What the election outcome means for you?
The federal election is done and dusted, and the Coalition Government has been given another three years in power. How will this outcome affect Australians’ finances? What will change – and what won’t – when it comes to policies affecting people’s money? Can we expect any surprises? The Coalition Government staying in power will largely…
Read MorePrune, adapt and budget: Managing the rising cost of living
If you’re organised with your finances, the high cost of living doesn’t have to mean diminished savings. The increasing cost of goods and services – from food and housing to transport and utilities – is a reality most Australians have to face every day. Data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) shows that living…
Read MoreFour ways to teach children healthy money habits
Set a good example for your children with just a few simple changes. As a parent, you try to ensure your children have the skills to make smart financial decisions. For example, you tell them about the importance of saving or the power of compounding interest. But did you know that you could be sending…
Read MoreMarket Wrap
Markets faltered… The rally from December lows faltered in May with most equity markets down for the month. Global shares were down 6% and 4.4% in hedged and unhedged terms, respectively. Domestically, Australian shares outperformed international this month with 1.7% performance in May. Australian communication shares rallied on the prospective takeover bid for Vocus by…
Read MoreSuperannuation: Too important to ignore
Superannuation is the one thing you could do for your financial future this year, that could make a big difference to your retirement income. But how much do you really need? That’s a big question. As we know, everyone’s needs are different, unexpected expenses just crop up and none of us know how long we…
Read MoreTax tips and tax return checklist
To help you complete your tax return, this checklist outlines income and expenses you need to disclose to the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) when lodging your return. We’ve also provided an overview of the types of tax off sets and deductions you may be entitled to claim plus other handy tax tips and fact sheets.…
Read MoreMarket Wrap
Markets continue to recover… The rally from December lows has flowed into April with most markets positive. Global shares were up 4.6% and 3.9% in a hedged and unhedged terms, respectively. Domestically, Australian shares continue to lag international this year with 2.4% performance during April. Weaker commodity prices outside of oil and iron ore and,…
Read MoreProtect Your Income
If you’re employed or self‑employed, income protection insurance can replace up to 75% of your pre-tax income if you are unable to work due to illness or injury. Why protect your income? If you are unable to work for an extended period due to illness or injury, you could run down your savings very quickly and…
Read MoreSmart super strategies for this EOFY
Want to help boost your retirement savings while potentially saving on tax? Here are five smart super strategies to consider before the end of the financial year. 1. Add to your super – and claim a tax deduction If you contribute some of your after-tax income or savings into super, you may be eligible to…
Read MoreMarket Wrap
Markets march on April 2019 The market rally that began in January continued more modestly in February and into March, with most markets positive. Global shares were up by 1.7% and 1.5% in hedged and unhedged terms, respectively. US shares were up 1.8% and economic indicators were mixed. On the upside, the manufacturing PMI firmed;…
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