Should I buy insurance through my super?

While we all hope for good health, the reality is that some of us may struggle at times with sickness or injury. And that may affect your family’s financial wellbeing. Different types of life insurance or personal insurance can provide an income when you’re unable earn, or a lump sum to protect your loved ones … Read more

Trusts and the new super tax rules

Ensuring you’ve structured your finances tax-effectively is always a concern, but with new tax rules for super on the horizon, many people with large balances are considering alternative vehicles to save for retirement. Unsurprisingly, this has sparked a renewed interest in an old favourite – trusts. Trusts have always been popular in Australia, with the … Read more

How to boost your super with a lump sum

If you’re lucky enough to have received a windfall, perhaps an inheritance or a retrenchment payout, your first decision will be what to do with it. Assuming you have decided against a shopping splurge, finding the best place to invest a lump sum is all about the effect on your tax bill and how soon … Read more

How iron ore plays a big part in our economy

Iron ore has been the backbone of the Australian economy and many investment portfolios for much of the 21st century. In 1921, iron ore accounted for 68 per cent of Australia’s export revenue. This was the year that iron ore prices peaked at almost $US230 a tonne.i However, its growth as an export icon really … Read more

Keeping cashflow positive

Managing a healthy cash flow is often tough for small businesses and it is particularly the case right now in the challenging economic conditions. In this climate, recent changes to rules and regulations may both help and hinder cash flow. Here are some to keep an eye on. Minimum wage rise The Fair Work Commission’s … Read more

Managing the costs of raising children

It is a special feeling to welcome a new child or grandchild into the world and watch them grow. Sharing their joy as they reach new milestones is priceless. Of course, there is a real cost – raising a child is expensive, particularly now as the cost-of-living spirals higher. Estimates vary widely from the few … Read more