Category Archives: Economic Insights
How to Decipher the Freeze on Deeming Rates – Vanguard Report
The federal budget has announced a freeze on social security deeming rates until June 2025. This decision has significant income implications for Age Pension recipients and suggests potential changes in official interest rates. Learn what deeming rates are, their benefits, and what the freeze means for your retirement planning. Continue reading
Posted in Economic Insights, Financial Planning, Investment Strartegies, May Vanguard, Retirement Planning, Vanguard Insights
Tagged Age Pension, Deeming Rates, Federal Budget, Financial Investments, Inflation, Interest Rates, Investment Returns, Retirement Planning, Social Security, Vanguard
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How much do you need to earn in retirement? -Vanguard Report
Learn about the latest rise in the Age Pension rate and how it affects retirement planning. This article from Vanguard provides insights into the cost of living in retirement and the benefits of good retirement planning. Continue reading
Posted in Economic Insights, Financial Planning, Financial Wellness, Investment Strartegies, Lifestyle & Well-being, May Vanguard, Retirement Planning, Superannuation, Vanguard Insights
Tagged Age Pension, Cost of Living, Financial Advice, Financial Planning, Retirement Lifestyle, Retirement Planning, Superannuation, Vanguard Insights
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Australian Investors are Flocking to International ETFs – Vanguard Report
From our friends over at Vanguard, this article discusses the recent trends among Australian investors who are increasingly flocking to international equity ETFs. For more information, visit vanguard.com.au. Continue reading
Posted in Diversification, Economic Insights, Financial Planning, Investment Strartegies, Market Trends, May Vanguard, Vanguard Insights
Tagged Australian ETF Market, ETFs, Financial Planning, International Equity ETFs, Investment Trends, Market Insights, Vanguard Investments
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Fin-fluencer or financial adviser
Kim Kardashian’s fine from the SEC for promoting cryptocurrency without disclosure highlights the risks of following ‘fin-fluencers’. Research shows that professional financial advice significantly improves investment outcomes. Learn why relying on experienced financial planners is crucial for securing your financial future. Continue reading
Posted in Consumer Behavior, Economic Insights, Financial Literacy, Financial Planning, Financial Wellness, Investment Strartegies, Legal Advice, Personal Finance
Tagged Cryptocurrency, DIY Investing, Financial Goals, Financial Markets, Financial Peace of Mind, Financial Planning, Finfluencers, Investment Advice, Kim Kardashian, Long-term Strategy, Professional Advice, Queensland University of Technology, Risk Management, SEC, Vanguard Investments
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What is money… really?
Explore the difference between money and currency, delve into the history of banking, and discover what constitutes real money. Learn why understanding these concepts is crucial, especially during economic instability. Continue reading
Posted in Economic History, Economic Insights, Financial Literacy, Financial Stability, Investment Strartegies, Personal Finance
Tagged Banking History, Currency, Financial Education, Financial Stability, Gold Standard, Intrinsic Value, Investment, Money, Real Money
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You might be surprised at what really drives interest rates
This article explains the factors that drive interest rates, including the roles of the RBA, APRA, and external economic influences. Learn how these factors impact your mortgage and financial planning decisions. Continue reading
Posted in Economic Insights, Financial Health, Financial Planning, Mortgage and Loans, Personal Finance
Tagged APRA, Australian Economy, Banking Regulator, BBSW, Economic Health, Financial Planning, Fixed Rate, Inflation, Interest Rates, Mortgage rates, RBA, Variable Rate
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Financial recovery: should you DIY or outsource your debt management?
Australia’s average household debt rose to $261,492 in 2021-22, while disposable income grew modestly to $139,064. With rising debt levels, interest rates, and living costs, many Australians are turning to debt management companies for help. These companies offer services like debt consolidation and creditor negotiation but come with their own set of pros and cons. Alternatively, DIY strategies such as budgeting, negotiating repayment terms, and seeking government assistance can be effective. Understanding your options and taking proactive steps are crucial for financial recovery. Continue reading
Posted in Credit and Loans, Debt Management, Economic Insights, Financial Health, Financial Planning, Financial Wellness, Personal Finance, Support Services
Tagged Australia, Budgeting, Cost of Living, Credit Cards, Credit Score, Debt Consolidation, Debt Management Companies, Debt Management Fees, Debt Reduction, Debt Repayment Prioritization, Debt Statistics, Disposable Income, DIY Debt Management, Financial Assistance, Financial Counselling, Financial Difficulty, Financial Literacy, Financial Recovery, Financial Stress, Government Assistance, Household Debt, Income Fluctuation, money management, Moneysmart, MyGov, Negotiating with Creditors, Outsource Debt Management, Repayment Plan, Rising Interest Rates, Spending Plan, Structured Payment Schedule
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How having a flat tyre could send many Australians flat broke
The Australian Bureau of Statistics reports that the national saving ratio has plummeted to a 17-year low of 1.1% of total disposable income. Nearly half of Australians have less than $1,000 in savings, with 20% having no savings at all. This financial instability is causing significant stress, with 76% of respondents feeling strained by their current situation. The stark contrast between the average savings of $36,095 and those struggling underscores the divide. With many Australians living paycheck to paycheck, even minor emergencies like a flat tyre could push them into debt. Experts urge the importance of building a savings buffer and finding ways to reduce expenses and increase income to alleviate financial pressure. Continue reading
Posted in Consumer Behavior, Credit and Loans, Diversification, Economic Insights, Financial Planning, Financial Wellness, Lifestyle, Lifestyle & Well-being, Personal Finance
Tagged Australian Bureau of Statistics, Australian Economy, Australian Household Expenditure, Buy-Now-Pay-Later, Consumer Research, Cost of Living, Credit Cards, Disposable Income, Emergency Savings, Expense Reduction, Financial Advice, Financial Planning, Financial Stress, Finder’s Consumer Sentiment Tracker, Flat Tyre, Graham Cooke, High-Interest Savings Account, Income Streams, Investment Advice, Loans, Pay to Pay, Saving Ratio, Savings, Savings Buffer, Savings Goal, Super Savers
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