Australia faces ‘sharp recession’ if US escalates war

9 April

US President Donald Trump’s threat to send Iran “back to the Stone Ages” has rattled equity markets. If he follows through, Australia is at risk of entering a recession. In a prolonged war scenario, modelled by Oxford Economics Australia, the...[Read More]

The power of superannuation, compounding, and staying the course

9 April

Superannuation is one of the most powerful long-term wealth-building tools available to Australians. Yet, despite its importance, it’s often misunderstood—particularly during periods of market volatility when balances fluctuate and confidence...[Read More]

Credit card points schemes in firing line after tweaks

9 April

Overseas trips and hotel stays funded through credit reward schemes could be in trouble as Australia’s central bank cuts fees on card transactions. The Reserve Bank has revamped card usage by banning surcharge payments and cutting interchange...[Read More]

War puts world on road to higher prices, slower growth

9 April

The war in the Middle East will lead ‌to higher inflation and slower global growth, says the head of the International Monetary Fund ahead of next week’s global forecast for the world economy. The war has ‌triggered the worst-ever disruption...[Read More]

Building the right team when buying an investment property

2 April

Purchasing an investment property is a major financial decision. For many Australians, it involves committing significant capital, taking on long-term debt, and relying on the property to help build wealth over time. Investment properties can...[Read More]

Starting or restarting a Fitness Regime in Your 60s

2 April

If you’re over 60, regular exercise is essential for maintaining health, energy, and independence. It reduces the risk of serious conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and osteoporosis.    However, starting or restarting a fitness regime...[Read More]

The RBA conflict that could decide its next rates call

2 April

A conflict at the heart of the Reserve Bank’s mandate could determine the outcome of its next interest rates decision. Minutes from the central bank’s March meeting published on Tuesday revealed a split between the five members who voted for a...[Read More]

CBA ups inflation prediction as supply chains strain

2 April

Economists at Australia’s largest lender have issued a dire warning for consumers, forecasting inflation to scale new heights as hopes of a quick resolution to the Iran war fade. The Commonwealth Bank (CBA) expects headline inflation to peak at...[Read More]

Major capital home prices slip in two-speed market

2 April

Australia’s two largest property markets could be entering a downturn as rising inflation and interest rates squeeze prospective buyers. But while the Middle East conflict will take some steam out of price growth, Australia’s chronic undersupply...[Read More]

Fuel pain to last longer despite tax cut kicking in

2 April

Motorists will need to wait longer for cheaper fuel as a tax cut might take weeks to start flowing through the bowser, as Labor resists turning to fuel rationing to shore up supply. The federal government’s halving of the fuel tax will begin on...[Read More]

Staying the course: Navigating share market volatility with confidence

26 March

Market volatility is a natural and expected part of investing. At various points in time, investors will see their portfolios and superannuation balances rise and fall—sometimes sharply. While these movements can feel unsettling, particularly...[Read More]

Financial myths you shouldn’t fall for this April Fools Day!

26 March

April Fools’ Day has a long and rich history of harmless trickery, and it can be very entertaining if you manage to fool your family or friends. However, if you’re gullible, April Fools’ Day may not be as much fun. Falling for false...[Read More]

Oliver’s insights – Shares down on the oil shock – 5 key charts for investors to keep in mind

26 March

Key points The War with Iran has led to a surge in oil prices & worries of stagflation which has pushed share markets sharply lower. Predicting how this will all unfold is hard. The key is to stay focussed on the basic principles of successful...[Read More]

Calm before storm: RBA braces for spikes and hikes

26 March

A slight easing in Australia’s headline inflation rate before the Iran war will do little to ease the Reserve Bank’s fears, as economists expect price growth to bounce back with a vengeance in March. Consumer prices rose 3.7 per cent in the 12...[Read More]

Three more rate hikes tipped as prices begin to rise

26 March

Mortgage holders could face as many as three interest rate hikes by Christmas, according to money markets, as concerns mount over the Iran war’s impact on inflation. Rates traders upped their predictions on Friday, pricing in almost 75 more basis...[Read More]