BLOGS

How to make the most out of your super increase

After 1 July this year, your employer must increase your super contributions from 9.5% to 10% of your salary. This contribution rate will then increase by 0.5% p.a. for the subsequent 4 years until it reaches 12%. This could boost your retirement savings but only if you optimise two things. The government was tempted to …

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Tax: How to minimise your largest lifetime expense

Tax isn’t necessarily a bad thing. If you’re paying tax, it means that you are making money (income or capital gains). But of course, there’s no need to pay any more than you legally have to. I discuss our common-sense approach to saving tax below. Minimising risk is often more important than saving tax It …

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Understanding the mathematical power of gearing

It’s stating the obvious to say interest rates are very low at the moment. But what can be easily underestimated is how powerful low rates can be for investors. Low rates magnify the power of gearing. And arguably, the next few decades could provide the best opportunities in a lifetime for investors, if they are …

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Is the share market switching to value?

Growth investors have been well-rewarded over the past decade. For example, the S&P500 index (US market) has delivered an average return of 14.5% p.a. over the past 10 years solely off the back of growth stocks, mainly technology. However, this year to date, value has outperformed growth. If this continues, it could have significant implications …

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What is a holistic accountant?

The word ‘holistic’ is defined by Oxford Languages as “characterised by the belief that the parts of something are intimately interconnected and explicable only by reference to the whole.” This definition implies what a holistic accountant is positioned to offer you the most value. But not all accountants are able to adopt a holistic approach. …

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Investment lending rules to be tightened this year

Almost everyone is predicting that property prices will surge higher this year. In fact, the newspapers are already full of stories about properties selling well above reserves. Low stock levels are partly responsible for the currently exuberant property market. That exuberance might cool as more stock becomes available. But the RBA and the government do …

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How to avoid being ripped off by a financial advisor

It is alleged that Sydney-based financial advisor, Melissa Caddick stole $25 million from her clients. She has recently gone “missing”, leaving a trail of disaster for her clients and family members. Many con artists are very cunning and go to great lengths to conceal their wrongdoings. But there are a few simple steps you can …

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What’s involved in changing accountants?

Choosing the right accountant can make a world of difference. A proactive accountant will share tax-saving and wealth-building ideas, be available to answer questions during the year and ensure you never end up in the ATO’s ‘bad-books’. Common complaints There are two common complaints about accountants. Firstly, that they don’t provide proactive advice, including wealth …

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