23 July 2026

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The strange effect of the 30% minimum capital gains tax High quality businesses are on sale Does your will qualify for the discretionary testamentary trust exemption?Ranking three common retirement strategies Welcome to Firstlinks Edition 667 with weekend update

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Home / Author: Phil Ruthven

Phil Ruthven

Financial assets performance over time

There is no single asset class that consistently outperforms all others year on year but over the long term (>10 years), actively managed asset classes have performed better, and all asset classes have outperformed inflation.

Phil Ruthven
17 October 2018
2

In Australia, who’s got the money?

Income taxes in Australia are over 2.5 times larger than the 'spending' taxes such as GST, excise, and stamp duties. The latest legislation ignored reforms in taxing spending over saving again.

Phil Ruthven AO
5 July 2018

The ascent of Asia and what it means for Australia

Asia's GDP exceeds North America and Europe combined, and its increasing economic power should be embraced by Australia as we become more a Eurasian society. Are we enlightened enough to grab the opportunities?

Phil Ruthven AO
23 November 2017
4

Where do our wealth and jobs come from?

There's no doubt Australians love property, especially housing, and despite slowing economic growth and a lack of political leadership, the business sector continues to create Australian wealth and jobs.

Phil Ruthven AO
24 August 2017
2

What matters most? A good industry or a good management?

The surprising fact from this study of profitability is that there’s no such thing as a ‘bad’ industry, only inadequate or inappropriate management.

Phil Ruthven AO
18 May 2017
1

Is the housing market in bubble territory?

Everyone from the Reserve Bank Governor down is talking about apartment prices, and worrying about the consequences for the economy, and especially our banks. How does Australia's leading futurist interpret the data?

Phil Ruthven AO
20 October 2016
5

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Are you making these SMSF mistakes?

After four decades advising investors, there are a few common mistakes I've seen SMSF investors make. From holding too much cash and chasing yield to overtrading and trusting tips. Are these errors costing you?

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When losses in super become irreplaceable

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Rachael Rofe
15 July 2026
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