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Graham

Welcome to the Firstlinks Edition 314

Strange times indeed. Despite US and Australian equity markets near all-time highs and superannuation funds enjoying record inflows, the wealth industry is undergoing a severe overhaul. Unprecedented numbers of fund managers are not only struggling but closing their doors.

10 reasons many fund managers are now blank spaces

Where once the name plates of exciting new fund managers proudly displayed, now there are blank spaces. What is happening in the industry that so many talented people are closing the doors?

Nathan Hughes on consistency in strange markets

Regardless of how a fund manager is performing, it's vital to have the confidence in a long-term set of rules that have stood the test of time through many markets, including recognising SRI principles.

Welcome to the Firstlinks Newsletter Edition 313

Most investors enjoyed the strong sharemarket recovery in the second half of 2018/2019, with the All Ords Index up a wonderful 19.8% including dividends after a shaky December quarter.

Welcome to the Firstlinks Newsletter Edition 312

Today is 27 June and 30 June is a Sunday, so take a few minutes to think about EOFY actions. From Monday, unless they receive a member request, super funds will cancel insurance on small accounts which have been inactive for 16 months. Also, bring forward expenses for a tax deduction this year.

James Maydew on how demographics drives real estate

Managing listed real estate investments on a global basis allows opportunities to be taken anywhere, and as demographics affects property, move into different sectors and countries. But ultimately, all property is local.

Latest Updates

Investment strategies

Why I dislike dividend stocks

If you need income then buying dividend stocks makes perfect sense. But if you don’t then it makes little sense because it’s likely to limit building real wealth. Here’s what you should do instead.

Superannuation

Meg on SMSFs: Indexation of Division 296 tax isn't enough

Labor is reviewing the $3 million super tax's most contentious aspects: lack of indexation and the tax on unrealised gains. Those fighting for change shouldn’t just settle for indexation of the threshold.

Shares

Will ASX dividends rise over the next 12 months?

Market forecasts for ASX dividend yields are at a 30-year low amid fears about the economy and the capacity for banks and resource companies to pay higher dividends. This pessimism seems overdone.

Shares

Expensive market valuations may make sense

World share markets seem toppy at first glance, though digging deeper reveals important nuances. While the top 2% of stocks are pricey, they're also growing faster, and the remaining 98% are inexpensive versus history.

Fixed interest

The end of the strong US dollar cycle

The US dollar’s overvaluation, weaker fundamentals, and crowded positioning point to further downside. Diversifying into non-US equities and emerging market debt may offer opportunities for global investors.

Investment strategies

Today’s case for floating rate notes

Market volatility and uncertainty in 2025 prompt the need for a diversified portfolio. Floating Rate Notes offer stability, income, and protection against interest rate risks, making them a valuable investment option.

Strategy

Breaking down recent footy finals by the numbers

In a first, 2025 saw AFL and NRL minor premiers both go out in straight sets. AFL data suggests the pre-finals bye is weakening the stranglehold of top-4 sides more than ever before.

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