With quantitative easing set to end next month, the Fed is on track to start raising interest rates next year, most likely in the June quarter. The anticipation and then reality of this could cause some volatility in shares. · However, once it gets underway Fed tightening is likely to be gradual and history tells…
The profit reporting season that just ended was reasonably good with profit growth expectations affirmed. · While June quarter GDP growth slowed, it reflects pay back for unbelievably strong March quarter growth. Forward looking indicators point to a gradual pick-up in demand driven by a rebalancing in the economy. · The combination of improving growth…
As at March 2014, there were 528,701 SMSFs in Australia, with a total of $558,553 million worth of assets.[1]There are many compelling reasons why SMSFs are so popular — and equally persuasive reasons as to why they don’t suit everyone. The pros If you’re a keen, experienced investor, with at least $200,000 to invest —…
The Pulse Ukrainian and Middle Eastern geopolitics, and an Argentinian default, dominate global equity markets Strong rebound in US economic growth with Q2 GDP at 4% Chinese economy continues to stabilise, with a further improvement in manufacturing data Modest improvement in Australian economic data suggests lower interest rates having a positive impact Global economies…
Susan Gosling, Head of Investments at MLC, examines how well diversified funds meet real, or purchasing power-related, investment objectives. Looking back at the past we can observe periods… Download will my portfolio give me an inflation plus return article
Susan Gosling, Head of Investments at MLC, discusses ‘Inflation, uncertainty and portfolio management: protecting the real value of investors’ portfolios’ Robust investment processes recognise that the future is uncertain. We can never be sure what the future will hold. Risk is not an abstract concept… Download Inflation uncertainty and portfolio management article
Brian Parker, Head of the Portfolio Specialists Group at MLC, reviews events in markets during July. He discusses: How Australia’s market had a very strong month, while world share markets delivered mixed performance Why economic news from the US and recent data from China are positive, but Europe’s recovery remains very fragile Whether Australia’s exports…
An essential part of every financial plan is having personal insurance. But it’s also important to make sure you buy it in a tax-effective way. Benefit from up-front tax concessions If you buy personal insurances such as Life and Total and Permanent Disability through a super fund, you may be able to take advantage of…
Make a will. A will allows you to distribute your estate according to your wishes. You can also avoid the additional costs and delays that may result if you die without a valid will. Choose your executor wisely. Your executor is responsible for ensuring the administration of your estate is dealt with in a timely…
If you’re an empty nester or retiree who owns their own home, chances are you’ve considered whether it makes sense to downsize your home. While there can be financial — and other — benefits in selling up, it’s important to consider whether it’s the right move for you. The pros Downsizing your home can be…