Blog
The blog for people who want to understand their finances better and feel more in control of their money.
This blog is for educational purposes only and contains general information. It does not take into account your personal objectives, financial situation or needs. Before acting on any information, you should consider whether it is appropriate for your circumstances. If you would like advice tailored to your situation, you can book an appointment with one of our financial advisers here.
Index Investing: The Simple Investment Strategy That Could Make You Richer by Doing Less
Think investing success means picking the next big stock or finding the perfect fund manager? Index investing flips that idea on its head. This episode unpacks why a simple, low-cost strategy that owns the market, instead of trying to beat it, could help investors keep more of their money working for longer.
Offset Account vs Investing in Shares: Which One Could Make You Richer?
When interest rates are high, the offset account can feel like the obvious place for extra savings. But if you’re trying to build long-term wealth, is keeping your money in offset always the smartest move?
Everyone Says Pay Off the Mortgage with an Inheritance. But What Should You Really Do?
Everyone says to pay off the mortgage when you receive an inheritance. But is that always the right move? Here’s how to slow down, avoid costly mistakes and make a plan that honours the legacy you’ve been left.
SMSFs Explained: Why Australians Are Considering Self-Managed Super Again
Self-managed super funds fell out of favour for good reason. Industry funds became easier, cheaper and more sophisticated, while SMSFs kept the admin, costs and trustee responsibilities. But as the tax landscape changes, some Australians are starting to ask whether self-managed super deserves another look.
Financial Advice in Your 30s and 40s: Are You Making the Most of Your Best Earning Years?
Your 30s and 40s can be your strongest wealth-building years, but they can also disappear fast without a clear plan. Nick Donato explains why getting advice earlier can help you make the most of your income, super, mortgage and future goals.
How to Plan for Education Costs Without Financial Stress
Planning for your child’s education is about more than school fees. Nick Donato explains how parents and grandparents can think through the real costs, compare funding options and build a plan that supports the kids without putting the rest of the family’s finances under pressure.
Negative Gearing Changes: Is Property Still the Best Way to Build Wealth?
If negative gearing changes make existing residential property less attractive, investors may need to rethink the old property playbook. Here’s what to consider before making your next move.
Get Retirement Ready: How to Avoid Costly Surprises After You Retire
One year from retirement, the focus shifts from planning in theory to making sure everything is ready. This article covers retirement income, cash buffers, goals and how to prepare for your first year after work.
Your EOFY Checklist: Smart Moves to Make Now That Could Reduce Your Tax and Boost Your Super
EOFY is not just about receipts and tax returns. This episode covers the key checks to make before June 30, from super contributions and tax deductions to SMSFs, investments, family trusts and business obligations.
Get Retirement Ready: The 5 Things to Get Right Before You Retire
Five years from retirement, the planning starts to get real. This article explains what to focus on now, from spending goals and sequencing risk to super contributions, housing decisions and life after work.
Get Retirement Ready: Should You Pay Off the Mortgage or Boost Your Super?
Around 10 years from retirement, the choices you make now can have a big impact. Here’s what to consider with super, mortgage debt, investments, insurance and the life you want next.
What Inflation Is Really Doing to Your Wealth
Inflation does more than push up prices. It changes what your savings can buy, what your investment returns are really worth and whether your retirement plan is keeping pace. Paul Benson explains what inflation is doing to your wealth and how to check whether your strategy is built for rising costs.
Post-Divorce Financial Roadmap
Divorce can force a major financial reset. This roadmap walks through the key steps to rebuild after separation, from goals and housing to cash flow, estate planning and insurance.
How to Retire Earlier: The 5 Levers Australians Can Pull
Retiring earlier is not about hoping for a windfall. It comes down to the right levers, from super contributions and spending choices to investment risk, home equity and part-time work.
The 10 Year Wealth test: Are You on Track for 2036?
A lot can change in 10 years, especially with the right plan. This article shows how to check where you stand now, define what you want next, and turn your money goals into a clear 10-year roadmap.
When Do We Sell Our Investment Properties — Retirement Edition
An investment property that worked during your wealth-building years may not be the right fit in retirement. This article looks at when selling could improve cash flow, reduce stress and support your retirement lifestyle
The Biggest Financial Mistake People Make in Their 40s and 50s
Your 40s and 50s can be make-or-break years for your money. This article explains why coasting financially can be costly, and what to do instead while time is still on your side.
How To Get $100k Per Year In Retirement – Tax Free
A tax-free $100,000 retirement income sounds ambitious, but Australia’s super rules can make it possible with the right balance, pension phase strategy and planning.
Should I Convert My Super to a Pension?
Should you convert your super to a pension as soon as you retire or turn 65? Often, yes. But there are situations where leaving some or all of it in accumulation may make more sense.
The Link Between Interest Rates and the Stock Market
Interest rates do more than change your mortgage repayments or savings returns. They can also shape business profits, investor behaviour, and what happens in the stock market.