Month: July 2024

Refinancing your home loan has the potential to save you thousands, reduce your monthly repayments and free up your finances to achieve your goals. However, mastering the art of refinancing requires strategic planning, an understanding of the process and taking numerous considerations into account. Whether you plan on external or internal refinancing, here’s what to … Read more

1. Make a budget It can be surprising just how much you need to spend before your baby even arrives. There are services and classes to book and pay for, as well as obstetrician costs to consider. You’ll also need to make the choice between giving birth in a public or private hospital. This means … Read more

Rather than worrying about day-to-day price movements, focus here instead.  If you checked on the status of your investment portfolio today, don’t worry. You’re definitely not alone. In fact, you may have looked at how your various investment holdings are faring multiple times by now, just to see how much you’ve gained or lost since … Read more

Discounts, offers and rewards programs Cost of living is impacting people across Australia, with everything from rising interest rates to the weekly grocery shop contributing to the strain. While there isn’t one catch-all solution, there are different ways you can tackle the financial squeeze. Reward and discount programs may not seem like you’re saving a … Read more

Different loan repayment types When you apply for a home or investment property loan, you may have the option of one of these repayment types: principal and interest repayments interest-only repayments It’s important to understand how these different types of loan repayments work and how they can change over time. Each have their advantages and … Read more

The rules around making some types of super contributions have been relaxed in recent years, so it’s worth exploring the different opportunities available to you before making a large contribution.i What are contribution caps? Given the tax-effective environment of Australia’s super system, there are annual limits on how much you can contribute each financial year. … Read more

Why the decision to keep deeming rates on hold may be a window for interest rates. In delivering the second reading of the Appropriation Bill (No. 1) 2024–25, otherwise known as the latest federal budget, the Treasurer announced that the current freeze on social security deeming rates will continue until 30 June 2025. It was … Read more

Teaching kids about money The truth is, adulthood is rife with financial challenges. The more prepared your children are, the better. From budgeting and saving, to understanding the true value of money, read our guide on teaching your kids financial literacy. As a parent, you play a vital role in helping your child establish positive … Read more

If you have more than one loan, it may sound like a good idea to roll them into one consolidated loan. Debt consolidation (or refinancing) can make it easier to manage your repayments. But it may cost you more if the interest rate or fees (or both) are higher than before. You could also get … Read more

As our family members or friends get older, it’s normal to worry about them and want to help. But it’s not that easy to know what to do. If you’re finding it tricky, here are some ideas to get the ball rolling. Start a money conversation Sometimes, it’s not easy for older people to talk … Read more

Discover why having a core-satellite approach to your portfolio is a powerful investment tool.  What is a core-satellite strategy and why is it so powerful? In essence, core-satellite is an investment approach that combines the benefits of index funds—lower cost, broader diversification, tax efficiency and lower volatility— with actively managed funds or other direct investments … Read more

Tax breaks are always good news, but for house hunters they can have an added bonus. Not only do tax cuts mean potential buyers have more cash in their pocket at the end of the financial year, but they’re also looking at increased borrowing power. A typical homebuyer’s borrowing capacity could rise by tens of … Read more