While cuts in interest rates are greeted with glee by homebuyers and other borrowers, for the millions of retirees and others who depend on interest payments for their income, falling interest rates can be a disaster. For them, a drop in interest rates from 4% to 3% equates to a 25% drop in income. If […]

Just as night follows day, it seems part of the regular cycle of the world’s share markets that downturns and falling prices follow good times and rising prices. The impact of the COVID-19 Global Pandemic was typical of such downturns, prompting a 35 per cent sell off in world share markets and a dramatic fall […]

When we get to the end of another year, we often feel the stress and events of the last 12 months weigh on us. As we head into the holiday season, the overwhelming pressure and stress of spending can take a toll. You don’t need to keep up with the Jones’ at Christmas, or any […]

With premiums often running to thousands of dollars per year, whether or not to take out private health insurance is a major financial decision. Here are some of the key issues you need to consider in making that decision. Why go private? There are two main types of private health insurance: hospital cover, and general […]

When Jack and Jill met through mutual friends, they hit it off immediately. Both had previously been married and, besides having a child each, found they had quite a lot in common. Dinner dates quickly morphed into family-style outings with their children, to the zoo or adventure theme parks, and soon the couple was talking […]

COVID-19 remained the big story of the last quarter. Tragically, by the end of September the pandemic had caused over one million deaths. That was up by 500,000 since the end of the previous quarter, and many countries were experiencing devastating ‘second waves’. While most of Australia managed to keep case numbers of coronavirus at […]

One of the keys to financial success is to adopt the right strategy at the right time. As you move through the stages of life here are some tried and tested ‘secrets’ that will help you build and protect your wealth. Teens and young adults Time is on your side so get saving. Through the […]

Several years ago, Steve and Brian started a small web-design business, GotyaOnline. Steve was responsible for growing and supporting their client-base, while Brian designed and built the websites. Expanding to include maintenance of client databases and online shopping facilities, they bought new technical equipment and rented office space. Recognising the importance of insurance, they sought […]

As any experienced investor knows, all investment markets have their ups and downs. Regardless of investor experience, turbulent times are a cause of anxiety, and that can lead to poor decision-making.  So, if turbulent markets are inevitable, even if their timing is not predictable, how should portfolios be positioned in anticipation of, and in response […]

Once upon a time, banks would lend would-be homeowners a sum of money based on repayments being less than 30% of the borrower’s gross income. As interest rates fell in the early 90s and competition from non-bank lenders flourished, home loan providers relaxed this rule and increased the flexibility of loans generally. Many Australians are […]