Market outlook Q&A – some answers to common questions being raised by clients
Have markets disconnected from the real economy? Not necessarily. Share markets invariably lead the economic cycle. Shares led the coronavirus hit to the global economy when they plunged 35% into March. The rebound since then reflects the combination of government...
Could you now be entitled to a LOW-INCOME HEALTH CARE CARD?
With recent changes to deeming rates and for some, a reduction in asset values or income levels, many people may now be eligible for the Low-Income Health Care Card. The Low Income Health Care Card (LIC) provides access to a range of concessions, including reduced...
Three steps to your kids’ financial success
For many of us, our first experience of banking and savings was the school Savings Account Program. But in 2019 the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) raised concerns that these accounts had little lasting impact on children’s savings behaviour....
Be safe rather than sorry
Not everyone will do it, but most people will consider it at some stage in their lives – borrowing to buy their very own home. It can be an exciting venture, but also a scary one if you don’t plan well. Whether you are borrowing to buy your first home, or upgrade your...
Preparing for retirement in uncertain times
As most long-term investors know, investment markets have their ups and downs. The downs are usually associated with periods of uncertainty, perhaps due to political or economic factors, or even natural disasters. Uncertainty leads to volatility – more extreme...
JobKeeper payment Update
22 July 2020 You, or someone you know, may have had a change in circumstances and may need support. We have put together some information to help you navigate these uncertain times and to answer some frequently asked questions. Note: The following outlines the...
Why financial wellbeing is important to good health
Much like exercise and eating well, your financial wellbeing is key to living a happy and healthy life. So what is financial wellbeing and how can you improve yours? Financial wellbeing is often overlooked as one of the pillars of good health, but it’s every bit as...
Five ways to recession-proof your business
Economies tend to face headwinds every ten years as the business cycle moves from periods of growth to contraction. While recessions are challenging for small and medium businesses across Australia, it doesn't mean there aren't significant opportunities to strengthen...
Five financial tips from an older generation
Back in my day… If I had a dollar for every time I’ve heard that over the years! More interesting, I caught myself saying those words only last week as though channelling my father! The younger generation is so tech-savvy these days that I can’t keep up although we...
Quarterly Economic Update: April-June 2020
During the last quarter one story has dominated the news – COVID-19. By the end of June at least 10 million people had contracted the disease, and over 500,000 had died. With 8,000 cases and 104 deaths, Australia was amongst the countries that have been most...