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3 May 2024
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Five retirement myths analysed, a layman's guide to bond funds, investors' lump sum bias behaviour, looking at how company growth is financed, and the little-known disadvantages of managed funds.
Australia's super industry has confused or complicated the primary purpose of providing for retirement by fostering these five retirement myths. While some are based on truths, others are not worth believing.
In response to a reader's question regarding bond funds, we asked our bond guru to explain, in layman's term, the workings of bond funds and what features to look for before investing in this asset class.
Many factors contribute to a lump sum bias among investors, and it might be one reason why they significantly overestimate how much a lump sum is worth in annual income for life.
Not all company growth is created equal. While a headline growth figure may look impressive, it's how this growth is financed that determines whether it's a good or bad thing for shareholders.
The actions of other investors in a managed fund can have a material impact on individuals in the fund. How much do you know about the realised and unrealised capital gains, franking credits or distributions of your fund?
John sent a fascinating question to our mailbox last week. What is the experience of people in their late 70s or early 80s in spending as much as when they were younger? Please comment if you have any personal view.
The latest research report by Roy Morgan shows banks have a poor track record in selling superannuation services to their existing retail banking customer base and it may represent a significant opportunity.
The ATO has released all the superannuation rates and thresholds that will apply from 1 July 2024. Here's what’s changing and what’s not, and some key considerations and opportunities in the lead up to 30 June and beyond.
Life has radically shifted with my brain cancer, and I don’t know if it will ever be the same again. After decades of writing and a dozen years with Firstlinks, I still want to contribute, but exactly how and when I do that is unclear.
How useful are the retirement savings and spending targets put out by various groups such as ASFA? Not very, and it's reducing the ability of ordinary retirees to fully understand their retirement income options.
Australia will have 3.7 million more people in a decade's time, though the growth won't be evenly distributed. Over 85s will see the fastest growth, while the number of younger people will barely rise.
Investor disgust, consolidation, de-listings, price discounts, activist investors entering - it’s what typically happens at business cycle troughs, and it’s happening to LICs now. That may present a potential opportunity.
The $3 million super tax will capture retired, and soon to retire, public servants and politicians who are members of defined benefit superannuation schemes. Lobbying efforts for exemptions to the tax are intensifying.