Wills aren’t just for later in life and you should really have one when you start earning. And as money and family matters can be complex, it makes sense to get help. Who needs a will anyway? A will is something you might think you only need once you’re a millionaire or close to retirement…
Did you know from age 55, you may be eligible to make a super contribution of up to $300,000 using the proceeds from the sale of your home? Downsizing your home in retirement could have several upsides – some money in your pocket, less maintenance, and depending on your new location, greater convenience. If it’s…
Having a solid budget is crucial to building financial resilience and as rising rates continue to put pressure on household finances, it could help to look at ways to save more and spend less. With Australia being one of the most highly leveraged countries in the world1 and the average mortgage for owner-occupied properties is…
With the life expectancy of Australians increasing over the years, most of us can assume we’re going to live longer than previous generations. But are our expectations on the money, or way off the mark? We bring you five important facts everyone needs to know about life expectancy. Back when compulsory super started in 1992,…
There are a number of considerations when it comes to gearing, the investment assets you may choose to gear and the way you structure your debt. A gearing strategy can be set at three levels: Positive gearing – where income from the investment exceeds the interest payable on the loan. Neutral gearing – where income…
Investing is full of jargon and technical terms that can make getting started or managing your investments seem intimidating. Here are some of the key terms to help you better understand the different options available to you. Common investing terms There are a few terms that you’ll see repeated when we’re talking about investing. Bonds…
Some recent questions on Australian inflation Key points The Australian inflation rate peaked in the December quarter but has been slower to decline than some global peers. While interest rate rises are helping to reduce inflation (especially as discretionary consumer spending slows), rises in domestic energy prices, a tight rental market and a lagged pick…
You may be eligible to make concessional contributions that are greater than the annual cap if you haven’t fully used your concessional cap in an earlier year. This could help you to save even more for retirement, while also managing tax. What are concessional contributions? There are a number of ways you can contribute to…
Earning interest on interest: learn how the power of compounding can send your savings rocketing. Key takeaways Compound interest enables you to earn interest on interest which is accumulated over time. The effect of compound interest becomes extremely powerful over a long timeframe as the amount of interest earned grows. Investing in your super is…
There are special rules for granny flat arrangements that may prevent the deprivation rules from applying. However they must satisfy a range of requirements. Retirees wanting to downsize their home may consider the option of living in a granny flat or an extension to / spare room of a relative or friend’s home. Money, the…