Finance
Investment markets and key developments – Weekly market update 06-12-2024
12 December
Despite another week of geopolitical noise with the “fall” of the French Government, a few hours of martial law in South Korea and more noise around Trump, global share markets rose helped by solid US economic data and ongoing expectations for...[Read More]
Oliver’s insights – Goldilocks stayed for 2024, but what’s in store for investors in 2025?
12 December
Key points – The key themes for 2024 were: better than feared growth; global divergence; more disinflation; falling interest rates but with Australia lagging; and more geopolitical threats but not as bad as feared. As in 2023, returns were...[Read More]
Bank chief doubts trade-war risk will cancel Christmas
12 December
Australia’s central bank has no great expectations of hard times in 2025, despite the threat of a global trade war casting a pall over Christmas celebrations. Channelling Charles Dickens in a Christmas Carol-themed speech in Sydney, Reserve Bank...[Read More]
Interest rate relief edges closer as RBA changes tune
12 December
The inflation fight is not over but the Reserve Bank of Australia is growing increasingly confident the battle is shifting in its favour. After leaving interest rates on hold in December, as universally expected, economists observed a notable shift...[Read More]
Young families bear the brunt of cost-of-living crisis
12 December
Expenses for families with a child aged younger than five are 27 per cent higher than in 2021, according to research that shows they are suffering most from the cost-of-living crisis. While headline inflation has fallen to 2.8 per cent, daily...[Read More]
Tax on large withdrawals floated to future-proof super
12 December
Retirees might be more inclined to use super for its intended purpose – income for retirement – under a proposal to tax oversized withdrawals. Four actuaries have waded into the ever-contentious tax debate with a discussion paper thrashing out...[Read More]
Rates stay on hold and hope for February cut revived
12 December
Green shoots are appearing for mortgage holders as the Reserve Bank of Australia sees more signs inflationary pressures are easing. While keeping the cash rate on hold at 4.35 per cent on Tuesday, the central bank board made a more dovish pivot than...[Read More]
What’s the difference between binding versus non-binding beneficiaries
5 December
When you buy life insurance, you usually do it with a specific goal in mind – like eliminating debts or providing for loved ones. So how do you make sure your money ends up in the right hands? Nominating a beneficiary with your insurer can...[Read More]
Economy yet to shake malaise as growth misses forecasts
5 December
Australia’s economy is still growing – but only just – though economists are unconvinced the weaker-than-expected data will bring forward keenly-anticipated interest rate cuts. Full-year growth fell to 0.8 per cent in September, down from one...[Read More]
Drivers hit the brakes on car buys as economy slows
5 December
Motorists’ need for speed is slowing down, with new car sales stalling in Australia for the fourth month in a row in what one industry expert called a “disturbing trend”. Vehicle sales declined by more than 10 per cent in November, according...[Read More]
Investment markets and key developments – Weekly marketing update 29-11-2024
5 December
Despite lots of noise around Trump, including tariff posts, political uncertainty in France and another elevated inflation reading in the US, the combination of mostly solid US economic data, ongoing expectations for central bank rate cuts and news...[Read More]
Hint of consumer recovery to keep RBA focused on prices
5 December
Savvy shoppers pouncing on early Black Friday sales have helped deliver higher-than-expected retail sales in October. Income tax cuts, lower petrol and energy prices and evaporating chances of more rate hikes might be further boosting spending in...[Read More]
Call for super funds to pump gas giants for change
4 December
Some of the nation’s largest superannuation funds have been accused of failing to use their influence over oil and gas companies to maximise shareholder value and safeguard retirement savings. Fossil fuel giants Woodside Energy and Santos have...[Read More]
The benefits of financial planning and personalised strategies
28 November
Financial planning is a cornerstone of financial health, helping individuals and businesses navigate the complexities of managing wealth, preparing for the future, and achieving their unique goals. Whether your aspirations are personal, such as...[Read More]
Some helpful tips to save money this Christmas
28 November
Christmas always brings with it a certain warmth and cheer, and yet these days, a lot of people are feeling the pinch financially. As Christmas approaches, people consider all the items they need to buy for friends and family. Because of the current...[Read More]