Retirement pensions in Australia

Key takeaways: Many retirees choose to access their retirement income via an account-based pension because it offers a flexible and tax effective income Annuity pensions guarantee a set income no matter how investment markets perform. This is something you don’t get with an account-based pension A Transition to Retirement pension enables you to access your … Read more

Three tips for building a good portfolio

Be deliberate The first step to building a sound investment portfolio is to know why you’re investing. Setting measurable investment goals gives investors clarity and direction, and prevents them from falling into common investment traps like chasing unrealistic market returns or being overly influenced by transitory factors like product fads or short term performance. Before … Read more

Saving for education

Education is the gift that keeps on giving. If you are considering a private school this article is for you as we discuss how to save for your child’s education. Education is the gift that parents can give their children that keeps on giving. But if you are considering private schools it is a gift … Read more

Investing on a lower income

While you may not need a six-figure salary to invest in property, those who earn a relatively low income will require a little more creative thinking to start a portfolio. Here are some tips to help you get started. Find an investor-friendly loan The challenge for low-income earners is the time it takes to save … Read more

Mortgage vs super

With interest rates on the rise and investment returns increasingly volatile, Australians with cash to spare may be wondering how to make the most of it. If you have a mortgage, should you make extra repayments or would you be better off in the long run boosting your super? The answer is, it depends. Your … Read more

Inflation – what to know and what to do

Rising inflation brings about concern for many, but Vanguard’s time-tested investment philosophy—and a long-term focus—can help any investor navigate choppy waters. What is inflation? Inflation happens when prices rise and purchasing power decreases. This can be the result of a simultaneous high demand for and low supply of goods and services. Consumers have money and … Read more

Is your loyalty affecting your loan?

With consecutive rate rises throughout 2022 and talk of more to come, many Australians have been looking at their home loans more closely. Yet one thing that may have gone unnoticed is a loyalty tax and whether you are paying one. What is a loyalty tax? A tax for being loyal? It doesn’t seem fair, … Read more

Investors and recessions

Despite much talk of rising interest rates and possible recession, here are a few reasons to stay the course and stick to your long-term investment strategy. There has been much discussion of rising interest rates, recent inflation spikes and ongoing market volatility impacting investment and super balances. Add to that the increased chatter about the … Read more

Tax and your online side hustle

With money becoming tighter as inflation rises, many people are looking to make some extra income from a ‘side hustle’. As we move towards a cashless society and transact more online, it’s becoming easier for the ATO to follow the money trail. Whether you rent your caravan on Camplify, or even if you simply sell … Read more

Protecting yourself from super and investment scams

Key takeaways Most of these scams start with an unexpected call claiming to be from a super or financial service organisation Scammers can disguise themselves as well-known businesses and government agencies such as myGov and the ATO to trick you into sharing your personal information Always be suspicious of investment opportunities that promise a high return … Read more