(03) 9020 2905It’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
Category Archives: Articles
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?
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
How much cash should you hold for an emergency, and where do you keep it?
Sure, they come in degrees of seriousness, but they’re all emergencies. A good drama-queen can make an emergency out of anything! Bar, 2.30am. You’re exceedingly intoxicated and have been acting … Read More How much cash should you hold for an emergency, and where do you keep it?
Borrowing to invest: Is it still a worthwhile investment strategy today?
There’s a fringe element out there – certifiably crazy, in my opinion, like Charlie Sheen’s spectacular brain implosion – that believes debt is the devil. These, um, fools, claim embracing … Read More Borrowing to invest: Is it still a worthwhile investment strategy today?
Five financial mistakes
Time to name your weakness. What’s the stupid thing you do time and again? I’ll go first. Buffet. I’m hopeless. If a waiter hands me an empty plate (with more … Read More Five financial mistakes
What should you do if your wage comes up in a conversation with your colleagues?
Implement previously rehearsed emergency tactical diversion techniques. This is not a drill. This situation is live! Go to the bathroom. “Sorry, I’m off. It’s washing night.” Wander off to order … Read More What should you do if your wage comes up in a conversation with your colleagues?