Taking cover in changing times

Taking cover in changing times

The pandemic has changed the way so many of us live, with jobs, travel and lifestyle all transformed during COVID. Now, as we start emerging on the other side, it may be a good idea to check whether these changes have impacted on your life insurance needs. In some cases, you may require more cover … Read more

Why younger investors should rebalance

Why younger investors should rebalance

It’s a common misperception that the greatest determinant of portfolio return variability is your stock selection. Understandably, choosing which ETFs, individual shares, active funds or other securities to invest in is often the most exciting part of portfolio construction for new investors, and of course it remains an important factor. But as Vanguard research shows, … Read more

Home buying contracts and offer conditions

Home buying contracts and offer conditions

It’s not just about agreeing on a price when buying a property. The conditions of the offer are very important. They help protect both the buyer and the seller. Michael Sloan, from The Successful Investor, explains the finer points, so you don’t miss anything in the pressure of the moment. Typical conditions of an offer … Read more

Scams to beware (and be aware) of

Scams to beware and be aware of

There is a saying ‘a fool and his money are often parted’ but with scammers becoming ever more devious and sophisticated in their methods, it pays for everyone to be aware of the latest tricks being employed. According to Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) data, last year was the worst year on record for … Read more

Tips to help you plan for retirement

Tips to help you plan for retirement

It is important to understand where this income will come from, how long it will last, and whether your retirement investments are on track, or whether some adjustments need to be made to get you there. Work out how long your super or account-based pension will last There are many variables that come into play … Read more

Tips to navigate market volatility

Tips to navigate market volatility

The best thing investors can do when markets are volatile is to stay invested. Of course, that’s often easier said than done, especially when market commentators point to a market correction or when your portfolio is down for consecutive days or weeks. For those new to investing, particularly those who jumped into the market when … Read more

How to calm those market jitters

How to calm those market jitters

It’s been a rocky start to the year on world markets but that doesn’t mean you should hit the panic button. Staying the course is generally the best course, but that’s easier said than done when there’s a big market fall. In January markets plunged some 10 per cent but then staged a recovery. That … Read more

Going guarantor on a loan

Going guarantor on a loan

If you guarantee a loan for a family member or friend, you’re known as the guarantor. You are responsible for paying back the entire loan if the borrower can’t. If a lender doesn’t want to lend money to someone on their own, the lender can ask for a guarantee. Before you agree to be a … Read more

Tax deductions for your home-based business

Tax deductions for your home based business

Using your home as the base for your business is increasingly popular, particularly due to COVID-19, with many of Australia’s 2.1 million enterprises with four or less employees now based at home. As a result, the ATO is busy revisiting the rules on the tax deductions you can claim for a home-based business. Your claimable … Read more

Your key priorities when winding down your mortgage

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Many of us make paying off our mortgage a priority. It’s the new Australian dream. But before making that last home loan repayment, use our checklist to make sure you’re prepared. Your end-of-mortgage checklist Reassess your home insurance. Review your title. Review your estate plan and will. Assess your personal insurance situation. Think about your next financial … Read more

How discipline has paid off for share market investors

How discipline has paid off for share market investors

Investors worldwide have been rattled by the heightened volatility on share markets over recent weeks. A combination of factors have largely been to blame, particularly fears around rising interest rates as global inflation levels continue to surge. Over January the U.S. share market fell more than 5 per cent, its worst performance since the onset … Read more

Combine your super into one account to save

Combine your super into one account to save

Consolidating your super means moving all your super into one account. It makes your super easier to manage, and saves on fees. Before you consolidate, pick the best super fund for you. You can transfer your super for free in a few simple steps. If you’re ready to consolidate your super now, go straight to … Read more