In what has been perhaps the most discussed and debated interest rate decision of all time, the US Federal Reserve (Fed) increased their Federal Funds target interest rate range by 0.25% to 0.25-0.5% at their December meeting. This is the first rate move since the Fed reduced its target rate range to a historic low
Socially Responsible Investment (SRI) takes into consideration not only the financial returns of a company but the social impact it makes. This can involve various levels of social responsibility from sustainability themed investing, negative screening (avoiding certain types of companies, for example, alcohol, gaming and tobacco) to best practice in relation to environmental, social
A large number of Australia’s population are approaching retirement age and looking for an income stream to fund their retirement. By law retirees aged between 65 and 74 need to drawdown a minimum of 5% of the value of their pension investments each year. Unfortunately, a conservative investment portfolio will generally provide a return below
The Australian share market has experienced a very difficult period since March 2015. We have summarised some of the key impacts on Australian shares, looking at the macro level and micro level factors that are playing a part. Macro level factors Earnings growth: Over the next two years there is an expectation that the Australian
Recent events overseas have certainly proven that the world’s markets are truly global and inter-connected. We have been shown that we are all in a global economy where we are affected by what is happening in other key countries and regions. Over the last two months, we have published updates to help you understand
Market corrections - a necessary pain Share markets around the world have fallen sharply over the last week. A number of events including a revaluation of the Chinese currency, weak Chinese manufacturing results and the expectation that the US will raise interest rates sooner rather than later, have combined to produce one of the
There has been a lot going on in global markets over recent months. It would be wise, and prudent, to keep on top of these global risk factors and their impact on your investments. It can be quite difficult to keep up with what is happening and understand what this means for your investments. Initially
A Self Managed Super Fund (SMSF) is a way of saving for your retirement. They work in a similar way to all other superannuation funds, abiding by the same superannuation and income tax laws. The big difference with a SMSF is that as a member of the fund you are also a Trustee, which means
If you are within three to five years of retirement it is a good time to review your investment strategy. When you are working, your investment strategy will focus on accumulating and growing wealth in a tax effective manner, and your investment time horizon is generally quite long. As you enter retirement the focus shifts
Director's Comment By Inbam Devadason The May 2015 Federal Budget was announced last week. It was Treasurer Joe Hockey’s second budget as Treasurer. The Budget has generally been well received and has put forward some key initiatives to assist small business, families with childcare needs and older Australians with a modest amount of assets. To
