As technology creeps further into our everyday lives, cybercriminals are taking advantage of the latest that technology has to offer and carrying out increasingly sophisticated scams worth eye-watering sums. In the 2020-21 financial year alone, individuals and businesses in Australia reported total losses of more than $33 billion. The main types of cybercrime were fraud … Read more
It’s devastating when a natural disaster destroys or damages your home. Finding out you don’t have enough insurance can add to your distress. Understanding what events and damage are covered by insurance can help you get the right cover for your home. Knowing if you live in a disaster-prone area can give you a better … Read more
In early May, the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) lifted the cash rate for the first time in over 11 years.At the time, the RBA Board said that it “is committed to doing what is necessary to ensure that inflation in Australia returns to target over time.” You can expect similar statements to be made … Read more
Setting the scene Marilyn is 67 and has had enough of work. She has worked hard and raised two children on her own and she’s ready for some “me time”. Her children are now adults and live at opposite ends of Australia to her. Marilyn has sold her (big) home and has moved north to … Read more
When you start a job, you can usually either choose a super fund or let your employer choose for you. Understanding the basics can help you work out what kind of account you get and whether it’s right for you. If you want to choose your own — or change your account — there are … Read more
We’ve all heard of the dangers of emotional spending but what about emotional saving? Emotions can wield a powerful influence on our personal finances in a positive way, but they can also have a negative impact on where we sit financially. The good news is, by cultivating a bit of self-awareness you can harness your … Read more
As baby boomers shift into retirement, Australia is on the brink of the nation’s biggest ever intergenerational wealth transfer. Yet estate or inheritance planning is rarely discussed by families. Talking openly about how you want your assets to be passed on can help avoid family disputes that take a toll both financially and emotionally. It … Read more
While 2021-2022 may not have been a stellar year for the majority of investors, it’s worth remembering that the worst performing asset class one year can be the best the next, and vice versa. That’s why successful investing benefits from having a good balance. The last financial year, particularly the first half of 2022, saw … Read more
It’s impossible to ignore the issue of climate change in 2022. And certainly, if you’re invested in the markets, you wouldn’t want to. One reason to pay close attention could be that you hope to invest in line with your beliefs and values, supporting those carbon-reduction and environmentally sustainable practices and solutions that will help … Read more
Characteristics of impulsive spenders A ‘money mindset’ is a way of thinking about personal finance. Your money mindset can change over time, and it may help explain your spending and savings habits. Understanding this can help you build habits and strategies to better manage your money. If the following applies to you, you might be … Read more
Here are five investing tips for those who are just beginning their investment journey. 1. Evaluate where you’re at financially Before beginning your investment journey, it’s important to sit down and map out your financial position and goals so that you know where you are and exactly what you’re working towards. Start by looking at … Read more
Key takeaways: Determining how much annual income you’ll need to maintain your lifestyle in retirement is key You also want to evaluate how much you’re likely to have by the time you retire, if you continue with your current savings strategy If you find that you may fall short, there are things you can do … Read more
