What happens to my superannuation if…?

The introduction of compulsory superannuation in 1992, embedded the concept of retirement saving into our investment psyche. While Australia’s superannuation scheme has its complexities, the idea is simple: regularly contribute a percentage of earnings to a complying superannuation fund to provide financial support upon retirement. Well, that’s the plan. But what […]

WAIT! Before you buy that…

Every time you spend money, you’re making a choice about your future. Will this purchase bring lasting value to your life, or is it just a fleeting desire?  Will it move you closer to financial security, or will it set you back? Modern marketing doesn’t want you to stop and think […]

The importance of financial literacy for young adults

Facing complex financial decisions, often without adequate knowledge, can be challenging for anyone, but particularly for young people. A recent government study found that 49% of 18-25 year olds lacked the confidence to make financial decisions, while 94% aged 14-17 believed that understanding money-management is crucial. Though schools play an educational […]

Retirement Planning for Couples with an Age Gap: 5 Conversations You Need to Have (Part One)

Planning for retirement can be challenging enough, but when there’s a significant age difference between partners, it adds another layer of complexity. Different life stages often mean differing priorities, timelines, energy levels and financial needs. But with thoughtful planning and open communication, it’s possible to build a retirement that is secure […]

Quarterly economic update: Oct-Dec 2024

The final quarter of 2024 reflected a mixed economic landscape. While consumer spending and equity markets showed resilience, persistent inflation, cost-of-living pressures and a cooling housing market have tempered optimism. Interest Rates – Will They Rise or Fall? Inflation in Australia showed signs of easing during the final months of 2024, […]

The Rise of Digital Wallets… How Safe is Yours? Part 2

It’s Monday morning, and you’re running late. You skip breakfast, grab your phone, and head out the door. You head to the café and order your usual coffee with a quick tap of your phone. Later that day, you pop to the shop to grab some lunch. Again, another quick tap […]

The Rise of Digital Wallets… How Safe is Yours? Part 1

Digital wallets, like Apple Pay and Google Pay, along with mobile banking apps have fast become the go-to solution for making payments and managing money. Whether you’re paying for groceries, splitting bills with friends, or shopping online, these apps simplify your financial life. Their convenience is unmatched—no more fumbling for cards […]

Eliminating sneaky expenses

During a cost of living crisis, many of us look for obvious ways to cut expenses, like cancelling streaming services, dining out less, and skipping extras in our shopping baskets. But what about the less obvious ways? Sneaky fees and charges can increase our day-to-day living expenses without us realising it. […]

Is it time for a super review?

Picture this… when you were 21 years old your well-meaning but financially inept uncle put $1,000 into an ordinary bank account for you with instructions to leave it there and “let the bank’s interest turn it into a fortune”. You followed his directions only to discover 30 years later the balance […]