Every few months, someone in the superannuation industry declares that Australians now “need” around A$1 million to retire comfortably. It’s a big, scary number. But consumer advocates say most people can retire with far less. Independent estimates suggest something closer to $322,000 is enough for many retirees who own their own home. So who’s right … Read more
Acting on a hot tip might sound like a good idea when investing but if that hot tip is inside information, it might lead to heavy fines or prison time. What is insider trading? Insider trading is when you trade in a financial product (for example, shares, options or derivatives of a listed company) while … Read more
How to check for lost member super accounts. What is lost super Lost member super accounts are reported to the ATO by super funds. This happens where the member is either: uncontactable – your fund has lost contact with you and your account hasn’t received a contribution or rollover for 12 months. Changing your name, address … Read more
When you’re looking for a good deal on a home loan, the interest rate matters. With the cash rate on the rise, even a small difference in interest adds up over time. Choose your type of repayment Principal and interest loans Most people get this type of home loan. You make regular repayments on … Read more
Find out how the Australian Government is supporting businesses impacted by global events. Read the latest on fuel supply, supply chain status, export updates, shipping and where you can get support. Interest-free loans The Australian Government’s Economic Resilience Program provides interest-free loans to impacted manufacturing and logistics businesses in critical sectors, including: freight fuel fertiliser … Read more
Start your retirement financial plan early Don’t wait until you’re getting close to retirement to start your plan. You have a greater chance of a comfortable retirement if you make your plan a priority early in your working life. A critical part of your retirement plan is superannuation, especially if home ownership is going to … Read more
Bills of exchange can look and sound similar to term deposits, but they do not have the same protections and carry a high risk of losing money. What is a bill of exchange Companies are offering high fixed income returns through a product called a bill of exchange. You may have seen offers promising higher … Read more
Are you a sole trader? Here are some tips on deductible expenses to watch for. If you haven’t spoken to us or your bookkeeper about EOFY matters yet, it might be a good idea to give us a call. After all, you’ve done the thinking and the work, and are probably desperate to keep a … Read more
What is rental yield? Rental yield is a simple way to measure how much money you’re making from an investment property compared to its value. The calculation factors in the money you receive from renting the property minus costs like repairs, maintenance, and depreciation. It’s usually shown as a percentage, and helps investors understand if … Read more
Property booms and market swings shape the case for property and shares Hot property markets and volatile share markets add extra intrigue as investors weigh up whether to put their money into property or equities. But the decision could come down to a few key considerations. Which is the better investment – property or shares? … Read more
Older Australians could face health insurance price rises three times higher than others under new government rebate changes. Here’s what families need to know. Older Australians could soon be paying significantly more for their private health insurance. The increase may hit them much harder than younger policyholders. New data from Private Healthcare Australia reveals that … Read more
The income assumptions many have carried into retirement are being tested in the current economic climate. Markets have lurched from one direction to another; interest rates have lifted faster than expected, with the possibility of more increases in the months ahead, and there’s no end in sight to the global uncertainty. While the market shocks … Read more