Using trusts: Keeping it in the family

Using trusts: Keeping it in the family

Trusts are used to hold assets for various reasons, but most typically for tax planning and asset protection purposes. Here's a little more insight into how trusts work. The use of trusts by Australians to hold different assets, including investments in exchange...
Talking money with a partner

Talking money with a partner

Here are some factors to consider before you join finances with a partner. While you've likely imagined what a future with your partner looks like, you may not have considered the financial implications of that future. Think: careers, kids, caring for aging...
Work test changes open up TBC strategies for couples

Work test changes open up TBC strategies for couples

The contribution changes coming in on 1 July will provide more time for spouses in SMSFs to even up their balances and maximise their transfer balance cap, according to an advisory firm. Speaking at a recent event, HLB Mann Judd wealth management partner Michael...
Make the most of these super opportunities before June 30

Make the most of these super opportunities before June 30

With only about four weeks left until the end of this financial year, now's a good time to check your superannuation options. With only about six weeks left until the end of this financial year, now's a good time to check your superannuation options. Those...
ATO flags changes to TBAR reporting

ATO flags changes to TBAR reporting

New rules are in effect, which will see changes to how SMSFs manage transfer balance lodgement. Super funds can now commute excess transfer balance amounts from specific income streams, such as some legacy pensions and market-linked pensions, according to the latest...
RBA rate rise spurs mixed response from SMSF lenders

RBA rate rise spurs mixed response from SMSF lenders

While the official interest rate increase has seen some SMSF lenders raise their interest rates, others are holding off for now. The recent rate rise has seen greater discrepancy in the rates being offered by different SMSF lenders, which will only accelerate with...
SMSF account openings shift from self-directed to advised clients

SMSF account openings shift from self-directed to advised clients

The statistics have begun to change coming out of the COVID-19 pandemic, according to new findings from Australian Investment Exchange Limited (AUSIEX). The Australian provider has reported that SMSF growth has continued following the peak of the pandemic. However,...
How advice gets you closer to your goals

How advice gets you closer to your goals

A recent Vanguard survey found that investors believed financial advice provides substantial portfolio, financial and emotional value, and got them closer to achieving their financial goals. A recent Vanguard survey asked over 1,500 investors in the U.S. if they...
ATO ramps up identity fraud detection for new SMSFs

ATO ramps up identity fraud detection for new SMSFs

Around a quarter of the individuals being identified as high risk under the ATO’s new registrant program have compromised identities, said the ATO. ATO deputy commissioner, superannuation and employer obligations, Emma Rosenzweig said that with the ATO seeing more and...
Weighing up value and growth

Weighing up value and growth

What's the difference between value and growth investing, and how can you incorporate these investment factors into your portfolio? Most investors in share markets seek both value and growth. By seeking value, the objective is to find companies whose shares...