(03) 9020 2905PORTFOLIO POINT: Want financial advice on retirement, pensions or Centrelink entitlements? Read this before you make your first phone call. You wouldn’t have believed some of the squealing that followed … Read More Financial Advisers don’t make the grade
All posts by Helen
FoFA ASIC shadow shop independence
It’s been a big and bruising 10 days in the financial services sector. First, a legislative bomb landed. Then a hand-grenade report was tossed in to finish off the wounded. … Read More FoFA ASIC shadow shop independence
Should we share our money successes and failures with friends and family?
Share the actual monetary reward or loss? Oh, no, no, no, NO! That would be … communism! No commies in these pages, thanks very much. But talking about what created … Read More Should we share our money successes and failures with friends and family?
Take two for a DIY ruling
PORTFOLIO POINT: Here’s another major benefit of SMSFs – managing contributions over two years. The power of super as a retirement vehicle has plenty of boundaries. There are plenty of … Read More Take two for a DIY ruling
At what age should you start to teach children about the importance of money?
In utero! Derrr! Expectant parents are told to “play soothing music” to their unborns. I hate soothing music. Reminds me of elevators. Claustrophobia. No room in the womb. But L’il … Read More At what age should you start to teach children about the importance of money?
FOFA: What happened?
PORTFOLIO POINT: A last-minute backroom deal on FoFA’s “iconic” opt-in arrangements will dilute benefits to super members and investors. What does it mean for you? When two usual bedfellows break … Read More FOFA: What happened?
Guarding super’s panic button
PORTFOLIO POINT: Super investment risk is ultimately in your control. Do you have a finger on the panic button? Using extreme examples to try to prove a point rarely does … Read More Guarding super’s panic button
Is it a good idea to lend a friend money if they ask for your help?
A no-win situation. Kiss the money goodbye if you do. And feel like a mean bastard of Judge Judy proportions if you don’t. Hey, idea! Treat the situation like you … Read More Is it a good idea to lend a friend money if they ask for your help?
Estate planning
I’ve nearly had a lot of car accidents recently. The closest calls have always been just after crèche pick-up. The crèche teachers, bless ’em, are awesome. Boundless love and encouragement … Read More Estate planning
Risk off: The new DIY trend
PORTFOLIO POINT: The primary investment driver of SMSF trustees has changed. Has it taken hold of you? Some shifts in direction are subtle, like a cruise liner slowly changing its … Read More Risk off: The new DIY trend