Timing your investment decisions

It is very easy to let emotion control our investment decisions when experiencing market volatility: especially when we are being bombarded with constant media coverage reporting gloomy performance and falling share prices. Many people put off investing simply because they don’t know when to start – they are seeking “the best time”. Others who are already in the market worry when the news is … [Read more...]

Periodic Reviews are more than a necessity

One of the biggest challenges we have when planning for our financial security is determining the difference between what we really need…and what we’d like.   Working with a financial adviser can help identify the difference. This happens when the relationship is first established: when the adviser becomes familiar with your lifestyle, career and financial situation. The adviser will … [Read more...]

Why have Life Insurance…. do i need it?

Let’s start with a quick quiz: Are you married? Do you have dependent children? Do you have other dependent relatives? Do you have major financial obligations? Do you own a business? Do you have a large estate that will take time to distribute?   If you answered yes to any of the questions above, you probably need life insurance. Now that you know this is important for … [Read more...]

What is Market Volatility?

With share market volatility a daily part of news headlines, it's only natural to be concerned about how the fluctuations might be affecting the value of your investments. It can also be tempting to move your money into less risky investments. But don’t act too quickly!   Everyone has heard of the term “market volatility” but what is it exactly?   “Volatility” refers to the amount … [Read more...]

Redundancy – What do i do next?

  In our last article, we suggested some key immediate actions to take if you are experiencing redundancy. Today, our suggestions focus on actions you can take to move forward with your life and career.   Don’t delay your job search After you have been made redundant it is understandable to feel like you deserve a break, and to want to take some time out of the workforce. However you … [Read more...]

The Possible Benefits of ” Transition of Retirement”

Transition to Retirement Income streams were originally introduced in July 2005 to help Australians who wanted to transition to retirement via part-time work. By starting a TTR, you don’t have to retire to withdraw your super benefits. You can work part-time or full-time or even casually. There are three major potential benefits available. Boost your super savings With a transition to … [Read more...]

Superannuation: What are Concessional Caps?

Superannuation is a way to save for your retirement. The intent is to support you to have sufficient income in retirement so that you can live comfortably once you stop working and earning an income.   The money invested via superannuation comes from contributions made into your super fund by your employer and, ideally, topped up by your own money. In addition to that, sometimes the … [Read more...]

What is insurance in superannuation?

What is insurance in superannuation? Many super funds arrange life and disability cover for their members. Insurance is arranged by the super fund trustee, acting on behalf of the members of the fund. Having insurance for accidents and illness can provide a sense of security for you and your family. Deciding whether to have your insurance within superannuation or outside super can be a … [Read more...]

What is “Super Consolidation”?

What is “Super Consolidation”? Have you worked for more than one employer in your career? How many super statements did you receive last year? If you found yourself thinking “I didn’t know I even had that super fund” or if you have lost track of your funds over the years as you have changed employment, then super consolidation may be the answer. Consolidating your super means rolling all of … [Read more...]

How Much Superannuation Will I Need?

How much Superannuation will I need? Your retirement may be a distant thought or it may be just around the corner. Either way, it's important to know you'll be able to afford the lifestyle you want and deserve. While Australian employers are required to contribute at least 9.5% of your salary to super, you need to work out if this will be enough for you to live comfortably in … [Read more...]