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Mark Ellem

Compare the pair: Coalition v Labor super

Rarely do we go into an election with such contrasting policies from the major parties, and no more so than in superannuation. The nation's decision on 18 May will have a big impact on retirement savings.

Heed my problems borrowing in my SMSF

Even for this experienced SMSF technical services executive, the tighter rules for borrowing in his SMSF brought some unexpected problems. It's much harder now than most people realise.

Can my SMSF buy my investment property?

In certain limited circumstances, especially relating to Business Real Property, it is possible for an SMSF to acquire property from a member but check the rules carefully to avoid penalties.

How the super contribution changes may benefit you

Super contribution changes that took effect on 1 July 2017 and other changes coming in from 1 July 2018 aren't all negative, leaving opportunities over the next few months to make the necessary adjustments.

When death benefits include life insurance

SMSF trustees should understand the tax consequences when death benefits include insurance proceeds because it can vary greatly according to circumstances, and these should be planned for in advance.

Five things SMSF trustees should consider right now

The implications of the superannuation reforms did not end in 2017, and SMSF trustees should stocktake what they can do, especially focussing on the CGT and the unique definition of retirement for super.

Latest Updates

Economy

CPI may understate the rising costs of retirement

Rising prices have a big impact on retirement outcomes yet our most common gauge of inflation – the consumer price index – misses several important household costs for retirees.

Superannuation

The pros and cons of taking the DIY super route

A self managed super fund can offer investors more control and, in many cases, greater choice over their retirement investments. But are the extra costs and admin burdens worth it?

Superannuation

Terminal illness and your super

Facing up to a terminal diagnosis can also lead to worries regarding financial stability. People in this situation could have a number of options regarding their super assets.

Retirement

Rethinking how retirees view the family home

Australia faces a wave of retirees at a stage where the superannuation system is still maturing. Better and fairer policy on the role of the family home as a retirement asset might help.

Shares

ASX200 'handbrake' means passive investors could miss out

The dominance of mega-cap stocks in the US has led to strong index performance and a new wave of passive investors. Australia's markets might not be so suited to this approach.

Investment strategies

Don't compare apples and oranges in private credit

Global and Australian private credit are different and shouldn't be lumped together. Investors also need to be wary of more complex and lower quality securities as the asset class grows.

Investment strategies

Could this flaw in human thinking be exploited for market gains?

People are hard-wired to make poor financial decisions under conditions of uncertainty. A new research paper explores whether a strategy built to exploit these biases in financial markets could succeed.

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