Categories
Financial Plan
Investment bonds – an alternative to super
A number of changes came into effect on 1 July 2017 that limit the amount of money those saving for retirement can put into super. This includes new limits on concessional (or before tax) and non-concessional (or after tax) contributions.
... read more
Working after kids – is it worth it?
To work, or not to work? That is the question many Australian women (and some men) have to consider after having children. Sadly, both options can have long-term negative financial consequences. While it would seem obvious that not working is likely to set your bank balance back, going back to work can also be costly. Indeed, studies have shown that some mothers go back to work for no net financial gain. That’s because childcare in Australia is extremely expensive.
... read more
Super savings for your first home
Let’s face it, getting your foot on the first rung of the property ladder is not only hard, for an increasing number of younger Australians, it’s downright impossible. As housing prices, particularly in capital cities, continue to outstrip wages growth, even saving for a deposit to buy a house can seem all too hard. It’s a bit like taking one step forward and two steps back, right?
... read more
Don't be driven by short-term sentiment and emotion
Arguably, the most common fear holding an investor back from achieving a great return is a misunderstanding of what happens when markets fall (as they invariably do). In order to use fear to our advantage, we would be well served to seek to understand the following three principles around shares and their value ...
... read more
Compare principal and interest and interest-only home loans
Finding out which home loan is right for you depends on your personal situation. Are you looking for a home loan to buy your first home, update your current one or as an investment in retirement? Are you confused by all the jargon and what type of home loan is right for you? We delve into two of the most popular home loans: principal and interest and interest-only.
... read more
Millions but not all to benefit from 2017 super changes
With changes to super now in effect, numerous Australians will get a leg up, many being low-income earners. According to the Association of Superannuation Funds of Australia (ASFA), more than four million Australians will benefit from the super changes that came into effect on 1 July 2017.
... read more
What happens if I let my insurance lapse?
Think about where you would be without insurance if something were to happen to you. If you let your insurance cover slip, you risk being unable to make a claim when you may really need to.
... read more
Whether your goal is to pay off your mortgage or holiday each year, you are more likely to succeed with a plan of action!
If you’ve paid off your home, have a healthy stash of super and take an overseas holiday each year, you’ve made it financially. That’s the view of many Australians according to recent research.
... read more