John Owen, Portfolio Specialist, discusses the global share market recovery, why caution is still waranted from an Australian perspective and how MLC’s portfolios are positioned. In the latest update, John reviews events in markets during October. He discusses: how share markets performed strongly in October, going some way to recovering the losses of the previous…
Getting your mortgage application together can require quite a bit of financial scrutiny. In order to figure out your serviceability, your potential lender will look deeply into your finances. It’s a no brainer to take your credit card debts into consideration when applying for a mortgage. But what many people do not realise is that…
When the interest rate on your home loan fluctuates, it can feel as though you don’t have control of your debt. Despite being frustrating, interest rate changes are a part of every loan’s lifespan and warrant your consideration. The interest rates that banks charge on their home loans are influenced by the Reserve Bank of…
We all like to put things on credit from time to time. But you may be shocked to find out how much your credit card debt really costs. Content There’s no question that credit cards are a convenient way to pay for things you need – or want– but that you haven’t quite managed to…
As the end of financial year approaches, the ATO is once again taking the magnifying glass to our financial affairs, to ensure we’re all paying what we should. With new technology making it easier for the ATO to check data on tax returns against details from banks, employers and government agencies, you need to meet…
Your self-managed super fund is a powerful investment tool, and a great way of saving for your retirement. But don’t forget that as trustee, with control comes responsibility. And that means it’s up to you to make sure your SMSF is complying with super and tax laws. 1. Give notice If you’re planning to claim…
If you’re looking for a faster way to sort out your tax this end of financial year, there’s good news – technology is taking the headache out of tax time as online options become more accessible. And with the average cost of a tax agent at $371 , it might not just be time you’re…
If you’re looking for ways to boost your retirement income, there’s a simple and smart strategy to get more out of your investments. The returns you’re receiving on your shares could be even higher, by making the most of franking credits. How it works Franking credits are tax credits that a company distributes to its…
After years of hard work, you are finally looking forward to reaping the rewards and enjoying your retirement. With some good planning, you could have a nest egg that will see you through your retirement. But, are you forgetting something? It’s an unfortunate fact that almost half of all Australians do not have a will.1 …
Main point are as follows… · A housing recovery has been a necessary aspect of rebalancing the economy through the mining bust. · While Australian property prices are overvalued, this should not be a constraint on the RBA. Expect another rate cut in May with the possibility of more to follow. · The medium term…