Why should I consolidate my debts?

Consolidating your debts could give you a clearer picture of what you owe and potentially save you money, but there’ll still be things to look out for. If all those small debts you once had, have somehow multiplied and grown into bigger debts, rolling them into one could help reduce what you’re paying in fees … Read more

Understanding contribution caps

There are limits on how much you can pay into your super fund each financial year without having to pay extra tax. These limits are called ‘contribution caps’. How much you can contribute to your super fund and whether your fund is allowed to accept your contribution may also depend on your age and total superannuation balance. Contribution … Read more

Charting bear and bull markets

Bull market surges have been longer and stronger than the bear markets that preceded them. Bear markets occur when a share market falls by 20 per cent or more from its most recent trading high. Volatile economic and investment conditions caused the United States share market to fall into bear market territory in 2022. Fortunately, … Read more

7 easy ways to save for the future today

Small savings can steadily grow without sacrificing the fun things in life. Get creative, set a goal and uncover easy ways to save in the long run. Like rolling out of bed to exercise first thing in the morning, sometimes the hardest thing about saving money is getting started. Once you’re in full swing, however, … Read more

Flexing your retirement plans

The concept of retirement is changing, with fewer people working towards a final retirement date and then clocking off for good. Instead, those who have the flexibility to choose are often transitioning out of the workforce over several years, or even returning after a break. Whether you simply want to wind back your working hours … Read more

Supplement your savings by boosting your income

It’s challenging to get a foot on the property ladder and coming up with a large enough deposit can seem like an impossible task at times. One way of increasing your savings is to boost the amount of money you have coming in. When it comes to boosting your income, every little bit helps, so … Read more

9 tips to manage your debts

How you tackle your debts may make a big difference to what you pay in the long run. It’s not uncommon in Australia to have some form of debt, whether that be credit card debt, a personal loan, student tuition, car finance or a home loan. The good news is, certain debt can have its … Read more

The principles behind smart borrowing to invest

Australians are living longer and experiencing higher house-to-wage ratios. It makes good sense to consider how you can achieve a comfortable long term future. What makes a smart investor? A webinar on borrowing to invest brought together financial advice commentator Noel Whittaker, REA Group’s Chief Economist Nerida Conisbee and NAB Equity Head of Sales Craig … Read more

Star ratings for Aged Care help make family choices easier

Moving into aged care can be a challenging time, both for those making the move and families supporting their loved ones. It’s understandable that everyone wants to find the most suitable accommodation and the appropriate standard of care, however, it can be confusing to make that choice. A new star rating system for aged care … Read more

EOFY for property investors

As the end of financial year fast approaches, here are three main factors to keep in mind. By being prepared, particularly with your admin, having an awareness of what you can claim and considering any capital losses or gains, you will be well positioned to make the most of EOFY. Compile your records and receipts … Read more

Understanding your retirement income

It is important to understand where this income will come from, how long it will last, and whether your retirement investments are on track, or whether some adjustments need to be made to get you there. Work out how long your super or account-based pension will last There are many variables that come into play … Read more