Money & Life

5 reasons to save for retirement

Saving for retirement might not seem important, especially when there’s the super guarantee and aged pension to fall back on. But employer contributions and government benefits may not keep you as comfortable in later life as you’d like. Here are 5 reasons to make saving for your super a priority in the coming year.

 The key points are as follows:

  1. You can expect to live longer

  2. You have a bucket list

  3. You don’t have a crystal ball

  4. You could save on your tax bill

  5. You can harness the power of compounding

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7 Steps to wealth and living well

In more than a decade working as a financial planner, Elliot Watson CFP® has met with hundreds of clients and learnt a great deal about what it takes to build a wealthier and happier life. Above all, he believes planning for a better future is as much about people as their money. Here Elliot shares 7 key insights into how you can transform your fortunes.

 The key points are as follows:

  1. Time is critically important

  2. No one has a crystal ball

  3. Cure yourself of debt

  4. Face the music, feel the pain

  5. Make the leap

  6. Being retirement ready

  7. Bring your ideas - and commitment

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Is working more the answer to your financial problems?

When working more means earning more, it makes sense to take that promotion or extra shift to get ahead financially. But when expenses go up and quality of life goes down, is the price you’re paying for longer hours too high?

 The key points are as follows:

  1. Where will you be spending more?

  2. What will you be missing out on?

  3. Could you be better off without earning more?

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Women and money: What needs to change?

Money & Life

With gender pay and super gaps coming up more often in the equality conversation, are we seeing meaningful change for women’s financial security and well-being or is there still a long way to go?

The main points are as follows:

  • Measuring to keep moving forward

  • Redefining relationships at home and work

  • A fresh perspective on finances

  • Support from experts and leaders

  • The drivers of change

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The Royal Commission verdict is out

Money and Life

The FPA is continuing in its work to deliver better consumer protections and improve professional and educational standards as highlighted in the final Royal Commission report handed down by Justice Kenneth Hayne.

The key recommendations for financial advice are as follows:

  • No more trailing commissions

  • Ongoing advice fees to be annually reviewed

  • Reducing commissions on life insurance

  • A new disciplinary system for financial planners

  • Quarterly reporting of misconduct concerns

  • A renewed commitment to the clients’ best interests

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Tips to make this year the best one ever

Money & Life

Making New Year resolutions are one thing. Actually sticking to them is an entirely different matter altogether. Here are some surefire tips to help you succeed.

The main points are as follows:

  • Let go

  • Ditch the expectations

  • Know your principles

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Four ways to declutter your finances

Money & Life

Your home may be looking minimal and serene in 2019 thanks to author and TV host Marie Kondo. But could your finances do with some decluttering too? Find out how to go about it with our guide to simplifying your budget, bank accounts, super and debts.

The main points are as follows:

  • Less really is more

  • Budgeting based on your values

  • How many bank accounts?

  • Simplify your super

  • Do away with debt

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Not just about the money

Money & Life

Thinking of a new job in the new year? With wage growth staying low, better benefits and work-life balance could be something to look for in your next role. Find out about the latest workplace trends for supporting employees with their health, finances and work-life balance.

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Debt – just how big a problem is it?

Money & Life

Recent figures show personal debt levels in Australia are among the highest in the world. So does this mean we’re heading for a debt disaster? Or are we doing the right kind of borrowing to get ahead with finances? Find out what kind of debts can be a problem and how to keep borrowing within safe limits.

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Your no. 1 financial focus – decade by decade

Money & Life

Everyone has a different life journey they’re on. But getting on top of key financial goals as you follow your own path could see you enjoying a more comfortable lifestyle and being ready for the next chapter to begin. Read our guide to getting all your money matters sorted out, one decade at a time.

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How much super should I have?

Money and Life

“It’s all very well having retirement savings as a financial goal, but just how much should you plan to have in your super balance now, and when you retire? Find out more about coming up with a super balance target, for your age group, and for the retirement lifestyle you have in mind”

The key points are as follow:

  • Above or below average?

  • How much is enough?

  • Should I save more?

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The super split

Money & Life.

By the time you retire your super may be one of your biggest assets. So when it comes to a divorce, it’s a very important part of a financial settlement. Find out from legal and financial experts what you need to know, and what to keep in mind when it comes to super and separating your family finances.

The key point are as follow:

  • Just how important is my super?

  • Can my ex claim some of my super (or vice versa)?

  • Should I go to court to get my fair share?

  • Things to bear in mind with super and separation

  • Defined benefit schemes and SMSFs

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Estate planning – when should I start?

Money & Life

The following note looks at why an estate plan is so important and when you should make a start on yours.

The key points are as follow:

  1. Am I too young to need a will?

  2. When should I be making a will?

  3. Don’t forget to think about :

    • Executors, attorneys and trustees

    • Beneficiaries

    • Tax

    • Super

    • Advances to children

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Where does all my money go? Save money on your three biggest expenses

Money & Life

The three biggest drains on our money are paying for housing, food and transport. And there’s no getting away from the fact that it is unlikely we can live without any of the “big three”. Here we look at some ways of how to save on these items.

The main points are as follow :

  • Saving on rent in the Big Smoke

  • Buying a home

  • Make money from your home

  • Save money on decorating and furnishing

  • Food for your soul

  • Your method of transportation

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Getting personal insurance right

Money & Life

Does everyone need life insurance? Is the policy you’re paying for through your super fund enough? Deciding what sort of personal insurance is right for you and how much cover you need takes time and asking the right questions about your individual situation. Find out more about what you need to think about to get the right insurance to protect you and your family. 

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How to max your tax refund

Money & Life.

Expecting a refund from your 2017/18 tax return? 77 out of 100 Aussies are likely to get one and many could already have plans to spend it. If you’re one of them, find out how to treat yourself right with your windfall and be better off for good.

The main goals are as follow :

  • Goal 1. Escape your debts

  • Goal 2. Be ready for the unexpected

  • Goal 3. Future proof your finances

  • Goal 4. Realise your wealth potential

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