Finance

Legal support for the elderly: a vital resource for aging with dignity

12 December

As individuals age, they face unique legal challenges that can impact their quality of life, independence, and financial security.  Elder law, an emerging area of legal practice, is dedicated to addressing these challenges and providing tailored...[Read More]

How to thrive despite high inflation

12 December

The cost of living continues to rise, and many are feeling the pinch. However, there are ways to navigate and adapt to this challenging financial landscape. If you’re looking for practical solutions and workarounds to help you tackle higher...[Read More]

How to plan for retirement in the modern world

12 December

To prepare for retirement, there’s forced savings in the form of social security, such as superannuation. Other options to arrange for a secure financial future are savings in the bank, investments and insurance. These days, preparing for...[Read More]

Oliver’s insights – Goldilocks stayed for 2024, but what’s in store for investors in 2025?

12 December

Key points – The key themes for 2024 were: better than feared growth; global divergence; more disinflation; falling interest rates but with Australia lagging; and more geopolitical threats but not as bad as feared. As in 2023, returns were...[Read More]

Young families bear the brunt of cost-of-living crisis

12 December

Expenses for families with a child aged younger than five are 27 per cent higher than in 2021, according to research that shows they are suffering most from the cost-of-living crisis. While headline inflation has fallen to 2.8 per cent, daily...[Read More]

Tax on large withdrawals floated to future-proof super

12 December

Retirees might be more inclined to use super for its intended purpose – income for retirement – under a proposal to tax oversized withdrawals. Four actuaries have waded into the ever-contentious tax debate with a discussion paper thrashing out...[Read More]

Red tape cut for business but taxes stuck fast

12 December

Businesses can look forward to less red tape as a state government prepares to axe half its regulators, but they shouldn’t hold their breath for tax changes. The plan, which could save businesses $500 million over five years, was launched as part...[Read More]

The importance of seeking advice from your insurance adviser

5 December

Business insurance is more than a protective buffer—it is a critical long-term strategic decision that directly influences the sustainability and success of a business.  The potential loss of productive assets such as premises, machinery, stock,...[Read More]

Your accountant can be used as a mentor for a new business

5 December

Starting a business can be a tricky time, with so many systems to put in place and so little room for error. One of the best ways to get ahead of the curve is to develop a working relationship with a professional mentor, someone who has been through...[Read More]

Best ways to finance your renovation

5 December

Considering a renovation? You’re not alone! Home renovations are a popular way to enhance your living space, boost property value, or adapt to life changes.  However, financing such projects can take time and effort.  Here’s a guide to some of...[Read More]

What’s the difference between binding versus non-binding beneficiaries

5 December

When you buy life insurance, you usually do it with a specific goal in mind – like eliminating debts or providing for loved ones. So how do you make sure your money ends up in the right hands? Nominating a beneficiary with your insurer can...[Read More]

Economy yet to shake malaise as growth misses forecasts

5 December

Australia’s economy is still growing – but only just – though economists are unconvinced the weaker-than-expected data will bring forward keenly-anticipated interest rate cuts. Full-year growth fell to 0.8 per cent in September, down from one...[Read More]

Drivers hit the brakes on car buys as economy slows

5 December

Motorists’ need for speed is slowing down, with new car sales stalling in Australia for the fourth month in a row in what one industry expert called a “disturbing trend”. Vehicle sales declined by more than 10 per cent in November, according...[Read More]

Call for super funds to pump gas giants for change

4 December

Some of the nation’s largest superannuation funds have been accused of failing to use their influence over oil and gas companies to maximise shareholder value and safeguard retirement savings. Fossil fuel giants Woodside Energy and Santos have...[Read More]

Oliver’s insights – Trump 2.0: Why investors should expect a somewhat rougher ride, but it may not be as bad as feared

21 November

Key points – The economic and financial environment today is more challenging than when Trump first took over in 2017: inflation is a bit higher, the budget deficit is worse, bond yields are higher and shares are more expensive. – He also faces...[Read More]