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Borrowing to invest is more attractive when interest rates are low. Is now a good time to do it?

“Get your cheap investment debt here!” When said like that, it almost sounds alluring, like “shoe sale”, or “golf club clearance”. But the cost of borrowing money for investment isn’t the most important factor in whether you should or not. It’s well down the list of the “rules for gearing”. First: You only ever gear […]

Everyone should have an emergency fund for unexpected expenses. How much do you need, and how do you hold it?

  How bad? The “accidental” extra two shouts because you got stonkered at the pub? The $300 to replace the washing machine motor that crapped out? Replacing the couch that spontaneously combusted? (Hmm, maybe it was those candles.) Or replacing your car, which has been towed one too many times? Unexpected expenses? No such thing. […]

Managed funds versus index funds. Investment choices are growing, so what type of fund is best?

“Come closer, my sweet. I only share the following with special people. I have a crystal ball that tells the future of investment! If you become a client, I will share its secrets with you!” Sounds like codswallop? Would you believe that if someone said that to your face? Would you guffaw and walk off? […]

Is chivalry dead when it comes to dating and money? What are your tips to avoid an issue?

These “battle of the sexes” questions are brutal. Deadly – no winners. Answer one way, you’re fanning stereotypes. Answer the other and you’re sexist. And both answers will get me in deep with Mrs DebtMan. Hiding to nothing. So, gulp, I’ll just go with honesty and hope I get to keep some arms and legs. […]

A new financial year brings new financial scams. What should your generation watch out for?

Oh, stupidity and greed! I beseech thee to explain! Why art thou power so strong in so many, particularly when combined in the same recipe? Like ducks to water are scamsters to money. They prey on the weak, the dopey, the innocent and the trusting. We have no more chance of ridding the world of […]

It’s time to look forward: What is your new financial year resolution?

So many, I could write a list. Right, well I’ll do that then. First up is definitely to work smarter, not harder. I’ve worked to sensibly adopt technology in the last 12 months. Some will argue you can’t go too far in embracing technology, but spending is a balancing act and I need to insure […]

Your new financial year resolution … right here

So many, I could write a list. Right, well I’ll do that then. First up is definitely to work smarter, not harder. I’ve worked to sensibly adopt technology in the last 12 months. Some will argue you can’t go too far in embracing technology, but spending is a balancing act and I need to insure […]

What is the worst financial insult you have seen, and how do people avoid putting their foot in their mouth about money?

A boss from a previous life gave me a talking to. In essence, he said: You are only as successful as the car you drive. Cars give the appearance of prosperity. “You can afford this (expensive) car? You must be good!” Followed with obligatory yarn about winning a business pitch, after pointing to his expensive […]

Holidaying without travel insurance is dangerous. What should you look for in a policy?

They say “you get what you pay for”. But my experience with travel insurance suggests, um, not so much. Two years ago, mine and two other families were Bali-bound. Airline (whom I won’t name, but their jets usually offer star service) cancelled the flight. While this is inconvenient, I see it positively. Planes have a […]

What is the biggest financial challenge facing your generation over the next decade?

Ah, being a Gen Xer is like living in Queensland. “Beautiful one day, perfect the next”. Could life get better? Our careers are blooming, our tin lids bring us mountainous joy and we have our own versions of The Castle, complete with a “pool room” for the extra special stuff. Have I forgotten something? Oh, […]