Horror $47,000 cost blows up the owning vs. renting debate: ‘More expensive’

Horror $47,000 cost blows up the owning vs. renting debate: ‘More expensive’

Budgeting, Education, Finance

Financial advisor Robert Goudie has warned Aussies about the extra costs involved in owning a home and that renting isn’t always dead money. You might have heard the phrase that renting is “dead money” or that you’re just “paying off someone’s mortgage”. When you’re forking out hundreds of dollars a week to keep a roof over your head, that idea can seem fairly depressing. But Consortium Private Wealth financial advisor Robert Goudie wants Aussies to change their mindset when approaching rental payments. He told Yahoo Finance that while property ownership should still be a major goal for Aussies, it’s not always the most ideal situation and you shouldn’t rush into it without understanding what you’re paying. “From what I’ve seen, sometimes it’s more expensive to own the property because no one thinks about the cost of ownership, which is your rates, and your insurance, and your water and service charges. and any maintenance that might be applicable,” he said. He wanted to set the record straight and did the calculations for how much you can save when you rent. Goudie gave an example of Person A who was spending $500 per week on a house worth $750,000 and Person B who bought a $750,000 house and lived in it. Person A would have spent $26,000 in a year on rent. However, the other person, who stumped up an impressive $100,000 deposit and had a 6.5 per cent interest rate on their loan, would have paid $42,250 just on the interest for the mortgage. When you add on rates and insurance costs, the annual bill rises to $47,250, or just short of $910 per week. That means Person A will be able to save $410 more per week than Person B. “People say rent is always dead money. Is interest not dead money? Paying money to a big corporation making billions… I think it is,” Goudie explained to Yahoo Finance. “If rent is dead money, then interest should be considered dead money as well.” Buying might not be the best idea right now The financial advisor wants this general advice to be a warning for Aussies to do the calculations themselves to work out if buying a property is going to be the best financial move for them. “I don’t blame young people for wanting to get on the property ladder… there is that feeling of, ‘If I don’t get in now, [property prices] just keep going up’,” Goudie explained to Yahoo Finance. However, he gave an example of a client who has a home, but the mortgage repayments are so much higher than the rent he used to pay that he now feels “guilty” about having a coffee at a cafe. “That’s not living,” Goudie said. What about capital growth? Yes, there is the very real elephant in the room about the big difference between renting and owning a property. When you have bought a home, you will hopefully be able to live in it when it’s fully paid off. In that case, it’s far cheaper than renting. You can also use it as equity to buy another property or you could sell it for more than what you paid for. Goudie pointed out that not every home that is bought benefits from capital growth and can sometimes go down in value, which is what is being seen in parts of Melbourne this year. But even if it does go up in value, you can’t use that capital growth in the short term to pay for your food or keep the lights on. The financial advisor said his weekly cost comparison was designed purely to compare “apples to apples”. Many Aussies think property ownership is out of reach Goudie admitted that while you might save hundreds of dollars a week by renting, it’s not a long-term and secure way to look at accommodation. “I can’t imagine myself at age 85 renting with the threat of being kicked out at a moment’s notice, because in Australia, we do not have long-term lease or rental agreements,” he said. “There needs to be changes in that space.” But for many Aussies, the idea of owning a home is a distant or even completely out-of-reach concept. According to new research by Australian Housing and Urban Research Institute (AHURI), three in five renters expect they will never own their own home. “This shows a significant shift for Australian renters,” lead researcher Professor Emma Baker of the University of Adelaide. “Whereas previously anyone who desired home ownership believed they would be able to move into that tenure, now more Australians are conscious that this dream may not be a possibility for them.” Property prices have been soaring in cities across Australia at the same time that inflation and stagnant wage growth have impacted many peoples’ wallets. But this isn’t just a young Australian issue either. AHURI’s research found the proportion of people renting in the private market has increased across all age brackets from people in their late teens to their 80s and above. “The rise of renting in Australia is a multigenerational phenomenon,” Professor Baker said. Source: https://au.finance.yahoo.com/news/horror-47000-cost-blows-up-the-owning-vs-renting-debate-more-expensive-053110244.html The information provided in this article is general in nature only and does not constitute personal financial advice.  

Regaining financial control after a scam 

Regaining financial control after a scam 

Updated on Budgeting, Education, Retirement

A year before retirement, Tess’s superannuation plan was on track, and she was imagining her post-work life. With savings of $34,000 at the bank, she was looking to park it somewhere it could earn better interest while rates were rising.   Considering herself reasonably savvy with money, she began investigating her options.  After hearing about someone who’d made a fortune with cryptocurrency, Tess was intrigued and decided to look into it.   Tess researched crypto-companies and compared what was on offer. When eventually she made her decision, she believed she’d chosen the right investment – how wrong could she be!   Within hours Tess realised she’d been scammed.  Shocked and feeling ill, she reported it to ScamWatch, but over the following days the self-blame settled in.   How could she be so gullible? So naïve?  What was she thinking?! How could she have fallen for such an obvious fraud?   Who knew that financial shame was a thing? But there it was in the form of an empty bank account.  Deeply embarrassed, her financial security shattered, Tess lay awake every night berating herself; through her foolishness she’d lost all her cash savings! She became withdrawn, declined social events and refused to unburden herself, even to close friends.   Finally, in desperation, she decided to speak with a counsellor. Tess discovered organisations like Beyond Blue, ScamWatch and Lifeline offered advice and emotional support. She chose one that felt right for her.  Initially, it was difficult to open up and acknowledge her mistake, but the counsellor explained that part of her recovery was confronting her feelings head-on and realising that victims came from all cultures, backgrounds and levels of education. Feelings of humiliation and shame were normal, although unjustified, as the crooks were highly skilled criminals with access to the latest technology.  Heartened by the counsellor’s words, Tess learned to stop blaming herself and confided in her daughter Louise.  What a relief that was! Louise was gentle and supportive, and introduced Tess to her friend Jarrod, a financial adviser.  Throughout Jarrod’s career, he’d assisted innumerable people who’d fallen victim to scams. Most felt insecure and vulnerable, so his approach was to assist them with practical advice around getting their finances back on track.  He believed that Tess would benefit from a temporary, part-time job. She could rebuild her cash savings, and staying busy would distract her from her worries and help her move on.   When discussing her interests and skills, Tess mentioned she loved animals so Jarrod suggested she consider pet-minding or dog-walking, adding that he could setup the necessary insurance.  Then, Jarrod explained, that while her superannuation was on target, there was a difference between investing for retirement and investing for wealth.  Retirement investing was about saving to fund an income stream that met post-work lifestyle goals. Complying retirement funds offered tax advantages and focused on generating returns.   Conversely, investing for wealth involved accumulating assets beyond what is needed to provide retirement income.   For Tess, financial security was critical, so Jarrod considered her risk tolerance and structured a tax-efficient portfolio of growth assets to support capital appreciation and wealth accumulation.   It also meant that Tess could leave something behind for Louise – a legacy she hadn’t felt was important, until she realised how financially exposed the scam had left her.  Tess’s recovery wasn’t without its challenges. It took time and sacrifice, but along the way she developed a greater sense of independence and resilience.   She delayed retirement by a year, so she could recoup her lost savings and contribute the money from her new side hustle to her wealth portfolio.   In the end, Tess’s Dog Minding and Walking Service continued well after Tess’s retirement, for the sheer enjoyment she derived from hanging out with dogs.  The information provided in this article is general in nature only and does not constitute personal financial advice.  

4 Time-Tested Investment Strategies for Young Investors

4 Time-Tested Investment Strategies for Young Investors

Updated on Education, Finance, Investing

The newest generation of young investors were raised during the Age of Information. Growing up alongside the internet, this generation has been exposed to more information and technological advancement than any generation before them. Young investors have greater access to education around investing, more diverse opportunities for investing, as well as a rise in social media content creators creating communities around building wealth – making this topic much more popular among younger generations. However, the world of investing can still seem intimidating, especially for young adults who are just starting out. While investing does involve risk, there are some time-tested investing strategies that all young investors should adopt to set themselves up for success: 1. Know your financial goals Before investing, it’s essential to know what you’re working towards. Are you saving for a house deposit? Or are you building wealth so that you can retire early? You may want to launch a business. Or start a family? Knowing your financial goals can help determine the best investment strategy for you. Once you have set your goals, you can develop a financial plan for achieving these through investing. 2. Start small and grow your portfolio over time When starting, you might think you don’t have “enough” to begin investing. Starting small and gradually increasing your portfolio over time is a great way to begin. It allows you to “learn the ropes” and build your knowledge and confidence over time, without feeling like you have too much at stake. Getting started sooner rather than later also means you’re taking advantage of the power of compounding returns. Compounding returns happen when you reinvest your investment earnings, allowing your investments to grow over time. The earlier you start investing, the more time your investments have to compound, leading to significant long-term growth. 3. Diversify your investments You might have heard the term ‘Don’t put all your eggs in one basket’, which, in the world of investing, translates to ‘Don’t put all your money in one investment’. Diversifying your investments across different asset types is a key strategy that can be used to lower portfolio risk and provide more stable investment returns. 4. Keep calm… and remember your investment plan Investing should generally be viewed as a long-term strategy, as markets are cyclical and typically go through periods of growth, decline and stagnancy. This means that you will likely experience a market crash at some point in your investing journey, which can be a scary time for investors. It’s important to stay calm and avoid making impulsive investment decisions. In many cases, the best strategy during a market crash is to stay the course and stick to your investment plan. Further, market corrections can often present a great opportunity to invest as markets sell off and asset prices reduce. As Warren Buffet said: “Be fearful when others are greedy and greedy when others are fearful”. While investing may seem daunting at first, incorporating these fundamental strategies will pave the way for success. And a final tip… Seek expert guidance! A financial adviser can help you set achievable financial goals, plan ahead, and making informed investment decisions that will keep you on track towards building lasting wealth. Don’t navigate the financial world alone – let us be your partner in success! The information provided in this article is general in nature only and does not constitute personal financial advice.

The Wealth of Gold: Investing in a timeless asset

The Wealth of Gold: Investing in a timeless asset

Updated on Economy, Investing

As investors navigate through unpredictable and volatile economic times, it is essential to consider asset classes that can provide a level of stability and protection against market fluctuations. One such asset that has stood the test of time is gold. For centuries, gold has been a symbol of wealth and has played an essential role in the global economy.  Why Investors Turn to Gold During Volatile Times Gold has long been considered a safe haven asset, as it has maintained its value throughout history. When the stock market experiences downturns or geopolitical tensions escalate, investors often flock to gold as a way to protect their portfolios against market fluctuations. The price of gold typically moves in the opposite direction of the stock market, making it a valuable hedge against economic uncertainty. Moreover, gold is not subject to the same risks as other investments such as bonds or stocks, making it a reliable store of value. Benefits and Consequences of Investing in Gold The primary benefit of investing in gold is its ability to provide a level of diversification to an investment portfolio. By including gold in a portfolio, investors can reduce their exposure to other assets, thus lowering overall risk. Additionally, gold is a tangible asset that investors can physically hold, making it an appealing option for those who prefer assets they can see and touch. However, investing in gold also comes with some drawbacks. The most significant risk associated with investing in gold is its volatility. While gold has maintained its value over time, its price can still fluctuate significantly over shorter periods. Furthermore, investing in gold does not provide a source of income, as it does not pay dividends or interest. Investors looking for regular income streams should consider other investments, such as bonds or stocks that offer dividend payouts. Interesting Facts About Gold Gold has been used as a form of currency for thousands of years. In ancient times, individuals and countries stockpiled gold as a way to preserve their wealth. For instance, during the California Gold Rush in the mid-1800s, the US government established the first national gold reserve to help stabilize the economy. Similarly, during World War II, countries like the US and the UK stockpiled gold to finance their war efforts. Getting Exposure to Gold Investors have several options to get exposure to gold. The most common way is to invest in physical gold, such as gold coins or bars. However, buying physical gold can be expensive, and investors also need to pay for storage and insurance costs. An alternative option is to invest in gold exchange-traded funds (ETFs), which track the price of gold and offer investors an easy way to invest in gold without the hassle of buying physical gold. Finally, investors can also invest in gold mining stocks, which provide exposure to the gold industry and can potentially offer higher returns than investing in physical gold or gold ETFs. While investing in gold can offer protection against market fluctuations and diversify an investment portfolio, it is crucial for investors to carefully consider the risks and benefits associated with this asset class. By weighing the pros and cons and assessing how gold aligns with their investment objectives, investors can make informed decisions about whether to include this timeless asset in their investment strategy.   The information provided in this article is general in nature only and does not constitute personal financial advice.

Quarterly Economic Update: January-March 2023

Quarterly Economic Update: January-March 2023

Economy, Investing

The Reserve Bank of Australia has decided to pause its cycle of interest rate hikes, keeping the cash rate target unchanged at 3.6 percent due to softening inflation data, a flat unemployment rate, and the need to assess the impact of previous rate hikes on the economy. The Consumer Price Index slowed from 7.4 per cent to 6.8 per cent for the year to February with prices increasing by just 0.2 per cent for the month of February itself, raising hopes the Reserve Bank might halt any further interest rate increases. Economists though remain divided on the outlook for interest rates. Some point to the low inflation rate recorded for the month of February and say the back has been broken regarding the recent price hikes of the past year. That any further rate rises will risk tipping the domestic economy into recession with local activity already stalling in key industries such as the housing construction industry, local tourism and other recreational industries. Some economists though point to the fact inflation remains doggedly above the Reserve Bank’s preferred inflation range of between 2 and 3 per cent and that consumer spending remains doggedly high despite recent rate hikes. Recession fears are also growing, given the ACTU’s push this year for a 7 per cent increase in the minimum wage from $21.38 an hour to $22.88, taking the minimum wage to $45,337 a year for some 2.4 million workers – a pay rise of some $3,000 a year. This comes hard on the heels of last year’s minimum wage rise of 5.2 per cent. More, the ACTU is pushing for this increase to flow to a range of other award rates, prompting concerns any such move could spark a wage rise – price hike spiral, reminiscent of the 1970’s. However, the ACTU argues the cost-of-living pressures are now so high that this increase is needed just to stop workers falling in poverty. That low-income workers typically spend every cent they earn, and this is exactly what is needed to keep the local economy growing. It also points to continued record high levels of corporate profits in recent years and argues Australian employers can easily afford to pay their workers more without it placing further pressure on prices. Not surprisingly business groups point to Australia’s low level of productivity gains, another increase in the Employers Superannuation Guarantee contribution, to which is set to rise to 11 per cent next financial year and higher funding costs, to argue against any pay increases. Meanwhile, the Federal Government is set to release its first full year budget this quarter. The overriding concern is whether the Government will take this opportunity to deal with the significant structural funding issues within the budget and so start to haul in the Federal deficit. While Government revenues continued to be bolstered by strong international trading conditions for Australia’s key exports of iron ore, coal and wheat, it remains a simple fact that the Federal Government spends more on goods and services than it receives by way of taxes. This situation will only be made worse by the recent decision to acquire a new fleet of state-of-the-art submarines and other military equipment that is expected to add billions of dollars to Government spending over the next few decades. All at a time, when the Government is equally committed to spending billions helping the domestic economy transition away from fossil fuel energy sources and embark on building a new low carbon economy. Meanwhile, a growing number of economists believe the US economy will most certainly fall into recession sometime this year, as its central bank also deals with a blow-out in domestic inflation by increasing local interest rates. While US employment figures remain strong, the recent US rate hikes have put undue pressure on a number of US and international banks, causing the collapse of two high profile banks in recent months. Although the US banking system remains strong, there are fears that these failures will cause a retraction in lending to businesses and so will further increase the likelihood and depth of any pending recession.   The information provided in this article is general in nature only and does not constitute personal financial advice.

Why millennials should be mapping their retirement today

Why millennials should be mapping their retirement today

Education, Retirement, Superannuation

While millennials have for decades been treated like ‘the children of Neverland, who never grew up’, reality is fast catching up with this generation, who are now young adults between the ages of 24 and 40. Like generations before them, they are now buying, or at least trying to buy, homes and starting families of their own. And with this, the stark reality is that their retirement is looming just around the corner in the early years of 2050. For all too many, planning for their retirement is just something they don’t want to face. But the reality is that the sooner they start ‘mapping’ or preparing for their retirement, the better off they will be. According to Investopedia, if you are a 26-year-old millennial, you should aim over the next four years to have at least one year’s worth of income in your superannuation fund. If you are a 40-year-old millennial, you should already have three times your annual income in super. They suggest millennials should contribute at least 15 per cent of their gross salary, including the 10 per cent compulsory super guarantee contribution, to superannuation each year if they have any chance of achieving a secure retirement. This seems a pipe dream for Marion, who is 29 and earns $95,000 a year as a successful professional accountant. While her employer contributes 10.5 per cent of her income to super, she has less than $100,000 in super, and is more focused on boosting her non-super savings of $75,000, so she can buy a small apartment. She is not alone. Most millennials, burdened by HECS debts and increasingly casual employment arrangements, will find the need to boost their super contributions a challenge, especially as most millennials, like Marion, are also struggling to save a deposit for an ever more expensive home of their own. They know they will live longer than previous generations and that health and living costs will be much greater for them in retirement, while social security entitlements will be much less than what their grandparents received. Nonetheless, when asked, millennials want to retire earlier than previous generations and are looking for a different type of retirement. One where they can travel more while still enjoying doing so and keep working on a casual part-time basis, but only if they enjoy the work. All of this means that amongst all the competing demands on their time and money, superannuation has to become part of the landscape of Neverland. For Marion, it has meant searching for a better superannuation fund with lower fees and better investment options while scaling back her plans to buy an apartment and perhaps relying more on the Bank of Mum and Dad to help her do so. As previous generations have done, millennials need to take control of their superannuation, and the sooner, the better. The first step is to consolidate any multiple super accounts into one and then, wherever possible, boost their contributions to the magic 15 per cent mark. Happily, most millennials, including those who are self-employed, will have a super fund and will only need to add an extra 5 per cent to take their total contributions to 15 per cent of their prevailing salary. Then they can leave compound interest to work its magic and, like a snowball rolling down a hillside, build the balance within their super. It’s then a matter of working closely with our advisers who can ensure your superannuation stays on track and help you to achieve the best possible outcomes when you do start thinking seriously about retiring.   The information provided in this article is general in nature only and does not constitute personal financial advice.

Economic Update: October-December 2022

Economic Update: October-December 2022

Updated on Economy, Investing

According to the Reserve Bank of Australia, domestic headline inflation is expected to reach 8% in the final month of 2022 as consumers continue to spend despite higher interest rates. Retail spending saw a significant increase of 6.4% during November, with Black Friday sales pushing the number even higher at 8% during the last week of the month. The surge in spending during this time is relatively new in Australia, with the event being similar to the Black Friday sales that occurred in 2021 but lower than the two previous years. This suggests that the trend may be a short-lived fad in the country. Low unemployment levels and expectations of continued labour shortages throughout the economy appear to be creating newfound confidence among consumers, despite continued increases in interest rates. The Reserve Bank appears determine to halt further price rises by pushing interest rates even higher through 2023, which will inevitably flow through to higher home loan rates and further falls in property prices. This is despite its own figures suggesting that if cash rates reach 3.6 per cent next year, some 15 per cent of Australian homebuyers will be experiencing negative cash flow, where their mortgage repayments exceed their net earnings. Few analysts though are expecting widespread defaults, pointing to the build-up of large financial buffers through the pandemic, continued strong labour markets and earlier house price gains, all acting to help homeowners get through the coming year. Nonetheless, the expectation is for further downward pressure on property prices through 2023, with most analysts predicting a 15 to 20 per cent fall in national house prices from peak to trough with impaired or unrenovated properties experiencing even greater price falls. Company profits are expected to remain strong through 2023, driven mostly by strong export prices, despite efforts to speed up the decarbonisation of the economy and move to more renewable sources of energy creation. Industries are expected to benefit from embracing public-private partnerships with the newly elected Federal Government in policy priority areas such as energy, defence, education, health, and security. The continued strength of the domestic labour market and the strong international demand for Australia’s mining exports should also protect the domestic economy from the cold winds that are currently blowing through the international economy. The United States economy, typically the powerhouse of the world economy, is almost certainly expected to fall into recession later in 2023, with domestic economic growth there expected to fall to a lacklustre 0.5 to 1 per cent for the calendar year of 2023. The Chinese economy is still held moribund by the continuing impact of the pandemic with reported cases of Covid 19 soaring as winter takes its grip on the country, causing factory shutdowns and with that, a fall in exports. In the United Kingdom, inflation peaked at 11.8 per cent in October 2022 and is expected to remain in double digits for some time as higher energy prices, interest rates and general cost of living increases cause widespread price hikes around that nation. While the Bank of England is doing its best to bring inflation under control, there is widespread resentment that it is the poorest and most vulnerable in the community that are paying the highest price for the nation’s economic woes. A situation made worse by the slowdown in economic activity in Europe generally, as the ongoing war in the Ukraine continues to take its toll, driving energy prices higher and causing massive economic dislocation.   The information provided in this article is general in nature only and does not constitute personal financial advice.

4 simple techniques to reduce your tax

4 simple techniques to reduce your tax

Updated on Tax

Here is a list of tips to help you minimise the amount of tax you pay this end of financial year: 1. Keep records Even if you use an accountant to prepare your tax return, you are responsible for the information you provide and for keeping your tax records for a minimum of five years. So, to ensure that you don’t have to pay any more tax than you are obliged to: Keep receipts of all your tax-deductible expenditure. If you are audited by the tax office, you will need to be able to prove the expenses were incurred. Keep track of all your medical expenses. If net medical expenses relating to disability aids, attendant care or aged care exceed the threshold for the year, you may be eligible for a tax offset that takes the form of a credit against tax payable. Keep detailed records of income and capital gains. Required details include date the investment was purchased, how much was paid, when it was sold and how much was received. 2. Claim all available tax deductions You may be able to claim a tax deduction for many of your expenses. These include: donations to registered charities or non-profit organisations; self-education expenses; premiums on income protection insurance; work-related expenses. You should bear in mind that the range of permissible work-related expenses varies widely from occupation to occupation. Refer to the Australian Tax Office (ATO) website www.ato.gov.au for full details. 3. Contribute to superannuation Contributions to superannuation can reduce the level of tax you would otherwise have to pay on your investments because super is taxed at a maximum of 15%. In addition, some people are eligible to claim a tax deduction for contributions made to super. The rules surrounding superannuation tax deductibility provisions and contribution limits are complex, so it pays to seek advice from your financial planner. 4. Manage capital gains When you sell an investment for a profit, you are considered to have made a capital gain. For non-professional investors, capital gains will be included on your annual income tax return. Assets acquired before 20 September 1985 are exempt from Capital Gains Tax (CGT) considerations. When you sell an asset for less than you initially paid for it, you make a capital loss. When your total capital losses for the year outweigh your total capital gains, you will finish up with a net capital loss for the year. If you have a potential CGT liability, there are some strategies that you could consider to reduce the amount you need to pay: a. Keep an investment for at least 12 months Investors are entitled to claim a 50% discount on capital gains made on assets held for longer than a year. So, by holding on to the investment for more than 12 months you will halve the CGT payable. b. Use carry-forward tax losses to reduce CGT Capital losses incurred in previous tax years that have not already been offset against capital gains may be carried forward in future tax years and can mitigate the effect of any CGT liability. Check your past income tax returns or ask your accountant to determine whether this is an option for you. Remember that this information is not personal tax advice. Always consult a professional adviser to help you determine the best strategies for your personal circumstances.   The information provided in this article is general in nature only and does not constitute personal financial advice.

Investing: How to reduce concentration risk

Investing: How to reduce concentration risk

Investing

Concentration risk. No, it’s nothing to do with thinking too hard about something. In fact, it’s more likely to be a result of not paying enough attention. Concentration risk is the increase in investment risk that comes about from not sufficiently diversifying your portfolio. In other words, too much money is concentrated in too few assets, sectors or geographical markets. This can happen: Intentionally, because you have a strong belief that a particular share or sector, such as resources, banks or property, is likely to outperform in the future. Unintentionally, through asset performance. One or two shares deliver spectacular gains, making the entire portfolio more sensitive to moves in just a couple of assets. Or maybe shares as a whole enjoy a period of strong growth. Even though you hold a large number of different shares, the increased exposure to one asset class increases the risk to your portfolio. Accidentally, through poor asset selection. As at December 2020, nine of the ten top companies that make up the MSCI World Index also appear on the top ten list of the main US index, the S&P 500. Investing in two funds, one that tracks the world market and one that tracks the US market won’t deliver the level of diversification you might expect. Managing your risk The solution to concentration risk is our old friend, diversification. Appreciate the importance of asset allocation, the art of spreading your money across the main asset classes of shares, property, fixed interest and cash. Ensure your asset allocation matches your tolerance to investment risk. Diversify within each asset class. Holding the big four banks is not a diversified share portfolio. If property is your thing, buying four one-bedroom apartments in the same building, or even in the same area, creates a huge concentration risk. Understand each investment and its role in your portfolio. Does share fund A hold similar shares as share fund B? Do they both have the same strategy? Get a professional opinion. Even if you are confident in making your own investment decisions it’s wise to run them by a licensed adviser. It’s surprisingly common for investors to develop an emotional attachment to particular shares or properties they own. Concentration risk can also increase over time due to lack of attention. Your financial planner will assess your portfolio for hidden concentration risk and help you achieve a better balance of investments.   The information provided in this article is general in nature only and does not constitute personal financial advice.

Quarterly Economic Update: January-March 2021

Quarterly Economic Update: January-March 2021

Updated on COVID-19, Economy, Investing

The global COVID-19 jab-fest gathered pace with some countries, including Israel and the United Kingdom, achieving high rates of immunisation. However, the rollout has had some issues. Rare side effects linked to the AstraZeneca vaccine saw a number of countries suspend its use for a period of time, and Australia was slow off the mark with its immunisation rollout. The longer it takes to vaccinate the world, the slower the economic recovery. Hot property Pushing COVID-19 off the front pages was the big jump in residential property prices. Nationally, CoreLogic’s home value index jumped 5.8% for the quarter. Sydney led the jump with a 6.7% lift. In March alone the index rose 2.8%, the biggest rise in 32 years. Most of the action was on the first home and owner-occupiers front, though investor purchases were also up. The main fuel being added to the property price fire is ongoing low interest rates. With the RBA indicating rates will most likely remain low for years, that could continue to inflate property values and see more people priced out of the market. Helping to fuel the market was good employment numbers. Seasonally adjusted, the ABS reported an unemployment rate of 5.8% in February, down from 6.3% in January. However, this counts people on JobKeeper as employed. Taking this into account, Roy Morgan put unemployment at 13.2% in February, with 21% of the workforce either unemployed or under-employed. Blocked artery In late March the container ship Ever Given provided a graphic example of how small things can have a huge impact. Strong wind gusts saw the giant ship wedge itself bank to bank across the Suez Canal, one of the world’s main shipping arteries. Suddenly 30% of world container shipping ground to a halt. Fortunately, the ship was freed after a few days, and the backlog of ships was cleared a few days after that, but it was a stark reminder of how vulnerable large parts of the economy are. Key numbers The pace of recovery in the local and international share markets slowed during the quarter as prices crept close to or exceeded their pre-pandemic levels. The S&P/ASX200 rose 3.1%, trailing the MSCI All-Country World Equity Index, which was up 4.2%. Tech shares ran out of puff with the NASDAQ only gaining 1.4%, while the S&P500 surged late in the quarter to gain 6.1%. The outlook Many countries are experiencing third and fourth waves of COVID-19, and it’s a fair bet that the virus will continue to dictate the way we live for some time to come. But it’s not the only game in town. US President Joe Biden has taken climate change off the back burner and moved it front and centre. That means our government and businesses will need to pay it a lot more attention too. Expect carbon tariffs to become a hot topic. On the local front, with interest rates all but ruled out as a tool for managing the residential property boom, talk is turning to the use of regulatory methods to dampen demand. These could involve requiring bigger deposits or limiting the rate of credit growth. And with JobKeeper now wound up employment figures will come under close scrutiny. Expect to see a jump in unemployment this current quarter.   The information provided in this article is general in nature only and does not constitute personal financial advice.

Economic Update: October-December 2020

Economic Update: October-December 2020

Updated on COVID-19, Economy, Investing

COVID-19 update Finally, some good news on the COVID-19 front: several vaccines have been rolled out in a number of countries. While a huge step forward in bringing the pandemic under control, it comes at a time when, globally, more people are being infected with the coronavirus, and more people are dying from it than at any previous point in the pandemic. There is a long way to go before victory can be declared. Meanwhile, Victoria squashed its second wave of COVID-19 infections, sparking a bounce in its economy as it enjoyed an extended period of no community spread of coronavirus. Unfortunately, the virus found a way back into both Victoria and NSW, kicking off fresh border closures and holiday chaos. The local view As was widely anticipated, the RBA cut the cash rate target by 0.15% to 0.1% in November. While welcomed by borrowers the cut put additional pressure on net savers by making it even harder to find low risk income yielding investments. Some are turning to peer-to-peer lending platforms, or even high yielding shares, which may partly explain the strong recent performance of the ASX. The official unemployment rate in November was 6.8%, the same as in August. However, using a different methodology, Roy Morgan calculated unemployment to be 11.9% in November, with a further 9.1% under-employed. While hardly cause for celebration, this was the first time since the pandemic began that both figures showed a month-on-month drop. The world stage The US election delivered a change of president, with markets responding positively as the result became clear. As the year came to a close, a sigh of relief was heard from millions as the US Congress approved a coronavirus relief package worth $US892 billion ($1.18 trillion). The package includes $US600 payments to most Americans. After years of negotiation and with just days to spare, the UK and EU managed to agree on a BREXIT trade deal. While it will keep the goods flowing between the UK and Europe, the agreement doesn’t cover the huge services sector. The markets It was a good quarter on the markets with the main global and US indices zooming past pre-COVID-19 levels. The MSCI All-Country World Equity Index rose 13.4%. The Australian market followed suit, with the S&P/ASX200 rising 13.3%. However, the Aussie market has yet to return to its February high. In the US the S&P500 rose 11% and tech stocks continued to attract buyers with the NASDAQ up 15.5%. The A$ gained strength rising 8.2% against the greenback. While partly due to a weakening of the US$, the A$ was also up 2% against the British Pound, 3.4% against the Euro and 5.6% against the Yen. The outlook Beyond direct health effects much of COVID-19’s economic impacts have been due to fear. It will take many months, but as vaccines are rolled out, and provided they bring the pandemic under control, much of that fear will dissipate. As it does economic activity should pick up strongly. Less likely to see any positive developments in the immediate future is the tense relationship between Australia and China. Australian coal miners, winemakers and barley growers will continue to bear the brunt of the dispute. Fortunately, China is still highly dependent on Australian iron ore, the price of which has soared by 78% since the start of the year. For current market conditions and further economic analysis, contact our financial advisers. We’re here to help!   The information provided in this article is general in nature only and does not constitute personal financial advice.

Market crashes: The good, the bad and the ugly

Market crashes: The good, the bad and the ugly

Updated on Economy, Investing

Just as night follows day, it seems part of the regular cycle of the world’s share markets that market crashes and falling prices follow good times and rising prices. The impact of the COVID-19 Global Pandemic has been typical of such downturns, prompting a 35 per cent sell off in world share markets and a dramatic fall in economic activity. For many, it has prompted memories of other equally, and sometimes more devastating, downturns in the world’s share markets. The most famous was “Black Thursday” in 1929, which led to an 80 per cent collapse in share prices and sparked the Great Depression, lasting for more than 10 years. What caused it? The wild excesses of the roaring twenties when consumer confidence was at a record high and the introduction of margin loans, where people could borrow up to 80 per cent of the value of shares. This created a classic investment bubble, where optimism overwhelmed caution, and people started buying shares with the mistaken belief they would always increase in value. A drop in agricultural production due to droughts and a fall in economic production caused a sudden reversal in sentiment. A similar situation occurred 60 years later in 1987 where panic selling on Black Monday wiped approximately 30 per cent from the value of the key US market index, the Dow Jones – its biggest one-day fall. It put an end to the ‘Greed is Good’ mentality of the eighties and prompted a review of the relatively new, computerised share trading systems. Yet it seems investor’s memories are short. Not long after this, markets got caught up with a new investment bubble prompted by the development and growth of the Internet. Companies raced to find their place online, and suddenly, all Internet companies were considered a sure bet. This speculative buying ran out of steam when the Dot Com Bubble finally burst in 2000, wiping 45 per cent off the value of shares. Whilst sharing commonalities with previous crashes, the Global Financial Crisis of 2008, was also in many ways unique. It was the direct result of dodgy lending practices in the US housing market, which created a toxic class of home loans, commonly referred to as sub-prime loans. Typically, these lenders ignored the individual’s ability to repay the loans and instead focused on the belief property prices would continue to rise, and there would always be people prepared to rent these properties. It created a typical investment bubble in the US housing market. Eventually, people found they could not meet their repayments, nor could they sell the properties held as securities. Causing enormous problems within the US banking system and the collapse of several international banks. The lesson to be learnt from all these devastating crashes is that while no two were the same, they were all similar in nature. All were created by exaggerated investor beliefs that prices would never fall. Therefore, it is essential to think carefully before investing, ensuring each investment is made with a long-term mindset, and that sudden market corrections do not lead to panic selling. As history has shown, market downturns follow upturns, but as long as the investment is fundamentally sound, it will fully recover any lost value. Contact us today for sound investment and financial advice to withstand market volatility.   The information provided in this article is general in nature only and does not constitute personal financial advice.

Get your super together and save

Get your super together and save

Updated on Superannuation

If you have had different jobs with different employers over your working career you will probably have superannuation accounts in many different funds. Apart from the time it takes to keep track of these accounts, there are three more serious concerns of which you should be aware. Investment strategy Choosing the right investments for your situation is critical to maximising your retirement nest egg. Super is for the long term and just 1% extra in returns every year can make a significant difference. For example, if you were earning $70,000 per annum and your fund was receiving only the 9.5% per annum superannuation guarantee contributions from your employer, you could have $288,000 after 20 years if the fund earned 7% per annum. If it earned just 1% per annum more, you could have $326,000. An additional $38,000! Reports and fees More than one fund means you receive multiple annual reports and statements. Apart from being a nuisance, the big danger is that your super will be eroded by fees. Lost billions An inactive account is one that has not been accessed or contributed to in the past 12 months and the super fund cannot locate the account owner. Superannuation held in inactive accounts with balances less than $6,000 is transferred into the federal government’s consolidated revenue account. As there are billions of dollars held in inactive accounts, this is a huge windfall for the government. Does any of this money belong to you? You can easily find out if you have any lost super by using your MyGov account and linking to the ATO. If there is lost super showing, follow the instructions on the MyGov service to claim it. If you don’t have a MyGov account you can download a form from www.ato.gov.au and submit it to instigate a search. Whichever way you do it, the key is to get your super all together now and make it work for your future. Contact us to get started.     The information provided in this article is general in nature only and does not constitute personal financial advice.

Shares are more than numbers

Shares are more than numbers

Updated on Finance, Investing

[fsn_row][fsn_column width=”12″][fsn_text] Whether it’s by direct purchase, via a managed fund or through superannuation, most Australians hold some form of share investment. Many of us are aware that if the numbers in the finance report on the evening news are mostly green that’s good and if they’re red that’s bad, but beyond that we give little thought to what shares are and why we should take an interest in them.   What’s a share? When you buy shares, you aren’t just buying a piece of paper or a digital entry on an electronic register. You are actually buying a physical part of a company. It might be a tiny fraction of the total value, but it still provides you with certain rights and responsibilities, including the opportunity to participate in the direction of the company. Shares are real assets and depending on the size and stability of the company, you can even borrow against them.   The benefits For most people, the most important aspect to share ownership is being able to share in the profits and growth of the company. For ordinary shares, a portion of the profit is usually paid out via twice-yearly dividends. Some profits may be retained to fund the growth of the company, and this should be reflected in an increase in share price over time. These capital gains can be realised by selling the shares. The downside is that, if the company does poorly, investors may see a fall in the value of their shares.   Getting involved Beyond receiving dividends and (hopefully) watching the share price increase, many investors take little interest in their shares. But shareholders also enjoy the right to have a say in the running of the business, by voting for or against the appointment of specific directors and on resolutions at the Annual General Meeting. One share equals one vote, so large institutional investors such as superannuation funds usually have the greatest say, but even small investors can turn up at the AGM and potentially ask questions of the board. And groups of shareholders may get together to influence a company’s direction on a range of business or governance issues.   Buying shares in up and coming companies is also a way of putting one’s money where one’s values and interests are, for example in renewable energy, recycling, medical technologies, batteries or emerging markets.   The rewards of investing in shares can be enormous, and they’re not just financial. There’s real pride to be gained from looking at a company that has achieved great things and to know that you’ve played a part in its success.   However, there is a financial risk associated with owning shares, so if you want to treat your share portfolio as more than just numbers on a screen, speak to us.     The information provided in this article is general in nature only and does not constitute personal financial advice. [/fsn_text][/fsn_column][/fsn_row]

Your wealth during the COVID-19 pandemic

Your wealth during the COVID-19 pandemic

Updated on COVID-19, Finance, Investing

There isn’t a single person in the world who hasn’t been impacted by COVID-19. As new case numbers start to slow in Australia, so too is our economy. This time presents new challenges as everyone gets used to a “new normal” and figures out the best way to weather the coming months. This article provides an overview of different measures the Federal Government has announced to support individuals and businesses, current market performance and what you should be thinking about when it comes to your finances and continuing to build long-term wealth. Government support for individuals and businessesThe Federal Government has announced two economic stimulus packages and the JobKeeper Payment to support individuals and businesses. An overview of the Federal Government’s measures announced to date is detailed below. Support for individualsThe Federal Government has announced a range of measures to help individuals. Eligibility to access these measures is determined on criteria such as your employment status or loss of income due to COVID-19. Some of the key measures include: two $750 payments to social security, veteran and other income support recipients (first payment from 31 March 2020 and the second payment from 13 July 2020); access to the JobKeeper Payment from your employer (if eligible) equal to $1,500 per fortnight; a time-limited supplementary payment for new and existing concession recipients of the JobSeeker Payment, Youth Allowance, Parenting Payment, and Farm Household Allowance equal to $550 per fortnight; early release of superannuation funds (see overview below); and temporarily reducing superannuation minimum drawdown rates (see overview below). Full details about the Federal Government’s measures to support individuals are available on the Treasury website. Early release of superannuationEligible people will be able to access up to $10,000 of their superannuation in the 2019-20 financial year and a further $10,000 in the 2020-21 financial year. To access your super early, you need to meet ONE of the following five criteria: You are unemployed You are eligible for the JobSeeker payment, Youth Allowance for jobseekers, Parenting Payment special benefit or the Farm Household Allowance You were made redundant on or after 1 January 2020 Your working hours have reduced by at least 20 per cent after 1 January 2020 You are a sole trader, and your business activity was suspended, or your turnover has reduced by at least 20 per cent after 1 January 2020 If you are considering early release of your superannuation, you need to consider what the potential long-term impacts may be to the growth of your super fund and retirement income. While $20,000 may not seem like a lot of money now, it could have significant compounding value if left in your fund. Understandably, people may not have any other choice to support themselves financially. Make sure you speak to a financial professional to understand your risks and if this is a suitable option for you. If you are eligible, you can apply for early release of your superannuation directly with the ATO through the myGov website. Temporarily reducing superannuation minimum drawdown ratesThe temporary reduction in the minimum drawdown requirements for account-based pensions has been designed to assist retirees who do not wish to sell their investment assets, while the value of those assets is reduced. The minimum drawdown rates have been temporarily halved. Support for businessesThe Federal Government has announced a range of measures to help businesses facing financial difficulty. Eligibility to access these measures depends on factors such as your turnover and how much your business’s revenue has decreased due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Some of these measures include: increasing the instant asset write-off threshold for depreciating assets from $30,000 to $150,000; allowing businesses with turnover below $500 million to deduct 50 per cent of eligible assets until 30 June 2021; PAYG withholding support, providing up to $100,000 in cash payments which allows businesses to receive payments equal to 100 per cent of salary and wages withheld from 1 January 2020 to 30 June 2020; and temporary measures to reduce the potential actions that could cause business insolvency. Full details about the Federal Government’s measures to support businesses and eligibility criteria are available on the Treasury website. How the banks are approaching home loansBanks have announced that homeowners experiencing financial difficulty can pause their mortgage repayments for between three and six months. It’s important to remember that, in most cases, interest will still be capitalised and added to your outstanding loan balance. When payments restart, your lender may require increased repayments, or the term of your loan may be increased. These are important factors you need to discuss with your lender. What should you focus on when it comes to personal finance?While it can be tempting to sell all your investments now as the market declines, this locks in your losses and puts your wealth in a weak position. If you haven’t already defensively positioned your investments, speak with a financial adviser about how to best adjust your investing over the coming months. You should also consider how to maximise your returns as the market recovers. Investing and building wealth is a long-term game. As such, you should be investing with a long-term time horizon in mind. What should I do next?During this time, you may face some challenges with your finances. Your ability, however, to understand the options available to you and what the current period means on a long-term basis is key to getting through this challenging time productively. Further, making well thought out decisions now will give you the strong foundations you need in your health and wealth as the world recovers and embarks on a new period of growth. Before you make any big changes to your financial situation, speak to us to obtain personalised advice for your unique situation.   This is general information only

Economic Update: First quarter results reflect shock

Economic Update: First quarter results reflect shock

Updated on Finance

The first quarter of 2020 will forever be remembered for delivering one of the greatest health and economic shocks of all time. The economic damage was an inevitable consequence of governments worldwide taking unprecedented action to curb the spread of the novel coronavirus that emerged in China in December 2019. Never have so many people in so many countries experienced such major upheaval to their daily lives at the one time. With numerous countries enacting harsh measures to reduce person-to-person spread of the virus, many sectors of most economies effectively ground to a halt. Tourism, travel, entertainment and hospitality were particularly badly affected, but the fallout will be felt far and wide for some time to come. By the numbersFinancial markets (and many governments) were slow to appreciate the magnitude of the coronavirus threat. Major share markets rose steadily, setting record highs on 20 February, then, as the likely economic consequences of tackling coronavirus became apparent, markets plunged. From its peak of 7,163 the S&P/ASX 200 index fell to 4,546 on 23 March. A rally then saw the index rise to 5,077 at the end of March, 24% down from the start of the quarter. In the US, the S&P 500 fell 34% from top to bottom. The MSCI All-Country World Equity Index dropped 35%. Both indices recovered ground at the end of the quarter to limit January to March losses to 18% and 21% respectively. The Reserve Bank moved quickly to further cut interest rates to 0.25%. This is as low as the RBA is prepared to go, with the Governor indicating this rate will be with us for several years come. Partly in response, and partly due to investors seeking the relative safety of the US dollar, the Australian dollar plunged from US$0.66 US to US$0.55. It then staged a partial recovery to end the quarter at US$0.61. Falls against other currencies were less severe. Massive stimulusGovernments around the world responded with programs that will, over time, pump almost unimaginable sums of money into the economy – hundreds of billions of dollars in Australia, trillions in the US. Banks have deferred some loan repayments, and many landlords will forgo rent payments. The focus is on helping employers retain staff, to provide income support to people who do lose their jobs, and to assist pensioners. One aim is to minimise economic disruption now to facilitate a quicker recovery once coronavirus is brought under control. However, despite these economic initiatives, escalating public health measures saw thousands of businesses close in March, with job losses estimated to be more than one million. While most of the economic stimulus measures were widely applauded, some concern was expressed over the ability of eligible people to withdraw up to $10,000 from superannuation this financial year, and again in 2020/2021. Withdrawing money from super at a time of depressed prices will likely have a major adverse impact on future superannuation savings, leading a number of observers to suggest that this option only be considered once all others have been exhausted. Few silver liningsIt’s difficult to find any silver linings in the clouds of the current crisis. While motorists may welcome the drop in petrol prices, due to oil falling from over US$60 per barrel to near US$20 per barrel, this is a sign of how hard the pandemic is hitting the economy. One small positive: with airlines grounded, people staying home and many industries closed, air pollution and carbon dioxide emissions are down. For advice on how to manage your investments through this financial downturn contact us today.   This is general information only

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