Is It Really ‘Set and Forget’? A Guide to ETFs
You've heard the buzz about passive investing, especially through ETFs, and you're keen to explore how it could work for you. It's often pitched as an easier route to growing your wealth, but how exactly do you get going, and what should you watch out for? Let's look a little deeper.
The Impact of Trump’s Second Term on Australia
Donald Trump has officially been sworn in as the 47th President of the United States, marking the start of his second, non-consecutive term. His return to the Oval Office has already brought a flurry of executive orders and policy announcements, many of which echo his "America First" agenda from his first term. Whether you agree with his politics or not, one thing is clear: Trump's leadership often brings significant changes, and this time is no different. Let’s explore what this might mean for Australian investors and financial planning.
Newsletter – January 2025
In January 2025, both the Australian and American stock markets demonstrated robust performance, driven largely by the technology sector and artificial intelligence developments. The Australian property market showed signs of moderation, with national home values experiencing a slight decline and regional markets showing varied performance. Inflation in Australia continued to ease, with consumer expectations and official data indicating a softening trend. The Australian dollar's decline presents both challenges and opportunities, potentially impacting imports, exports, and tourism while keeping the Reserve Bank cautious about future interest rate decisions.
When Computers Start Doing Your Homework
Imagine having a personal assistant who could handle all those tedious tasks we often put off - like booking your holiday or arranging your life insurance and wills. That's essentially what AI or Artificial Intelligent agents aim to do, amongst other things. Let’s take a closer look at what they are, their potential impact and what you need to look out for as a consumer. Don't worry if you're not tech-savvy - we'll break it down in simple terms.
The FIRE Movement and Money Management
The festive break often provides a valuable opportunity to reflect, and what better time to explore an approach that's been gaining traction: the Financial Independence, Retire Early (FIRE) movement. While its principles might seem bold to some, there are valuable lessons we can all glean from this take on money management.
Newsletter – November 2024
In November 2024, the Australian and the US share market demonstrated a strong upward trend, largely influenced by positive economic indicators and a rally in US markets following Donald Trump's election victory, which boosted investor confidence in anticipated pro-business policies. Conversely, the Australian residential property market showed signs of cooling, with a modest increase in home values and declining sales activity attributed to rising borrowing costs and affordability challenges. The Reserve Bank of Australia maintained its cash rate amid ongoing inflation concerns, while mixed forecasts regarding future interest rate movements highlight uncertainty about economic growth and the potential impact of US policies on Australia’s economy.
Newsletter – October 2024
The ASX 200 index exhibited fluctuations, reflecting a modest monthly increase, with banking and property sectors recovering while mining stocks faced challenges. Meanwhile, the S&P 500 outperformed, reaching a new high driven by strong technology and AI stock performances. The residential property market showed regional variations, with some cities experiencing growth while others saw declines, indicating a slowing momentum. The RBA's focus remains on stabilising inflation and monitoring the labor market. Different banks predict varying timelines for interest rate reductions.
What is Risk, Really?
I recently engaged with an insightful video presentation by Howard Marks, author of The Most Important Thing Illuminated: Uncommon Sense for the Thoughtful Investor. He emphasises that risk is not just about volatility but the probability of loss. Marks highlights the many forms of risk, such as missing opportunities or being forced to sell at a low point, and provides key points on understanding and managing risk wisely. His counterintuitive insights, like how an asset’s price drop can make it less risky, are particularly thought-provoking.
How to Build a Sustainable Family Budget
With the rising cost of living and inflation affecting many households, Australian families are feeling the squeeze. The Consumer Price Index (CPI) increased by 3.8% over the twelve months to June 2024, making it essential to create a sustainable budget. Here’s how you can manage your finances effectively while being mindful of both your wallet and the environment.