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.
Should Australians Invest Directly in the US Stock Market When Buying US Shares? (And What Changes Are Coming to Wall Street)
Buying US shares directly is becoming easier for Australian investors. But does that make it a better option than investing through the ASX? Nick Donato looks at the fees, currency risk, diversification and other factors worth weighing up.
Can I Retire Before 60? How to Work Out If You Can Afford It
How much investment risk should you actually take? I look at how your goals, timeframe and tolerance for market falls can help determine whether your portfolio is too conservative, too aggressive or about right.
Are You Investing Too Much in Australian Shares?
Australian investors have long had good reasons to favour local shares. But with international investing easier than ever and many of the world’s fastest-growing industries sitting outside the ASX, does that home bias still make sense? Paul Benson looks at what has changed and what investors should consider.
How Much Investment Risk Should You Take?
How much investment risk should you actually take? I look at how your goals, timeframe and tolerance for market falls can help determine whether your portfolio is too conservative, too aggressive or about right.
Buying Property With Siblings: What Should You Agree on First?
Buying property with siblings can make home ownership more achievable, but you need clear rules around ownership, costs, selling, unpaid work and what happens if someone dies.
Should You Help Your Kids Buy Property?
Helping your children buy property can give them a valuable head start, but it can also affect your retirement, savings and housing security. Here are the questions to answer before you commit.
7 Smart Ways to Help You Build Wealth Without Spending Hours Managing Your Money
Building wealth should not feel like another job. Here are seven ways to automate your finances, reduce investment admin and turn more of your income into long-term wealth.
Are Family Trusts Still Worth It After the Proposed 2028 Tax Changes?
Family trusts have long been a common choice for Australians building wealth. But proposed tax changes could make private investment companies more attractive for families focused on long-term growth, retaining profits and passing wealth to the next generation.
Am I on Track For Retirement? Here’s How To Find Out.
Your super balance alone cannot tell you whether you are ready to retire. Here is what determines whether you are on track and how to get a clearer answer.
How to Build Passive Income So You Can Retire Earlier
Passive income is not really about earning money while you sleep. It is about building enough wealth to reduce your hours, change careers or retire earlier. Here is how to work out what you may need and the best ways to build it.
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.