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1 May 2026
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Explaining hedge funds and robo-advice, Rip Van Winkle as an index investor, end of financial year checklist for SMSFs, retirement income reform, and longevity versus retirement age.
Investing in hedge funds is one of the more polarising topics in the investment world, with strongly-held views at each end of the spectrum. Part 1 of this two-part series looks at the advantages of these 'alternatives'.
The term robo-advice has quickly evolved to cover a broad range of automated advice and investment solutions. But the underlying principle is the use of a formula or set of rules to assist with managing wealth.
Index and asset allocation specialists, Research Affiliates, have tested a theory they call the ‘Rip van Winkle’ approach. It uses a cap-weighted index portfolio drawing the data from 20 years earlier to prove a point.
It is hard to make and sustain good policy if there is confusion about its objectives. And in the case of the retirement income system, there is an unfortunate lack of clearly articulated goals and objectives.
Despite rapid increases in life expectancy at the time of receipt, eligibility for the age pension has remained at 65 for 100 years. It creates a sense of entitlement and discourages people saving for retirement.
As 30th of June approaches, there are many things SMSF trustees should consider to make the most of their superannuation. Better not to leave these items until the last minute.
Stay on top of the latest changes to superannuation rates and thresholds for 2026, including increases to transfer balance cap, concessional contributions cap, and non-concessional contributions cap.
The Strait of Hormuz closure due to US-Iran conflict severely disrupted global energy supply chains. While various emergency measures mitigated the crude impact, the refined product market faces unprecedented stress.
The perceived underperformance of LICs compared to ETFs is due to existing comparison data excluding crucial information, highlighting the need for proper assessment and transparent reporting.
The Home Equity Access Scheme in Australia allows older homeowners to tap into their home equity for retirement income, yet remains underused due to lack of awareness and its perceived complexity.
Debate over the CGT discount is intensifying amid concerns about intergenerational equity and housing affordability. This analysis shows that the 'discount' does not necessarily favor property investors.
The new super tax, applying from 1 July, introduces more than just a higher rate on large balances. It brings into focus a misalignment between where wealth sits and where the tax on that wealth ultimately falls.