By Tony Kaye, Senior Personal Finance Writer, Vanguard Australia When it comes to investing, nothing speaks louder than actual results. The 2021 Vanguard Index Chart shows what investors would have achieved over 30 years from a starting balance of $10,000 invested into different asset types. The dollar returns are based on the measured returns of … Read more
Know your options around making contributions, accessing your super savings and when Age Pension entitlements could be affected. Whether you’re still working, or you’ve already retired, rules around super contributions, accessing super and things like Age Pension eligibility do ramp up once you hit your 60s and 70s. There have also been a lot of … Read more
The Australian Government has extended measures brought in to help retirees through the COVID-19 crisis. Lower minimum income rate… If you hold an account-based pension or similar product, you need to withdraw a certain amount each financial year – this is called your minimum income amount. The Government reduced this amount by 50% during the last … Read more
By Tony Kaye, Senior Personal Finance Writer, Vanguard Australia In early 2020, over just a few weeks, global share markets tumbled more than 35 per cent. Sparked by investor panic over the rapid spread of the COVID-19 virus, it was one of the biggest-ever market downturns. Yet, by the end of last year, markets had … Read more
Buying and selling a home at the same time – it’s the ultimate chicken and egg scenario. At the best of times, it is a juggling act, but in the current market where prices are rising, listing numbers are low and days on market are shrinking the “which comes first?” dilemma is real. Traditionally, homeowners … Read more
There’s a lot to get your head around as a first home buyer, and the upfront and ongoing costs are only part of it. Buying a home is one of the biggest purchases you might ever make, so it’s understandable that saving money for a deposit on a property isn’t likely to happen overnight. In … Read more
Not sure what to do with your tax refund? Strategic financial decisions for your tax return begin with a strong plan. Plan the best ways to use your tax refund in 3 easy steps Write down your financial goals in a clear plan Do a financial check-up, assessing debt and expenses Invest your tax refund … Read more
Many investors concentrate on building their nest egg during their working lives to pay or help pay for their retirement but fail to give enough attention to planning for a retirement that may last 25 years or longer. A lack of retirement planning makes retirees more financially vulnerable than necessary in numerous ways including the … Read more
Dr Shane Oliver – Head of Investment Strategy and Chief Economist, AMP Capital Key points A surge in financial information and opinion along with our natural inclination to focus on bad news is arguably making us worse investors: more fearful & short term. Five ways to help manage the noise and stay focussed as investors … Read more
How much tax you pay on your super contributions and withdrawals depends on: your total super amount your age the type of contribution or withdrawal you make If you inherit someone’s super after they die, the person’s super fund pays you a super death benefit. You may have to pay tax on some of this … Read more
A personal loan lets you borrow money to pay for something special, like a holiday, car or home renovations. You have to repay it with interest over a fixed term, usually between one and seven years. Getting the best deal on a personal loan can save you thousands in interest and fees. Looking for a … Read more
