Finance
The legal issues most people face and the importance of seeking advice
23 January
Legal issues are an inevitable part of life. Whether you’re dealing with property transactions, employment disputes, family matters, or financial concerns, navigating the complexities of the legal system can be daunting. While the specifics of...[Read More]
Oliver’s insights – What’s driven the fall in the $A? – Does it threaten inflation and RBA easing?
22 January
Key points The $A has been hit since September by the return of Trump, a hawkish pivot by the Fed versus the RBA and concerns about the outlook for iron ore prices. We doubt the fall is significant enough to boost inflation much and...[Read More]
Why the RBA should rethink key inflation assumption
22 January
The Reserve Bank of Australia believes unemployment is still too low despite inflation and wages growth falling in recent months. Yet some economists argue that proves the central bank’s assumptions are wrong. Unemployment for the month of...[Read More]
Lifetime pensions urged to make super system easier
22 January
Retirees should be offered a lifetime pension from the federal government, drawn from their savings, in order to make the superannuation system simpler, a report has urged. The Grattan Institute report on superannuation has recommended retirees use...[Read More]
Strong jobs growth data deflates February rate cut hope
22 January
Australia’s jobs market continues to show “remarkable” resilience with stronger than expected employment growth tempering hopes of a February rate cut. About 56,000 jobs were added to the economy in December, the Australian Bureau of...[Read More]
Tax changes ruled out as treasurer launches food fight
22 January
The treasurer has poured cold water on any new taxes, saying Labor is focused on targeted cost of living relief. Asked whether Labor would bring any new taxes to the upcoming federal election, Jim Chalmers said, “no, our focus is on the tax...[Read More]
Lifting unemployment benefit found to slow job hunting
22 January
Lifting unemployment benefits increases the average time job seekers spend out of work, research reveals, challenging assertions COVID-era support payments did not discourage people from looking for jobs. The $550-a-fortnight JobSeeker Coronavirus...[Read More]
Estate planning: living your best life without regrets
16 January
As you approach the golden years, it’s essential to not only enjoy the life you’ve built but also to plan wisely for the legacy you leave behind. Estate planning is not merely about drafting a will or dividing assets; it’s about ensuring...[Read More]
Oliver’s insights – More volatile and constrained – the macro investment outlook for 2025
15 January
Key points 2024 was another strong year for investors with shares up strongly on the back of better than feared growth & profits and global central banks cutting rates. Volatility was low and balanced growth super funds returned around 11%. 2025...[Read More]
Consumer spending plunge brightens hopes of rate cut
15 January
Australians pulled back sharply on purchasing household goods after bringing forward spending during Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales. Consumer spending fell 1.8 per cent in December after a rise in November, with financially stretched households...[Read More]
As dollar dips towards 60c, tariff threat may Trump all
15 January
The odds of a February interest rate cut have been slashed but the falling Australian dollar could spell trouble for households hoping for an overseas holiday. The Aussie dollar fell to 61.85 US cents on Monday – its lowest level against the...[Read More]
Find out about obtaining shares and what tax deductions you can claim
15 January
You can obtain shares in several ways, most commonly by buying them. You should keep track of your share transactions so you can claim everything you’re entitled to and work out your tax accurately. You can obtain shares through: Buying...[Read More]
Consumers feel finances slide but hold hope for future
15 January
Australians are feeling increasingly pessimistic about their household finances even as signs suggest the economy is set to improve. Consumer confidence slipped in the latest survey from Westpac and the Melbourne Institute, with sentiment declining...[Read More]
Australia’s bullet-proof jobs market put to the test
15 January
Attention is poised to turn to the state of hiring and firing in Australia for signs the labour market is gradually unwinding as expected in a sluggish economy. Thursday’s labour force numbers for December from the Australian Bureau of Statistics...[Read More]
Steps to take if you can’t afford your mortgage repayments
9 January
Owning a home is a significant milestone. However, the financial responsibility of mortgage repayments can be daunting for some homeowners. In times of financial difficulty, it’s essential to find ways to manage your mortgage and avoid defaulting...[Read More]