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The income assumptions many have carried into retirement are being tested in the current economic climate. Markets have lurched from one direction to another; interest rates have lifted faster than expected, with the possibility of more increases in the months ahead, and there’s no end in sight to the global uncertainty. While the market shocks are interspersed with periods of relative calm, The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) warns that the disruption could pose challenges to our financial stability.i Nonetheless, the RBA says Australia is “well placed” to handle the uncertain times. For those heading into retirement and focused on…

There’s a particular kind of unease that creeps in when market headlines start mixing geopolitics with talk of oil prices and recessions. That feeling has been hard to avoid, as the escalating war in the Middle East spooked global markets and brought fresh uncertainty to an already fragile economic landscape. For investors, watching so many forces moving at once and volatile numbers, there can be a strong temptation to “do something”. Before reacting, a good understanding of what’s driving market movements is useful to assess the short and medium term. More importantly, it helps to work out how your long-term…

As the end of the financial year approaches, it’s a busy time for preparing your taxes, reviewing super, and getting your finances in order. Unfortunately, it’s also a peak period for scammers looking to take advantage of people and businesses who are focused on deadlines and end-of-year financial tasks. EOFY creates the perfect environment for fraud. With refunds, payment reminders, super contributions, and updated financial documents all top of mind, scammers rely on urgency and distraction to trick people into handing over personal or financial information. Knowing what to watch for can save you stress, money, and headaches. This guide…

Deciding to downsize is a big life step. It is not just about moving to a smaller house. It can be about leaving behind a home full of memories, familiar streets, and routines you have built over many years. For many, the idea of simplifying life, reducing maintenance, and freeing up finances can be very appealing. But for some, the reality of downsizing does not always match the rosy picture. In fact, one in six people who have downsized in the last five years wish they had not made the move, so it’s important to give the move careful consideration…

When you think about building wealth, you may picture investments, property and superannuation. But there’s another critical element: insurance. It’s the silent partner in your financial strategy, quietly working behind the scenes to protect everything you’ve built. Strategic asset allocation is the hallmark of a robust wealth plan, using diverse holdings to build long-term financial success. Yet, defending a portfolio against unforeseen events and ensuring a smooth estate transfer is just as vital. That’s where targeted insurance solutions come in. Far from being just a safety net, insurance can be a tool that preserves your assets and keeps your plans…

Stay up to date with what’s happened in the Australian economy and markets over the past month. The escalating war in the Middle East has seen extreme volatility in global markets, particularly in the US. Brent crude recorded a monthly surge of nearly 70%. It was trading above $115 per barrel by month’s end, its highest level in years. The closure of key shipping routes through the region sent shockwaves through energy markets worldwide. The ASX 200 experienced a volatile month, driven by geopolitical tension, energy price fears, and inflation concerns. It recorded a decline of around 8% – its…