Asset allocation is the biggest determinant of investment returns. Here’s why taking the time to get it right matters. Choosing investments on a whim based on current market conditions is unlikely to be a winning strategy in the long-run. What should come first, and what is perhaps fundamentally more important than picking the right investments,…
Characteristics of impulsive spenders A ‘money mindset’ is a way of thinking about personal finance. Your money mindset can change over time, and it may help explain your spending and savings habits. Understanding this can help you build habits and strategies to better manage your money. If the following applies to you, you might be…
How can investors rebalance their portfolio and how often should they do it? Read more to find out. The target mix of your investment portfolio should be built on your goals, time horizon and risk tolerance. But goals can change, and market fluctuations can cause your asset allocation to shift, so it’s important to monitor your portfolio…
Setting the scene Marilyn is 67 and has had enough of work. She has worked hard and raised two children on her own and she’s ready for some “me time”. Her children are now adults and live at opposite ends of Australia to her. Marilyn has sold her (big) home and has moved north to…
You’ll have heard the old, almost grandmotherly adage that ‘every dollar counts’. But guess what – it’s true. Voluntary after tax super contributions (also called non-concessional contributions), refer to any payments you make to your super fund out of your take-home pay. Making after-tax super contributions is an easy way to boost your retirement savings…
With the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) raising the cash rate back in May for the first time since November 2010 – and more rises forecast over the next year – many people are worried about their mortgage repayments. Even though we hear about the cash rate a lot in the news, there is often…
It’s devastating when a natural disaster destroys or damages your home. Finding out you don’t have enough insurance can add to your distress. Understanding what events and damage are covered by insurance can help you get the right cover for your home. Knowing if you live in a disaster-prone area can give you a better…
While 2021-2022 may not have been a stellar year for the majority of investors, it’s worth remembering that the worst performing asset class one year can be the best the next, and vice versa. That’s why successful investing benefits from having a good balance. The last financial year, particularly the first half of 2022, saw…
When you start a job, you can usually either choose a super fund or let your employer choose for you. Understanding the basics can help you work out what kind of account you get and whether it’s right for you. If you want to choose your own — or change your account — there are…
As technology creeps further into our everyday lives, cybercriminals are taking advantage of the latest that technology has to offer and carrying out increasingly sophisticated scams worth eye-watering sums. In the 2020-21 financial year alone, individuals and businesses in Australia reported total losses of more than $33 billion. The main types of cybercrime were fraud…