Steps to building an emergency fund & why do you need one

25 April

Life is unpredictable, and financial surprises can arise when you least expect them. This is where an emergency fund comes in. This financial safety net is designed to cover unexpected expenses, like car repairs or medical bills, or provide support...[Read More]

Ensuring Harmony and Legality: The Critical Role of Legal Advice in Family Estate Planning

25 April

Estate planning is a crucial but often challenging aspect of managing familial wealth and assets, particularly as parents age. The process involves making decisions about how to allocate assets such as businesses and property among siblings, which...[Read More]

Cheaper renewable energy driving electricity costs down

24 April

Rising demand for electricity has been met by more solar and wind generation, which is keeping a lid on prices and carbon emissions, the market operator says. Renewable energy generation drove down wholesale prices in the first three months of 2024...[Read More]

Senators want property tax reforms back on the agenda

24 April

Tweaking property investor taxes could save the federal budget billions and boost home ownership, even with exemptions for those operating under the old rules, analysis commissioned by two senators suggests. Independent senators David Pocock and...[Read More]

More cost of living relief on cards in federal budget

24 April

Cost of living help in addition to well-signposted tax relief remains on the cards if the federal government can find room for it in the upcoming budget. Treasurer Jim Chalmers says the tax relief, due to kick in midway through this year, will be...[Read More]

Investment markets and key developments – Weekly market update19/4/2024

24 April

Global and Australian shares fell again over the last week on the back of concerns about an escalation of the war in the Middle East (as Iran attacked Israel and then Israel retaliated), US Fed officials added to expectations for a delay in rate...[Read More]

Top 10 Remote Escapes: Journey to the World’s Most Secluded Destinations

18 April

In an increasingly crowded and fast-paced world, the allure of remote travel destinations where one can truly escape the hustle and bustle is more compelling than ever.    Both within Australia and internationally, there are numerous hidden gems...[Read More]

Planning Your Next Chapter: The Benefits and Timing of Transitioning to a Retirement Home

18 April

Transitioning into a retirement home is a significant life decision that involves careful planning and consideration.    As people age, their living needs change, and moving into a retirement home can offer numerous benefits. Here are the top 10...[Read More]

Maximising space and value: Top 10 home renovation tips

18 April

Renovating your home to increase space and add value requires strategic planning, creativity, and a focus on key areas that potential buyers or valuers find appealing.    Here are the top 10 tips to guide you through this process:   Plan and...[Read More]

How to thrive despite higher inflation

18 April

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]

Oliver’s insights – Israel/Iran fears and rate cut uncertainty – shares are vulnerable to a bout of volatility but here’s five reasons why the trend will likely remain up

17 April

Key points – After strong gains, shares are vulnerable to a pull back or more volatile/constrained returns than seen so far this year. – The key threats at present are Iran’s attack on Israel which risks escalating the war in the Middle East,...[Read More]

Investment markets and key developments – Weekly market update 12/04/24

17 April

Shares had another rough ride over the last week as higher than expected US inflation saw expectations for Fed rate cuts pushed out further, and reports of imminent strikes by Iran on Israel in retaliation for an attack in Syria pushed US shares...[Read More]

Australia to dodge United States’ inflation uptick

17 April

Australia is yet to declare victory against inflation and hotter-than-expected price data out of the world’s biggest economy and fresh volatility in oil markets are casting shadows over the outlook. AMP deputy chief economist Diana Mousina says...[Read More]

Build-to-rent piece of housing puzzle but no quick fix

17 April

It’s been a tough couple of years to be a renter. As competition for properties has intensified and rents have surged, policymakers have been searching for solutions. While not an answer to the immediate price crunch, the build-to-rent housing...[Read More]

Budget surplus ‘still our goal’ despite war, inflation

17 April

Australians have been warned the budget surplus could be tiny amid cost-of-living pressures and heightened global economic uncertainty with war in Europe and conflict in the Middle East. A month out from the federal budget, Treasurer Jim Chalmers...[Read More]