Key Points Global debt levels have reached new records. Countries with very high gross debt to GDP include Japan, Belgium, Canada, Portugal and Greece. The main areas of rising debt since the Global Financial Crisis (GFC) have been public debt in developed countries (with more to come in the US) and private debt in emerging […]
Introduction Investing can be frustrating and depressing at times, particularly if you don’t understand how markets work and don’t have the right mindset. The good news is that the basics of investing are timeless, and some have a knack of encapsulating these in a sentence or two that is both insightful and easy to understand. […]
June 2018 An end to the fall in mining investment is helping to stabilise growth in Australia’s mining states and territories (WA, Qld and NT to a lesser extent) while a slowing housing sector is starting to act as a drag on NSW and Vic. Tas is benefitting from a lift in population growth and […]
Ways to save when your bank balance doesn’t quite match your retirement travel goals. One of the great perks of life after work is your ability to travel whenever you like, but what do you do when your bank balance doesn’t quite match your retirement travel goals? Never fear, these five holiday hacks will help […]
Will paying cash change my spending habits? What I learned when I could only pay with cash for a week. Firstly, an admission. I never – ever – have cash. I’m that annoying friend who doesn’t have cash to cover her share when spitting bills, that colleague who borrows money to chip into the birthday […]
With the ATO keeping a close eye on deductions, make sure you’re across what you can and can’t claim. If you’re claiming back some of the money you’ve spent as part of your job this year, it’s a good idea to ensure you’ve kept the appropriate records that may be required ahead of lodging your […]
Whether you’re looking to renovate, invest or pay off something big, home equity can be a valuable resource when it’s used correctly. The equity in your property can be a valuable resource, as it may allow you to secure finance to achieve your goals, whether they be investment or lifestyle oriented. If it’s something you’ve […]
Watch out for tax scams by Paul Clitheroe The end of the financial year will likely bring the usual wave of scams. Here’s what to look for. The federal budget is behind us, and amid the celebrations over tax cuts (around $500 annually for low to middle income earners if proposals are […]
Enhancing retirement outcomes using downsizer contributions Legislation to make superannuation downsizer contributions (downsizer contributions) has now passed enabling individuals who are 65 or over to contribute proceeds from the sale of one eligible property to superannuation without needing to satisfy the work test. The new rules provide more flexibility for retirees to fund their […]
How your assets will be distributed if you don’t have a Will Most of us accept that a valid Will is essential to determine how your estate is dealt with when you die. Your Will can appoint a family member or trusted friend to administer your estate, nominate guardians for young children, determine who […]