What are the implications for Australia?
Following the recent changes to Japan's monetary policy, AMP Capital's Dr Shane Oliver discusses it's implications for global share markets. Rick Maggi. Watch Now
05/04/13: Government announces changes to superannuation...
What does it all mean?
Here's the good news. The changes were not 'draconian', as feared in recent weeks. In fact, most Australian's won't be impacted by the tweaks to investment earnings tax on pension balances. The bad news is that all of this adds greater complexity to an already complex area, which is why you should speak to your financial planner. Below is a bullet point summary of the changes, but there are other areas to consider as well, so call us. Rick Maggi. Super Changes
12/04/13: Are we in for another bout of weakness?
Olivers Insights
After a strong start to the year, share markets have had a few wobbles lately and bonds have rallied again. Sell in May and go away? Rick Maggi. Read more here
09/04/13: Work to live-not live to work
Finding that elusive work/life balance...
An interesting article with practical tips. Enjoy! Rick Maggi. Read here
05/04/13: Money Printing. What are the risks?
Another look at 'Quantitative Easing' (Video)
Don't let the term 'quantitative easing' scare you. The concept and reasons behind it are simple and quite justifiable in the the current climate. AMP Capital's Dr Shane Oliver attempts to briefly explain what it is, why it's being done, and the implications for shares and bonds going forward. An easy to understand 4 minute video, worth viewing. Enjoy! Rick Maggi. View video here
30/03/12: Should super funds have more bonds?
Shares or Bonds?
In this article, Dr Shane Oliver looks at the recent move to the relative safety of bonds and whether now is the right time to be making the shift. Read more here
23/03/12: Global recovery watch
Mid-year scare on the horizon?
So far this year we have seen solid gains in global share markets. Economic news has been positive with receding tails risks regarding Europe, greater confidence of continued growth in the US and some lessening worries about China. But there was also a burst of confidence in early 2010 and early 2011. Read more here.
20/03/13: Running to Stand Still
'Outside The Flags' (Jim Parker, Dimensional)
Trying to correctly time your entry point to the market is never easy. Just ask the experts. This brief article written by Jim Parker, VP of Dimensional (DFA) Australia, is another reminder of the perils of market timing. Let me know if you'd like a copy of Jim Parker's book 'Outside the Flags' - an easy, enjoyable read. Rick Maggi. Read 'Running to Stand Still'
18/02/13: 2013 Rays of Hope
The start of the new year...
A refreshing take on the new year from Vanguard's Robin Bowerman… Read Here
16/03/13: Don't worry about a stock market drop...
Feeling a little Vertigo?
With US share markets at all time highs and Australian markets quickly gaining ground, it is only natural to feel a little nervous about what might be around the corner. British Journalist and Economist, Anatole Kaletsky, suggests that you might want to take a different view. Read more here. Enjoy! Rick Maggi.
12/03/13: The Espresso Portfolio
...all it takes is time and the price of a cup of coffee
This is a simple, poignant piece written by Dimensional Australia's VP, Jim Parker. Should be compulsory reading for anyone looking to grow their wealth. Enjoy! Rick Maggi. The Espresso Portfolio
06/03/13: Dow smashes record as US stocks surge
All-time high...
The Dow Jones Industrial Average soared to an all-time record high on Tuesday, passing the five-year old mark to leave behind the deep losses of the economic crisis. The positive impact on Australian superannuation and pension funds has been huge. Read More Here. Rick Maggi.
04/03/13: Retirement Living & Aged Care Services
A business devoted entirely to Seniors...
What is the difference between a Retirement Village and a Lifestyle Village? What is an Aged Care Facility? What other housing options are available to you?
As financial advisors, we're constantly looking for new and relevant products services to help our clients and their families, and we think that 'Relacs', based in Mount Lawley, is pretty special in that regard. If you have ever delved into the areas of Aged Care and Retirement Living, you'll know that this a very complex area and a potential minefield with numerous variables to consider, usually on behalf of your loved ones.
Relacs is a unique service that focuses solely on the issues of Retirement Living, Residential Aged Care, Home & Community Care and Respite & Transitional Care, so they can pull it all together and provide reliable advice in terms you can understand.
It's a great service and one that finally fills a huge void in the Aged Care advice space. For more information, visit their website here, or read their brochure below. Relacs Brochure
01/03/13: A new long-term bull market edging closer...
...but may be somewhat constrained
This is a fascinating article from AMP Capital's Dr Shane Oliver, which suggests that the long-term 'secular bear market' which has plagued investors since the year 2000 is about to end, making way for a new longer running bull market, but with some limitations. Worth a read. Rick Maggi. Read here... Bull market getting closer
27/02/13: Italian elections & European risk
Where to from here?
With an inconclusive election result and a general unwillingness to reform their economy, Italy's future (and therefore Europe's), is back in the spotlight, impacting on share markets and overall confidence. This is a brief report on the topic. Rick Maggi Italian Election/European Risk
27/02/13: What is the prediction for Gold in 2013?
CommSec Gold Commentary...
The following is a 3 minute video commentary from CommSec about the prospects for gold during 2013 and 2014. Enjoy. Rick Maggi. Gold prediction video
16/02/13: Market Dashboard: 15 Feb 2013
Facts and figures at your fingertips...
A quick snapshot of share markets, superannuation funds, commodities, rates and more. Enjoy! Rick Maggi. Dashboard
13/02/13: Till death do us part
Something to think about...
Will your superannuation money be distributed according to your wishes? This article highlights the importance of a little planning in this area. Rick Maggi. Read here
06/02/13: Shares, property, bonds or cash?
Which way to go?
In this easy to understand article, AMP Capital's Dr Shane Oliver discusses the four investments options and their possible performance over the next few years. The second article takes a look at the current share market 'boom' and it's potential to be longer lasting than past recoveries. Rick Maggi
Shares, Property, Bonds or Cash? Shares: How Long Can It Last?
25/01/13: Insuring through your super
Insurance at a fraction of the cost
This 2 minute video from MLC explains how you can reduce your insurance costs and by linking your life insurance with your super fund. A quick and helpful educational video. Rick Maggi. Watch video here