The cost of care is a major policy issue for Australia during the coming decades. Currently one in 8 Australians provides some form of care to children, or elderly or disabled people. Most carers are women, and we expect too much from them. We face a double-edged demographic sword as our population ages – not[…]
Understanding the powerful forces created by momentum may help you make buying and selling decisions. In the long term, investment markets are usually driven by sound economic fundamentals such as yields and valuations. However, in the short term, markets swing erratically between being undervalued and overvalued because of human emotions and sentiment. Some call these[…]
Choosing the right investment option within your super fund is a key ingredient to achieving your retirement cash flow needs. Most super funds have a broad range of investment options to choose from, ranging from secure options for those nearing retirement, to more aggressive options for those with many years to go before they can[…]
A young couple we met with recently, Sam and Mel, wanted to make sure they were doing the best that they could with their savings. They were currently both working, and were able to save after paying their bills and their mortgage repayments. Their only debt was their home mortgage. In the next few years[…]
The time may come when you need to make financial decisions on behalf of a parent as the Enduring Power of Attorney (EPoA). Is this an honour or a burden? It can be both, so the person taking on the role needs to understand both the legal obligations as well as family responsibilities. Making decisions[…]
In investment terms, gearing means borrowing to invest. Negative gearing occurs when the income from the investment, for example rental from property, is less than the expenses incurred in owning that property. Expenses include the interest on the loan and not the principal repayment. They also include other running expenses such as for example insurance[…]
Unlike our Grandparents generation, it is the norm for couples today to both have careers to think of. This can make life hectic, especially if they are busy trying to raise a family as well. If you have a two-income lifestyle now, are you planning on a two-income lifestyle in retirement? If you are both[…]
Currently, retirement may not be so super for women. Compared to men, women spend less time in the work force, earn less, save less for retirement, and live longer. A woman retiring at age 65 can be expected to live 3 to 4 years longer than a man and will continue to be more than[…]
Best Wishes for the Festive Season, and we hope you spend some quality time with family and friends over Christmas and New Year. Enough has been said about the year that was 2020 – but now 2021 is upon us, and we can choose how we react to the mixed and confusing media messages we[…]
During periods of increased economic uncertainty, understanding and securing your cash flow needs is a priority, especially if you are already retired, or nearing retirement. When you are in secure employment, if you listened to the wisdom of your Grandparents you will spend less than what you earn and invest the surplus into growth areas[…]