Your money today
Shorten, Swan shake up super
Ending a long week of speculation, Treasurer Wayne Swan and Superannuation Minister Bill Shorten have announced big changes to the superannuation system.
Time for moderation
It looks like we’re getting close to the bottom of the interest rate-cutting cycle. But is that really such good news?
Gold rush
Despite recent weakness in its price, the yellow metal should rack up its 13th straight year of gains.
Peering into dark pools
The corporate cop has concerns with so called dark pools but is not bothered by high speed trading.
Investing
Three mega trends that will change the game for investors
Major economic and demographic trends over the next two decades will be game changers for investors. It’s said that demographic trends alone are one of the single most powerful forces of our time and that structural change is more powerful than the macro-economic environment.
How to get a real cash return despite low interest rates
Contrary to popular myth, cash can provide a real return above the cost of living and – unlike super fund strategies – it comes with little risk.
Three big investment themes
Major economic and demographic trends over the next two decades will be game changers for investors.
How to lock in share price gains with a covered call option
The strong rally in the sharemarket has some investors, especially those with investments in the major banks, giving serious thought to whether they should take some profits in case a major correction soon sees these gains diminish.
Superannuation
The safe way to take out a limited recourse loan to buy property in your SMSF
A successful investment is the goal of a limited recourse property gearing arrangement, but clean audit sheets are necessary steps along the way to achieving this.
What changes to the off-market transfer of shares mean for your SMSF
For self-managed superannuation fund trustees there is an important change looming that needs to be considered. Acting now could save members hundreds or perhaps thousands of dollars in brokerage fees, say advisers.
How to find the best retirement vehicle
With people living longer, it’s crucial to map out financial goals. The questions: “Just how much do I need to save for a comfortable retirement and am I on track to get there?” cannot be answered before knowing how much income is likely to be needed in retirement.
Can someone’s debt be repaid by a transfer within an SMSF?
Can a self-managed (DIY) super fund where one member owes a debt to the other resolve this by the indebted member quitting the fund and setting off the debt against his super interest, which is equal to the debt?
Budgeting
Four ways to quickly pay off your mortgage
If you have a mortgage, the numbers on paying it down faster and directing money elsewhere are compelling. Although it may be a means to valuable real estate, paying interest for 25 years can be a false economy.
How to buy a used car without getting ripped off
Next time you’re looking for a used car, look at the whole number on the odometer, not just the first digit or two. If you’re considering selling, do it before the next big 10,000 kilometre milestone
Things to do with a lump sum
Yes, we have all sorts of ideas. Here are some of the useful ones.
Can someone’s debt be repaid by a transfer within an SMSF?
Can a self-managed (DIY) super fund where one member owes a debt to the other resolve this by the indebted member quitting the fund and setting off the debt against his super interest, which is equal to the debt?
Taxation
The taxation implications of a delay in death benefits
The government has announced it will ensure tax isn’t restarted on superannuation investments in the pension phase after death.
How to escape double taxation
Some clarity from the government surrounding the taxation of death benefits means taxes levied will be reduced from three to two.
The best places to put your tax refund
According to the ATO, the average refund issued between July 1, 2012, and August 20, 2012, was $2217. We look at the best place for you to put it.
Tax rorts that get you an audit
Minimising your tax might be OK, but start rorting the system and the taxman will be after you.
Property
Why it’s a good time to look at property
The property market is in a sweet spot. New loans taken out in January by investors increased three times faster than those for owner-occupiers.
How to renovate your investment property and get a higher rent
While renovation costs can sting up front, improving a rental property can secure quality tenants for longer, which avoids re-letting costs and wear and tear from multiple move-ins.
How to manage your investment property or find a good property manager
Buying an investment property can make a lot of financial sense by providing a reliable income stream, but owners need to be active managers or find an agent who can do it for them.
How to invest in commercial property
The fall in interest rates and the ensuing hunt for higher better yields have made higher yielding investments in commercial, industrial and retail property much more attractive.
Borrowing
Should you go guarantor for someone else’s loan, even your child?
Going guarantor for your children is a risky business. When a parent, or anyone else, is asked to go guarantor, they need to understand the implications.
How to offset and save on your mortgage
When you’re repaying a mortgage, there’s often cash floating around in a savings account which could help you pay it down a little quicker. But perhaps you’re not sure if you’ll need the money for other things.
How to take out a reverse mortgage without paying lots of interest
Reverse mortgages are a valid strategy to address a retirement shortfall but you need to be careful too. Legal and financial advice is essential.
How to get the full rate cut on your mortgage
These five tips will help you secure a better-value mortgage from those financial institutions that are dragging the chain on passing on the RBA’s rate cuts.
Insurance
What can go wrong if you buy insurance through your super fund
New rules on super funds and insurance means trustees should consult with experts to determine if they have adequate protection.
How to self-insure in your SMSF
It is possible for an SMSF to finance life and disability insurance for its members by setting fund earnings aside in a special reserve account, but it’s a little complicated.
How to get the best holiday insurance
When travelling it’s really important to get the right cover in case something goes terribly wrong. Many policies have details in the fineprint which can also be a surprise when you go to claim.
How to take out income protection insurance
While we insure our house, car and boat, most of us don’t protect our biggest asset – our income.
Stock price lookup
Video | Real estate rebound
As Aussies get enthusiastic about property again, editor Nicole Pedersen-McKinnon reveals on Channel 7’s Sunrise program the suburbs and areas best to buy.
Video | Spend time, save cash
Nicole Pedersen-McKinnon gives advice on Channel 7’s The Morning Show on how to avoid being a ‘bill D.I.L.’ – and save thousands on your so-called fixed costs.
Video | How big’s your mortgage gap?
Do you know the size of your mortgage gap? Editor Nicole Pedersen-McKinnon joins a Channel 7 Morning Show discussion of a new tool that lets you see how much bank hoarding is costing you.
