The uncertain investment environment and poor returns from shares since the GFC has seen the popularity of bank deposits surge while that of shares has collapsed. With term deposit rates falling it makes sense for investors to consider some of the alternatives. This article, written by Dr Shane Oliver of AMP Capital, takes a closer look at some of the options available. Rick Maggi. Read more here
In recent weeks, US politicians and economists have been quoting the term 'fiscal cliff' in the media with increasing regularity. The coming fiscal cliff they are referring to would take effect on January 1 2013, after the US elections in November. So what exactly is it? Should Australian investors be worried? Read more here
New home sales data released today for May by the HIA confirm that the housing market remains chronically weak right now. This article looks at the outlook for Australian house prices. Rick Maggi Read more here
In addition to providing a brief update on Europe, this note (courtesy of AMP Capital) focusses on the US economy, both in terms of the slowdown evident in some economic indicators and the impending fiscal tightening from January 1 next year. Read more here
With June 30 fast approaching, now is a good time to review your portfolio and plan for the year ahead. And this year, there are a few time sensitive issues surrounding superannuation that you may want to pay particular attention to. Below is a useful checklist which you may want to quickly run through to ensure that you are fully prepared for 2012/13. Rick Maggi EOFY Checklist
Did you know you can save money by buying your life insurance and total disability (TPD) cover in super? Read more here Rick Maggi
Vanguard has formally announced that they will be significantly reducing the investment fees they charge on their most popular funds to well below industry averages. Vanguard recognise the significant impact that costs have on investment returns and with many of their fund fees now dropping to jaw-dropping lows, our clients now have a greater chance of investment success. We congratulate Vanguard. For more information contact us on 9382 8885. Rick Maggi.
Anti-Detriment payments were introduced almost 25 yeas ago to ensure that the families and beneficiaries of super members were not inadvertently disadvantaged by the introduction of the 15% contributions tax. Does your fund allow for anti detriment payments? Read more here Rick Maggi.
If you're thinking of retiring or resigning (or are faced with redundancy), you should know the special tax concessions for certain employment termination payments (ETP's) will end on June 30 2012. Read more here Rick Maggi
The 'concessional contributions' caps for superannuation contributions are being significantly reduced on 1 July 2012, so if you're over 50 this could impact you in a number of ways. These two articles focus of the caps themselves plus 'transition to retirement' strategies. If in doubt, please contact us before the end of June - its extremely important to get this right. Rick Maggi
Jeff Brunton, Head of Credit Markets (AMP) discusses the benefits of bond funds in an environment of declining interest rates. Rick Maggi. View video here
The Australian share market fell to a two-month low this afternoon, led by miners, as Greece's political leaders prepare for a second election in just over a month. Read more here.
The Australian love affair with cash has been understandable one since the beginning of the GFC. Where else could you get a guaranteed, government backed asset paying 5% plus while all around was failing miserably? Vanguard's Robin Bowerman highlights investors to the age old 'health warning' that applies to all investments - namely that past performance is no guarantee that the future will deliver the same outcome. Rick Maggi Read here
In this brief article, filled with positive messages, Elm Capital's John Robertson takes a look at the strong start to 2012 and what we might expect for the remainder of 2012, based on modern history. Let's hope he's right. Enjoy! Rick Maggi Read here
US stocks advanced strongly again, sending the Dow Jones up over 200 points, to the highest level since 2007, well past 13,000. Read more here
AMP Capital's Dr Shane Oliver explains where we are in the investment cycle and implications for investors. This is an informative and easy to understand video (approx 9 min) and it reinforces the importance of getting the right mix of assets or 'asset allocation' in your investment or superannuation strategy. Enjoy! Rick Maggi Watch video here
This article, yet another from Dr Shane Oliver, will be interest to all investors, superannuation, pension and wealth accumulators alike. Rick Maggi Read Oliver's Insights
At a time when many investors have become jaded and cynical about shares, often tempted to run to the relative 'safety' of cash or bonds, Warren Buffett's shareholder letter explains why it may pay too be a little more patient. Enjoy. Rick Maggi Read article here
(Video) AMP Capital's Dr Shane Oliver series of videos takes a look at 2011 and looks forward into 2012. Worth viewing. Rick Maggi. Watch video
Vanguard's Robin Bowerman focuses on the outstanding performance of bonds during 2011, but also highlights the age old importance of diversification. Rick Maggi Read here
