Are investment returns that important?

Last week a prospective client asked me a very good question. They asked whether I have data that shows what investment returns my clients have generated. Whilst this sounds like a logical question, my response was that not only did I not have this data[1], but it also wouldn’t necessarily be that useful. The reason …

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2021 Federal Budget Summary

Treasurer Frydenberg handed down the federal budget last night and to be honest, there’s not a lot in it for individuals and investors. However, there are some real positives for small business, first home buyers and retirees. This blog provides a summary of the initiatives announced on 11 May 2021.  First home buyers’ to be …

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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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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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Buy your dream home – a ‘steppingstone’ strategy could be the solution

If the recent property price growth predictions become reality over the next couple of years, more homeowners may become ‘priced out’ of their desired location. What might be affordable today, could quickly become unaffordable, as prices can rise quickly. Sometimes it’s not possible to buy your dream home in one fell swoop. But do not …

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Good financial decisions are a compounding asset

One good financial decision will have positive consequences. But five good decisions in a row will be life changing. It will create a lot more than five times the positive outcomes than one good decision will. That’s because good decisions are a compounding asset. Our lives are a sum total of the choices we have …

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6 alternatives to savings accounts

Interest rates on savings accounts were over 5% p.a. in 2011… only 10 years ago. Today, you would be lucky to receive more than 0.5% p.a.! That means your savings won’t even keep pace with inflation, let alone provide you with any investment return. As such, many investors are wondering what to do with their …

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