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David Bell

Retirement Review gives strong views on hoarding of super

The Review includes some profound findings, most notable that retirement income should include drawing down far more capital. Expect post-retirement products to proliferate under a Retirement Income Covenant.

Let’s clarify growth/defensive and move forward

For all its widespread use in investing, growth/defensive remains undefined with a large degree of subjectivity. A Working Group is seeking an industry standard with measures for each asset class.

COVID Susceptibility Index can help to manage outbreaks

Susceptibility is the risk of severe illness or death if an individual contracts COVID-19. It shows how bad an outbreak could be by region and it will inform policy on relaxing restrictions.

The $20,000 decision on early access to super

The government’s early access to super scheme may reduce short-term financial stress for some, but members must understand how much tapping retirement savings will erode savings in later life.

Women’s super needs protection of reversionary benefits

Treasury is designing guidelines for retirement products which virtually preclude reversionary benefits, and yet these usually accrue to women when the male partner with more superannuation dies.

Five challenges for post-retirement products

Enthusiasm for post-retirement investment products is growing, and the Government has just appointed an advisory group, but there are many reasons why the industry has not yet finalised the best outcomes.

Latest Updates

Taxation

Is there a better way to reform the CGT discount?

The capital gains tax discount is under review, but debate should go beyond its size. Its original purpose, design flaws and distortions suggest Australia could adopt a better, more targeted approach.

Property

It's okay if house prices drop

The assumption that falling house prices are electorally fatal has shaped policy for decades. Evidence from upzoning suggests affordability can improve without reducing overall housing wealth.

Investment strategies

Investment bonds for intergenerational wealth transfer

Investment bonds can be a versatile and a tax-effective option for building wealth for longer-term investment goals. They can also be used as an estate planning tool, enabling the smooth transfer of wealth to younger generations.

Investment strategies

Why switching to income may make sense in 2026

Investors are jumpy as valuations continue to rise and income investing may provide a respite. In a challenging market for income investing AML offers their top picks.

Interviews

Retiring Schroders boss on lessons he’s learned, industry changes, and the market outlook

CEO Simon Doyle is retiring after 38 years in the finance industry. In an interview with James Gruber, he shares the three main lessons he’s learned, and where he sees opportunities and risks in markets today.

Investment strategies

How US midterm elections affect the markets

Investors may overlook the US midterms amid global events, but they could still impact markets. History shows markets react during midterm years, with increased volatility and lower returns. Will this year be any different?

Investing

Does increasing geopolitical risk lead to higher equity market returns?

Increasing geopolitical tensions has investors on edge but one study shows evidence of a war premium for equity markets.

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