What the Reserve Bank’s rates stance means for property borrowers

What the Reserve Bank’s rates stance means for property borrowers

The funding gap between variable and fixed rate loans is continuing to widen. . Reserve Bank of Australia governor, Michelle Bullock, was abundantly clear last week when she told attendees at a media briefing they should not expect any cuts to interest rates within...
Our investment and economic outlook, July 2024

Our investment and economic outlook, July 2024

Our region-by-region economic outlook and latest forecasts for investment returns. . A labour market indicator that has reliably signaled the start of recession could appear in coming months. The Sahm rule (named after the former Federal Reserve economist who...
Striking a balance in the new financial year

Striking a balance in the new financial year

By doing a few calculations you can easily see if your portfolio is still on track. . If you’re someone who likes a good balance in your investing life, now may be a good time to do some calculations. It’s not something you must do, but doing so may give you some...
Capacity doubts now more common

Capacity doubts now more common

The partner of a legal firm specialising in superannuation has revealed the concept of SMSF member mental capacity is becoming more prevalent in estate planning challenges, prompting the need for practitioners to amend their procedures regarding all fund actions. ....
It’s never too early to start talking about aged care with clients

It’s never too early to start talking about aged care with clients

Financial planning professionals should be having conversations with their clients as soon as possible about their aged care needs, says a specialist adviser. . Speaking at last week’s SMSF Association Technical Summit, Louise Biti, director of Aged Care Steps, said...
What super fund members should know when comparing returns

What super fund members should know when comparing returns

Why you need to compare apples with apples on super fund performances and fees. . If you’re one of the roughly 16 million Australians with a managed superannuation fund account, you may be feeling reasonably chuffed at the moment. After all, your account balance is...
Insurance inside super has tax advantages

Insurance inside super has tax advantages

One of the most significant advantages of holding insurance policies inside superannuation is the tax deduction for life and disability premiums that go towards paying out a disability superannuation benefit, according to a leading technical specialist. . Craig Day,...