shape ahead of your next big purchase. What is a credit score? Lenders use your credit score to work out how reliable you’re going to be as a borrower. Whether it’s for a home […]
