As most long-term investors know, investment markets have their ups and downs. The downs are usually associated with periods of uncertainty, perhaps due to political or economic factors, or even natural disasters. Uncertainty leads to volatility – more extreme movements in asset prices – which can have a big impact on portfolio values. This can […]

Do you sometimes lie awake at night wondering what effect the latest share market “correction” or property “boom” or “bust” is having on your investments? Understanding the differences between the various investment assets will help you enjoy better sleep patterns knowing that a diversified portfolio can be a good way to manage investment risk. Asset […]

When you receive money or a gift from a family member’s or friend’s estate, the last thing you probably think about is tax and insurance. However, you can circumvent future difficulties or financial loss if you attend to a few practical financial issues as soon as possible. Let’s start with CGT Determining your capital gains […]

As daily conversation in Australia is increasingly dominated by concerns about the environment and global warming, more and more investors are looking at how they can make a difference and choose sustainable or ethical investments as part of their portfolio mix. So what exactly is an ethical investment? The answer can vary depending on your […]

Ignoring all of the politicising of climate change and carbon emissions, have you ever actually wondered what a carbon footprint is? A simple explanation Human activity is increasing atmospheric levels of known greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide and methane. These form a blanket around the earth trapping heat, a process known as the ‘greenhouse […]

If you’re the eldest sibling in the family or deemed to be the “most responsible”; if you’re seen to be a good friend by someone; or a fine upstanding citizen by others, chances are you will be asked to be an executor of someone’s Will. After you’ve enjoyed the warm feeling of being wanted, just […]

The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) and the major trading banks may play the most visible role in setting interest rates, but in many cases they are being reactive rather than proactive. A wide range of external factors feed into their decision-making process, including in no small part, our collective behaviour as investors and savers, […]

The word ‘inflation’ doesn’t only dominate business news headlines but finds its way into general news reports too. So, what is inflation and how does it affect you? In simple terms, inflation signifies a rise in the price of goods and services, meaning you pay for more for every purchase you make. Does the US […]

Depositing cash in a savings account or a term deposit are the most common ways to invest your money. But, how do you know which is right for you?  First, let us explain their main differences and impact on your money. What is a savings account? A savings account is a deposit account held at a bank […]

A meme is an idea, behaviour or style that spreads from person to person through imitation. Many people consider memes to be cultural versions of genes in that they spread from mind to mind, evolving and mutating as they go. Memes can range in scale from large religions to short-lived fashion trends or dance crazes. […]